Archives January 2026

Mohali, Jan 31: Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer affecting Indian women, with nearly 1.3 lakh women diagnosed every year. Sadly, most women in India are diagnosed in advanced stages leading to high death rates. This is truly unfortunate as cervical cancer is a preventable cancer. With January being observed as the Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, Dr Shweta Tahlan, Senior Consultant, Gynae Onco-Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Mohali, gives us a detailed insight on cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of uterus and most cases are reported in the age group of 35-60 years. Majority of cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection by high-risk strains of Human papilloma virus, and a precancer stage usually precedes the invasive cancer stage. This detailed understanding of the disease makes it a preventable cancer

Prevention and Early detection

HPV vaccination provides the primary prevention against this deadly disease and timely vaccination gives lifelong protection. The recommended age to get vaccinated is between 9 and 26 years of age, although, it can also be given to women up to 45 years of age. HPV vaccine is very safe, effective, widely available and affordable. HPV vaccination is recommended by all medical organizations like WHO, FOGSI and IAP.

Screening tests provide secondary prevention, and it is done by testing cervical smears for abnormal cells (Pap smear & LBC) and presence of HPV (HPV testing). The test is painless and is done in OPD itself. This helps us detect and cure women in precancer stage itself (before cancer is formed). Screening test is recommended for all women over the age of 25 years.

Early detection helps detect women in early stages of cancer. Symptoms of cervical cancer are postcoital vaginal bleeding, persistent vaginal discharge which can be foul-smelling or blood stained, postmenopausal vaginal bleeding, continuous or intermenstrual bleeding, lower abdomen pain or discomfort, urinary troubles and severe back ache.

Treatment

Women in early stages are treated effectively by radical surgery and women diagnosed in advanced stages are treated with radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Timely treatment from expert oncologists can provide good survival and excellent quality of life.

Widespread HPV vaccination and regular screening can help save many lives. Our target is to save women from this deadly disease and together, we can achieve it.

Air India Express Showcases Cultural Connectivity at Wings India 2026 with a Multi-State Musical Ensemble Led by Usha Uthup

On the third day of Wings India 2026, Air India Express took centre stage with a vibrant cultural showcase featuring a special live performance by Padma Bhushan awardee Usha Uthup, against the backdrop of its first line-fit Boeing 737-8 aeroplane, VT-RNT. As the tarmac of the Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad transformed into a high-energy concert space, the full-house performance drew thousands of attendees. Joining Usha Uthup were artistes from Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Delhi, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu. The showcase reflects the airline’s belief that travel is not just about mobility, but about enabling cultural immersion and shared human experiences.

At Wings India, the airline received the prestigious Domestic Connectivity award, instituted by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and presented by the Honourable Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu.

One of the highlights of the static display at Wings India was the showcase of VT-RNT, featuring a livery inspired by Parsi Gara embroidery. VT-RNT is the first of the airline’s factory line-fit aeroplane, designed and configured by Boeing to its new product and brand standards. The  cabin features ergonomically designed seats with comfortable cushioning, generous legroom, and fast-charging power outlets in each seat. It also has on-board ovens for ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, larger overhead bins for cabin baggage, a quieter cabin environment and Boeing’s Sky Interior with soothing mood lighting, creating a modern and welcoming cabin environment.

Speaking on the occasion, Siddhartha Butalia, Chief Marketing Officer, Air India Express, said,

 “In an increasingly digitally connected world, the true value of travel lies in real, immersive experiences and meaningful human connections, enabling cultural discovery and shared moments that make for lasting memories. We are delighted to bring this philosophy alive, partnering with and curating festivals and cultural performances like the Hornbill Festival, Bloom in Green, and our showcase at Wings India. Being recognised as ‘Sustainability Champions’ at Wings India 2024 and for ‘Domestic Connectivity’ at Wings India 2026 reinforces our commitment to growing responsibly while fostering meaningful connections between people, cultures and communities.”

Sharing her experience, Usha Uthup said,

“Music is a language that connects people across cultures and geographies. Performing at Wings India 2026 with Air India Express as the country’s cultural ambassador, alongside artists from different parts of India, is truly special. Presenting this celebration on the tarmac, with the backdrop of the beautiful Air India Express Tales of India livery, makes it a powerful and joyful tribute to India’s cultural unity.”

The airline previously curated a memorable musical experience at Wings India 2024, with a live performance by renowned percussionist and Padma Shri awardee Sivamani, alongside the display of one of its new Boeing 737-8 aeroplanes, VT-BXH, featuring the Kalamkari livery. The performance showcased India’s cultural and musical diversity, with 45 percussion instruments flown in from across the country weaving together a sonic tapestry that transcended cultural boundaries.

Through its ‘Tales of India’ initiative, Air India Express celebrates artistic and cultural heritage with liveries showcasing indigenous art and designs, from Kalamkari and Gamosa to Bandhani, Jamawar, Kasavu, Warli, Ikat, Phulkari, and Kanjeevaram. The celebration of regional flavours is extended to the airline’s ‘Gourmair’ in-flight dining experience, featuring regional favourites and festive menus celebrating Onam, Navratri, Durga Puja, Diwali, and Rakhi. In December 2025, as the Official Travel Partner for the Hornbill Festival, the airline partnered with the Government of Nagaland to encourage travellers to explore the region and celebrate indigenous art and culture. The airline was also the Title Sponsor for India’s first transformational and only residential festival Bloom in Green.

Pune, Jan 31: Pune Knowledge Cluster, under the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, in collaboration with Salaam Bombay Foundation, organised EduConclave 3.0 on January 30, 2026, at Savitribai Phule Pune University.

The two-day conclave brought together educators, policymakers and STEM practitioners to explore new and practical approaches to STEM education in India. The programme featured hands-on workshops on Artificial Intelligence and Zero-Cost Game-Based Learning, a panel discussion on building future-ready classrooms, and a STEM showcase highlighting emerging education technologies.

A key highlight of EduConclave 3.0 was TechVision, a student-led technology exhibition where students from government and government-aided schools presented solutions to real-world challenges. More than 750 students from over 25 schools across Mumbai, Pune and Nashik participated, developing over 100 projects across robotics, artificial intelligence and other new-age technologies. The top 14 projects were showcased at the conclave, which was attended by over 1,000 students from 19 government schools in Pune.

Among the notable innovations was SpoilAlert, developed by students Ayush Bhosale and Shreyash Bile. The handheld food safety scanner detects whether food is fresh or spoiled by sensing spoilage gases and changes in colour and moisture, with results displayed instantly on a screen. Designed as a low-cost, non-destructive device, it aims to reduce food waste and help prevent foodborne illnesses.

In the agriculture category, ShetiSuraksha, an autonomous farming robot created by Arjun Vishwasroa and Soham Hajare, attracted attention for its practical application. The robot monitors plant and soil conditions, waters only dry areas, detects rainfall, deters pests, and sends real-time updates to the farmer’s phone. The solution is designed to save water and labour while supporting healthier crops and more efficient farm management.

Other innovations include: SalineGuard Pro (saline monitoring system that silently tracks fluid levels and alerts nurses in time – enhancing patient safety without disturbing hospital calm), NextGen Cart (a smart shopping cart that scans barcodes, verifies item weight, and shows real-time billing on your phone – making checkout faster, fairer, and hassle-free), Poll Wizard (digital voting system that ensures secure, duplicate-free polling with instant results and easy Excel-based data management), FallWatch (bike-mounted fall detection system that senses accidents and instantly shares live location with emergency contacts for faster lifesaving response), among others.

Dr. Priya Nagaraj, Interim-CEO, Pune Knowledge Cluster (PKC) said,

“We are very happy to be hosting the third year of EduConclave, which is our annual education conference.  This year’s focus is on integrating digital pedagogies into school teaching and learning practices.  We are happy to see that we have more than 70 participants, and we have a very large student-led exhibition as part of EduConclave this year.  

We hope to continue this legacy of having education and STEM education conferences in Pune, and we hope this becomes a flagship event for many educators and organizations working in STEM pedagogies to come, collaborate, network, and bring about meaningful change and impact in education.”

Commenting on the conclave, Mr. Gaurav Arora, Chief Growth Officer and Senior Vice President – skills@school & Sports, Salaam Bombay Foundation, said,

“Aligned with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020, EduConclave underscores the importance of experiential and inquiry-based STEM education in bridging learning gaps for students from resource-challenged backgrounds. By nurturing curiosity and confidence at the school level, our collaboration with Pune Knowledge Cluster aims to strengthen pathways to higher education and future careers in science and technology.”

EduConclave 3.0 concluded with a strong call to action to ensure equitable access to quality STEM education across regions and school systems. By placing students at the centre of innovation and learning, the conclave reaffirmed a shared commitment to building inclusive, future-ready education ecosystems that empower young minds to explore, innovate and lead.

Srinivas Nandigam, Managing Director, Global Capability Centre, Advance Auto Parts India:

“India’s Global Capability Centre ecosystem has entered a phase of sustained maturity and global relevance. Today, the country hosts over 1,700 GCCs employing more than 1.6 million professionals, representing the largest concentration of GCC talent worldwide. The sector’s economic contribution is estimated at over USD 46 billion, with growth increasingly driven by advanced engineering, data platforms, AI enablement, and product development roles.

Over the past year, continued investments in digital infrastructure, skilling initiatives, and regional development have further strengthened this momentum, enabling GCCs to evolve from support centres into global innovation engines. Enterprises have expanded their India mandates across areas such as applied AI, cloud architecture, cybersecurity, and platform engineering, reflecting rising confidence in the depth and quality of India’s technical talent. 

As the focus shifts toward Budget 2026, the opportunity lies in strengthening structured talent ecosystems and long-term capability building. This includes deeper industry academia collaboration, targeted investment in advanced engineering and digital skills, and policy support that enables sustainable growth across both established and emerging talent hubs. With global enterprises increasingly scaling innovation closer to talent, India is well positioned to lead the next phase of engineering excellence and technology leadership.

Advance Auto Parts India Innovation Centre sees Budget 2026 as an important catalyst to further elevate India’s role as a global hub for engineering innovation and enterprise transformation.”

Tata Power Commissions 765 kV Mainpuri–Bara and Mainpuri–Unnao Transmission Lines, Strengthening Uttar Pradesh’s Power Evacuation Network

Bengaluru, Jan 31: The Tata Power Company Limited (Tata Power), one of India’s largest integrated power companies, has successfully commissioned two critical 765 kV Extra High Voltage (EHV) transmission corridors in Uttar Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the state’s power transmission infrastructure and enhancing grid reliability across the northern region.

The newly commissioned corridors—Mainpuri–Bara (380 circuit kilometres) and Mainpuri–Unnao (194 circuit kilometres)—have been developed under the South East UP Power Transmission Company Limited (SEUPPTCL) project and form a vital part of Tata Power’s expanding national transmission portfolio. Together, these high-capacity lines create a robust backbone for reliable power flow within Uttar Pradesh and across the Northern Grid.

The project, acquired by Resurgent Power Ventures Pte. Ltd., a joint venture led by Tata Power in partnership with ICICI Bank and global investors, represents a successful resolution of previously stressed power assets. Once operational, the two transmission corridors will enable the evacuation of over 3,000 MW of thermal power generated within the state, significantly improving grid stability while supporting Uttar Pradesh’s long-term energy security and industrial growth objectives.

Execution of the project involved complex engineering and large-scale resource mobilisation. The construction required over 42,000 metric tonnes of tower steel, 6,900 kilometres of conductor stringing, and the completion of more than 100 major crossings, including railway lines, rivers, and existing transmission corridors. The lines also traverse forest stretches and were executed in strict compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory norms.

Despite these challenges, the project was delivered in line with Tata Power’s benchmarks for operational excellence, quality execution, and stringent safety standards, reinforcing the company’s credentials as a leading developer of high-voltage transmission infrastructure in India.

With the commissioning of these two 765 kV corridors, Tata Power’s operational transmission network now spans 5,312 circuit kilometres, with an additional 1,997 circuit kilometres under construction. This expanding portfolio underscores the company’s growing role in building and modernising India’s high-voltage transmission backbone at a time when enhanced grid capacity is critical to sustaining economic growth and supporting the country’s evolving energy landscape.

New Delhi, January 30, 2026: ISIC Multispecialty Hospital, has further strengthened its advanced care portfolio with the launch of a dedicated Sports Injury Clinic—a first-of-its-kind, fully integrated centre designed to deliver comprehensive, patient-centric sports injury management.

Going beyond conventional treatment models, the clinic combines professional movement and biomechanical assessments with advanced diagnostics to identify underlying “weak links” in the body that contribute to injury or recurrence. The medical team deploys non-invasive and minimally invasive interventions, including Arthroscopy, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS), Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), Stem Cell Therapy/BMAC, and Prolotherapy, ensuring precision-led treatment, faster recovery, and durable outcomes. From prehabilitation and accurate diagnosis to surgical excellence and data-driven rehabilitation, the clinic offers a truly end-to-end care ecosystem.

Built on the philosophy that movement is medicine, the Sports Injury Clinic integrates cutting-edge technology with expert-led clinical care to optimise recovery and performance. Central to this approach is the TecnoBody Digital Movement Laboratory, featuring a Digital Mirror Wall, 3D cameras, and real-time biofeedback that provide instant visual cues to correct posture and movement during therapy. Walker View Gait Analysis evaluates walking and running mechanics to identify imbalances and improve posture, while ProKin Balance Platforms deliver advanced proprioceptive training—critical for recovery from injuries such as ankle sprains and ACL tears.

The clinic’s capabilities are further strengthened by hydrotherapy, low-impact recovery programmes, advanced robotics, and 7K visualisation systems, enabling enhanced precision and safety across interventions. Rehabilitation is delivered exclusively by Masters-level physiotherapists, using advanced neuromuscular training techniques, supported by naturopathy and evidence-based clinical nutrition to accelerate healing, optimise performance, and build long-term resilience.

The launch comes at a time when sports-related injuries are rising steadily across India. Studies suggest that nearly half of individuals engaged in regular physical activity experience musculoskeletal injuries, most commonly affecting the knees (28%), ankles (18%), shoulders (10%), and spine (13%). Notably, ACL injuries among young athletes have surged by over 400% in the past two decades, driven by early sports specialisation and inadequate rehabilitation. Experts highlight that the lack of integrated sports medicine infrastructure often results in incomplete recovery, repeated injuries, and shortened athletic careers—gaps the ISIC Sports Injury Clinic aims to address.

Commenting on the launch, Ms. Sugandh Ahluwalia, Chief Strategy Officer, ISIC Multispecialty Hospital, said,
“ISIC’s legacy has always been rooted in restoring movement and function through advanced spine and orthopaedic care. The Sports Injury Clinic is a natural extension of this philosophy, where prehabilitation and rehabilitation are not add-ons but central to recovery. By integrating early conditioning, precise movement analysis, and masters-led rehabilitation, we are enabling athletes to be better prepared before injury or surgery and supported well beyond it—ensuring recovery that is stronger, safer, and sustainable.”

Dr. Ashish Chandra, Chief Operating Officer, ISIC Multispecialty Hospital, added,
“As ISIC continues to evolve, our focus remains on building advanced, future-ready centres of care. The Sports Injury Clinic reflects this vision—bringing together minimally invasive surgery, robotic rehabilitation, digital motion labs, hydrotherapy, and regenerative therapies under one roof. This integrated ecosystem allows us to offer athletes access to sports medicine and recovery protocols on par with leading global institutions.”

With the launch of the Sports Injury Clinic, ISIC Multispecialty Hospital reinforces its position as a centre of excellence in advanced orthopaedic and sports medicine care, offering athletes a comprehensive, future-ready platform dedicated to recovery, performance, and long-term athletic health.

Lamp Lighting during the inauguration ceremony at the MATECIA & SURFACES REPORTER Architecture Event

Kolkata, Jan 31: India’s leading building materials exhibition, MATECIA Exhibition (Materials & Products for Construction, Interiors & Architecture), along with SURFACES REPORTER, one of India’s most respected architecture and design media platforms, was formally inaugurated today at Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan (BBMP), Kolkata. The inauguration marks the launch of the largest-ever confluence of architecture, interiors, and building materials for East and Northeast India.

Held from 30 January to 1 February 2026, the three-day event was inaugurated in the presence of distinguished industry leaders, senior architects, and policymakers. National Award–winning actor, motivational speaker, and Founder of Ashish Vidyarthi & Associates, Mr. Ashish Vidyarthi, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

The inaugural ceremony featured the traditional lamp lighting and opening address by Mr. Rajesh Mittal, President, FIPPI and CMD, Greenply Industries Ltd; Mr. Surinder Arora, President, ILMA and Managing Director, Virgo Industries Ltd; Mr. Ramesh Bagla, President, CTMA; and Ms. Meenakshi Ganeshan, Deputy Director General, BIS, East Zone. They were joined by senior leaders including Mr. Manoj Lohia of Merino Industries Ltd, Mr. Joydeep Chitlangia of Duroply, Mr. Vishal Dokania of Durian, Mr. Rushil Thakkar of Rushil Décor, Mr. Gajanan Munka of Saburi Plywood, Mr. Gaurav Bagla, President, BTIA, Mr. Vikas Khemka, Vice President, BTMA, Mr. M.P. Singh, former Director, IWST and FIPPI, and Mr. J. Ahuja of ILMA.

The event brought together over 150 leading architecture and design firms, interior designers, developers, dealers, brands, and channel partners from more than 12 states across East and Northeast India, including Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Chhattisgarh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. The strong regional participation positioned Kolkata as a vital cultural and regional bridge, while reinforcing the scale, diversity, and creative strength of the eastern and northeastern design ecosystem.

Speaking at the inauguration, Ashish Vidyarthi said, “Life becomes exciting when people choose to build something meaningful with it. What truly moved me about this industry is that it works quietly, yet shapes everything we live in—from our homes to our cities. Behind every road, bridge and building are passionate creators and manufacturers who rarely seek the spotlight, but whose work defines progress.”

Highlighting the importance of industry platforms, he added, “Platforms like MATECIA and the SURFACES REPORTER Architecture Event bring this unseen ecosystem to life, celebrating both the makers and the architectural fraternity that consistently insists on quality, integrity and thoughtful choices. It is this commitment to relevance, value and responsibility that allows an industry—and the people within it—to remain vibrant and enduring.”

Spread across over 1,50,000 sq. ft., the event featured 100+ leading interior and surface brands and brought together the topmost architects and interior designers from east and northeast representing over 500 landmark projects. The event welcomed an estimated 14,000–16,000 visitors from 100+ towns and cities.

Verticaa Dvivedi, Director, Surfaces Reporter Architecture Event, said, “The successful inauguration of the MATECIA Exhibition and SURFACES REPORTER Architecture Event has affirmed what we have always believed these regions are not peripheral markets, but are the centres of architectural thought and innovation. The local designers view climate, context, and culture not as limitations, but as their source of creativity, teaching the world through their work. This issue is the start of a bigger story at the national level where the architects from the East and Northeast of India get their proper place in the creative arena of the country.”

Emphasising both the material and market opportunity, Pragat Dvivedi, Director, MATECIA Exhibition, said, “The response to MATECIA Exhibition and SURFACES REPORTER Architecture Event clearly confirms that East and Northeast India are rapidly turning into serious growth markets. With rapid urban development, expanding infrastructure, and a growing community of design conscious professionals, these regions are paving the way for the next generation of India’s building materials industry. Our participation in the event is a signal of our firm conviction that the materials market of the country in the future will be driven by the East and Northeast at least as much as by any other region.”

The event witnessed the presence of prominent architects including Ar. Sunil Maniramka, Ar. Rupande Shah, Ar. Monica Khosla Bhargava, Ar. Amber Chandgothia, Ar. J. P. Agrawal, and Ar. Bipratip Dhar, among others. Additionally, architectural associations from Jharkhand, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh participated enthusiastically, reinforcing the strong collective identity and collaborative spirit of the region’s architectural community.

A key highlight of the platform Surfaces Reporter Salutes – Architecture & Design Honours is scheduled for 31 January 2026 from 4:00 PM onwards. As the first collective regional recognition initiative dedicated exclusively to East and Northeast India, the honours celebrates around 100 leading architects and interior designers, the creative forces behind more than 500 of the region’s most notable projects, recognising excellence across residential, commercial, hospitality, institutional and urban design.

The event highlights India Interior Retailing (IIR), a knowledge platform that brings industry and interior retail leaders together, creating a high-energy space for learning, networking, and growth. In addition, the Surfaces Reporter SHOWCASE will address a special presentation zone where brands present and architects review, offering an excellent opportunity for interaction and collaboration between designers and manufacturers.

The MATECIA Exhibition and SURFACES REPORTER Architecture Event East & Northeast India took a firm step forward in the re-interpretation of the region at the national level while establishing the region’s design excellence firmly on India’s architectural map.

Mumbai, Jan 30: The Indian Performing Right Society Ltd. (IPRS) is set to return to the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) 2026 with the IPRS Stage, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing original, folk, and regional music within one of India’s most respected multidisciplinary cultural festivals.

More than a performance platform, the IPRS Stage is a purposeful cultural initiative aimed at creating sustained visibility and meaningful engagement for diverse music traditions. By positioning music within the broader artistic dialogue of KGAF—where literature, visual arts, design, and performance converge—the IPRS Stage brings underrepresented musical voices into the public consciousness and fosters deeper audience appreciation.

At a time when digital algorithms increasingly influence music discovery, curated cultural platforms such as the IPRS Stage play a vital role in offering context, authenticity, and human connection. The initiative bridges generational and regional divides, enabling audiences to experience tradition-rooted and original music in a contemporary festival setting, while providing artists with credibility, reach, and new avenues for connection.

The IPRS Stage at KGAF 2026 will feature two distinctive performances that reflect this vision:

• 1 February 2026: Goa-based band Black Sapphire will showcase regional language music on a national cultural platform, highlighting the resonance of local voices when given the right exposure.

• 6 February 2026: Abhijit Pohankar’s Global Varkari Project will present the rich Varkari devotional tradition through a modern sonic framework, demonstrating how heritage can evolve while retaining its essence.

Speaking on the importance of such platforms, Alison Gonsalves, Lead Singer and Songwriter, Black Sapphire, said,

“Original music is deeply personal, especially when it comes from a regional language and lived culture. Platforms like the IPRS Stage at Kala Ghoda validate our work and help audiences connect more deeply with the stories and identities behind the music.”

Maestro Abhijit Pohankar, classical pianist, fusion music producer, and conceiver of the Global Varkari Project, added,

“The Varkari tradition emphasizes devotion, social equality, and righteousness through music. Presenting this ancient form with a modern sound allows it to remain relevant today. Platforms like the IPRS Stage ensure that folk and traditional music are experienced with dignity, relevance, and respect.”

Highlighting IPRS’s broader vision, Mr. Rakesh Nigam, CEO, IPRS, said,

“Platforms like the IPRS Stage are essential to sustaining India’s musical diversity. By partnering with festivals such as the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, we create spaces where artists can be discovered and audiences can engage meaningfully with the cultural roots of our music.”

Brinda Miller, Hon. Festival Director, Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, noted,

“KGAF has always stood for artistic integrity and cultural diversity in the public sphere. The IPRS Stage furthers this vision by spotlighting original and tradition-rooted music, inviting audiences to engage with music as a reflection of identity, history, and creative purpose.”

As the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival continues to serve as a vibrant meeting point for India’s creative communities, the IPRS Stage stands as a powerful model of how cultural institutions can support artists, educate audiences, and ensure that India’s rich musical legacy is preserved, celebrated, and carried forward into the future.

By:-  Rohan Khatau, Director, CCI Projects.

The upcoming Union Budget 2026 is expected to play a critical role in shaping longterm capital flows into the real estate sector. Targeted focus on infrastructure investment, clarity on REIT and InvIT taxation and incentives that encourage private and institutional participation can enhance liquidity and transparency across the market. Policy continuity and fiscal discipline will be key to sustaining investor confidence, enabling developers to plan responsibly and scale projects aligned with evolving urban demand. Tax reliefs definitely ease out decision making for the potential buyers sitting on a fence so overall taxation easing will benefit the sector largely too. A forward looking budget can further strengthen real estate’s role as a stable engine of economic growth

By:  Nikhil Madan, Managing Director, Mahima Group

The Tier II cities are ushering in a new phase of residential development with homebuyers looking a cusp of better infra with a more balanced lifestyle. The Union Budget can now compliment this growth by focusing on improvements in urban infrastructure, connectivity as well as sound policies for upgraded premium housings. Stronger planning and investment will help Tier II cities grow into stable, well-rounded urban centres over the long term. Additionally, rationalisation of taxation is the key pillar which benefits buyers, especially the ones investing for the first time in a home. Overall,  with the right policy push in this budget, tier 2 cities can emerge as India’s next engines of sustainable  residential growth.