Grahm Unveils Real Estate Advisory Platform in Bengaluru, Backed by Credvest
April 09, 2025 Bengaluru – Grahm, a first-of-its-kind real estate player, announced its official launch in Bengaluru today. Backed by Credvest, a real estate management solutions firm handling transactions valued at Rs 8000 crore, Grahm aims to reshape the home-buying experience by bridging the gap between buyers, builders, and lenders with a one-stop advisory platform.
Grahm offers an end-to-end, user-friendly platform that provides expert guidance, personalised solutions, financial and legal support, and comprehensive post-purchase support, all at zero cost. With a commitment to redefining the customer experience, Grahm introduces a unique assisted model to residential real estate buyers. From property searches to paper documentation, financing, and post-sale services, Grahm aims to ensure a seamless, transparent and informed home-buying process for customers.
Grahm has onboarded 100+ developers and partnered with 350+ projects in Bengaluru already. It is also looking to tap into seven additional high-transaction cities, including Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Lucknow. Grahm aims to capture 10% of the residential real estate market share over the next three years, accounting for over Rs 50,000 crores in transactions.
On the launch, Ankit Shah, COO & CMO of Grahm, said, “We are thrilled to launch Grahm, starting from Bengaluru. Owning a dream home is an aspirational goal and we want to make the experience smooth and hassle-free. We are driven by relationships and offer India’s first holistic, personalised, end-to-end advisory in residential real estate at zero cost to customers. We are committed to making property transactions simpler, seamless, and streamlined which helps customers choose a home that fits their needs.”
He adds, “We are creating a new category and are keen on positively disrupting the industry. We aim to capture 1% of the total residential real estate market, equivalent to 5000 crores, by the end of the year and 10% in 3 years.”
Suman Naidu, Founder, Credvest Group, said, “The idea of Grahm was born out of a deep understanding of the homebuyer’s journey and the gaps that often make it overwhelming. Credvest is already working with the top property builders in Bengaluru. These partnerships will help us tap the broader network, and offer customers a sharp, comprehensive one-stop real estate solution
At Credvest, we’ve spent the last six years building an integrated ecosystem that supports every aspect of the real estate experience. With Grahm, from identifying the right property to AiTi, interiors, our customers gain access to a wide range of benefits, exclusive partnerships, and curated lifestyle solutions. Our goal is to offer more than just real estate advice, we’re building a connected, future-ready community that connects with our customers long after they have moved in.”
As part of its expansion plans, Grahm is looking to hire 300 employees by the end of the year. The company is keen on expanding its team of advisors, who will be crucial in guiding customers through the purchase process.
Grahm’s mission is to create an ecosystem for buyers where they can function as one unit. The company wants to create a first-of-its-kind and the largest community of real-estate buyers in the county. It plans to create and nurture a community of like-minded homeowners with access to amenities, security, financial guidance, medical aid, hobbies and much more, creating lasting value for customers, developers, and communities. Once they are a part of this community, all their home and lifestyle-related needs will be addressed through tailor-made solutions.
Shree Cement Beawar Hosts Hanuman Katha, Paying Tribute to Bajrang Bali’s Legacy
Chandigarh, April 9, 2025: A cherished spiritual tradition, Hanuman Katha began at Shree Cement’s Beawar plant on 7th April and will continue till 9th April, bringing devotees together for three days of spiritual enlightenment and devotion. The katha is expected to draw a large congregation of devotees, from various parts of the country to seek wisdom, strength and divine blessings from Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj, whose sacred discourses have guided and inspired countless followers across the country.
For the past 24 years, this annual gathering has been a heartfelt expression of gratitude to Lord Hanuman, honouring his role in guiding people toward righteousness. This year, Shree Cement has the privilege of hosting Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj, whose profound insights continue to touch the hearts of spiritual seekers.
Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj is a revered spiritual leader, scholar and treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. He played a pivotal role in the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Shri Ram’s idol at the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya in January 2024. A disciple of the esteemed Shri Jayendra Saraswati of Kanchi Kamkoti Peeth, Swamiji has dedicated his life to imparting the wisdom of scriptures such as the Srimad Bhagavat, Ramayan and Hanuman Katha. His teachings emphasize faith, resilience and selfless service, inspiring countless devotees to walk the path of dharma and righteousness.
The first day of the Hanuman Katha was deeply moving. Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj captivated the audience with his illuminating interpretation of Bajrang Bali’s virtues—faith, strength and selfless service. He highlighted how Hanuman Ji’s devotion to Lord Ram stands as the ultimate example of relentless dedication and humility. Urging devotees to embrace these principles in their own lives, he stated:
“Devotion is a force that empowers and elevates. Hanuman Ji teaches us that true strength lies in humility, true leadership in selfless service, and true wisdom in faith. Let us follow his path to discover our purpose and inner strength.”
Several esteemed dignitaries from across the region graced the sacred Hanuman Katha with their presence, adding to the spiritual and cultural significance of the event. Notable attendees included Shri Avinash Gehlot, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of Rajasthan; Shri Yunus Khan, former Cabinet Minister, Government of Rajasthan; Shri Chandrabhan Singh Aakya, MLA from Chittorgarh; Shri Umashankar ji, Central Committee Member of Vishwa Hindu Parishad; Shri Virendra Kanawat, MLA; Shri Mahesh Chandra Sharma, Divisional Commissioner, Ajmer; Shri Omprakash ji, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Ajmer Range; Dr. Mahendra Singh Khadgawat, District Collector, Beawar; Shri Shyam Singh, Superintendent of Police, Beawar; Shri Mohanlal Khatnawaliya, Additional District Collector, Beawar and Shri Kuldeep Singh Shekhawat, Sub-Divisional Officer, Masuda among others.
Emphasizing the significance of the occasion, Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj said, “I commend Shree Cement for creating an environment where thousands can immerse themselves in the divine teachings of Bajrang Bali. His life serves as an enduring guide to faith, resilience, and devotion. Through his wisdom, we can find the clarity and strength to overcome life’s challenges.”
Expressing his appreciation for the event, Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement shared, “Swami Govind Dev Giriji has provided us with a profound spiritual experience, allowing us to step away from our daily concerns and dedicate ourselves to the devotion of Hanuman Ji. His teachings inspire us to embody courage, loyalty, and selflessness—qualities that not only define great leaders but also contribute to a more compassionate and united society.”
The Hanuman Katha will continue till 9th April, offering devotees an opportunity to delve deeper into the divine teachings of Lord Hanuman. Shree Cement remains committed to nurturing community well-being, recognizing that true progress is measured not just in industry but also in spiritual and cultural enrichment.
National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme: Engage More
Chandigarh, India – April 9, 2025 – National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has partnered with Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU), a leading autonomous state technical university, to launch a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence for Skill Development. The two organisations formalised their alliance through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the Startup Mahakumbh in New Delhi. The initiative aims to equip learners with hands-on experience in manufacturing skill sets across critical sectors such as Energy, Health, Water, and Food.
The Centre of Excellence will focus on delivering specialized training in emerging technologies, including VLSI Design, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Internet of Things (IoT), Data Science, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Smart Manufacturing, Blockchain, and more. With over 40 online and hybrid courses designed for students across ITI, Diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs, this collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing Skill India Mission, National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and National Credit Framework by integrating vocational education and skill development into mainstream academia.
Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC & MD, NSDC International said, “Today, we partnered with Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU) at the Startup Mahakumbh to strengthen the skilling ecosystem in the energy sector. This collaboration will support the development of training infrastructure in smart manufacturing, along with Centres of Excellence focused on automotive, EV charging, renewable energy, and semiconductors. Training in the semiconductor domain is already underway, paving the way for youth to gain practical exposure in high-demand, future-oriented fields.”
Dr. S. Sundar Manoharan, Director General, Pandit Deendayal Energy University, said, “We are proud to collaborate with NSDC under the visionary leadership of Mr. Ved Mani Tiwari. With their support, PDEU has transformed its infrastructure into a hub for advanced skill training, especially in high-demand sectors like renewable energy and semiconductors. Our newly launched ATMP Semiconductor Packaging Centre is designed to train students in back-end packaging, encapsulation, and other critical skills, creating a strong pipeline of industry-ready talent.”
PDEU has been at the forefront of energy education and skill development since its inception in 2007. The university has empowered students by integrating industry-standard manufacturing lines within its academic campus, including a 45 MW Solar PV Manufacturing Line and an ATMP Semiconductor Packaging Line. These facilities bridge the gap between academia and industry while fostering innovation in renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind energy, lithium and vanadium energy storage systems, carbon capture solutions, and smart hybrid grids.
“This marks a significant shift—where industry is now turning to academia for manufacturing-focused skilling. For the first time, experiential learning of up to 225 hours is being integrated into academic credits through the National Credit Framework. We deeply value NSDC’s continued guidance and support in building this impactful and scalable education model.” added Dr Manoharan.
Through this collaboration with NSDC, PDEU will further enhance its infrastructure by incorporating advanced manufacturing capabilities into the Centre of Excellence. The CoE will serve as a hub for skill development programs nationwide, targeting students from Tier-1, Tier-2, and Tier-3 institutions. It is aligned with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG-4 (Quality Education), SDG-7 (Affordable & Clean Energy), SDG-13 (Climate Action), and SDG-17 (Partnerships for Goals).
To ensure seamless operations and sustainability, a Section 8 company will be established as part of this initiative. Jointly owned by PDEU and NSDC Trust, this entity will manage the CoE’s activities while creating an independent revenue stream through course fees. It will also support flagship national initiatives like Make-in-India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat by preparing students for core manufacturing processes and fostering self-reliance in critical industries.
The Centre of Excellence is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing India’s growing demand for skilled manpower as it prepares to have the largest working-age population by 2030. Through practical exposure delivered by industry-certified trainers provided by NSDC, the initiative seeks to enhance employability among students while contributing to India’s socio-economic development.
Imarticus Learning Launches Oxford Cyber Security Programme for Business Leaders
Mumbai, April 09th 2025: Imarticus Learning, one of India’s leading professional education companies, has announced its partnership with Saïd Business School, University of Oxford to introduce the School’s ‘Oxford Cyber Security for Business Leaders Programme’. The Executive programme will empower business leaders with the knowledge and strategies in cybersecurity and provide insights on AI, cyber resilience, and evolving cyber threats.
In 2024 alone, India experienced more than 369 million malware attacks, averaging 702 per minute. Addressing the increasing demand for cybersecurity awareness and expertise, this programme is specifically designed to help business leaders make informed decisions in respect of cyber risks and resilience, enabling them to protect their organisations while driving growth and innovation.
Cybersecurity is not just an IT responsibility but a critical boardroom priority. Business leaders need to understand its impact on brand reputation, customer trust, and business continuity. As digital transformation accelerates, organisations are increasingly exposed to sophisticated cyber threats. Recognising this growing challenge, the programme provides a highly interactive learning experience, integrating real-world case studies, strategic frameworks, and practical applications to help executives build resilient cybersecurity strategies.
The comprehensive curriculum will include essential cybersecurity principles, cyber threats and vulnerabilities, supply chain security and cyber operations, ethical dilemmas in cybersecurity and building resilient strategies. Learners will gain real-world knowledge and insights from the faculty and experts at Oxford Saïd. With a strong focus on peer learning across various industries around the globe, the programme will enable common ground to understand the growing threat of cybercrimes and building competitive strategies for future-looking organisations.
Nikhil Barshikar, Founder & CEO, Imarticus Learning said, “We are proud to partner with Saïd Business School, University of Oxford to prepare leaders from all industries to navigate the complex cyber landscape. In today’s business environment, cybersecurity is no longer an IT-only concern but a core strategic issue for business leaders. It will empower them to understand their organisation’s cybersecurity posture and embrace a culture of cyber resilience. It will also provide them with strategies to identify threats and respond effectively.”
Caroline Williams, Executive Director, Oxford Saïd Online, said, “Our partnership with Imarticus Learning reflects our shared commitment to empowering business leaders with the knowledge and tools to address the challenges of the modern business environment. The programme is designed for current and future business leaders to understand core cybersecurity concepts, make informed decisions, and build trust in the system. The insights will help them protect their organisations and stay ahead of emerging threats.”
Along with expert learning materials world class teaching tools to implement cybersecurity strategies effectively, learners who successfully complete their programme will receive an Oxford Saïd certificate and have exclusive access to a range of benefits with eligibility to join the Oxford Saïd Elumni Network, a growing global community within Saïd Business School, connecting more than 50,000 cross-sector senior executives and C-suite leaders across 195 countries, enhancing their networking and collaboration opportunities
Anil Agarwal Foundation’s flagship Nand Ghar Reaches 8,000
Chandigarh, 9th April 2025: Nand Ghar, the flagship initiative of the Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF), has achieved a significant milestone by transforming 8,044 Anganwadis into modern centres of holistic development for women and children. Spread across 15 states in India, this expansion underscores Vedanta’s commitment to rural development, impacting over 3 lakh children and 2 lakh women with early childhood education, nutrition, healthcare, and skill development.
Nand Ghars are modernised anganwadis with provision of state-of-the art facilities. In addition to enhanced infrastructural facilities, Nand Ghar incorporates smart education tools, interactive e-learning modules, BaLA designs, and smart TVs to make learning engaging for children aged 3-6 years. Each center is equipped with child friendly furniture, access to electricity, safe drinking water, and hygienic sanitation facilities, fostering a safe and nurturing environment. Beyond education, Nand Ghars combat malnutrition by facilitating fortified meals to children and essential nutritional support for pregnant and lactating mothers. Integrated healthcare services, including immunization drives and routine check-ups, further strengthen community well-being. Nand Ghar is also strengthening women empowerment by engaging community women in skill-building activities such as handicrafts, food processing, and retail, enabling them to earn an average monthly income of up to INR 10,000.
As Nand Ghar continues to scale its impact, last year marked significant achievements for the program. To combat malnutrition, Nand Ghar launched a two-phase distribution of protein-rich millet shakes, benefiting children across six states. Patented and FSSAI certified, this millet shake contains 23 essential vitamins and minerals and is crafted from a blend of ragi, bajra, foxtail and kodu millets. With the government’s focus on promoting the consumption of millets in daily diet, Nand Ghar’s initiative reaffirms its alignment with the national vision of fostering nutritional security through sustainable and locally sourced superfoods.
In March this year, AAF proudly inaugurated Maharashtra’s first-ever Nand Ghars, launching 25 new centers in Thane. Expanding its reach further, the Foundation is committed to establishing 20,000 more Nand Ghars across Rajasthan over the next two years, transforming rural communities on a scale.
The initiative is well-aligned with the Government of India’s vision for women and child development. The Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) empowers and supports mothers and their children under six years through various programs ensuring comprehensive childcare support in a secure environment with trained staff, educational resources, nutritional support, and activities for holistic child development. With around 14 lakh Anganwadi centres serving over 7 crore children under six years across the country, Nand Ghar’s model contributes significantly to enhancing the existing ecosystem and amplifying the government’s efforts in ensuring the well-being of children and women in rural India.
Speaking on the achievement, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Ltd. and Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Ltd., stated, “The journey of building 8,000 Nand Ghars reflects our deep commitment to transforming lives at the grassroots. These centers are not just reimagined Anganwadis, they are spaces of opportunity where children learn, grow, and thrive, and where women gain the tools to lead empowered, self-reliant lives. It is incredible to witness how Nand Ghar is evolving into a nationwide movement- one that is creating real change. Our partnership with the Government and the Ministry of Women & Child Development continues to strengthen this mission, helping us scale with purpose and bring meaningful change to communities across India.”
Adding to this, Mr. Shashi Arora, CEO, Nand Ghar, commented, “At Nand Ghar, we are committed to holistic community development, where impact is measured not just in numbers but in the lives we transform. By integrating smart learning, digital tools, and sustainable nutrition programs, we are redefining the Anganwadi ecosystem in India. Over the past year, we have introduced cutting-edge digital learning modules and expanded nutrition programs to ensure that every child receives a balanced meal daily aligned with the Poshan 2.0 guidelines. Flagship initiatives such as Khaana Khaaya Kya?, the millet bar and shake distribution drive, and our digital smart learning model have further reinforced our commitment to child development and women’s empowerment. We will continue to deepen our impact within communities, ensuring that early childhood education, nutrition, and women empowerment drive for meaningful and sustainable change.”
WCD’s Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Department is celebrating its 50 years in 2025, and Nand Ghar continues to set benchmarks in early childhood care and women’s empowerment. With this milestone, the program is reaffirming its mission to uplift India’s rural communities, ensuring that the nation’s children and women have access to quality resources for a brighter and healthier future.
Sarbananda Sonowal: Union Government’s Push for Modern Maritime Education at IMU Kochi
Kochi, April 9, 2025: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation stone for girls hostel building and virtually inaugurated infrastructure development projects across six campuses of the Indian Maritime University (IMU) for the upgradation of maritime Education and Infrastructure. The projects, with a total estimated cost of Rs 67.77 crore, were announced during a ceremony held at the IMU campus in Kochi.
Among the key projects is a new girls’ hostel at IMU Kochi, for which Shri Sonowal laid the foundation stone in person. Developed at a cost of Rs 13.11 crore, the facility will significantly improve residential accommodation for female maritime students.
Simultaneously, the Minister also virtually inaugurated several infrastructure projects across five IMU campuses—Chennai, Kolkata, Navi Mumbai, Mumbai Port, and Visakhapatnam. These include the installation of state-of-the-art simulators, establishment of solar power plants, enhancement of sports facilities, and renovation of student hostels—all aimed at boosting the quality of both academic and residential experiences.
The ceremony also witnessed the presence of Shri Hibi Eden, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) representing Ernakulam, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways; Sunil Mukundan, MD, INdia Ports Global, B Kasiviswanathan, IRSME, Chairperson, Dr. Malini V. Shankar, Vice Chancellor of IMU; and other senior officials and stakeholders from the maritime education sector.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Sonowal reiterated the Union Government’s resolve to transform maritime education in India by providing world-class infrastructure and training environments.
“These 17 projects mark a significant step in our mission to strengthen India’s maritime education landscape. With modern infrastructure and advanced facilities, we are enabling students to excel and meet global maritime standards,” he said.
The event concluded with an interactive session featuring discussions on the future of maritime education, innovation in training, and the roadmap for continued infrastructure development across IMU campuses.
IAAPI Appoints New Office Bearers for 2025-26 at Amusement Industry Maha-Kumbh
The IAAPI Expo 2025, known as the Maha-Kumbh of the Amusement Industry, witnessed a momentous occasion as IAAPI announced its new leadership for the 2025-26 term. Stepping into key leadership roles, Mr. Ankur Maheshwary has been appointed as the new Chairman, with Mr. Prashant Kanoria as 1st Vice Chairman and Mr. Maneesh Verma as 2nd Vice Chairman.
As the leadership transitions on April 1, 2025, Mr. Shrikant Goenka, the current Chairman, reflects on a tenure marked by transformational achievements. His leadership has propelled IAAPI to new heights of brand visibility, policy advocacy, and industry-wide influence. From a revitalized brand identity to enhanced technology adoption and an upgraded expo experience, his vision has reshaped IAAPI’s standing in the amusement and attractions sector.
When Mr. Goenka took the helm, the world was still recovering from the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. IAAPI members faced financial struggles, operational setbacks, and an uncertain future. The industry was in firefighting mode, trying to reclaim its foothold after years of losses. Under his leadership, IAAPI not only stabilized but emerged stronger than ever. His tenure saw unprecedented policy advocacy with the Tourism Ministry, creating a roadmap for government collaboration and industry growth.
One of the most remarkable achievements under his leadership has been IAAPI’s rebranding and digital transformation, making it a modern, dynamic, and future-ready association. The biggest-ever IAAPI Expo with record-breaking visitor footfall is a testament to the strong foundation he has laid.
As IAAPI moves forward with its newly appointed leadership, the association continues to build on a strong vision, a renewed strategy, and ambitious goals for the future. The groundwork laid under Mr. Goenka’s leadership will serve as a launchpad for even greater success, ensuring that IAAPI continues to be a leading voice in the global amusement industry. His contributions and expertise will undoubtedly continue to play a significant role in shaping IAAPI’s journey ahead.
Kalyan Jewellers Q4 Performance: 37% Revenue Boost
Chandigarh,9th April: The recently concluded quarter has been a very fulfilling one recording consolidated revenue growth of approximately 37% when compared to the same period in the previous financial year despite extreme volatility in the gold prices.
Our India operations witnessed revenue growth of approximately 39% during Q4 FY2025 as compared to Q4 FY2024, driven primarily by robust wedding demand. The quarter recorded healthy same-store-sales-growth of approximately 21%.
We launched 25 Kalyan showrooms in India during the recently concluded quarter, and another 3 showrooms during the first week of April 2025.
In the Middle East, we witnessed revenue growth of approximately 24% when compared to the same period in the previous financial year driven primarily by same-store-sales-growth. Middle East contributed approximately 12% to our consolidated revenue for the recently concluded quarter.
Our digital-first jewellery platform, Candere, recorded a revenue de-growth of approximately 22% during the recently concluded quarter as compared to the same period during the last year.
We launched 14 Candere showrooms during Q4 FY 2025.
As communicated earlier, for FY 2026, we have drawn up plans to launch 170 showrooms across Kalyan and Candere formats – 75 Kalyan showrooms (all FOCO) in non-south India (including 5 larger-format flagship Kalyan showrooms), 15 Kalyan showrooms (all FOCO) across south India and international markets and 80 Candere showrooms in India. We have completed signing LOIs for the Franchisee Owned Company Operated (FOCO) showrooms planned for the year in India.
We are upbeat about the ongoing quarter and are witnessing encouraging trends in the advance collections for both Akshaya Tritiya as well as for wedding purchases for the festive/wedding season.
As of March 31, 2025, our total number of showrooms across India and the Middle East stood at 388 (Kalyan India – 278, Kalyan Middle East – 36, Kalyan USA – 1, Candere – 73).
More Than Half of India Likely to be Middle Class by 2030
Mumbai, 9th April, 2025: Boutique cultural strategy firm, Folk Frequency, has released its latest future-forward research report, ‘India 2030’ — a strategic playbook designed to help brands navigate India’s rapidly changing cultural and consumer landscape. The comprehensive report, which decodes 30+ cultural shifts, offers valuable perspectives on the changes in India’s economy and digital transformation.
Key Findings from the ‘India 2030’ Report
The New Indian Middle Class:
The India 2030 report reveals that India’s middle class will make up more than half of the population, shifting consumption from necessity-driven to experience-first. It further states that the demand for experiential products like casual dining (+49%) and fine dining (+55%) is soaring. This middle class is new in the sense that they are rising out of generational poverty. They are the first in their families to get educated, to earn early in jobs beyond domestic or unorganized labor.
Digital Consumption Reshaping Influence – But Algorithms Reinforce Old Biases:
57% of India’s internet users are in rural and tier-2+ cities, yet ad targeting and content curation still favor metros and English speakers. Because of AIs inherent bias against regional languages, a huge percentage of targeting is being wasted, as it does not reach true aspirational audiences in India, the report indicated.
Higher Literacy Reshaping Consumer Expectations:
The report finds that India’s higher education landscape is undergoing significant transformation, guided by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. A central objective of the NEP is to achieve a Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) of 50% by 2035, a substantial increase from the 26.3% recorded in 2018. India’s literacy rate has also steadily climbed, reducing extreme poverty from 22.5% in 2011 to 10.2% in 2019. More than just economic upliftment, improved literacy is changing mindsets and making consumers more financially aware, brand-conscious, and critical of marketing claims. They now expect transparency and accountability, higher product service and standards, and greater brand trust and storytelling.
Women are India’s New Economic Powerhouse:
The report also indicates that more than half of medical students in India are women, and 14% of businesses are now female-led. In luxury markets, women accounted for 64% of growth in single-malt sales. Products designed for women, rather than adapted for them, will win over consumers. Niche and differentiated products with female aesthetic, handling, and dimensions that feel comfortable, not just ‘not bad’, will appeal to female consumers.
Gen-Z and Alpha Will be India’s Biggest Consumers:
93% of Indian Gen Z and Alpha are key decision-makers in family travel and expect brand alignment with values, inclusivity, and sustainability. Younger Indians are largely growing up westernised through education and exposure to social media. There is a clash of values when it comes to oppression and unsustainable practices in Indian culture – no matter how ancient those may be. They are looking back to Indian history, joining diverse global fandoms, and standing up for what they believe is right, pushing the culture towards a more ‘rights based’ inquiry system that strongly punishes unethical behaviour and cancels businesses and brands that indulge in the same.
Gayatri Sapru, the Founder of Folk Frequency and an Independent Anthropologist, said, “I have seen firsthand how wide the gap is between culture, data, and business strategy. Many of the analyses today are rehashing what is common knowledge because of lack of depth and rigour. This one is different. It is original and rigorous, and offers precise cues on evolving needs, identities, narratives, and positioning to help brands future-proof their relevance.”
In 2022, Folk Frequency unveiled another report titled ‘Girl Uninterrupted’ that transformed how brands saw heartland Indian Gen Z and became a go-to playbook for Fortune 50 companies. ‘India 2030’ takes this further, offering a radical, rooted way to decode the country’s next decade.
ZEISS Strengthens Operations with New Quality Excellence Center in Ahmedabad
9th April 2025, Ahmedabad, India – ZEISS, a leading provider of measurement solutions, has inaugurated of its first Quality Excellence Center (QEC) in Gujarat, making it the sixth QEC in India. This strategic expansion underscores ZEISS’s commitment to India’s rapidly growing manufacturing sector by providing cutting-edge quality assurance solutions and technical expertise closer to key industrial hubs.
Gujarat, known for its strong industrial ecosystem, has emerged as a major center for manufacturing, automotive, electric vehicle, medical and engineering industries. With the rise of the ‘Make in India’ initiative and increasing demand for high-precision manufacturing, the new ZEISS Quality Excellence Center will serve as a crucial enabler for businesses looking to achieve world-class quality standards.
Mr. Aveen Padmaprabha, Head – Industrial Quality Solutions at ZEISS India Pvt. Ltd., said, “Inauguration of ZEISS Quality Excellence Center in Ahmedabad aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse. This will be our sixth QEC and by establishing a dedicated Center in this region, we aim to support industries with advanced metrology solutions, application engineering expertise, and hands-on customer training, ensuring that manufacturers can enhance their quality control processes and drive greater efficiency.”
“Every measurement and analysis conducted here will have a far-reaching impact across industries such as Automotive, Medical, Electronics, and Electric Vehicles (EV). We aim to pursue excellence at every level for our customers, from the smallest detail to their most ambitious goal.” Aveen Padmaprabha further added.
The newly inaugurated center is equipped with ZEISS’s latest coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), optical 3D scanners, and surface measurement systems. It will provide comprehensive services including product demonstrations, training sessions, application support, and consultation to help manufacturers optimize their inspection workflows and maintain the highest quality standards.
The Quality Excellence Center is part of ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions’ broader strategy to further expand its services across India, ensuring customers have easier access to state-of-the-art metrology technology and expertise. This expansion follows the successful establishment of similar centers in other key industrial locations, reinforcing ZEISS’s position as a trusted partner in industrial quality assurance.
With this move, ZEISS India’s Industrial Quality Solutions division will continue to empower manufacturers in Gujarat and across India with precision measurement solutions that drive innovation, reliability, and efficiency in mass production.
Technology and Services available at the latest Quality Excellence Center include:
- Dimensional measurement and inspection
- Surface and form measurement
- Material analysis
- Reverse engineering
- Training and support