Archives January 2026

Mumbai,  Jan 13: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, has been recognised for its leadership in technology and innovation at the prestigious Indian Banks’ Association’s (IBA) 21^st Annual Banking Technology Awards 2024-25, winning honours across five award categories among Large Banks, including four wins and one Special Mention. Bank of Baroda was adjudged the Winner in four categories – Best AI & ML Adoption, Best Fintech & DPI Adoption, Best IT Risk Management and Best Tech Talent. In addition, the Bank received a Special Mention in the Best Technology Bank category.

Speaking on the achievement, Dr Debadatta Chand, Managing Director & CEO, Bank of Baroda said,

“Bank of Baroda is honoured to receive these coveted awards from the IBA, which reflect our continued focus on innovation, robust risk management, and building a strong tech team. We will continue investing in advanced future-ready capabilities to deliver a seamless and secure banking experience for our customers and create lasting stakeholder value.”

These recognitions reinforce Bank of Baroda’s focus on technology-led innovation and customer-centric banking.

1 in 5 Employees Struggle to Adapt to Workplace Change Across Pharma, Biotech, and Healthcare shows Great Place To Work Report

“India’s pharmaceutical, healthcare, and biotech sectors are scaling significantly, with workplace culture emerging as a key driver of trust, innovation, and performance. Our recent study reveals that in the Biotechnology industry, employees with access to training and development report 33% higher innovation opportunities at work, strengthening the link between learning and innovation success. Confidence in leadership has a measurable impact on workforce stability in the pharmaceutical sector. Our research indicates that one in two employees tends to stay longer when they have confidence in their leadership. In the healthcare sector, teams that experience psychological safety have 58% more employees who report a healthy work-life balance, keeping employees engaged. Collectively, the findings prove that a highly trusted culture elevates employee performance and business outcomes. To sustain future growth, leaders need to ensure continuous training and development, encourage meaningful collaboration, and demonstrate agility to sustain growth in high-pressure environments.”, said Balbir Singh, CEO, Great Place To Work® India.

1. Alcon Laboratories India Private Limited
2. Apitoria Pharma Private Limited,
3. Aragen Life Sciences Limited,
4. Biogen,
5. Brinton Pharmaceuticals Limited,
6. Cipla Limited,
7. CK Birla Healthcare – A CKA Birla Group Company,
8. Dr. B. Lal Clinical Laboratory Private Limited,
9. Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited,
10. Fermenta Biotech Limited,
11. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited,
12. HCL Healthcare,
13. INTAS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.,
14. Kids Clinic India Limited (Cloudnine),
15. Laurus Labs Limited,
16. Max Healthcare Institute Limited,
17. Medtronic Engineering And Innovation Center Private Limited,
18. Novartis Healthcare Private Limited,
19. R1 RCM Global Private Limited,
20. Rukmani Birla Hospital – A Part of CK Birla Hospitals,
21. Sagility India Limited,
22. Sentiss Pharma Private Limited,
23. Sigachi Industries Limited,
24. Stryker India,
25. Thermo Fisher Scientific India

New Delhi, Jan 13: According to Magicbricks’ latest PropIndex report for the October–November–December (OND) 2025 quarter, India’s residential real estate market entered a phase of measured moderation, with housing demand declining by 8.7% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) even as supply rebounded by 3.4% QoQ across key cities. Residential prices rose by 1.5% QoQ and 16.9% year-on-year (YoY) during the quarter—the slowest pace of appreciation recorded in the past two years indicating a shift towards more stable, value-led market conditions amid seasonal and policy-related recalibration.

“The moderation witnessed during OND 2025 reflects a phase of market recalibration rather than any weakening of underlying fundamentals,” said Sudir Pai, CEO, Magicbricks “Demand softness during the quarter was largely seasonal and policy-driven, while the rebound in supply indicates that developers are increasingly aligning new launches with affordability thresholds and end-user demand. The slower pace of price appreciation suggests a shift towards more sustainable, value-led growth, particularly across mid and upper-mid segments, which continue to demonstrate the strongest absorption visibility.”

The moderation in demand aligns with festive-season spending patterns and ongoing monetary policy transitions, as homebuyers adopted a wait-and-watch approach amid evolving interest rate expectations. At the same time, the rebound in supply indicates cautious confidence among developers, particularly in price brackets where affordability and demand depth remain strong.

After two quarters of relative stability, housing supply gained momentum during OND 2025, with pan-India listings rising 3.4% QoQ and remaining marginally positive on an annual basis. Greater Noida (+9.6%), Gurugram (+6.6%), Thane (+5.1%) and Noida (+4.8%) emerged as key contributors to new supply additions. The revival was largely concentrated in the mid and upper-mid segments, as developers increasingly aligned new launches with end-user affordability thresholds.

A closer look at supply composition reveals a strategic recalibration across markets. In the National Capital Region, mid and upper-mid segment supply rose sharply in Greater Noida and Gurugram (both +27.3%) and Noida (+13.4%), while luxury supply showed signs of moderation. Gurugram recorded a 32.5% increase in homes priced up to INR 3 crore, compared to a 14.2% rise in the luxury segment above INR 5 crore. Mumbai mirrored a similar trend, with supply up to INR 5 crore increasing by 10.2%, even as listings above INR 9 crore declined by 8.5% QoQ.

Bengaluru remained the only major market to witness consistent expansion in luxury housing, supported by demand across established micro-markets such as Whitefield, Koramangala, Indiranagar, JP Nagar and Bellary Road. In contrast, Hyderabad saw a stronger push towards mid-segment housing, with supply up to INR 2.5 crore rising by 15.4%, compared to a 9.5% increase in homes priced above INR 5 crore.

Select cities are also emerging as new premium-growth pockets. Chennai and Kolkata recorded an increase of 19.2% and 11.9%, respectively, in supply above INR 3 crore, while Pune (+28.9%) and Thane (+33.1%) saw notable traction at higher price points. This trend is being supported by infrastructure-led development, including metro expansions, improved urban connectivity, and large-scale logistics and employment corridors.

Pricing trends during the quarter reinforced the narrative of market stability. While residential values continued to rise, the pace of appreciation moderated significantly, indicating a transition towards more rational price discovery. Faster supply additions relative to demand are reshaping market dynamics, with selective inventory absorption and cost-side pressures supporting price resilience, particularly in well-connected micro-markets.

Looking ahead to 2026, market momentum is expected to be influenced by interest rate clarity, infrastructure execution, and continued alignment of new supply with affordability thresholds. A potential downward movement in lending rates could help convert deferred demand into transactions, supporting absorption levels and maintaining pricing stability across key residential markets.

Magicbricks is India’s No.1 property site

As the largest platform for buyers and sellers of property to connect in a transparent manner, Magicbricks has monthly traffic exceeding 2 crores and an active base of over 15 lakh property listings. Magicbricks has metamorphosed into a full stack service provider for all real estate needs, with services including home loans, interiors, and expert advice.

With 17+ years of experience and deep research-based knowledge, Magicbricks also presents a repertoire of insight-driven platforms like MBTV—India’s leading online real estate YouTube channel—and other proprietary tools so that home buyers can access all information related to price trends, forecasts, and locality reviews.

Rebel Foods, the world’s largest internet restaurant company and the master franchise holder for Wendy’s® in India, today announced the opening of two new Wendy’s dine-in restaurants in Gujarat, located in Ahmedabad and Anand. The launches further strengthen Wendy’s footprint in the state, which continues to emerge as a key growth market for organised QSR brands.

Designed to serve both dine-in and takeaway customers, the new restaurants feature modern, welcoming spaces that reflect Wendy’s bold, flavour-forward brand experience. With these additions, Wendy’s brings America’s Most Loved Burgers® closer to consumers across Gujarat.

Customers at the new outlets can enjoy Wendy’s globally loved Frosty® dessert, along with a diverse menu inspired by flavours from around the world. Offering one of the widest flavour ranges in India’s gourmet QSR segment, the menu features burgers inspired by Argentina’s Chimichurri, Louisiana’s Cajun, Korea’s fiery Buldak, American BBQ, India’s Tandoori, and Mexico’s Nachoburg, delivering a truly global burger experience under one brand.

Commenting on the expansion, Ankush Grover, Co-founder & Global CEO, Rebel Foods, said:

“Gujarat continues to be a strong growth market for us, driven by a young consumer base and rising demand for global food experiences. The launch of dine-in restaurants in Ahmedabad and Anand reflects our commitment to expanding Wendy’s presence in the state while offering formats that align with evolving consumer preferences.”

As Wendy’s continues to scale across India, the brand remains focused on Gen Z and Millennial consumers seeking bold flavours, authenticity, and globally relevant dining experiences. Through flavour-led innovation, contemporary store formats, and strong cultural resonance, Wendy’s is well positioned to expand across both urban centres and emerging markets.

Rebel Foods is steadily growing Wendy’s presence in India through a hybrid model of conventional restaurants and cloud kitchens, leveraging its technology-driven operating platform. In just over five years since entering the Indian market, Wendy’s has expanded to 200+ locations nationwide, consolidating its footprint across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities.

 IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, today announced the launch of its New Year sale ‘Sail into 2026’, offering customers attractive all-inclusive one-way fares across select domestic and international sectors, along with exclusive discounts on popular ancillary services. The sale will be open for bookings from 13 January 2026 to 16 January 2026, for travel between 20 January 2026 and 30 April 2026. The offer is valid on bookings made at least seven days prior to departure and is available across all booking channels.

Under the ‘Sail into 2026’ sale, customers can avail all-inclusive one-way domestic fares starting from ₹1,499 and international fares from ₹4,499 and IndiGoStretch fares on select domestic routes starting from ₹9,999*.

In addition to special fares, IndiGo is offering attractive discounts on select ancillary services during the sale period. Customers can enjoy up to 70% off on select 6E Add-ons, including Fast Forward services, up to 50% off on pre-paid excess baggage, and up to 15% off on standard seat selection for select domestic and international sectors. Emergency XL (extra legroom) seats are available starting at ₹500 on select domestic sectors. Further, infants aged 0–24 months can travel for just ₹1 on domestic sectors, when bookings are made through IndiGo’s direct channels.

Noida, Jan 13: Strengthening its footprint in North India while continuing its national expansion, DesignCafe, India’s leading home interiors brand, has launched a new Experience Centre in Noida, marking its 21st store in India. With a growing presence across key cities, DesignCafe continues to scale it’s pan-India footprint by adding six more Experience Centres in the coming months.

Spread across 2,700 sq. ft., the Noida Experience Centre is designed to show how interiors come together in real homes. It includes a fully designed three-bedroom apartment, along with modular kitchens, wardrobes, bedrooms, and living spaces. The centre also showcases four kitchen formats and DesignCafe’s unique space-saving design solutions, aimed at improving everyday living.

Beyond modular design experience zones, the Noida Experience Centre brings a more premium, material-led experience to the forefront, shaped by a detailed study of the region. The space is curated to reflect the refined sensibilities of Noida and the wider NCR, so homeowners can experience the difference across finishes, tones, and styling cues, not just view them on a screen. With a fully designed three-bedroom apartment and multiple design directions under one roof, the experience is intentionally 360-degree: immersive, highly personalised, and versatile enough to suit distinct tastes, from understated sophistication to bold statements.

The new centre marks a focused expansion within the National Capital Region, with Noida’s growing residential developments and rising demand for organised, modular interiors, making it an important market for the brand. DesignCafe noted that the homeowners in Noida are increasingly looking for functional, personalised design solutions delivered through a transparent, end-to-end process.

Founded by award-winning architect co-founders Gita Ramanan and Shezaan Bhojani, DesignCafe has built its growth around a design-led, technology-enabled approach focused on delivering personalised, high-quality interior solutions for modern Indian homeowners.

Commenting on the expansion, Gita Ramanan, Co-founder & CEO, DesignCafe, said,

“When we started DesignCafe, our goal was simple – to make personalised, high-quality home interiors easier to access and easier to trust. Noida is a fast-evolving market, with homeowners who care deeply about functionality, finish, and the feeling of a well-made home. With this Experience Centre, we’re bringing a more immersive way to explore design, backed by transparent processes, strong technology, and craftsmanship you can see and feel.”

Shezaan Bhojani, Co-founder & CEO, DesignCafe, added,

“We’re excited to open our new Experience Centre in Noida, bringing DesignCafe closer to homeowners across NCR.  Noida has always stood out as a region where homeowners want the best for their home in terms of design and product. We are glad to launch a centre that brings the best in global design and materials to the Noida market.” 

The company’s manufacturing operations are supported by a 65,000 sq. ft. facility equipped with precision German machinery. Each project goes through multiple quality checks, uses materials sourced from established partners, and is backed by long-term warranty coverage, with a focus on durability and efficient use of space.

DesignCafe currently works with 11 franchise partners across India, a network that supports local entrepreneurs through access to DesignCafe’s technology platforms, training, and operational support, while enabling the brand to scale its presence consistently. The new Noida Experience Centre is now open to visitors and offers homeowners an opportunity to explore interior solutions and engage with the brand’s trusted and admired design process.

Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Ltd. (ROHL), one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality chains, announced the signing of Regenta Place Udaipur, a 43-key property located at Nakoda Nagar, Udaipur.

The hotel will be operated under a hotel management agreement, aligning with ROHL’s asset-light growth strategy and strengthening its presence in Rajasthan’s most sought-after leisure and wedding destinations. Designed to cater to both leisure and social-event demand, the property will combine contemporary accommodation with expansive banqueting and outdoor event spaces.

Regenta Place Udaipur will feature a 7,000 sq. ft. indoor banquet hall complemented by a sprawling 30,000 sq. ft. landscaped lawn, positioning it as an ideal venue for weddings, destination celebrations, and large-scale social gatherings.

The property is being developed by Mokkshi Hospitality & Services, owned by Mr. Amit Jain, and is strategically located to offer convenient access to Udaipur’s key city attractions and wedding circuits.

The hotel is expected to open by March 2026, adding a versatile hospitality address to the City of Lakes under the Regenta Place brand.

Commenting on the signing, Mr. Chander K. Baljee, Chairman & Managing Director, Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Ltd., said

“Udaipur remains a high-potential market for leisure and destination weddings. The signing of Regenta Place Udaipur strengthens our portfolio in Rajasthan and reflects our focus on strategically located properties with strong social and events-led demand.”

Speaking on the association, Mr. Amit Jain, Owner, Mokkshi Hospitality & Services, said,

“We are delighted to partner with Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels for Regenta Place Udaipur. Their brand strength and operational expertise give us confidence in creating a successful hospitality destination that caters to leisure travellers and large-scale celebrations alike.”

Koncept Global Books, a modern educational venture dedicated to providing holistic learning support to the next generation, today announced the launch of its new middle-school catalogue, Leapstone, for students in Classes 6–8. Building on the 25-year publishing legacy of Arihant Publications, the initiative aims to redefine how students learn, think, and apply knowledge in the 21st century.

Koncept Global Books was established to address the growing need for textbooks that go beyond academic content and develop broader competencies essential for today’s rapidly evolving world. With a shift in education towards critical thinking, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and real-world application, traditional textbooks often fall short. Leapstone bridges this gap by offering learning resources that are India-centric yet globally aligned, ensuring students develop strong cultural roots while cultivating a future-ready mindset.

As the first milestone of its ambitious Project 21 Agenda, Koncept Global Books has launched a comprehensive catalogue of 45 titles across 15 series for Classes 6, 7, and 8. The Leapstone series represents a fundamental shift from conventional textbooks. While anchored in India’s cultural, social, and educational context, the content integrates a global outlook, preparing students for opportunities on both national and international platforms. The series emphasizes conceptual clarity, critical thinking, experiential learning, and emotional development, aligning closely with the spirit of NEP 2020 and NCF 2023.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Atishay Jain, Managing Partner, Koncept Global Books, said:

“The ‘Project 21 Agenda’ is about transforming education from teaching ‘what to think’ to ‘how to think.’ We aim to nurture a generation of innovators and leaders who will shape the world rather than simply participate in it.”

The Leapstone series has been designed to support diverse school environments and student capabilities, ensuring accessibility and meaningful impact across different learning levels. By integrating inquiry-based activities, real-world tasks, and value-based learning, the books empower students to understand, question, apply, and internalize knowledge, moving beyond rote memorization.

The Leapstone series from Koncept Global Books is now available for schools and parents across India.

The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), through its Carbon Market Forum and Centre for Sustainability, has released the Carbon Edge Knowledge Series,  presenting a comprehensive assessment of India’s evolving carbon trading and sustainability landscape. The publication brings together insights from industry leaders, policymakers, and environmental experts to outline strategic recommendations for strengthening the efficiency, credibility, and inclusiveness of India’s carbon markets.

The knowledge series underscores the critical role of carbon markets in mobilising climate finance, incentivising emissions reductions, and aligning economic growth with environmental responsibility. It emphasises the need for strong institutional frameworks and coherence between India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy, global carbon market mechanisms, and international standards to ensure transparency, environmental integrity, and investor confidence.

A key focus of the series is on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), highlighting the challenges they face in adopting ESG practices, complying with BRSR requirements, and undertaking carbon accounting. This series recommends simplified methodologies, targeted capacity building, and digital tools to enable MSMEs to participate effectively in sustainability initiatives and carbon markets.

The knowledge series also highlights sector-specific opportunities in agrivoltaics, manufacturing decarbonisation, smart buildings, and blue carbon ecosystems, alongside the importance of water management and restoration in enhancing climate resilience. It further examines global policy developments such as the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and their implications for Indian industry.

PHDCCI remains committed to supporting industry and stakeholders in advancing India’s sustainable development and climate objectives.

Samsung Unveils ‘Big Bespoke AI Fest’ with Never-Before-Seen Republic Day Deals, Cashback and Rewards on Bespoke AI Home Appliances

GURUGRAM, India, Jan 13: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the ‘Big Bespoke AI Fest’, its Republic Day celebration designed to help consumers embrace innovation and connected living at their homes. Running from January 8 to January 31, 2026, the festive campaign brings together exciting offers, cashback rewards and warranty benefits across Samsung’s Bespoke AI digital appliances, while also extending special festive offers for Pongal and Makar Sankranti.

Through the ‘Big Bespoke AI Fest’, Samsung is inviting consumers to reimagine their homes as smarter, more intuitive spaces that seamlessly fit into modern lifestyles. Consumers can enjoy up to 50% off on select digital appliances, along with cashback benefits of up to INR 20,000 across a wide range of Bespoke AI refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners and microwaves, making it the ideal time to upgrade to future-ready home solutions.

To make the journey towards connected living even more effortless, Samsung is offering affordable options, including a special ‘1 EMI Off’ benefit on T-Combo and select Top Load Washing Machines. These offers are designed to help consumers bring home premium, intelligent appliances with greater ease and confidence during the festive season.

As part of the festive offers, Samsung is rolling out category-wise cashback benefits, including up to INR 20,000 cashback on Frost-Free Double Door and Side-by-Side refrigerators, up to INR 6,000 cashback on Frost free refrigerators, up to INR 10,000 cashback on Front Load washing machines and Washer Dryers, and up to INR 4,000 cashback on Air Conditioners, making it an ideal time for consumers to upgrade their homes with Samsung’s intelligent appliances.

Adding further value to the festive celebration, Samsung is extending industry-leading warranty benefits, including a 10-year warranty on the Ceramic Enamel Cavity of Microwaves and a 5-year Comprehensive Warranty on Air Conditioners, offering consumers long-term peace of mind and reliability. Enhancing the festive experience further, Samsung is also offering a complimentary Borosil Kit with select microwave models, delivering added value to consumers looking to upgrade their kitchens this season.

The complete range of ‘Big Bespoke AI Fest’ offers will be available across Samsung retail outlets, leading e-commerce platforms and Samsung.com. Whether consumers are welcoming the new year or taking a step towards smarter, connected living, the Big Bespoke AI Fest makes it the perfect moment to bring home Samsung’s Bespoke appliances.