Archives July 2025

By – Akash Pharande, Managing Director, Pharande Spaces

July 11, 2025: The recent fake news about (relatively) cheap permanent residency in the UAE has thrown up all the old questions about our fascination for leaving India and settling abroad. This phenomenon is largely a hangover, albeit a real and persistent one, from earlier decades. What does it mean to be an Indian in India today, and what does it really mean to settle down abroad? Let’s examine this.

Yes, India’s economy is by far the fastest-growing one in the world today. This year alone, the Indian job market is expected to grow by 9%; our booming manufacturing and automobile sectors will be increasing hiring by 25% and 20% just in 2025 and the IT sector, our ‘crown jewel’ industry, also forecasts a 15–20% growth in employment in 2025.

So yes, when it comes to opportunity, India has everything that other countries have, if not much more. But let’s examine the nuts and bolts of an Indian living abroad instead.

Cost of Living – Getting the Most for Your Money

The big gap in cost between India and other countries is a very strong reasons to remain here. The cost of living in India is well over 200% lower than in the US (not including rent). Coming to housing – on an average, renting a home is 700% lower in India than in the US. And since homeownership is close to every Indian’s heart, let’s compare property prices in New York City to, say, Pune – they are over 13 times higher in NYC. The average upper-mid-range home price in Pune is approximately Rs. 8,000 per sq. ft, which converts to about USD 1,037 per sq. meter. In New York City, the median price per square meter is about USD 15,174.

This is by no means a perfect example, but it highlights the vast disparity between major US and Indian cities in terms of real estate costs.

The discrepancies are huge at every level, especially if we look at some other expense groups. In the US, restaurants cost 320% more than in India, while basic supplies cost 220% more. In India, a simple lunch at a cheap restaurant costs Rs. 250, whereas in the US it costs Rs. 1,712 when converted from USD – a difference of 623%. Even the cost of getting around is lower in India. A monthly pass for public transit is Rs. 850 in India and Rs. 5,563 in the US.

For professionals in India who make good money, this cost advantage lets them live a life that would need a lot more money to live overseas. In India, a middle-class professional may afford to hire help around the house, live in a nice place, and go out for fun on a regular basis for a lot less than they would in other countries.

The Cultural Advantage

Living and working in India gives you access to family support networks that are unlike any other and greatly improve your quality of life. This is a fact that is rudely driven home to Indians who emigrate abroad, unfortunately too late. In India, we value working together, and coworkers frequently become like family. The focus on making decisions based on family and working together to achieve goals makes the Indian workplace a very supportive place.

There are always exceptions, of course, but our culture is all about treating coworkers and clients well. The Indian company model focuses on relationships, builds professional networks that last, and help people rise in their careers. We have 22 official languages and therefore also different regional influences. The Indian workplace tends to have a vibrant professional atmosphere that values differences and encourages open-minded thinking.

If we take the US as an example again – companies were beginning to realize how important diversity and inclusion are, until a recent major political shift caused a massive reversal on that front. Meanwhile in India, more women are becoming leaders, and companies are putting rules in place to make sure everyone has the same chances.

Work-Life Balance

I’ll agree that we’re a little behind some other countries on this front, though not nearly as behind as others like Japan and South Korea. India does have a reputation for long working hours, but the work culture is quickly changing to allow for a better balance between work and life. The Covid-19 pandemic introduced the hybrid work model which has proved to be remarkably sticky.

Today, 60% of modern Indian enterprises have adopted hybrid models, which allow for flexible work arrangements. This change shows that more people are becoming aware of how important personal time and employee well-being are.

Policies that encourage a healthier separation between work and home are replacing the ‘always-on’ lifestyle. Indian businesses are putting more money into programs for employee health and wellness, mental health, and flexible scheduling to develop work environments that last longer. This change makes India a more appealing place for professionals who want to advance in their careers and find personal fulfillment.

India – The Strategic Choice for Indians

More than ever before, being an Indian citizen in India makes so much more sense than being an immigrant abroad. We’re on our way to becoming a major player in the global economy. The ‘advanced’ economies take us very seriously now, at every level. And in the mean time, these countries are becoming increasingly hostile towards foreigners.

We are in a great position to take advantage of our country’s growth while also enjoying the unique benefits of working in one of the most exciting and opportunity-rich places in the world – our home. It has never been a better time to be an Indian in India.

Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in Greater Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in the region. With the recent inclusion of Puneville Commercial into one of its most iconic townships, Pharande Spaces taken a major step towards addressing Pune’s current and future requirements for fully integrated residential-commercial convenience

July 11th 2025 – As Delhi & NCR experience ‘feels like’ temperatures exceeding 44°C with dust storms and sudden rains, and cities like Mumbai and Hyderabad face intense monsoons and rising viral infections, doctors are warning of an overlooked risk – non-diarrheal dehydration.

Across India, clinicians report a surge in patients recovering from fever or viral illness, still suffering from fatigue, cramps, low appetite, and brain fog. These are not just residual symptoms they signal fluid, electrolyte, and energy depletion that plain water may not be able to correct.

While dehydration is often linked to diarrhoea, experts are seeing it in heat exhaustion, dengue, fever, and respiratory/urinary tract infections conditions where the body loses salts and glucose along with fluids. This leads to delayed recovery, weakened immunity, and ongoing discomfort.

“Patients often believe recovery ends when fever subsides, but many return feeling drained and mentally foggy,” said Dr Abdul Majid Khan, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine.
“These are signs of hidden dehydration that water alone can’t fix. In today’s climate, we must treat hydration proactively, with fluids, salts, and glucose from Day One.”

Doctors are turning to Fluid, Electrolyte, and Energy (FEE) therapy ready-to-drink (RTD) solutions combining electrolytes and glucose. These have shown to support to reduce fatigue and improve hydration in non-diarrheal cases, often within hours. Starting FEE therapy early helps prevent complications and helps shortens recovery time.

In 2024, Kenvue, the world’s largest consumer health company and makers of ORSL, launched ‘The Hydration Gap for Non-Diarrheal Illnesses’. The report highlighted FEE’s role in recovery from fever, heat illness, and viral infections. 87% of doctors agreed that oral FEE recommendation can improve the speed of recovery & that Ready to Drink (RTD) solutions can cut recovery time by up to 4.38 days,.

“Dehydration isn’t just about diarrhoea—it’s a condition which can occur even in fever and viral illness,” said Dr Manoj Chawla, Consultant Diabetologist. “Even without obvious fluid loss, patients can be significantly depleted. Structured FEE therapy must be part of early treatment, not an afterthought start FEE therapy alongside other medications from Day One,”.
“Water or ORS powders don’t act fast enough. RTD FEE solutions are more effective, well-tolerated, and help patients bounce back quicker. They’ve become a standard in my treatment protocol. .”

Those most at risk include elderly individuals, children, and working adults exposed to erratic weather. Signs like dizziness, weakness, or cramps are frequently overlooked until they escalate.

While WHO ORS remains the gold standard for diarrhea-related dehydration, experts point out that it may not fully address the compliance and palatability challenges in non-diarrheal scenarios—especially among children or elderly patients. In response, the healthcare market has seen the development of standardized, palatable FEE-electrolyte solutions provide better patient outcomes.

Kenvue India continues to work with healthcare professionals to advance scientifically formulated hydration practices. As weather-related health risks rise, replenishing fluids, salts, and energy is no longer optional—it’s essential to faster recovery.

National– 11th July 2025 – In a significant step towards improving cold chain logistics in Nigeria, a pilot program under the IFC TechEmerge Sustainable Cooling Innovation program initiative is introducing Phase Change Material (PCM) technology to boost efficiency and sustainability in temperature-controlled transportation. Through partnerships with SPAR, a supermarket division of the Artee Group, and local delivery partner IMI, this project aims to preserve perishable goods more effectively in Nigeria’s complex logistics environment.

The pilot involves a fleet of four trucks equipped with PCM technology, designed to maintain optimal temperature ranges to ensure product quality during transportation. The fleet includes two 14-ft trucks for chilled goods and two 18-ft dual-chamber trucks capable of sustaining both chilled and frozen temperatures. These trucks use thermoTab active systems with PCM, which takes 6-8 hours to charge at the warehouse and maintains the desired temperature for up to 12 hours, making them suitable for short and long-haul deliveries.

Temperature-controlled logistics (TCL) is crucial for ensuring perishable items are delivered in top quality, yet inefficiencies in TCL systems contribute to substantial food waste globally—estimated at $1.2 trillion annually—and challenge the sustainability of food supply chains. Integrating PCM technology into the fleet is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency, reducing food waste while promoting environmental sustainability.

Benefits of PCM Technology

1. Reduced Carbon Footprint: PCM technology optimizes fuel usage, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with global climate goals.
2. Operational Cost Savings: By maintaining stable temperatures and lowering diesel usage, PCM technology helps reduce logistical costs—a critical advantage in regions like Nigeria, where efficient logistics can support both food security and economic resilience.
3. Enhanced Efficiency and Flexibility: The dual-chamber trucks support both chilled and frozen applications, offering greater flexibility in transporting a variety of perishable goods without compromising their integrity.

A Step Towards Sustainable Logistics

This initiative, led by the IFC TechEmerge Sustainable Cooling Innovation program, showcases the potential of advanced PCM technology in creating a more resilient and sustainable cold chain in Nigeria. As consumer demand for fresh, quality-controlled food products continues to grow, such innovations are likely to play a key role in the future of temperature-controlled logistics, ensuring that food reaches consumers safely, efficiently, and with minimal environmental impact.

Bangalore, India – July 11, 2025: Agilent Technologies today launched its InfinityLab Pro iQ Series mass detectors in India at an exclusive showcase in Bangalore. The highly anticipated series—designed for next-generation liquid chromatography-mass detection (LC-MS)—is poised to transform how Indian scientists detect and analyze impurities, trace contaminants, and complex biomolecules with unprecedented ease and sensitivity.

The InfinityLab Pro iQ Series – comprising the Pro iQ and Pro iQ Plus – represents a significant leap forward in LC-mass detection. These intelligent, compact systems are designed to meet the evolving needs of modern analytical laboratories. They offer triple quadrupole-level sensitivity within a single quadrupole system, enabling highly sensitive and accurate detection. The systems incorporate smart automation features that ensure ease of use and consistent performance across workflows. Additionally, they integrate seamlessly with Agilent’s InfinityLab LC portfolio and the OpenLab software suite, creating a unified and efficient analytical environment.

Together, these capabilities empower users to manage a wide range of workflows, including impurity profiling, biomolecule characterization, trace-level detection, and mass-based purification. The systems are equally effective for small molecule analysis and for complex biologics such as oligonucleotides, peptides, and intact proteins.

“With the launch of the InfinityLab Pro iQ Series in India, Agilent is reaffirming its commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that empower scientists to achieve greater insight and efficiency. The Pro iQ Series makes high-performance mass detection more accessible than ever, empowering Indian labs to move faster, with greater confidence in their data, no matter what they’re analyzing.” said Nandakumar Kalathil, Country General Manager, Agilent India.

“These intelligent systems simplify complex analyses and make high-performance mass detection more accessible across a wide range of applications. As India’s scientific landscape continues to evolve, we are proud to support our customers with technologies that help them advance research, ensure quality, and accelerate innovation.”, he added.

At the launch event, scientists from top CROs, CDMOs, and pharmaceutical companies witnessed a live demonstration of the system, followed by hands-on sessions and roundtable discussions led by Ian Edwards, Global Strategic Product Marketing Manager for LC/MS at Agilent. Experts emphasized how the system boosts data quality and lab efficiency, especially in high-demand environments.

By introducing the InfinityLab Pro iQ Series in India, Agilent continues to redefine the future of liquid chromatography-mass detection. Combining advanced sensitivity, intelligent design, and seamless integration, the Pro iQ Series empowers scientists to push the boundaries of discovery and innovation. As laboratories across India strive for greater precision, efficiency, and insight, Agilent remains a trusted partner—delivering the technologies and support needed to solve today’s challenges and shape tomorrow’s breakthroughs.

INOX Clean Energy has confidentially filed its DRHP with SEBI to raise upwards of Rs 6,000 crore through an Initial Public Offering (IPO), according to industry sources familiar with the development.

With a proposed equity dilution of over 10 per cent, the company is targeting a market capitalisation of around Rs 50,000 crore, the sources added.

In a public announcement on Friday, INOX Clean Energy, a part of the USD 12 billion INOXGFL Group, stated that it has submitted “the pre-filed draft red herring prospectus with Sebi and the stock exchanges, in relation to the proposed IPO on the main board of the stock exchanges.”

Industry sources said that a major portion of the public offer will comprise a fresh issue, with the proceeds earmarked for setting up new facilities in solar and Independent Power Producers (IPPs).

INOX Clean Energy is engaged in the business of developing and operating renewable energy projects as well as manufacturing solar cells and modules through its subsidiaries INOX Neo Energies and INOX Solar.

Currently, INOX Clean Energy has a total operational capacity of 157 MW, which includes 107 MW of wind and 50 MW of solar power. Additionally, 400 MW is under construction, comprising 350 MW of hybrid and 50 MW of solar projects. The company also has a project pipeline of over 2.2 GW, according to a CareEdge report from June 2025.

The book running lead managers for the proposed IPO include JM Financial, Motilal Oswal, Nuvama, IIFL Securities, and ICICI Securities.

H. MOSER & CIE. DEBUTS ITS FIRST STANDALONE BOUTIQUE IN INDIA

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ETHOS AT CITY OF TIME

H. Moser & Cie., the renowned independent Swiss watch manufacturer, proudly announces the opening of its first standalone boutique in India. Located at City of Time by Ethos in Gurugram, this milestone marks a significant chapter in the brand’s global expansion and reaffirms its commitment to creating immersive, personalized experiences for discerning watch enthusiasts in India.

The Gurugram boutique is the sixth standalone H. Moser & Cie. boutique globally, following celebrated openings in Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Menlo Park, and Seoul. The India boutique is launched in partnership with Ethos Limited, the country’s leading luxury watch retailer and exclusive partner for H. Moser & Cie. in India.

True to H. Moser & Cie.’s values of minimalism, innovation, and refined craftsmanship, the boutique reflects the brand’s understated elegance and modern aesthetic. Designed as an experiential destination, this space encapsulates the spirit of H. Moser & Cie., independent, forward-looking, and deeply rooted in artisanal excellence.

Visitors can explore the brand’s iconic collections, including boutique-exclusive timepieces such as the Streamliner Tourbillon Skeleton Boutique Edition, limited to only 17 pieces worldwide.

Pranav Saboo, CEO, Ethos Limited commented, “H. Moser & Cie. represents the pinnacle of independent Swiss watchmaking, a brand where craftsmanship meets courage. Their minimalist yet striking designs, combined with technically sophisticated movements, resonate with a new generation of collectors who value heritage presented with a bold and contemporary spirit. We are proud to present to the Indian market the first Moser boutique in the country, strategically located at City of Time in Gurugram, a destination that brings together the world’s finest in watchmaking.”

Edouard Meylan, H. Moser & Cie. CEO, commented, “Opening our first boutique in India is both a new beginning and a natural step forward. This country, where heritage and modernity dance in perfect counterpoint, echoes deeply with our philosophy. With Ethos, we have found not only a partner, but a kindred spirit: passionate, uncompromising, and fiercely independent. This boutique is more than a showcase — it is an invitation. To discover, to question, to feel. In India, we are not just opening a door. We are writing a new chapter, bold, precise, and unapologetically Moser.“

With this launch, H. Moser & Cie. deepens its engagement with the Indian market and invites collectors to experience its bold take on Haute Horlogerie in a space that mirrors its ethos.

H. Moser & Cie.’s own and unique take on Haute Horlogerie.

Address of the H. Moser & Cie. boutique

Ethos City of Time

Emaar Capital Tower 2, Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road, Sikanderpur, Sector 26,
Gurugram, Haryana 122002, India

Mumbai, 11th July 2025 – In a world where urban living often means tight schedules and smaller homes, Barker and Meowsky is rewriting the rules of pet care. Far from being just another kennel, this Mumbai-based wellness centre has become a second home for dogs and cats alike—combining comfort, companionship, and professional care under one roof.

At Barker and Meowsky, every pet’s journey is an emotional one. From shy first-timers who arrive with separation anxiety to spirited regulars who can’t wait to play with their daycare buddies, the transformation is heartwarming and deeply personal. Daily routines include structured play, gentle grooming, hydrotherapy, nap time, and of course—lots of cuddles.

“Our pets don’t just need food and shelter; they need community and care,” says Rinky Gupta, Co-founder of Barker and Meowsky. “We’ve seen the magic that happens when a dog who once cried at drop-off starts wagging their tail at the gate. That emotional shift is what keeps us going.”

Choosing the right pet daycare is not about fancy facilities—it’s about the team, transparency, and trust. The Barker and Meowsky model focuses on open communication, safety protocols, and enrichment activities tailored to every pet’s personality.

“Our aim is to set a new benchmark in urban pet care,” adds Pratik Sheth, Co-founder. “We want pet parents to feel at peace knowing their fur babies aren’t just being looked after—they’re thriving.”

As the demand for holistic pet care grows, Barker and Meowsky is proving that boarding can feel like home—and daycare can feel like joy.

Kolkata’s legacy jewellery brand, Golubhai Badalia Diamond, has been announced as the official luxury jewellery partner for Bridal Asia this season, marking a proud new chapter in the brand’s journey of redefining bridal grandeur for the modern Indian woman.

Known for their fine craftsmanship and distinct design language, Golubhai Badalia Diamond has become synonymous with big diamonds, refined detailing, and a personalised jewellery experience. Their collaboration with Bridal Asia, one of the country’s most celebrated bridal platforms, brings together two powerhouses of luxury to shape the dreams of this season’s brides.

“Partnering with Bridal Asia feels like a natural alignment of ethos,” says Golu Bhai Badalia, head of the house, “Just like the modern bride, we value tradition, but we also evolve. Every piece we create at Golubhai Badalia Diamond is crafted to outlast trends, not just in form, but in feeling.”

“For me, partnering with the right brands is very important,” says Divya Gurwara, founder of Bridal Asia. We hold the responsibility of providing our customers with thefinest offerings, and we are so glad to be able to join hands with a brand that believes in the same philosophy as us—every wedding is special and only deserves the best!

As Indian bridal fashion continues to evolve, this partnership is significant. With a focus on originality, authenticity, and old-school charm reimagined for today’s age, GolubhaiBadalia Diamond is poised to be at the heart of this season’s most iconic bridal stories

New Delhi, July 11 , 2025 – Organic Tattva, India’s leading organic food brand, proudly announces the launch of it’s latest campaign, Har Maa Ka Vishwas, featuring celebrated actor and mother Kareena Kapoor Khan. This heartfelt campaign underscores the importance of making aware choices when it comes to the food we serve to our loved ones, starting from our staples like dal and rice with purity and trust .

In a compelling new television and digital advertisement, Kareena Kapoor Khan is seen highlighting the silent power of every mother, her trust in what’s best for her family. The film taps into the universal truth that what we eat today shapes our tomorrow, both personally and for the planet. It makes an emotional and factual case for turning to food that is pure, responsibly sourced and free from harmful chemicals, something every mother can stand by.

As a mother admired for her strength, choices and authenticity, Kareena embodies the spirit of Har Maa Ka Vishwas. She is not just a Bollywood icon but a role model for millions who look to her for guidance on parenting, wellness and mindful living. Her association with Organic Tattva reinforces the belief that the daily dal chawal must nourish not just the body, but also the conscience.

The campaign is a part of Organic Tattva’s larger commitment to bring about a lifestyle shift in the Indian household starting with everyday staples like dals and rice . The brand believes that small, consistent steps towards clean eating can lead to a more meaningful, healthier life for individuals and a more sustainable world for generations to come.

Speaking on the campaign release Kriti Mehrotra, Co-founder, Organic Tattva said ,“At Organic Tattva, we understand the trust a mother places in what goes on her family’s plate. Har Maa Ka Vishwas is more than a campaign. It is a promise we make to every household that chooses us. With Kareena Kapoor Khan as the face of this campaign, we are proud to champion the power of informed choices that begin in the kitchen and ripple into a better future for our health and our planet.”

The campaign will go live across digital platforms, television, OTT platforms and social media from this week, with a full rollout campaign which will highlight product stories and expert-led conversations on clean eating and pantry transformations.

Zomato Partners with Tata Digital to Launch Unlimited Rewards on Online Food Orders Paid Via the Tata Neu HDFC Bank Credit Card

National, June 11th, 2025: In a significant move set to elevate the food ordering experience for millions of Indians, Zomato, a food ordering and delivery platform, has announced an exciting partnership with Tata Digital. This collaboration introduces a discount offer program designed to bring exceptional value to users who pay for their food orders on Zomato using the Tata Neu HDFC Bank Credit Card (NeuCard) – Tata Digital’s co-branded credit card, where Tata Digital is the co-branding partner and HDFC Bank is the card issuer.

As part of this strategic alliance, customers using the NeuCard on Zomato will now enjoy up to 10% cash back in the form of Zomato Money on every transaction made through the platform. The offer is valid on all food delivery orders with a minimum order value of INR. 99. These credits can be seamlessly used for future orders, effectively reducing the cost of food ordered online and encouraging repeat purchases.

The partnership is aimed at enhancing user convenience while also deepening engagement with Tata Digital’s digital payments ecosystem. NeuCard users not only benefit from rewards on Zomato, but also earn NeuCoins, which can be redeemed across a diverse range of products and services available on the Tata Neu app — making it a truly integrated digital lifestyle experience.

Key Highlights of the Offer:

• Up to 10% cash back in the form of Zomato Money on food orders
• Offer applicable on all orders with a minimum value of INR 99
• Available exclusively for NeuCard users transacting on Zomato
• Cash back can be used for future Zomato orders, promoting savings and loyalty

“We’re excited to partner with Tata Neu to make the customer journey even more rewarding. This collaboration is a step forward in our mission to deliver better food for more people, now enhanced with exclusive benefits for NeuCard users, including up to 10% cashback in Zomato Money on eligible orders. The cashback can be used on future orders on Zomato, driving more savings through Tata Neu’s seamless and robust digital ecosystem.” said Rahul Gupta, VP – Product, Zomato.

“This partnership with Zomato is a natural fit. We’re all about enhancing our customers’ lifestyle, and what better way than through the joy of food? In today’s digital-first world, this collaboration allows us to provide even more convenience and value to our NeuCard holders”, said Gaurav Hazrati, President, Financial Services, Tata Digital.

With India witnessing exponential growth in digital payments and online food delivery, this partnership underscores a shared vision to offer enhanced benefits and greater value to tech-savvy, convenience-seeking consumers across the country.

The offer is now live and available to all NeuCard holders. Customers can simply link their NeuCards and transact on Zomato to start enjoying the rewards instantly.