Archives 2025

CPI inflation stood at 2.07% for the month of August 2025, GST 2.0 Reforms expected to maintain Price Stability: PHDCCI

Year-on-year CPI inflation for August 2025 stood with RBI’s tolerance limit at 2.07%, despite international policy uncertainties, said Mr. Hemant Jain, President, PHDCCI, in a press statement issued here today.

The year-on-year inflation rate, based on the All-India Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI), stood at –0.69% (provisional) in August 2025 compared with August 2024, supporting the prevailing low CPI inflation, Mr. Jain noted.

He further highlighted that the softening in the prices in August 2025 for cereals and products, pulses & products, as well as moderation in clothing and footwear, housing, and fuel and light, in comparison to July 2025, have collectively helped keep inflation within RBI tolerance level, he said.

Looking ahead, we anticipate a further decline in CPI inflation, aided by the GST 2.0 reforms package. The proposed simplified two-tier structure will reduce production costs, translate into lower prices, and, in turn, stimulate consumption, he added.

EdCIL and British Council Unveils Capacity Building Programme to Strengthen Internationalisation in Universities in North India

12 September 2025, New Delhi: Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL), the only Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the British Council, the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, launched the Capacity Building for International Officers programme in North India. With this support, 32 participants from 21 public and private universities across North India have participated in the workshop, which is designed to strengthen internationalisation initiatives within Indian higher education institutions.

This initiative aims to enhance the capacity of Indian universities to engage in internationalisation efforts while leveraging UK’s expertise in this area. Aligned with the goals of India’s (NEP) 2020, the programme aspires to position India as a global hub of education by fostering cross-border collaborations and promoting excellence in higher education. 

The programme will also offer modules to develop the skills and effectiveness of international officers, promoting knowledge sharing and practical outcomes to support the overall internationalisation agenda of participating institutions. 

Dr B Chandrasekar, Executive Director, EdCIL (India) Limited talks about the “Study In India Programme which is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Education, aimed at enhancing student mobility and attracting talented international learners, in line with the vision of NEP 2020. International collaboration efforts provide an opportunity to understand diverse learner perspectives at a global level. This capacity-building programme with the British Council is designed to provide valuable insights to international officers of HEIs, including professional services staff and faculty. It will strengthen their ability to identify and disseminate best practices in teaching and learning, thereby enhancing the global profile of Indian institutions. The diversity brought into the classroom by the international students enriches the learning ecosystem with inclusivity and global appeal. Aligned with NEP 2020, the SII programme will foster trust, credibility, and stronger global partnerships for Indian Higher Education Institutions.

Rittika Chanda Parruck, Director Education India, British Council says, “This programme reflects our long-term commitment to building sustainable collaborations between the UK and India in higher education. By sharing global best practices on internationalisation, we aim to enable Indian higher education institutions to strengthen their s expertise in internationalisation in line with the vision of NEP 2020. Together with EdCIL, we are working to seed the skills, knowledge, and partnerships that will help position India as a leading global hub of education.”

In the past, the Capacity Building for International Officers programme was successfully implemented with the Governments of Karnataka and Maharashtra. In Karnataka, supported by the State Higher Education Council, 58 participants from 28 universities went through the capacity building programme and were certified through a dedicated workshop, strengthening the role of international offices in fostering research collaborations and enriching student experiences. Similarly, in Maharashtra, with support from the Department of Higher and Technical Education, 34 participants from 19 universities took part in the initiative, aimed at building institutional capacity for internationalisation and advancing India–UK partnerships in higher education.

Bengaluru – September 12, 2025: Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, is playing a pivotal role in shaping a new era of consumer technology adoption. As the country gears up for a high-demand festive season, Flipkart’s latest insights (June to August as compared to March to May 2025) highlight how users across age groups and regions are embracing devices that are not only functional but also expressive and lifestyle-enabling. Flipkart’s initiative to democratize premium products along with its value segments has driven this change in adoption across regions.

From AI-enabled laptops and desktops to gaming consoles, digital cameras, smart wearables, smart home solutions, and even two-wheelers – Flipkart is witnessing strong, multi-fold growth across its diverse and technology-forward selection. This transformation reflects a powerful shift: Indian consumers are no longer just using technology; they are personalising it to learn, create, express identity, and adopt sustainable living solutions. With features like video assistance and Gen-AI-powered chatbots, Flipkart enables customers to make informed buying decisions that help improve the overall shopping experience. 

Sujith Agashe, Vice President, Electronics at Flipkart, said, “India’s electronics market is no longer defined by just urban demand or access to devices. We are witnessing a dynamic shift across all tiers and consumer cohorts as we approach the festive season. From students in small towns to creators in Tier 1+ cities and families in major metros, demand for consumer electronics is clearly rising. This is driven by advances in tech and AI, and increasingly shaped by how people personalize their usage, preferences, and perceived value.”

He further added, “What’s clear is that the future of electronics is not just about access- it’s about aspiration, personalization, and performance. At Flipkart, we are partnering with brands to stay ahead of emerging trends – enabling access to advanced, sustainable, and lifestyle-enhancing technology for every Indian consumer.”

Reimagining Consumption: Rise of Computing and Creator Gear

India’s digital acceleration is reshaping how essential electronics are perceived and used. Compared to March-May, in June-August 2025, laptops and desktops have witnessed 1.4X growth in metro markets like Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Mumbai and others, with Tier 1 and Tier 2 

cities close behind. The momentum is being driven by a growing base of digital-native users engaging in hybrid learning, freelance work, and creative projects. Among 16–25-year-olds alone, usage of computing devices rose by 1.3X, underscoring their role in shaping the future of digital adoption.

Meanwhile, digital cameras and storage devices are also gaining ground, especially in non-metro cities, reflecting a rise in content creation and a growing need for data storage at the local level. 

Youth as Catalysts: Electronics That Enable Expression and Aspiration

For Gen Z and Gen Alpha, technology is deeply personal –  a tool to learn, play, and express themselves. Gaming devices recorded a 1.15X increase during June to August 2025 vs March to May 2025, propelled partially by engaging discovery formats, which are allowing younger users to explore devices hands-on and understand how technology fits into their daily lives. This deeper engagement is directly influencing purchase decisions, with younger consumers and their families actively investing in devices that align with their interests and lifestyles. 

Additionally, two-wheelers saw strong uptake among consumers between June to August 2025, as the demand for scooters rose by 1.7X and electric vehicles surged by 1.2X in comparison with March to May 2025. 

Regional Momentum: Tech is Thriving Everywhere

Technology adoption in India is no longer confined to urban centres- it’s a nationwide movement. Again, between June to August 2025, in comparison with March to May 2025, North India has recorded a rise in demand for electronics at 1.22X followed by South India at 1.17X, reflecting strong digital appetite across these geographies.

While Tier 1 cities led computing category growth at 1.35X, Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets are fast emerging as growth engines for creator-focused tools like cameras and storage devices. This evolving landscape points to a dual-track growth model: metro markets are driving innovation and early adoption of premium technologies, even as Tier 2+ cities fuel value-driven demand for accessible, everyday tech.

As digital lifestyles continue to deepen and diversify, Flipkart is ramping up its efforts ahead of the festive season to empower consumers across India. With an expansive assortment, competitive prices, enhanced regional accessibility, and immersive consumer experience,  Flipkart is enabling every user to engage, create, and thrive through technology.

Mumbai, 12TH September 2025- Metro Shoes, India’s leading footwear destination, announces the launch of METRO CROSSOVER, a first-of-its-kind menswear collection that creates a new space between sneakers and formals. Designed for the modern Indian man who is always on the move, METRO CROSSOVER becomes a symbol of self-assurance and confidence, standing tall in spaces traditionally reserved for formal attire.

With “A Sneaker. Dressed Up.” as its statement, the collection makes one clear promise: men no longer must compromise. CROSSOVER blends ease with polish, giving every step the comfort of a sneaker and the confidence of a dressed-up shoe.

This is footwear engineered for modern life. Each style fuses premium materials with sneaker-inspired innovation to deliver what today’s man values most:

• All-Day Comfort: Strobel construction and ultra-cushioning that adapts to your foot.
• Lightweight Ease: EVA soles that keep every step effortless.
• Performance Durability: High-traction TPR outsoles for grip and movement.
• Climate Control: Breathable knits and moisture management for India’s conditions.
• Refined Craft: Premium leather and trims, balancing polish with ease.

The collection spans loafer-sneaker hybrids, knit slip-ons, knit lace-ups, and elevated sneakers- a shoe for every occasion, without compromise.

And without compromise clarity of vision comes. Speaking on the launch, Alisha Malik, President, Metro Brands, said:

“At Metro, we’ve always believed that footwear should evolve with the way people live. With CROSSOVER, we are not just launching a new line, we are redefining an entire category. The modern Indian man no longer separates boardroom from after-hours and CROSSOVER is built exactly for that fluid lifestyle. By combining sneaker-level comfort with the refinement of formal design, we’ve created a shoe that adapts as seamlessly as our customers do. For over seven decades, Metro has been synonymous with quality and innovation, and CROSSOVER is the next step in that journey- setting new benchmarks in how India walks with style and confidence.”

The METRO CROSSOVER collection is now available across Metro Shoes stores nationwide, and online https://www.metroshoes.com/crossover

Step into CROSSOVER and experience the future of men’s footwear.

September 12, 2025, Surat – Ganga Fashions, a textile brand with over two decades of legacy, has launched its first-ever concept store, at Nomads, on Dumas Road, Surat. Established in 1990 as an export house with a presence across London, Indonesia, and Dubai, the brand entered the Indian market in 2007. Known for seamlessly blending India’s cultural richness with contemporary design, Ganga has consistently championed innovation, craftsmanship, and comfort.

Spread across 2,000 sq. ft., the store captures the essence of Ganga, anchored in tradition yet contemporary in its expression. Conceived as more than just a retail destination, it offers an immersive space of discovery where design, culture, and nature come together in harmony. Surrounded by tranquil greenery and serene ponds, the layout unfolds like a narrative, inviting visitors to journey through moods and stories rather than simply browsing racks and aisles. Every detail, from lighting to material finishes, has been thoughtfully curated to embody Ganga’s philosophy of balance, refinement, and craftsmanship.

Beyond its signature womenswear, the store also introduces menswear, home linens, accessories, and skincare essentials, with kidswear soon to follow. This carefully curated mix positions the store as a true lifestyle destination, offering something meaningful for every member of the family.  

“The launch of our first concept store marks an important milestone in Ganga’s journey,” said Sanjay Gangwani, Owner of Ganga Fashions. “For over two decades, our endeavor has been to bring together culture, comfort, and contemporary style in every creation. This new space is more than just a store, it is an immersive experience that embodies the essence of Ganga, where each detail has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate our craft, connect with our community, and carry forward our culture.”

With this launch, Ganga Fashions strengthens its commitment to reimagining Indian textiles for today’s world, creating experiences that are as enduring as they are contemporary.

Delhi-NCR, 12th September 2024: Nirala World, a prominent real estate developer in India, announced that it sold studio apartments worth INR 275 crore at its Nirala Gateway project in Sector 12, Greater Noida West. Following the soft launch, all 400 studio apartment units released for sale were sold out.

The project spans 10,400 sq. meters and is accessible by 3 sides via 130-meter, 80-meter, and 24-meter-wide roads and is situated  at Sri Rajesh Pilot Chowk with sector 12 and adjoining sector 10 in Greater Noida West which is a rising  hub of premium residential projects .

The  USP of the Project  is its location which is  in a prime corner of Sector 12, surrounded by a dense catchment of residents from established societies, institutional area, data centre and 150 acre IT hub  The Project also enjoys excellent connectivity to Noida, Gaur Chowk, the upcoming metro station in the area, the FNG Expressway, Delhi–Meerut National Highway, and is just a 40-minute drive from the upcoming Jewar Airport.  Nirala Gateway offers excellent connectivity, visibility and footfall.

The Nirala Gateway includes studio apartments ranging from 612 to 1,122 square feet in size. Prices start at INR 65 lakh, with delivery expected by 2029. The studio apartments feature a double-height lobby, restaurant, gym, steam room, sauna, and jacuzzi, lending them a premium and ambient appeal.

Nirala Gateway is a comprehensive commercial project located in Sector 12, Greater Noida West, Uttar Pradesh. It is designed as a five-stage high-street shopping mall, featuring retail shops, anchor stores, restaurants, offices, and studio apartments. The project will include high-speed elevators and escalators, CCTV surveillance, and a modern gymnasium. The building will also be equipped with high-performance glazing and LED lighting.

According to Suresh Garg, CMD of Nirala World: “We are delighted with the tremendous response received during the soft launch of the studio apartments in Nirala Gateway. This project represents our inaugural large-scale commercial venture in Greater Noida West. It is expected to incur a construction cost of approximately ₹300 crore, with completion anticipated around 2029. We are confident that the project will become a landmark in Greater Noida West once completed.”

Since its inception in 1996, Nirala World has set new benchmarks in the real estate sector and earned a leading name among elite developers. Over nearly three decades, the company has successfully delivered more than 7,000 residential units. Committed to quality, timely delivery, and innovation, Nirala World continues to shape the real estate landscape with a rich portfolio of completed projects and a strong pipeline of future developments—consistently striving to exceed customer expectations.

GOLD COAST, Australia, September 12, 2025 – Sovereign AI and AI agents are expected to shape public sector adoption of AI within the next two to five years, according to Gartner, Inc., a business and technology insights company. Both have reached the Peak of Inflated Expectations on the 2025 Gartner Hype Cycle for Government Services. 

Gartner Hype Cycles provide a graphic representation of the maturity and adoption of technologies and applications, and how they are potentially relevant to solving real business problems and exploiting new opportunities. Gartner Hype Cycle methodology gives a view of how a technology or application will evolve over time, providing a sound source of insight to manage its deployment within the context of specific business goals.

“Public sector leaders face mounting pressure to meet rising citizen expectations, navigate geopolitical uncertainty and do more with less resources,” said Dean Lacheca, VP Analyst at Gartner. “AI agents can address these challenges, but success will depend on bridging the gap between innovation ambitions and broader government priorities to ensure investments strengthen services, trust and resilience.”

Among the innovations Gartner has identified as having high potential for government organizations, prompt engineering is expected to reach mainstream adoption within the next two to five years and machine customers within five to 10 years (see Figure 1).

Figure 1: Hype Cycle for Government Services 2025

Source: Gartner (September 2025)

Sovereign AI 

Sovereign AI refers to the efforts of nation states to invest in and progress their own development and use of AI to achieve their unique sovereign objectives. It enhances government operations through automation, modernizes processes to improve employee experience and accelerates citizen engagement.

Gartner predicts by 2028, 65% of governments worldwide will introduce some technological sovereignty requirements to improve independence and protect from extraterritorial regulatory interference. Sovereign AI aims to maximize AI value while reducing associated risks, especially for sovereign states that collaborate to achieve common goals. 

AI Agents

AI agents are autonomous or semiautonomous software entities that use AI techniques to perceive, make decisions, take actions and achieve goals in their digital or physical environments. They can help governments enhance service delivery, from processing citizen applications against policies and interpreting legislations, to automating routine tasks. 

Gartner predicts by 2029, 60% of government agencies globally will leverage AI agents to automate over half of the citizen transactional interactions, up from less than 10% in 2025. 

“Government leaders must incorporate AI agents into strategic planning by first identifying where they can deliver the most value,” said Lacheca. “Then run targeted pilots to manage expectations and address concerns from within the organization and from citizens. This should be followed by a clear roadmap to ensure initiatives progress beyond the pilot phase.” 

Prompt Engineering 

Prompt engineering involves providing text or image inputs to GenAI models to guide and constrain their responses, with well-structured prompts significantly enhancing response quality, performance and reliability. Governments can maximize returns on AI productivity tools by fostering AI literacy in their organizations by investing in context-specific prompt engineering skills and creating reusable prompt libraries to support effective prompt development.

“Governments are investing in AI solutions that work best when users create clear context-specific prompts,” said Lacheca. “They shouldn’t invest in AI solutions if they’re not willing to invest in the development of strong prompt engineering capabilities within their organizations.”

Machine Customer
Machine customers are nonhuman economic actors that purchase goods or services on behalf of people or organizations. Gartner predicts three billion B2B internet-connected machines can act as customers today, growing to eight billion by 2030. Governments will need the ability to authenticate, provide services and regulate machine customers. For example, the proposed electric vehicle road use tax in Australia could be administered by the vehicle reporting operations directly to the government.

“Government leaders need to identify where adoption of machine customers by citizens and industries will require the reimagination of regulatory enforcement and service delivery,” said Lacheca. “Existing government service delivery models will be disrupted, creating ethical, legal and accountability challenges. Governments can’t afford to be caught unprepared for the rise of machine customers.”

Gartner clients can read more in the report Hype Cycle for Government Services, 2025.

Learn more about how governments are adopting AI to improve service delivery to their citizens in the complimentary Gartner webinar Government Leaders, Is Your Data Ready to Enable Secure AI Initiatives?

12 TH SEOTEMBER 2025; Renowned artist and designer Mahesh Sharma is set to unveil his latest exhibition, NAR + NARI, a powerful exploration of the eternal balance between masculine and feminine energies. Representing the dichotomy of yin and yang that is celebrated across literature, the arts, crafts, and culture in our country, this show by Mahesh interprets the concept of symbolic balance, fertility, and forces that sustain the cosmic order. Drawing inspiration and inferences from Mahesh’s personal journey of spiritual exploration, this unique show is divided into four powerful sections, showcasing aesthetics, paintings, sculptures, and installations, transporting audiences into a world of self-reflection, transformation, and balance.

Opening with an exclusive preview evening on September 12, 2025, at Bikaner House, New Delhi, the exhibition promises to be a landmark event in the city’s cultural calendar. NAR + NARI will continue at the LTC, Exhibition Hall, Bikaner House, Gate No. 3, Pandara Road, New Delhi, from the 13th to 17th September, between 11 AM and 7 PM.

A celebrated artist and space designer, Mahesh Sharma has long been acclaimed for his evocative works that bridge Indian aesthetics with contemporary thought. NAR + NARI continues this journey, presenting a solo exhibition that delves into the dualities of masculine (Nar) and feminine (Nari) energies through layered, soulful compositions.

Known for his distinct visual language that is rooted in Indian traditions and essayed with contemporary ease. Mahesh’s works invite viewers to reflect on identity, duality, and harmony. This latest body of work is an embodiment of the visitors ‘ experience, an artistic dialogue between man and woman as envisioned through the artist’s distinctive lens. This exhibition offers not only a showcase of creativity but also a space for reflection on balance, identity, and harmony.

India, 2025: India’s beauty industry is about to experience a seismic shift with the launch of K Formula, the country’s first peptide-powered molecular haircare brand. Founded by entrepreneur Anoushka Adya, the brand introduces a science-driven, six-step repair ritual that promises visible transformation in as little as five minutes.

K Formula introduces a science-first, six-step ritual that doesn’t just coat hair but rebuilds it from within, at the molecular level. Powered by cutting-edge peptide technology, the range promises visible transformation in as little as five minutes. The brand’s bold claim? “New Hair in 5 Minutes.” For years, Indian haircare has been defined by oils, masks, and cosmetic quick-fixes. K Formula disrupts this narrative with what it calls the “Peptide Revolution”, reconnecting broken keratin chains to deliver lasting repair, resilience, and shine.

Anoushka Adya is an accomplished entrepreneur, the Founder of Relier Media Group. With a graduate degree in Marketing & Strategy from Warwick Business School, UK, Anoushka brings both academic rigor and creative flair to her ventures. She has built highly effective teams, driven innovation in content and design, and launched initiatives that merge purpose with impact. At the core of her mission is a desire to elevate Indian narratives while incorporating global standards.

“K Formula is deeply personal to me. For years, I searched for solutions that went beyond cosmetic quick fixes, and I knew Indian consumers deserved better. With peptides, we finally have the science to deliver true repair transformation you can see and feel in minutes. For me, this isn’t just about products; it’s about shifting the way we think about hair health in India,” says Anoushka Adya, Founder and CEO of K Formula.

Adding to its credibility, Delhi’s top celebrity hairstylist, Sahib Mongia, who has joined K Formula as the brand’s first official ambassador, calls it a game-changer: “As a stylist, I’ve tested every major global product on my clients over the years, but nothing has excited me like K Formula,” says Sahib Mongia, Hair Stylist, Ranked in Top 5 Best Hair Stylists and Founder of NOIR SALON. “The results are instant, visible, and lasting. This is the first Indian brand that genuinely competes with global science-backed products, and I believe it’s going to transform how Indians approach haircare.”

The brand makes its debut with a curated six-product collection, including a Peptide Hair Corrector (pre-shampoo), Peptide Shampoo, Peptide Conditioner, Molecular Leave-In Magic Mask, Molecular Repair Hair Oil, and a Peptide Dry Shampoo. Designed as a complete molecular repair system, each formula is vegan, sulphate-free, cruelty-free, and color-safe, priced between ₹700 and ₹1,500, making advanced peptide-powered haircare both premium and accessible.

In consumer trials, over 90% of participants reported that their hair felt softer, smoother, and healthier-looking after just one wash. The brand’s claim of “New Hair in 5 Minutes” is rooted in this data, reflecting its unique approach of molecular repair rather than cosmetic masking. Consumers today demand transparency, efficacy, and performance. With its science-first ethos and strong focus on education, K Formula is poised to lead this change. With a promise that’s both aspirational and accessible, K Formula positions itself as the brand India didn’t know it was waiting for. The first of its kind, it’s set to ignite conversations, spark a new wave in haircare, and put India at the forefront of the global peptide revolution.

This is the first Indian brand that genuinely competes with global science-backed products, and I believe it’s going to transform how Indians approach haircare.” Anoushka’s vision extends beyond bottles and boxes. “We’re not just selling formulas; we’re reimagining haircare for a new generation. It’s about creating a culture of hair health in India, where repair, strength, and longevity matter as much as beauty,” says Adya.

With a promise that’s both aspirational and accessible, K Formula positions itself as the brand India didn’t know it was waiting for. The first of its kind, it’s set to ignite conversations, spark a new wave in haircare, and put India at the forefront of the global peptide revolution. K Formula isn’t just another brand. It’s science. It’s culture. And it’s haircare, redefined.

Chennai, 12th September 2025: Chennai is facing a silent wellness crisis that is showing up in its hair. Traya’s latest nationwide data study, analyzing inputs from over 4 lakh anonymized Hair Test respondents across India, reveals that Chennai sits at the center of India’s hair fall map. The four key parameters; sleep, stress, gut health, and energy levels show a troubling imbalance in the city, with women consistently scoring lower than men.

A Multi-Root Problem, Not Just Hair

Hair fall is often seen as a cosmetic concern, but Traya’s data reveals it as a symptom of deeper internal issues. In Chennai, only 53% of men and 44% of women report getting peaceful sleep, placing the city mid-tier among metros but still alarmingly low. The gender gap in sleep quality is clear, with women struggling significantly more. Stress compounds the problem, with 51% of men and 47% of women reporting high stress levels meaning nearly half the city is living under constant pressure.

Gut health is where Chennai shows resilience: 54% of men and 49% of women record healthy gut markers, among the best nationwide. Yet women continue to lag behind men even in this stronger area. Energy levels tell a similar story: 45% of men and 38% of women report consistently high energy, higher than many Tier-1 metros like Delhi and Kolkata but still shadowed by a persistent gender gap. Together, these numbers reveal a multi-root wellness challenge that manifests visibly as hair fall.

The Science of Stress, Sleep, and Gut Health

Traya’s medical experts explain that poor sleep quality spikes cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, which in turn disrupts digestion, hormonal balance, and the hair growth cycle. Gut imbalances weaken nutrient absorption, and deficiencies in iron, protein, and vitamins accelerate hair loss.

“Traya’s latest nationwide study is an alarming wake-up call for Chennai and many metros. Across sleep, stress, and energy, the city consistently fares among the lowest, with only gut health showing some resilience. What shows up as hair fall is really the body raising a red flag. At Traya, our ideology has always been to address all these interconnected factors so our hair health and internal health are restored together, and the body can function at its best.” says Saloni Anand, founder Traya.

Traya’s insights position Chennai as a wellness paradox: the city’s strengths in diet and energy are being undermined by stress and sleep deprivation. Across every parameter, women fare worse than men, highlighting a gendered wellness gap that urgently needs attention. By mapping over 4 lakh users’ health inputs, Traya’s study underlines the need for holistic solutions combining Ayurveda, Nutrition, and Allopathy to restore balance from within.