INDIA – January 24, 2025 – Splunk, the cybersecurity and observability leader, in collaboration with Oxford Economics, today released The CISO Report 2025, a global research report detailing the goals, priorities, and business strategies for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and their boards of directors.

The CISO’s rise to the C-suite comes with more engagement with the boardroom, an audience with the CEO, and the power to make strategic decisions for the business. Notably, 82% of surveyed CISOs now report directly to the CEO, a significant increase from 47% in 2023. In addition, 83% of CISOs participate in board meetings somewhat often or most of the time. While 60% acknowledge that board members with cybersecurity backgrounds more heavily influence security decisions, only 29% of CISOs say their board includes at least one member with cybersecurity expertise.

“As cybersecurity becomes increasingly central to driving business success, CISOs and their boards have more opportunities to close gaps, gain greater alignment, and better understand each other in order to drive digital resilience,” said Michael Fanning, Chief Information Security Officer, Splunk. “For CISOs, that means understanding the business beyond their IT environments and finding new ways to convey the ROI of security initiatives to their boards. For board members, it means committing to a security-first culture and consulting the CISO as a primary stakeholder in decisions that impact enterprise risk and governance. Bringing these groups together requires educating boards on the details of cybersecurity, and for CISOs to understand the language and needs of the business while also making security a business enabler.”

“Leading and managing the cybersecurity and privacy programs at a higher education institution requires strong collaboration and communication with everyone from board members to privacy leaders, staff, faculty, and students to ensure security is integrated into all aspects of the organisation,” said Shefali Mookencherry, Chief Information Security and Privacy Officer, University of Illinois Chicago. “As the role of the CISO grows more complex and critical to organisations, CISOs must be able to balance security needs with business goals, culture, and articulate the value of security investments. By establishing strong relationships across various departments and stakeholders, CISOs can provide guidance and leadership to propel cybersecurity and privacy programs.”

• Setting and aligning on strategic cybersecurity goals (80% for boards with a CISO member versus 27% for boards without a CISO member)
• Communicating progress against milestones, security goal achievement and plan of record (60% for boards with a CISO member versus 16% for boards without a CISO member)
• Budgeting adequately to meet goals (50% for boards with a CISO member versus 24% for boards without a CISO member)

• Innovating with emerging technologies (52% of CISOs deem it a priority versus 33% for board members)
• Upskilling or reskilling security employees (51% for CISOs versus 27% for boards)
• Contributing to revenue growth initiatives (36% for CISOs versus 24% for boards)

• Business acumen (55% for boards versus 40% for CISOs)
• Emotional intelligence (45% for boards versus 35% for CISOs)
• Communication (52% for boards versus 47% for CISOs
• Regulation and compliance knowledge (44% for boards versus 57% for CISOs)

While boards and CISOs agree on core cybersecurity KPIs, 79% of CISOs say KPIs for their security teams have changed substantially over the recent years. Forty-six percent of CISOs said attaining security milestones was indicative of their success, compared to only 19% of board respondents.

Maintaining compliance is business critical
Regulatory environments have become more complex, expansive, and punitive, requiring faster incident reporting and placing more liability squarely on CISOs’ shoulders. While maintaining compliance is vital to the business, only 15% of CISOs ranked compliance status as a top performance metric, a significant disconnect compared to 45% of boards. Twenty-one percent of CISOs revealed they had been pressured not to report a compliance issue, however, 59% said they would become a whistleblower if their organisation was ignoring compliance requirements.

Budget cuts have serious consequences
Cyber budgets reflect inconsistent support and misalignment, with 29% of CISOs saying they receive the proper budget for cybersecurity initiatives and accomplishing their security goals, compared to 41% of board members who think cybersecurity budgets are adequate. Sixty-four percent of CISOs reveal that the current threat and regulatory environment make them concerned they’re not doing enough. Eighteen percent of CISOs revealed they were unable to support a business initiative because of budget cuts in the last 12 months, and 64% said that lack of support led to a cyberattack. CISOs also reported reduced security solutions and tools (50%), security hiring freezes (40%), and decreased or eliminated security training (36%) as top cost-saving measures. Ninety-four percent of CISOs report being victims of a disruptive cyberattack, with 55% experiencing them at least a couple of times, and another 27% experiencing them many times.

Methodology
The global survey was conducted in June and July 2024 in partnership with Oxford Economics. The report surveyed 600 respondents (500 CISOs, CSOs, or equivalent security leaders and 100 board members). Respondent categories included CISOs who self-identified as board members. The survey respondents were drawn from 10 countries: Australia, France, Germany, Italy, India, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States. They also represented 16 industries: agriculture, business services, construction/engineering, education, energy and utilities, financial services, government, healthcare, life sciences, information services, technology, manufacturing, retail, consumer goods, telecom, and media and communications. Oxford Economics also conducted eight in-depth interviews with CISOs and board members for qualitative insight.

Mumbai, January 24th, 2025: SVKM’s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) marked an important milestone with the celebration of its 22nd University Day. This event, which took place at the Mukesh Patel Auditorium on the 24th of January 2025, had Shri T. R. Parasuraman, Senior Executive Advisor, Toyota Industries Engine India as the Chief Guest.

This event began with the poster exhibition inauguration at the Mukesh Patel Auditorium lobby, followed by the lighting of the lamp ceremony and Saraswati Vandana. Dr Ramesh Bhat, Vice Chancellor, NMIMS, facilitated the Chief Guest and addressed the audience. He extended his heartfelt appreciation to every member of the NMIMS community and thanked them for their tireless effort, dedication and unwavering commitment. He emphasised the shared vision of every member of the NMIMS family and applauded them for their invaluable contribution to shaping the future of the society and the nation.

The journey of NMIMS began in 1934 with the establishment of Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal (SVKM) which was born out of a visionary dream to nurture education across all dimensions: physical, intellectual, philosophical, and ethical. This visionary endeavour laid the foundation for what has now become a global institution.

NMIMS was started in 1981 with only four faculty members and forty students. Today, NMIMS has grown into a prestigious globally recognised institution with over 800 faculty members, 1000 staff members, and more than 30,000 full-time students across multiple campuses. The recognition of NMIMS as a university on 13th January 2003 marked the beginning of a new era. Now, NMIMS stands as a NAAC A+ Category 1 University with graded autonomy.

Vice Chancellor of SVKM’s NMIMS, Dr. Ramesh Bhat, said, “Our logo symbolises our core values. The elephant stands for wisdom, knowledge, and strength while the red quadrant indicates passion. The black bands symbolise the power of academic resources and the laurel wreath signifies achievements. We use our logo as our guide to consistently strive for excellence. Our Pharmacy School ranks among the top ten in India, while our Business Management School is among the top hundred institutions globally. We have received NAAC A+ accreditation as well as international accreditations such as AACSB, ABET, and EQUIS. We realise that these milestones are not just the years, dates, or events to celebrate. They represent decades of dedication, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence. These numbers and ranks are not mere numbers; they represent our dreams realised and potential unleashed.”

The Vice Chancellor unveiled three new initiatives, namely the NMIMS Sustainability Oath, the NMIMS Gen AI Policy, and the NMIMS Social Media Policy, which are a part of NMIMS’ commitment to responsible education and societal impact. He touched upon the various initiatives that are already implemented across NMIMS campuses and emphasised how the forward-thinking university is providing a learning experience of par excellence.

Pune, 24th January 2025: Danube Properties, the fastest-growing property developer in Dubai, held an exclusive roadshow in Pune, Maharashtra. The packed event showcased the Group’s diverse portfolio of premium properties in Dubai, UAE. This initiative also reflected Danube’s commitment to strengthening its ties and engagement with the Indian investors and the expats.

Adding to its innovative approach Danube Properties also launched a new campaign, “Danube Hai Na!!” The campaign elaborates on more than 40 unparalleled amenities being offered in the Danube projects. It emphasizes the focus of the company toward intelligently designed living spaces which cater to each and every need of its residents. The tagline of the campaign translates to ‘Whatever convenience you think of, it’s there in Danube’s projects.’ For example if any resident requires urgent medical assistance at any time, a 24×7 Doctor-On-Call service is readily available within the community. Danube’s campaign highlights how its projects have redefined convenience, luxury and holistic living seamlessly from providing recreational facilities to all the essential services.

The grand event was marked with the august presence of Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group. Emphasising the importance of the Indian market in Danube’s global vision he said, “India remains a key focus area for us, and the roadshow is aimed to bring Dubai’s world-class real estate closer to Indian investors and expats. We are here to offer them seamless access to luxurious, affordable, and high-value properties launched and delivered by Danube in one of the world’s most sought-after real estate markets.”

The roadshow was well-attended by Danube’s Channel Partners in India. To strengthen their association with the Group, they were presented with lucrative schemes offering rich rewards for achieving targeted sales. Driven by Dubai’s status as a global hub for business, lifestyle and innovation, the roadshow underscored the growing interest among the Indians in real estate investment in UAE, especially in Danube’s properties which enjoy highest launch to delivery ratio. Dubai continues to be a preferred destination for Indian property buyers due to its strategic location, vibrant economy, excellent infrastructure.

The UAE’s Golden Visa program has already opened long-term residency and property ownership opportunities for Indian expats and the investors who account for a significant portion of buyers in Dubai’s property market. The roadshow served as a platform for Danube to highlight its premium real estate offerings, characterised by exceptional returns on investment ranging from 6-10% , apart from the flexible payment plans under its revolutionary 1 percent plan, coupled with world-class amenities that appeal to global audiences.

Known for its liberal business environment and thriving IT sector, besides its cosmopolitan population, Pune was chosen strategically for the roadshow. The city also has a reputation as a hub of emerging businesses and a dynamic investor community. Danube Group has the vision of empowering aspirational entrepreneurs. The Pune roadshow was the part of a broader initiative by the Group to enhance its presence in India by connecting with a growing number of investors seeking high-quality yet affordable homes in Dubai.

Pune, January 24, 2025: The 11th edition of the Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) the World’s largest culinary competition for student chefs, will yet again be a celebration of unity, solidarity and sustainability through food, which has historically built bridges of friendship among culturally diverse nations.

The week-long, (Feb 2 to February 8, 2025), YCO 2025, features an action-packed timetable for the ‘Young Culinary Olympians’ as well as the mentors. It is held under the aegis of the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) in partnership with the International Hospitality Council (IHC) London. The contestants will undertake two rounds of culinary challenges in their quest to win the coveted YCO 2025 Champion Trophy and a validation of their skills by globally renowned experts from the food and hospitality industry.

But this year’s YCO leapfrogs into a new and permanent universe of integrating artificial intelligence with hospitality and hospitality education. This actually enhances the human aspect of hospitality by increasing efficiency and gaining time for hospitality professionals to do what they do best- enhance guest experiences through human touch.

A book on the A to Z of AI in hospitality and tourism will be launched during the opening of the YCO in Goa, with 50 countries signing a declaration to promote, integrate and assimilate AI from institutions to hotels and beyond

Speaking to the media in Pune, Dr Suborno Bose, the CEO of International Hospitality Council (IHC) and Founder YCO, and Chairman IIHM said, “The intersection of Artificial Intelligence and the hospitality industry is not only the future but the present. The book is not just a guide; it is a present-day reality and a vision for the future. From personalized guest interactions to operational efficiencies, AI is revolutionizing every facet of the hospitality business, making hospitality intelligent, thereby allowing it to be more humane.”

Talking about YCO 2025, Dr Suborno Bose, said, “Through the course of 11 years, the Young Chef Olympiad has grown from strength to strength and has taken on many worthy causes starting from unity in diversity to the UN Sustainability Development Goals and to the promotion of Millets. Through the immersive experience of the Olympiad, we aim to dismantle barriers and cultivate an environment where dialogue flourishes and friendship blossoms.”

The competition rounds will start, at the IIHM campus kitchens, from Feb 3, in Goa, and from Feb 4 in Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. The top 10 ‘Olympians’ as per the scores of the two rounds will compete in the Grand Finale of YCO 2025 in Kolkata on February 8, 2025.

The Plate Trophy will also be held a day earlier on Feb 7 wherein the contestants holding positions 11 to 20 in the first round will compete, while the Dr Suborno Bose Challenge will be held on Feb 6.

A Galaxy of Stars: The Judges of YCO 2025
As in previous years Padma Shri Chef Sanjeev Kapoor will be the Principal Judge and Mentor for YCO 2025 while Prof David Foskett OBE, the legendary hospitality educator and author is Chairman of the Jury. The judging panel includes internationally acclaimed celebrity chef judges including Chief Judge Chef John Wood, a Michelin Star Chef and Founder of KitchenCUT.

In each of the competition’s rounds, the contestants will be judged on their basic skills, innovation and creativity. Besides, judges will also mark on the cooking technique, along with portioning, presentation, colour and finish of the dishes.

On Feb 4, 2025, Pune will host students from Azerbaijan, Scotland, Egypt, Mauritius, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Netherlands, Lesotho, Italy and Bangladesh.

Judges in Pune will be Chef Henry Brosi (Lead Judge), Executive Head Chef, Lansdowne Club; Chef Andrew Mackenzie, Executive Chef, Exclusive Chefs Academy, Executive Collection; Chef Suvir Sharan, Celebrity Chef, Restaurateur and Author; Chef Magdala Caussimon, – Professor at Albert de Munn Paris; Chef Stephen Carter, Executive Chef at Boodles.
The Round 1 Director in Pune, will be Mr Neil Rippington – International Director, Global Education, International Institute of Hotel Management.

Showcasing the multicultural culinary diversity of different countries, YCO 2025 will also bring together the student chefs and chef mentors for the “United World of Young Chefs”. There will be World Cuisine display by the 10 participating countries at Pune & Food festival organized by IIHM Pune in partnership with Venue Partner Radisson Blu Kharadi, Pune on 3rd February 2025.

“This year an additional elimination round was the Young Chef India (YCI) round which saw participation from students from hotel management institutes across the country. We are proud that the winner of the YCI 2025 is Aliakbar Rampurawala from Bengaluru,” apprised by Mr Abdullah Ahmed, COO, International Institute of Hotel Management.

The Olympiad will conclude on February 8 with a closing ceremony, in Kolkata, where the YCO 2025 Champion, runners-up, Plate Trophy winner and Dr Bose Challenge winner along with other awardees will be announced.

Gurgaon: KIIT World School, Sohna Road celebrated the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose with a day filled with inspiring and educational activities aimed at fostering patriotism and holistic development among students.

The celebrations commenced with a lively session of indigenous games, including traditional sports like Kho-Kho, Kabaddi, and Tug-of-War. Students participated with great enthusiasm, promoting not only physical fitness but also teamwork and camaraderie.

Following the games, a calming yoga session was conducted, where students learned basic yoga postures and breathing exercises. The session emphasized the importance of physical and mental well-being, leaving a lasting impression on the young minds about the benefits of leading a balanced life.

A poster-making competition on the theme “Life of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose” showcased the students’ creativity and artistic expression. Thought-provoking and vibrant posters reflected the sacrifices and struggles of freedom fighters, reminding everyone of the invaluable contribution of Netaji to India’s independence.

The day concluded with the screening of an inspirational movie on the life of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The film highlighted his unwavering courage, determination, and commitment to India’s freedom struggle, leaving the students inspired by his legacy.

KIIT World School Principal Neelima Kamrah shared her thoughts on the occasion, stating, “Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s life is a shining example of courage and selflessness. By organizing these activities, we aim to instill a sense of national pride and inspire our students to contribute positively to society. The enthusiasm and participation of the students today were truly commendable.”

24th January 2025: Adani Wilmar Limited (AWL), one of India’s leading Foods FMCG companies, has marked a significant milestone by inaugurating one of India’s largest integrated food processing plant in Gohana, District Sonepat, Haryana. Developed at a cost of ₹1,298 crore, this expansive 85-acre facility has officially commenced operations with the dispatch of its first 100 metric tonnes of rice. The new plant is poised to propel socio-economic growth in the region, creating 2,000 direct and indirect jobs and invigorating the local agri-economy by offering a direct market for local farmers’ produce.

This state-of-the-art greenfield project reinforces underscores AWL’s commitment to bolstering India’s food security, offering a total annual production capacity of 627,000 MT across a range of staple food products—rice, wheat flour, suji, rawa, maida—and 2,00,000 MT of edible oils. The facility also integrates sustainability and energy efficiency into its core design, employing biomass fuel (rice husk) and a zero-liquid discharge system, along with installing rooftop solar panels capable of generating 5.6 MW of electricity. A co-generation (steam turbine) plant adds 3.2 MW of power, reducing the complex’s environmental footprint.

Commenting on this landmark achievement, Mr. Angshu Mallick, MD & CEO of Adani Wilmar Limited, said, “The commencement of our Gohana plant represents a significant step forward in our commitment to India’s food security and economic growth. This state-of-the-art facility exemplifies our mission to support a healthy growing nation by bringing advanced technology and world-class infrastructure to ensure citizens have access to the best quality branded staple foods. We have a central audit system which ensures quality checks. We ensure that all our specifications meet FSSAI requirements and that all our plants follow the American Institute of Bakers standard which has over 280 points on which audit is done. All our endeavors are towards delivering the best quality food products to people. Beyond enhancing our production capabilities, this plant will create substantial employment opportunities, driving socio-economic development and empowering communities to thrive.”

The cutting-edge complex, meticulously designed by Larsen & Toubro Technology Services (L&T), incorporates advanced engineering solutions from global leaders such as Satake Corporation, Bühler Group, Alfa Laval India, Mactek Solutions, and Kirby Building Systems. Extensive engineering efforts in planning, design, and execution are laying the groundwork for a transformative infrastructure to revolutionize food production.

Pawan Kumar Jaitly, Global Delivery Head-FMCG, Plant Engineering, Larsen & Toubro Technology Services (LTTS), said, “The integrated facility demonstrates L&T’s expertise in building world-class food processing infrastructure. The 85-acre plant incorporates construction technologies and sustainable design principles, setting new benchmarks in the industry. We’re proud to have delivered this project that will significantly boost India’s food processing capabilities.”

Adani Wilmar’s largest greenfield project is in line with the broader vision of strengthening India’s food processing capabilities and advancing regional economic prosperity. The expansion of the integrated food complex continues to progress steadily. Till date over, 10,000 MT of steel structure, 7,500 MT of Tor steel, and 100,000 cement bags have been utilized, marking significant milestones in this ambitious endeavor.

National, January 24, 2025: This Republic Day, PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema chain, presents the highly anticipated action-packed thriller SkyForce, marking the first mega-blockbuster release of 2025. A gripping tale based on true events, SkyForce celebrates the bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism of the Indian Air Force, offering an exhilarating cinematic experience perfect for the Republic Day weekend.

The film marks the highly anticipated return of Bollywood’s Khiladi Akshay Kumar to the big screen and introduces Veer Pahariya, who makes his acting debut as a fearless Air Force officer. Pahariya’s performance has already generated significant buzz, and moviegoers are eagerly awaiting his portrayal of a hero in the sky. Paired with a strong supporting cast including Sara Ali Khan and Nimrat Kaur, SkyForce promises to deliver a cinematic experience that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

SkyForce follows India’s elite air force squadron as they undertake daring aerial combat missions to defend the skies, delving into themes of valor, dedication, and love for the nation. This high-energy film, made for the grand theatrical experience, offers breathtaking visuals and a strong patriotic theme, making it the perfect choice to honor the nation during this significant occasion.

“SkyForce, with its patriotic theme, is the perfect cinematic experience that brings families together to celebrate. This highly anticipated Akshay Kumar blockbuster is made for the big screen, and we expect a 20% surge in footfalls during the Republic Day weekend. The response has been highly encouraging, and we’re excited to offer audiences the chance to experience it in all its glory.” – said Mr. Kamal Gianchandani, Chief Business Planning & Strategy, PVR INOX Ltd.

Don’t miss out on this chance to soar high with SkyForce, celebrate the courage and sacrifice of our armed forces, and kick off 2025 with an unforgettable cinematic experience.

 Mr. Shobhit Singh, Managing Director & CEO, Stone Sapphire India Pvt Ltd:

“As we look forward to the next Union Budget, we urge the government to focus on both sustainability and affordability for MSMEs, which are the future of India’s economy and sustainable growth. While the government has taken commendable steps in this direction, such as the PLI scheme for toys and the NAPT, much more needs to be done in terms of financial reforms to encourage MSMEs to become sustainable and innovative.

With India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, MSMEs, especially in the toy and sports industries, need to be empowered to adopt green practices. This would mean increasing access to financial incentives and government-backed programs such as RAMP, TEQUP, and ZED certifications, which enable MSMEs to adopt green technologies and reduce their carbon footprint.

However, MSMEs still struggle to access timely and affordable credit with a mere 14% credit penetration compared to the global average. The government should simplify the loan application process and consider alternative financing options like government-backed P2P lending platforms and credit insurance schemes that will bridge this gap. A compliance framework simplified and tailored to the needs of MSMEs will also ease the regulatory burden on businesses, helping them focus on growth and sustainability.

Present-day consumers are very conscious about their environment and so MSMEs should take advantage of this and support the sustainability movement that is trending globally; thereby not only marketing themselves better but also securing some loyal customers as well as overseas partnerships. Long-term growth is only achievable through the government, which needs to offer the necessary financial support and policy measures that can enable MSMEs to succeed sustainably in the competitive international market.”

Ms. Kavita Kerawalla, Vice Chairperson of VIBGYOR Group of Schools

“The allocation of ₹1.48 lakh crore in the last Budget for education, employment, and skilling was a commendable step in strengthening India’s position as a global talent hub. As we approach the next Union Budget, we are hopeful that a significant share will go towards education, particularly for teacher training. Investing in our educators is key to building a skilled and inclusive workforce ready to tackle future challenges.Such investments will boost both foundational and higher education, giving our youth the skills they need to excel in a competitive job market. These steps will also ensure quality education reaches every corner of the country, helping bridge the digital divide and bringing the benefits of technology to all students.

We believe the upcoming Budget should focus on building strong digital infrastructure to support blended learning, narrow the rural-urban gap, and scale technology-driven education programs. This will help us thrive in the digital era, preparing students for a tech-focused world.These initiatives won’t just empower our youth—they will also drive India’s journey to becoming a developed nation by 2047. We hope to see a focus on modernising education to match industry needs while encouraging the growth of the EdTech sector.

Such moves will greatly benefit private institutions like ours, helping us strengthen tech infrastructure, run advanced teacher training, and adopt sustainability measures. We’re optimistic about continued government support in these areas to help us contribute more effectively to India’s education system.”

 Ms. Piyush Peshwani, Co-founder and CEO at OnGrid

“As India accelerates its journey toward digital transformation, we anticipate that the upcoming Union Budget will focus on further strengthening digital public infrastructure (DPI), which can reduce the cost of regulatory compliance, trust and safety. DPI can be used to verify individuals as well as entities, and we hope that this verification is available to all relevant stakeholders, in line with data privacy and security regulations.

The access to DPI should become easier, as opposed to a complex “licence” based approach, which limits its usage, and can curb innovation. A small but genuine startup should also have similar access (with necessary checks and balances) as a large regulated enterprise.

Emphasis on digitized credentialing and AI-powered KYC / KYB and verification has the potential to boost efficiency, security, and credibility in various economic transactions.

We are optimistic that the budget will act as a catalyst for growth and reaffirm India’s commitment to building a digitally empowered economy”.

 Mr. Sagar Kaushik, Associate Director, Growth Propelld, Propelld, 

 “The private education sector is crucial to India’s educational landscape, fostering innovation and skill development. However, government support for education fee-financing fintechs is urgently needed. Policy reforms, lower lending rates from public sector banks (PSBs), and co-lending models can reduce non-performing assets (NPAs) in higher education financing. Collaborations between PSBs and fintech platforms can streamline traditional lending processes, while fintech companies enhance accessibility and efficiency through technology-driven solutions.”

Mr. Suhani – Co-founder of Nishani, a jewellery brand

“The gems and jewelry sector in India is at an exciting crossroads, driven by the growing demand for personalized and modular designs that resonate with today’s consumers. To build on this momentum, I hope the upcoming Union Budget introduces measures that support small and emerging brands like Nishani, which are reimagining how jewelry is designed, worn, and experienced.

With the industry projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.34% between 2023 and 2028, initiatives such as reduced import duties on raw materials, tax incentives for domestic manufacturers, and enhanced support for skill development programs could significantly strengthen India’s position as a global leader in jewelry innovation. Furthermore, investments in e-commerce infrastructure and digital transformation will empower brands to scale and connect with a broader audience, both locally and internationally.

At Nishani, we’re passionate about celebrating individuality through customizable jewelry. A budget that fosters creativity and entrepreneurship would go a long way in enabling brands like ours to continue redefining the jewelry experience for modern consumers.”

Mr. Kunal Rishi, COO of Paras Buildtech

As we approach the Union Budget 2025-26, the real estate sector continues to be a cornerstone of India’s economic framework, contributing significantly to GDP growth and employment generation. This year, we look forward to policy interventions that will address long-standing challenges and unlock the sector’s true potential.  Recognizing real estate with ‘industry status’ remains a crucial demand, as it would streamline access to institutional funding and lower financing costs. Additionally, measures like single-window clearance for approvals and rationalization of GST on construction materials can dramatically enhance operational efficiency and cost management. We hope to see fiscal incentives that not only stimulate demand across all segments but also promote sustainable and innovative urban development.

Mr. Udit Jain, Director, One Group

Over the past few years, the prices of land and construction materials have risen sharply, not only in metropolitan cities but across the country. This, coupled with sustained demand, has significantly driven up property prices, making homeownership increasingly challenging for many. As a result, the real estate sector, particularly the housing segment, requires robust government support to make home buying more affordable for aspiring buyers.

Government intervention through targeted incentives could help alleviate the financial burden on homebuyers. One crucial area to address in the upcoming budget is the enhancement of the income tax deduction limit on home loan interest under Section 24(b), which has remained unchanged for over a decade. Increasing this limit would provide much-needed relief, particularly for buyers in high-cost urban markets.

Another key measure is the extension and expansion of the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS). The government should consider raising the property price threshold for affordable housing eligibility, enabling more middle-income families to benefit from this scheme. Such an adjustment would not only boost demand but also encourage developers to focus on affordable housing projects, a segment currently experiencing a downturn in supply.

Additionally, rationalizing stamp duty rates, especially in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, could significantly stimulate housing demand among mid-income and low-income groups. High stamp duty rates often act as a barrier for homebuyers, and reducing them could make homeownership more accessible in these emerging markets.

Another critical issue that the government should address—or guide the respective state governments to resolve—is the disparity between circle rates (also known as collector rates) and prevailing market prices in certain cities such as Bhiwadi and Tijara in Rajasthan, and Agra in Uttar Pradesh. In these areas, circle rates are often higher than actual market prices, leading to challenges in completing transactions between prospective buyers and sellers.

This discrepancy creates significant problems, including tax implications for both parties. The difference between the market rate and the circle rate is treated as notional gains and attracts taxation for both the buyer and the seller, even if no real gains are realized. Rationalizing circle rates to align them more closely with market values would help facilitate smoother transactions and alleviate these issues.

Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice Chancellor, Mahindra University

 “We anticipate increased funding for the education sector in the upcoming budget as we see the growing emphasis on skill development, experiential learning, and research and development. The government’s focus should include initiatives such as tax incentives, industry-aligned training programs and faster patent approvals. Our young entrepreneurs need a strong support system right now. Increased financial incentives, simplified regulatory frameworks, and enhanced incubation support, will further stimulate the technological advancements. The government can establish more centres of excellence. However, it’s important to note that the success of these initiatives will also depend on the active participation of the private sector through public-private partnerships. Support towards these partnerships can enhance learning opportunities among students and make education more accessible. This approach can facilitate interdisciplinary education initiatives and bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, ensuring a more holistic and effective education system.”

 Mr. Leela Kaza, Founder and Co-CEO of Bounteous x Accolite

“As India approaches the presentation of 2025 Union Budget, we stand at a crucial juncture to shape a Viksit Bharat by integrating technological advancements with foundational development. We hope to see a budget emphasizing digitalization and investing in transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, and semiconductor manufacturing. Equally critical are investments in skill development, AI-focused R&D, and incentives to modernize industries/sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and agriculture— which should be the key to unlocking India’s $1 trillion digital economy vision.

This budget provides a unique opportunity to expand innovation hubs in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, foster public-private partnerships, and enhance access to advanced infrastructure. The nation can drive inclusive growth by empowering businesses across conventional and emerging sectors to innovate and scale.

We are optimistic that the budget will balance fostering cutting-edge technologies with addressing core developmental needs, solidifying India’s position as a global leader in technology and innovation.”

Mr. Kunal Arya, Co-Founder & Managing Director, ZELIO E Mobility Ltd., A leading EV 2 Wheeler Manufacturer

As India’s electric mobility sector gears up for an era of unprecedented growth, the Union Budget 2025-26 will play a critical role in shaping its trajectory. To ensure a sustainable future, we at ZELIO E Mobility believe that the government must introduce long-term subsidies akin to the FAME scheme, which will not only support the industry’s expansion but also encourage widespread consumer adoption of electric vehicles. Consistent policy backing will give manufacturers the confidence to invest in innovative solutions and scale production. We also urge the government to provide subsidies for the establishment of EV manufacturing plants. Facilitating this capital-intensive infrastructure will enable India to emerge as a global leader in EV production, stimulating local economies and fostering technological advancements. Simplifying access to financial services from banking institutions is another vital need of the industry. More accessible lending schemes and flexible credit options will allow EV manufacturers to expand their operations and bring high-quality products to market at a faster pace. Notably, we request a reduction in GST on spare parts from the current 28% to a more realistic range of 5-12%. This adjustment will substantially reduce production costs, allowing manufacturers to pass on the benefits to consumers, thereby further accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles- says Kunal Arya, Co Founder & Managing Director at ZELIO E Mobility Ltd.

Chennai, January 24, 2025: In a move that reinforces its growing footprint in India’s aviation sector, Çelebi India has been chosen as the ground handling partner for SpiceJet at Chennai International Airport (MAA). This strategic collaboration, effective immediately, is set to enhance the passenger and operational experience for SpiceJet flights at one of India’s busiest airports.

SpiceJet has recently bolstered its network by adding over 60 new flights, offering passengers better connectivity and more travel options. Notably, by the end of 2024, the airline introduced UDAN flights connecting Shivamogga (Karnataka) with Chennai and Hyderabad, and also launched double-daily flights between Chennai and Kochi, further strengthening regional connectivity, making Chennai one of the important sectors for the airline.

Çelebi proudly continues its partnership with SpiceJet at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) and Manohar International Airport, Goa. This extended mandate for a crucial sector like Chennai highlights Celebi’s expertise as a premier ground-handling service provider and reinforces the strong relationship cultivated with Spicejet as a trusted partner for the airline at these strategic locations.

Speaking on this partnership, Mr. Tauseef Khan, CEO – of Çelebi Ground Handling – India, said “Driven by increasing passenger volumes and substantial investments from both domestic and international carriers, India’s dynamic aviation environment calls for ground handling solutions that combine decades of experience with cutting-edge technology and modern practices. At Celebi, we take pride in offering this unique blend, delivering seamless, efficient, and innovative services that make us the trusted partner of choice for airlines navigating this exciting new era of Indian aviation. Being entrusted by SpiceJet for their ground handling needs at Chennai Airport is a testament to Çelebi’s unwavering focus on service excellence, operational reliability, and innovation. This milestone aligns with our vision of enhancing India’s aviation infrastructure and delivering superior experiences for passengers and airlines alike.”

Mr. Gavin Jeffries, Regional Manager South Region, SpiceJet, added “SpiceJet’s collaboration with Çelebi India has been instrumental in ensuring smooth and efficient operations at key airports, including Mumbai and Goa. We are delighted to extend this partnership to Chennai, where Çelebi’s proven track record of reliability and service excellence will play a vital role in optimizing our ground operations. As a domestic carrier connecting millions of travelers across the country, it is essential to work with partners who align with our commitment to delivering a superior travel experience.”

Çelebi India is renowned for its comprehensive ground handling services, which include passenger and baggage handling, aircraft ramp services, and more, provided to some of the world’s leading airlines. Operating at major Indian airports including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Goa, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Cochin, and Chennai, Çelebi is the preferred partner for both legacy carriers like British Airways and Qatar Airways and dynamic domestic airlines like SpiceJet.

This latest partnership marks another milestone in Çelebi’s journey to strengthen its presence in India while raising the bar for ground handling standards in the aviation industry.

Goa, January 24, 2025: ESCAPE Goa, a premium lifestyle destination curated by renowned designer Ritu Beri, hosted Creative Confluence, a remarkable event celebrating the union of creativity, culture, and sustainable infrastructure. The evening was graced by the Honorable Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways of India, Shri Nitin Gadkari, and Goa Tourism Minister, Shri Rohan Khaunte, whose presence added immense value to this initiative. The event began with a warm welcome and a guided tour of ESCAPE, immersing guests in its unique blend of art, culture, and innovation. The Ministers explored the venue’s cultural and creative essence, setting the tone for an inspiring evening of collaboration and dialogue.

Shri Nitin Gadkari’s heartfelt address captivated the audience, as he emphasized the critical role of traditional art, craft, and culture in shaping modern infrastructure. Reflecting on his tenure as the MSME Minister, he expressed gratitude to Ritu Beri for her contributions to modernizing handloom and handicrafts, stating, “Handloom and handicrafts are essential as they reflect our cultural identity. Progress must be rooted in the pillars of ethics, economy, ecology, and environment.”

The highlight of the evening was the Awards Ceremony, where Shri Gadkari presented accolades to distinguished individuals for their exceptional contributions to culture, art, and community:

-Mrs. Pallavi Dempo:
For championing education, culture, and community growth in Goa.
-Avinash Martin:
For redefining culinary artistry & global flavors.
-Orlando Noronha:
For enriching Goan culture by preserving the Mando and Fado.
-Ranjit Philapose:
For revolutionizing luxury hospitality with innovation.
-Ash Chandler:
The pioneer of Indian stand-up comedy, actor, and musician.
-Aloo Gomes Pereira:
For enriching and preserving Goan culture through Festa de Povo.
-Tomas Menezes:
For fostering the preservation and evolution of Goa’s cultural identity.

Followed by high tea, featuring a thoughtful fusion of traditional Goan flavors and modern culinary sophistication. The Ministers engaged with esteemed guests, including MLAs, Sarpanchs, and creative minds, fostering meaningful discussions about building sustainable, creative visions for the future of infrastructure. Shri Gadkari even expressed his admiration for ESCAPE and shared a personal desire to reside in Goa someday, reflecting his fondness for the state’s vibrant culture. ESCAPE’s Creative Confluence proved to be an inspiring celebration of innovation, tradition, and sustainability. By weaving together creativity and community, the event left attendees deeply motivated to envision a harmonious blend of culture and development for a brighter future.