Archives January 2026

By:- Mr. Madhu Rajputra Peravalli, Co-founder, Troogue

“We keep talking about enabling startups, but real scale comes when the government becomes a customer, not just a regulator. A single government project says more to investors than ten pitch decks. On skilling too, we need to be brutally honest, training that doesn’t lead to employability is just expensive motivation. I would request the FM to consider funding platforms linking skilling to hiring. We also need to democratise AI access, which is currently affordable for only big tech, in order for India to become a leader in AI-led innovation. Finally, strengthening R&D tax incentives for startups building original IP will boost innovation, create more jobs and foster an environment wherein startups thrive.”

In the heart of Khan Market, where Delhi’s days blend effortlessly into its nights, Tranzit introduces Mizu Drunch to Ember Noon, a high-impact weekend IP designed for the city’s most social hours. Channelled by Mizu Drunch, an Asian-forward drunch that takes over Saturday night, and Ember Noon, a European-inspired Sunday brunch, the experience presents the charm of Delhi weekends – bold, indulgent, and always in motion.

This is the kind of plan that feels right at home in Khan Market. A Saturday night that commences amid the buzz of after-hours conversations, clinking glasses, and packed tables, before evolving into a Sunday afternoon defined by long lunches, easy pours, and unhurried indulgence. At Tranzit, the end of the week doesn’t pause; it carries forward.

Saturday nights at Khan Market belong to Mizu Drunch. Running from 9 PM to 12 AM, Mizu Drunch brings an Asian drunch experience to life through punchy flavours, shared plates, and a charged atmosphere that complements the energy of the neighbourhood after dark. Layered spices, wok-led techniques, and bold mains are paired with high-energy music, bottomless sparkling, and a curated bundle of signature cocktails, designed for groups that settle in and stay late.

As daylight returns to the market streets, the mood shifts as Sunday afternoons unfold as Ember Noon. From 1 PM to 4 PM, Ember Noon channels the easy sophistication of a European brunch, perfectly suited to Khan Market’s daytime rhythm. Burrata-led salads, handmade sourdough pizzas, pastas, and composed mains set the mood for relaxed afternoons, where conversations stretch, glasses stay filled, and the pace slows without losing its sense of occasion.

The culinary journey embodies this movement across time and place. Mizu Drunch draws from Asia’s bold passion, while Ember Noon leans into Europe’s understated comfort. Standout dishes across the weekend include the Spicy Tamarind Duck Salad, Curious Burrata, Coconut Chilli Lime Noodles, and Tranzit’s in-house sourdough pizzas.

A dedicated drinks programme maneuvers through both experiences. Mizu Drunch is led by cocktails crafted for the night, while Ember Noon features bottomless sparkling designed for long, sunlit brunches. The experience is visually backed through two-sided tent cards, with Mizu Drunch on one side and Ember Noon on the other, mapping the journey of guests from the moment they’re seated.

The experience is available through a curated set menu priced at INR 1900 per person for food, with Mizu Drunch served on Saturdays from 9 PM to 12 AM and Ember Noon on Sundays from 1 PM to 4 PM. Reservations are mandatory. The experience operates from January 17 to February 28, 2026.

With Mizu Drunch and Ember Noon, Tranzit delights Khan Market’s evolving dining landscape, offering a weekend ritual that feels unmistakably Delhi. From late-night plans to slow Sunday afternoons, this is where the city gathers, lingers, and comes back for more.

GJC Submits Comprehensive Pre-Budget Recommendations for Union Budget 2026–27, Calls for GST Rationalisation and Measures to Boost Formalisation & MSME Growth in Gems & Jewellery Sector

Mumbai, Jan 19: All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC), the apex body representing India’s domestic gems and jewellery trade, submitted its detailed pre-budget recommendations to the Hon’ble Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for consideration in the Union Budget 2026–27.

The representation focuses on five core pillars:

1. GST reforms to restore affordability and eliminate working capital blockage
2. Direct tax relief on unrealised inventory appreciation due to gold price surge
3. Strengthening formalisation and consumer protection through policy clarity
4. Operationalisation of the long-pending Tourist GST Refund Scheme
5. Sector-specific measures to mobilise idle gold, deepen digital payments, and support MSMEs

Key recommendations include:

Reduction of GST on gold & silver jewellery from 3% to 1.25% (or a uniform 1.5% across the sector) on revenue neutral / equivalence ratio to offset inflation-driven tax burden and revive middle-class and rural demand.

Refund of accumulated ITC on input services or reduction of GST on key input services (rent, security, logistics, etc.) from 18% to 5% to correct inverted duty structure.

Clear circular affirming 5% GST on jewellery job-work services to protect karigars and prevent field-level harassment.

One-year deferral of income tax on unrealised inventory appreciation caused by gold price rise in FY 2025–26, without interest.

Exemption from capital gains tax on exchange of hallmarked jewellery when proceeds are reinvested in new jewellery.

Immediate operationalisation of the Tourist GST Refund scheme at major airports to boost inbound tourism retail spending.

Simplified compliance for MSME jewellers, including higher turnover thresholds for returns and protection from duplicate notices post-audit.

Policy framework for digital gold, rationalised MDR on credit card transactions, and introduction of formal EMI for hallmarked 22-karat jewellery.

The submission emphasises to strengthen India’s position as a global jewellery hub while aligning with national goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and Viksit Bharat @2047.

Rajesh Rokde, Chairman, All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) said: 

“The sharp rise in gold prices has multiplied the absolute GST burden on consumers and created severe working capital stress for jewellers, even though no policy change has occurred. Our recommendations are not for concessions but for restoring proportionality, liquidity and fairness. A modest GST reduction, together with relief on notional inventory gains and job-work clarity, will bring millions of transactions back into the formal economy, protect karigar livelihoods, and make jewellery once again an accessible savings asset for Indian households. We are confident that the Hon’ble Finance Minister will consider these practical, calibrated reforms in the upcoming Budget.”

Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman, GJC added: 

“Our sector is deeply committed to formalisation, transparency and digital transformation. By operationalising the Tourist GST Refund Scheme, enabling EMI for 22-karat jewellery, capping credit-card MDR, and regulating digital gold, we can significantly enhance traceability, boost tourism-linked exports, and bring younger consumers confidently into the organised market. These steps will also help reduce India’s reliance on imported bullion over time by mobilising domestic gold through transparent banking channels. We stand ready to partner with the Government to implement these changes smoothly and effectively.”

The council remains committed to partnering with the government to drive transparency, formalization, and consumer trust, ensuring the sector’s contribution to India’s economic and cultural legacy.

“The contract extension reflects our confidence in Allcargo Terminals’ operational capabilities and its contribution to port-led logistics efficiency at JNPA. With the planned infrastructure upgrade, Speedy Multimodes CFS will be equipped to handle the steadily growing cargo volumes at JNPA with its scale, efficiency, and digital-first logistics services. The extension of the contract and upgradation of the facility will contribute to JNPA’s vision to become the first Indian port to handle 10 million TEUs by 2027.”

“We thank JNPA for their continued confidence in us and look forward to further strengthening our partnership. This extension reflects the trust placed in our operational capabilities and reinforces our role in supporting EXIM trade and port operations at JNPT with enhanced efficiency and reliability. Our proximity to the port enables faster turnaround times and smoother cargo movement, while the expanded operating scale positions us to effectively handle the next phase of growth in cargo volumes at JNPT and contribute to a stronger, more integrated port ecosystem.”

Bengaluru, Jan 19: New Year’s resolutions usually begin with good intentions  fitness goals, fewer screens, more time with people who matter. But as 2026 unfolds, Bengaluru is embracing a different kind of resolution: choosing experiences that spark connection, energy, and joy. Leading that shift is LOCO LANE, India’s first premium competitive socialising destination, positioning itself as the city’s go-to space for playful, meaningful gatherings throughout the year.

At LOCO LANE, the idea isn’t about winning or losing — it’s about participation. Spread across a vibrant 12,000 sq. ft in the heart of the city, the venue blends elevated dining, a cocktail-forward bar, and interactive play into one fluid experience. Whether it’s a midweek unwind, a birthday celebration, an anniversary dinner, or a spontaneous weekend plan, LOCO LANE encourages people to engage, move, and reconnect in ways that feel natural rather than orchestrated.

“2026 is about being more present,” says Sarvesh Gupta, Co-Founder, LOCO LANE. “We wanted to create a space where people don’t just sit across tables, but share moments, energy, and stories — the kind that make time feel well spent.”

Anchoring the venue is The Watering Hole, a striking central bar inspired by the wild. Designed as a social pivot point, it keeps conversations flowing with signature cocktails such as Dazzle Spritz, Bullseye Sour, and Crossing No. 5, alongside a thoughtfully curated low-and-no-alcohol selection. “Our bar is built to complement the rhythm of the night,” shares Lakshya Roongta, Co-Founder (Expansion & Operations). “It’s where casual evenings turn into longer stays.”

The kitchen follows the same philosophy — globally inspired, indulgent, and inherently shareable. From comfort-driven favourites to playful originals crafted exclusively for the venue, the menu is designed to support conversation and connection rather than interrupt it. “Food at LOCO LANE is part of the social flow,” adds Lakshya Roongta. “It brings people together between moments, not away from them.”

Visually, the space reflects a premium yet playful design language. Zebra-striped accents, immersive lighting, and layered textures create an atmosphere that feels energetic without being overwhelming. “The zebra represents curiosity and confidence — a reminder to step out of routine,” says Pratik Patwari, Co-Founder (Branding & Partnerships).

With seamless technology ensuring smooth service and intuitive experiences, LOCO LANE removes friction from socialising. “Our focus is on making the experience effortless,” notes Sarthak Kedia, Co-Founder (Technology & Data).

Laura Mercier, the iconic prestige beauty brand renowned for its effortless artistry and skin-enhancing formulas, announces its official relaunch in India through an exclusive partnership with LUXASIA India. The return marks an exciting new chapter for the brand, bringing its signature philosophy of effortless, refined beauty to a new generation of discerning Indian consumers through high-performance products designed to perform across every occasion. 

Founded by world-renowned makeup artist Laura Mercier, the brand is rooted in a singular belief: beauty should enhance, not mask, who you are. Trained as a painter, Laura discovered her passion for makeup at Paris’s esteemed Carita Institute, where her artistry was shaped by European elegance and perfected backstage on the world’s most influential editorial sets. Her career flourished in New York, where she became a trusted artist to global icons including Madonna, Julia Roberts, and Sarah Jessica Parker. In 1996, she translated decades of professional expertise into a brand built on timeless techniques, intuitive formulas, and a belief in honoring women’s natural beauty through effortless enhancement.

Laura Mercier is a pioneer of modern makeup, defined by an uncompromising quality that stands the test of time and a legacy of creating and redefining product categories. The brand introduced Tinted Moisturiser to the world, forever changing how women think about complexion. Cult-favorite essentials such as the Translucent Loose Setting Powder, Caviar Eyeshadow Sticks, and Pure Canvas Primers have become industry benchmarks for performance, versatility, and ease of use. Central to the brand is the signature Flawless Face technique designed to create skin that looks perfected, yet completely natural.

The relaunch in India highlights a curated selection of the brand’s most iconic products alongside its broader portfolio of complexion, color, and tools, including the brand’s latest innovations designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s consumer. Key products include the Pure Canvas Blurring Primer for a smooth, perfected base; the award-winning Translucent Loose Setting Powder for invisible, long-lasting wear; Caviar Stick Shimmer Eye Color for effortless, blendable dimension; Caviar Matte Lipstick for richly pigmented, lightweight color; Real Flawless Concealer for seamless, crease-free coverage; Tinted Moisturiser Natural Dewy for sheer, radiant skin; and the Velour Puff, a professional-grade essential for a flawless, airbrush like powder application.

Laura Mercier speaks to a confident, creative, and quality-discerning woman who values thoughtful routines, proven performance, and products that feel both luxurious and wearable. Through its partnership with LUXASIA India, the brand will offer Indian consumers access not only to its iconic products, but also to expert guidance, personalised consultations, and the effortless artistry that has defined Laura Mercier for nearly three decades. 

Commenting on the relaunch, Ginny Wright, CEO of Orveon Global, the global beauty collective behind Laura Mercier, shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, saying:

“We partnered with LUXASIA due to their deep market expertise and proven success in the luxury and prestige beauty sector. Together, we’re focused on strengthening and growing Laura Mercier’s brand footprint in India, with plans to double our distribution points by 2026. We plan to expand into new states such as Amritsar, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad, bringing our most iconic products – including Translucent Loose Setting Powder, Real Flawless Foundation, and Caviar Eyeshadow Stick – to more prestige beauty consumers. This expansion allows us to deepen our connection with Indian beauty communities while introducing innovative color cosmetics and enhancing everyday artistry techniques and education.”

LUXASIA is proud to expand its partnership with Laura Mercier to India. India’s cosmetics market has been experiencing exponential growth, and we look forward to continuing to play a leading role in this segment.” – Satyaki Banerjee, Chief Executive Officer, LUXASIA Group

Praseed Changarath, Country Manager – India, LUXASIA Group, added:

“As Indian consumers become more discerning and sophisticated, we are confident that Laura Mercier’s innovative offerings will be well-received. With the make-up segment estimated to grow at a 5Y CAGR of more than 15%, we have no doubt that the prospects for both Laura Mercier and LUXASIA India are promising.” 

Laura Mercier will be available online and at select stores within the Nykaa, Tira, Sephora, Myntra, and Shoppers Stop Beauty footprints. More than makeup, Laura Mercier offers a philosophy of beauty—one rooted in artistry, authenticity, and confidence, helping every woman look and feel her best self.

Excelsoft and ASEAMETRICS Partner with the Civil Service Commission of the Philippines to Deliver CSC Civil Service Digital Examination (CSC DeX)

Mysore, Jan 19: Excelsoft Technologies Limited(“Excelsoft Technologies”), in partnership with its Philippine partner ASEAMETRICS, will deliver the Civil Service Commission of the Philippines’ Civil Service Digital Examination (CSC DeX) beginning in 2026, supporting the Commission’s nationwide shift to secure, technology-enabled assessments.

The partnership brings together Excelsoft’s globally proven SARAS eAssessment platform and ASEAMETRICS’ deep expertise in public-sector transformation to enable a scalable, cloud-based, and high-integrity examination system for Civil Service Examinations. CSC DeX is designed to complement and progressively replace legacy testing modes, improving accessibility, reliability, and operational efficiency. According to publicly available data from the Philippines Civil Service Commission, recent civil service examinations have seen participation from over 300,000 candidates nationwide. Source

Powered by Excelsoft’s SARAS platform, the solution delivers end-to-end digital assessment capabilities, including secure test creation and delivery, AI-enabled remote and on-site proctoring, real-time monitoring, psychometric analytics, and comprehensive reporting — ensuring fairness, transparency, and examination integrity at scale.

As a direct outcome of this collaboration, ASEAMETRICS will lead the initial rollout of CSC DeX, with the first phase covering up to 50,000 tests, strengthening merit-based recruitment into the Philippine civil service while enhancing the overall candidate experience.

“This partnership reffects our commitment to enabling trusted, future-ready Civil Service Examinations through technology that is secure, inclusive, and scalable. Together with Excelsoft and the Civil Service Commission, we are helping redefine how public-sector talent is assessed in the digital age,” said Liza Manalo-Mapagu, Chief Executive Officer, ASEAMETRICS.

“We are thrilled to partner with ASEAMETRICS on their journey toward digital excellence. Excelsoft’s SARAS and easyProctor platform will empower organizations to transform assessment delivery, embrace AI, and improve outcomes for their end customers,” said Ajay Kulkarni, Head of Global Sales, Excelsoft Technologies.

Implementation is already underway, with phased deployment planned throughout 2026, marking a  major  milestone  in  digital  assessment  for  public  service  in  the  Philippines.

Professional Housekeepers Association and Karnataka Pest Management Association Sign MoU at  ‘Housekeeping Synergy 3.0’

Bengaluru,  Jan  19: In a significant step towards strengthening industry collaboration and enhancing hygiene standards, the Professional Housekeepers Association (PHA) and the Karnataka Pest Management Association (KPMA) formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a special knowledge-sharing program titled ‘Housekeeping Synergy 3.0’, held at Hotel Ramanashree, Bengaluru, on 17th January 2026.

The MoU marks a strategic partnership between the two associations aimed at fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, training initiatives, and the promotion of best practices to create cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environments across hospitality, healthcare, commercial, and institutional spaces.

The program was graced by Mr. PK Mohankumar, Founder & CEO – Turnstone Hospitality LLP who attended as the Chief Guest and lauded the initiative as timely and impactful. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mohankumar said,

“Cleanliness and safety are no longer isolated functions; they are interdependent responsibilities. This MoU between the Professional Housekeepers Association and the Karnataka Pest Management Association reflects a progressive mindset and sets a benchmark for collaborative efforts that will benefit the industry and society at large.”

A key highlight of the event was an engaging panel discussion titled ‘Power of Collaboration: Redefining Clean and Safe Environments through Housekeeping and Pest Management Synergy’, moderated by Mr. Virender Razdan. Founder & CEO Incode Hotels & Hospitality. The discussion brought together industry experts who deliberated on integrated approaches, compliance, innovation, and the critical role of coordination between housekeeping and pest management professionals.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Ravichandra V, President – Karnataka Pest Management Association, stated,

“This MoU is a milestone for our association. By aligning closely with housekeeping professionals, we can jointly develop holistic solutions that address hygiene, safety, and preventive care more effectively. Collaboration is the future, and this partnership is a step in that direction.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Mrs. Jayashree Nagaraj, Founder President and Chairperson – Professional Housekeepers Association, said,

“Housekeeping today goes beyond aesthetics—it is about health, safety, and sustainability. Partnering with KPMA allows us to create stronger frameworks, shared learning platforms, and unified standards that will elevate the profession and deliver greater value to stakeholders. We should start with renaming the concept of ‘vendors’ into the realm of partnerships and equal stakeholders!’

‘Housekeeping Synergy 3.0’ witnessed participation from senior housekeeping professionals, pest management experts, solution providers, and industry stakeholders, reinforcing the shared commitment of both associations to drive excellence through collaboration. The MoU is expected to pave the way for joint training programs, workshops, awareness campaigns, and industry advocacy, further strengthening the ecosystem of facility hygiene and safety management.

New Delhi, Jan 19: Kärcher India, a global leader in cleaning technology, participated in the Industrial Engineering & Manufacturing Expo (IEM), engaging with industry professionals, manufacturers, and solution providers from the engineering and manufacturing ecosystem.

At the expo, Kärcher India showcased a comprehensive range of professional and industrial cleaning solutions engineered for the toughest cleaning demands of manufacturing units, industrial facilities, warehouses, and commercial establishments. The portfolio included high-pressure cleaners, wet and dry vacuum cleaners, scrubber dryers, manual sweepers, steam cleaners, and spray extraction machines, highlighting efficient, durable, and application-specific cleaning technologies that boost productivity and hygiene standards.

As a proven innovator in cleaning technology, Kärcher’s expertise stems from decades of engineering excellence  from inventing the first European hot-water high-pressure cleaner in 1950 to continuously refining high-pressure and industrial cleaning systems that balance performance with resource efficiency. This commitment has made Kärcher a global market leader in cleaning systems and the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™-titled current best-selling pressure washer brand, underscoring unmatched market leadership in pressure washing solutions worldwide.

The participation reinforced Kärcher India’s position as a total cleaning solutions provider, aligning cutting-edge technology with the needs of India’s manufacturing and engineering sectors, and underlined its commitment to supporting the ecosystem with high-performance, reliable, and sustainable cleaning solutions that enhance operational efficiency and workplace safety.

Kochi, Jan 19: IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, and Nobero, the traveller brand from the house of TMRW, today announced a strategic partnership under the IndiGo BluChip loyalty program, unlocking more value for customers across lifestyle shopping and travel.

This first-of-its-kind collaboration allows IndiGo BluChip members to earn 1 IndiGo BluChip for every ₹100 spent on any Nobero product. By seamlessly connecting fashion and travel, the partnership transforms everyday apparel purchases into flight rewards, offering customers greater convenience and tangible benefits.

Designed to enhance the travel experience both on the ground and in the air, the partnership brings together Nobero’s apparel designed for the Modern Traveller who is always on the go, and IndiGo BluChip’s rapidly expanding loyalty ecosystem. Customers can now enjoy a rewarding journey that begins with their wardrobe and extends to IndiGo’s extensive flight network.

The partnership is valid for three years, effective immediately, reinforcing IndiGo’s commitment to building meaningful alliances that enrich customer experiences.

Neetan Chopra, Chief Digital and Information Officer, IndiGo, said:

 “At IndiGo, we are committed to creating a compelling value proposition that aligns with our customers’ expectations, while recognizing and rewarding their continued loyalty. We are thrilled to partner with Nobero and are confident that this collaboration will enrich our customers’ shopping and travel experiences with meaningful, easy-to-redeem benefits.

Says Karthik Venkat and Bala Satish, Co-Founders, Nobero,

“Our vision has always been to elevate the modern traveller’s journey. Partnering with IndiGo BluChip allows us to extend that value even further by rewarding customers not just with exceptional products but also with meaningful loyalty benefits. This collaboration marks a significant step in building an enriched travel lifestyle community.”

Why This Partnership Matters

• Seamless Value: Customers earn IndiGo BluChips with every purchase on the Nobero website

• Strengthened Travel Lifestyle: Aligns with Nobero’s mission of creating products designed for modern, on-the-move consumers.

Customers can start earning IndiGo BluChips immediately by shopping at Nobero’s official website. IndiGo Bluchips will automatically be credited to their registered IndiGo BluChip accounts after purchase validation.