08^th April, 2025 – The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has released the second edition of its MSME Outlook Survey (MOS) for the quarter January–March 2025. Designed to bridge the critical data gap in the sector, the survey offers valuable insights through two key indices—the MSME Business Conditions Index (M-BCI) and the MSME Business Expectations Index (M-BEI). These indices help policymakers and stakeholders track the evolving business environment and expectations of the MSME sector. This pan-India survey has been undertaken with a well-distributed sample size of about 1200 MSMEs across regions and industries.

The survey findings reflect a broadly optimistic sentiment among MSMEs, underpinned by improved business conditions and forward-looking growth plans. The Composite M-BCI for Q4 FY25 stands at 60.82, marking an improvement from the previous quarter’s 58.30. This increase indicates a sustained healthy business environment across the manufacturing, services, and trading sectors, with sector-specific M-BCIs also showing upward movement. Looking ahead, expectations remain positive with M-BEIs for the next four quarters holding firm above 54. While the overall optimism has slightly moderated compared to the previous round—attributed to ongoing global economic uncertainties and rising tariff barriers—the sector continues to exhibit confidence in future performance.

MSMEs remain buoyant on sales growth, driven by stronger order books, increased production, and higher selling prices. A significant majority anticipates maintaining or improving profitability in Q4 FY25, despite moderate increases in input and salary costs. The outlook for profitability over the next year also remains upbeat, with MSMEs banking on higher production volumes and improved price realizations to support stable or better margins.

Employment generation continues to be a priority, with nearly one-third of the surveyed enterprises in the manufacturing and services sectors reporting increased workforce during the current quarter. Around 40% of manufacturers and 37% of service providers are also optimistic about higher employment in the fourth quarter of FY-26 i.e. one year ahead. However, concerns around the availability of skilled labour persist, with about one-sixth of respondents across sectors flagging this as a challenge.

Capital expenditure intentions present another encouraging trend, with 37% of MSMEs reporting capacity expansion during the current period and a similar proportion planning additional investments in the coming year. This investment confidence is complemented by a growing commitment to sustainability, as around 40% of MSMEs in the manufacturing and services sectors confirmed initiatives such as solar panel installation, adoption of e-vehicles, and other environmentally friendly technologies. A comparable number are also planning to invest further in green and sustainable practices.

On the financing front, access to credit remains widespread, with 80% of respondents reporting availability. However, the adequacy of this credit continues to be a concern, with 40% of manufacturing and 41% of services enterprises stating that the finance available does not fully meet their needs. Optimism around improved credit access in the year ahead is evident, but nearly 20% of MSMEs continue to express concerns. Additionally, the cost of finance remains a pressing issue, with 40% of MSMEs across sectors reporting higher borrowing costs during the survey period and an even higher percentage expecting these elevated costs to persist.

Shri Manoj Mittal, Chairman and Managing Director, SIDBI, while releasing the report, stated, “SIDBI has always played a significant role in the robust growth of the Indian MSME sector through both financial and developmental initiatives. The Quarterly Outlook Survey is another initiative to ‘understand MSMEs’ in a better manner. During a time of increased global uncertainties fuelled by unprecedented tariff barriers, MSMEs have shown remarkable resilience and pro-growth sentiments. Their plans for CAPEX, employment and adoption of sustainable and green technologies augur well for our economy. I believe that with necessary support from all the stakeholders, Indian MSMEs will remain steady on their growth track amidst the cloudy external environment.”

The second round of SIDBI’s MSME Outlook Survey reaffirms the sector’s strong fundamentals, forward-looking approach, and unwavering commitment to growth—despite external headwinds. As MSMEs continue to play a central role in job creation, investment, and sustainability, their performance remains vital to India’s broader economic progress.

As summer sets in, prioritizing health becomes crucial, not just for hydration but also caring for the gut to avoid issues like bloating, acidity, and constipation. Since ancient times, a healthy gut and proper digestion have been recognized as the foundation of overall well-being. In summers, the rising temperatures can disrupt digestion, leading to discomfort, dip in energy levels, poor appetite, and an overall dip in well-being. This World Health Day, let’s reaffirm the importance of gut care to stay vibrant and healthy through the season.

Here are some Organic India products that support a healthy gut and digestion.

1. Psyllium Whole Husk Isabgol

Nurture your gut health the natural way with Organic India’s Psyllium Husk (Isabgol), a certified organic source of natural dietary fiber with prebiotic properties. Derived from the seeds of Plantago ovata, it contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, known for promoting healthy digestion, relieving constipation and bloating, and supporting overall digestive well-being.

With its bulk forming laxative action, it also aids in weight management, and cholesterol control. Made with the power of whole herbs, Organic India Isabgol is made without the use of chemicals and preservatives, making it a pure and effective solution for a happy gut.

Buy it here: Psyllium Whole Husk Isabgol

2.Triphala Capsule

 Let nature show you the way to better digestive health with Organic India’s Triphala, a 100% whole herb formulation made from the potent blend of Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. This age-old Ayurvedic formula is a natural source of Vitamin C and antioxidants, helping with digestion, supporting gut health & detoxifying the body. Known for its gentle yet effective cleansing action, Triphala also relieves constipation. Made without the use of chemicals and preservatives, it’s a pure and natural way to rejuvenate your body from within.

Buy it here: Triphala Capsule

3.Bowelcare capsule

Support your gut health with nature’s purity with Organic India Bowelcare Capsules, a 100% whole herb formulation made with Bael, Isabgol, and Chandrashoor. This powerful Ayurvedic blend helps relieve chronic and occasional constipation and supports digestion. By gently cleansing and lubricating the bowel it helps alleviate symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Made with certified organic herbs, without the use of chemicals and preservatives, Bowelcare offers a safe and natural way to restore digestive balance.

Buy it here: Bowelcare capsule

4.Tulsi green tea lemon ginger

Experience relaxation in a cup with Organic India’s Tulsi Lemon Ginger Green Tea, a certified organic blend infused with the power of whole herbs. Brimming with the warming notes of Ginger and Tulsi, and accentuated with refreshing lemon grass, this aromatic infusion supports digestion, help boosts metabolism, and strengthens immunity. With every sip, enjoy Tulsi’s soothing, stress-relieving, and Ginger’s digestion support benefits. Made with real lemongrass and ginger, and without the use of chemicals and preservatives, it’s the perfect way to refresh and care for your digestion naturally.

Buy it here: Tulsi green tea lemon ginger

5.Tulsi ginger infusion

Enjoy the benefits of Tulsi and Ginger in a stress relieving and digestion boosting cup of Organic India Tulsi Ginger infusion, a certified organic blend crafted with the power of whole herbs. Featuring Tulsi, the ‘Queen of Herbs’, and Ginger, this uplifting infusion supports digestion, boosts metabolism. Being caffeine-free, it is a great solution for those looking to avoid tea in their daily routine. Made without the use of chemicals and preservatives, this warming, aromatic tea is your perfect daily wellness ritual.

Buy it here: Tulsi ginger infusion

New Delhi, 8 April 2025: Cairn Oil & Gas, India’s largest private oil and gas exploration and production company, on the occasion of World Health Day, reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a sustainable and resilient healthcare ecosystem across its areas of operations. Cairn’s healthcare initiatives in FY 2024-25 have positively impacted over 2 million people across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Assam and Andhra Pradesh, underscoring the company’s focus on delivering accessible, equitable healthcare to the communities in remote areas, in line with the United Nation’s Sustainability Development Goals.

The company’s specially curated healthcare programs have been developed in collaboration with government bodies, including District Hospitals and Public Health Centres. It focuses on creating essential infrastructure across villages, enhancing medical facilities, and promoting awareness around various physical and mental health issues to educate and empower the rural population. The initiatives span across regular hygiene check-ups and women’s and children’s health programs to impactful campaigns addressing menstrual health, mental health, and overall physical well-being.

The company has impacted millions of lives through its initiatives, providing support and hope for a longer, healthier future. In Rajasthan and Gujarat, more than 80,000 community members across ~200 villages benefited from curative, preventive, and referral healthcare services provided by Cairn’s Mobile Health Vans (MHVs), last year. Equipped with GPS tracking and cameras for effective outreach and monitoring, these vans serve as critical conduits for healthcare access and monitoring.

In Barmer, where Cairn has its largest onshore production facility, the company is working on providing better healthcare infrastructure and services. It supports the Barmer District Hospital, which serves over 175,000 patients monthly, by providing essential medical and cleaning supplies. Through its flagship campaign, “Nirogi Rajasthan,” Cairn partnered with the District Administration to enhance the health of over 70,000 community members, promoting overall wellness and preventive healthcare measures. Its Harit Dhara initiative has educated over 5,000 women and girls about menstrual health and hygiene, fostering awareness of menstrual well-being. Furthermore, approximately 600 essential mobility aids, including tricycles, wheelchairs, calipers, crutches, artificial legs, and hearing aids were distributed to the individuals with disabilities at the district hospital.

With Cairn’s support in Ravva (Andhra Pradesh) and Gujarat’s Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Primary Health Centers (PHCs), improved the delivery of healthcare services at the community level. With over 50,000 OPD consultations, more than 35,000 local community members received quality healthcare in Ravva and Suvali PHCs, through enhanced services at the General Ward of CHC Kawas in Barmer District. The health camps conducted by the company have provided access to these services to hundreds of people including in Assam.

Cairn’s healthcare focus areas also align with this year’s World Health Day theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures”. The company continues to drive meaningful changes by investing in community-driven health initiatives, empowering vulnerable groups, and enhancing government healthcare facilities. As it expands its social impact efforts, it remains dedicated to building a healthier, more resilient future for communities across India.

Mumbai, 7th April 2025: Lords Mark Industries Limited, a distinguished company known for its diverse portfolio, through its subsidiary Lord’s Mark Global LLC, has made a strategic entry into the United States market by securing its first major order valued at approximately $1 million. This milestone marks a significant step in the company’s global expansion, reinforcing India’s ‘Made in India’ initiative with cutting-edge MedTech innovations.

The order includes Contactless Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) and AI-Based Early Warning Systems (EWS)—state-of-the-art healthcare solutions developed and manufactured in India by Lord’s Mark Industries. These advanced systems provide real-time patient monitoring, predictive analytics, and seamless Electronic Health Record (EHR) integration, offering a revolutionary approach to patient care.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Sachidanand Upadhyay, Managing Director, Lord’s Mark Industries Ltd., said, “This entry into the US market is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence. Our AI-powered and contactless monitoring solutions align with the future of global healthcare, and we are proud to represent Indian technological capabilities on the world stage.”

The company continues to expand its healthcare footprint with ISO 13485:2016, HIPAA, and IEC 60601-1/1-2 compliant products, ensuring global standards in safety and efficacy. This breakthrough in the US market signifies a new era of Indian MedTech exports, driving innovation and accessibility in healthcare worldwide.

Lord’s Mark Industries operates through key subsidiaries, including LordsMed, Lord’s Mark Insurance Broking Limited, Lord’s Mark Biotech, Lords Mark Microbiotech, and Lords Automative Private Limited, along with verticals in renewable energy products and paper. Committed to innovation and excellence, the company continues to expand while upholding the highest quality standards. Diversification remains the foundation of Lord’s Mark Industries’ sustained growth and success.

Vikram Kamats Hospitality Limited has partnered with Travel Food Services (TFS) to bring the beloved Kamats–the experts in South Indian food–to experience travelers across India. Through this collaboration, Kamats will open its Premium fine dine restaurant by the name Kamats Legacy inside the renowned TFS food courts and restaurants at major airports, offering travelers an authentic taste of South Indian cuisine and other cherished delicacies while waiting for their flights.

This strategic alliance represents a major milestone for both brands, bringing together Kamats’ rich culinary legacy and TFS’s expertise in world-class airport hospitality. As the demand for high-quality dining experiences at airports continues to rise, this partnership ensures that travelers can experience the wholesome, flavorful snacks and meals that define Kamats. The collaboration will extend to key airports in cities such as Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai, enhancing the travel experience for passengers across the country. For the customers food will be served on banana leaves with truly authentic and traditional service of south India Cuisine.

Dr. Vikram Kamat, Managing Director, Vikram Kamat Hospitality Limited, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “Airports are evolving to become destinations in themselves, where travellers seek comfort, convenience, and great food. We are very happy to partner with TFS to bring the Kamats’ experience to airport lounges across India. For decades, Kamats have been the go-to place for travellers on highways, and now, we are extending that comfort and familiarity with air travellers as well. South Indian food is very easy on the stomach when traveling and the preferred choice for all when travelling. Also, it can be enjoyed any time of the day making it ideal.  This collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision to make quality food accessible to people wherever they travel, ensuring that they don’t have to compromise on taste or authenticity.”

With TFS operating some of the most prestigious lounges at airports, Kamats Legacy’s presence in these spaces will upscale the overall travel experience by providing fast, fresh, and flavorful food that resonates with both domestic and international travelers. The partnership is set to redefine airport dining by offering a seamless blend of tradition, taste, and convenience.

Mumbai, April 7, 2025: Welspun One Logistics Parks (Welspun One) is pleased to announce the successful financial closure of its flagship logistics park project at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA). The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID) has underwritten Rs. ~2,300 crore in construction financing, underscoring the project’s viability and Welspun One’s credibility in the logistics sector.

The JNPA logistics park, spanning 55 acres, represents Welspun One’s largest logistics development in India. Strategically located within the JNPA Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Navi Mumbai, this state-of-the-art, Grade A industrial and warehousing facility will cater to e-commerce, 3PL, FMCG, and manufacturing sectors. With a total development potential of over 3.6 million square feet, the park is designed to drive efficiency across supply chains and strengthen India’s logistics infrastructure.

Securing this funding ensures the timely execution of the JNPA project, reinforcing Welspun One’s commitment to large-scale infrastructure development. This collaboration with NaBFID aligns with our vision to bolster India’s logistics capabilities, catering to the burgeoning demand for Grade A warehousing solutions.

Anshul Singhal, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Welspun One, said, “The financial closure of our JNPA project marks a pivotal step in our journey to create world-class logistics and industrial infrastructure in India. This park will set new benchmarks in efficiency and scalability, supporting India’s growing demand for high-quality warehousing solutions. With NaBFID’s support, we are positioned to accelerate execution while continuing to drive long-term value for our stakeholders.”

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Rajkiran Rai, Managing Director, NaBFID said, “We are delighted to partner with Welspun One’s Logistics Park in JNPA. State-of-the-art facilities such as this one are a part of the Government’s plan to reduce logistics cost to the global average of 8% of GDP, in order to promote competitiveness of Indian industry.”   

 Mr. Samuel Joseph, DMD, NaBFID, mentioned, “NaBFID is naturally suited to finance such projects with a long implementation period, requiring an extended repayment schedule. We have extended a 22-year Term Loan for this project. While we have financed other warehousing projects, this project is unique as it comes up in a SEZ area and is being built to international standards.”

 The successful financial closure was facilitated by the invaluable contributions of our advisory and legal partners. CBRE conducted comprehensive technical due diligence, Saraf & Partners provided legal advisory services, and BDO ensured meticulous verification and compliance. ​

This milestone further strengthens Welspun One’s position as a leader in the development of institutional-grade warehousing and logistics parks, supporting India’s economic and industrial growth.

India, April 7, 2025: The Choice of India edition of the Goncourt Prize, one of the most prestigious French literary prizes, has been awarded to ‘Jacaranda’, a French-language novel by Franco-Rwandan writer Gaël Faye, published in 2025 by the French publishing house Grasset.

Jacaranda is a poignant work that explores the profound link between history, the quest for identity and belonging to one’s land. Set in Rwanda, a country scarred by the 1994 genocide, the novel not only revisits the tragic past, but also highlights the changes underway, including judicial reforms and social transformations. Through a fluid and emotional narrative, Faye invites us to experience moments of hope, pain and resilience. The story is deeply moving, immersing us in the soul of a people undergoing reconstruction, while echoing the immense potential of the country’s future.

Writer Gaël Faye said: “I’m happy to know that this story resonated with the jury of the Indian chapter of the Goncourt prize. My novel ‘Petit Pays’ had already received an exceptional welcome during my trip to India in July 2020, especially during the Jaipur Literature Festival. I carry that cherished memory in my heart. I’m glad that this relationship is continuing with ‘Jacaranda,’ which is like another piece in the same puzzle: a vast human story of exile, belonging, silences, shadows, and of the light.”

Singer-songwriter Gaël Faye is also the author of the phenomenal first novel Petit pays (Small Country) (Grasset 2016, Prix Goncourt des lycéens) and several other albums.  Jacaranda has been awarded the famous Renaudot Book Prize 2024 and The Goncourt Prize of Germany.

Following the announcement, the French Ambassador to India, H.E. Mr Thierry Mathou, said: “I am proud to witness the continued success of the “Choix Goncourt de l’Inde” programme, which offers students across India the unique opportunity to engage with contemporary French literature. This initiative is instrumental in making French literary works accessible, addressing the complexities of distributing French books in such a vast and diverse country. To support this endeavour, the French Institute in India procures around 270 books, which are made available to the students and their professors, thereby ensuring widespread access to contemporary French literature.”

The Prix Goncourt is awarded each year to the author of “the best and most imaginative prose work of the year”. The Goncourt Choice of India was created for Indian francophone students who love literature. It is affiliated with the Académie Goncourt. For its fourth (current) edition, the Indian jury was composed of students from nine Indian universities – The English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU), Pondicherry University, University of Mumbai, Savitribai Phule Pune University, University of Delhi, Jawaharlal Nehru University, University of Rajasthan, Madurai Kamaraj University, Banaras Hindu University as well as students from the Alliances Françaises network.

Over six months, the jury read the four books shortlisted for the Goncourt Prize in their original language, and discussed them with their teachers and classmates.

The four books shortlisted for the Goncourt Prize in their original French language, were:

• Madelaine avant l’aube, Sandrine Colette (JC Lattès)

• Jacaranda, Gaël Faye (Grasset)

• Archipels, Hélène Gaudy (L’Olivier)

• Houris, Kamel Daoud (Gallimard)

A series of online sessions were offered to them to get to know France’s most prestigious literary prize with the President of Goncourt Academy – the French writer Philippe Claudel – and to understand the publication journey behind the four titles.

National, 7^th April 2025: Raffles Udaipur proudly celebrates the Chairman and Managing Director of Triton Hotels and Resorts Pvt. Ltd, Mr. Ratan Kant Sharma, on being awarded the prestigious ET Entrepreneurship Award. Recognised for his vision and leadership in shaping India’s luxury hospitality landscape, Mr. Sharma has been instrumental in bringing world-renowned brands like Fairmont and Raffles to the country.

In 2012, Mr. Sharma introduced Fairmont Jaipur, a 245-room ultra-luxury hotel that seamlessly blends Rajput heritage with world-class hospitality. Today, it stands as one of India’s most sought-after wedding destinations, renowned for its grandeur and timeless elegance.

Under his leadership, Raffles Udaipur, India’s first Raffles hotel, has redefined ultra-luxury hospitality. Nestled on a 21-acre private island, this sanctuary has become a coveted retreat for discerning travelers worldwide since its opening in 2021.

Further elevating India’s luxury landscape, Mr. Sharma introduced Raffles Jaipur, an exquisite new address adjacent to Fairmont Jaipur. A testament to the Raffles legacy, the hotel offers an unparalleled blend of heritage, sophistication, and world-class service. Notably, India is the only country to host two Raffles properties in the same state within five years, marking a significant milestone in global luxury hospitality.

Reflecting on this honor, Mr. Ratan Kant Sharma, Chairman & Managing Director of Triton Hotels and Resorts Pvt. Ltd., said: “Receiving the ET Entrepreneurship Award is a profound honor, reflecting the passion and dedication that drive us at Triton Hotels and Resorts. With Raffles and Fairmont, our vision has always been to bring an unparalleled level of luxury and heritage to India’s hospitality landscape. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to excellence, and I share it with my team, whose relentless efforts have shaped Raffles and Fairmont into destinations of distinction.”

Mr. Namby, General Manager of Raffles Udaipur, added: “Mr. Sharma’s unwavering passion for luxury hospitality is rooted in his pioneering role in bringing both Fairmont and Raffles to India. As the driving force behind Raffles Udaipur’s success, his vision of blending timeless elegance with India’s rich heritage has shaped a truly one-of-a-kind experience. This award stands as a well-deserved tribute to his remarkable contributions to the industry..”

 With a legacy of excellence, Mr. Ratan Kant Sharma continues to shape the future of luxury hospitality in India, ensuring that Raffles and Fairmont remain icons of opulence, culture, and world-class service.