Archives February 2026

Belrise Merger Strengthens Core Manufacturing Platform; Expands Rapidly in Defence and Aerospace

Feb 04: Belrise Industries Limited (BIL), one of India’s leading integrated automotive component manufacturers, is accelerating its transformation into a scaled, diversified precision-engineering company through the merger of two profitable group companies having strong operating metrics, Badve Autocomps and Eximius Infra Tech with Belrise Industries Limited, significantly strengthening its operating platform, group structure and long-term growth visibility. The company is also expanding rapidly in the aerospace & defense division.

Badve Autocomps reported revenues of ₹1,421 crore, EBITDA of ₹187 crore with operating margins of 13.2%, and a PAT of ₹79 crore, while Eximius Infra Tech recorded revenues of ₹696 crore, EBITDA of ₹85 crore with operating margins of 12.2%, and a PAT of ₹33 crore. Together, the merger is expected to add approximately ₹1,000 crore in revenue (post related party eliminations) to the consolidated entity. Additionally, Belrise marks its entry into global aerospace supply chains with its first international acquisition, Europe-based SDM. The announcements are aligned to the company’s objective of building a global aerospace supply chain.

Commenting on the developments, Shrikant Badve, Managing Director of Belrise Industries Limited, said,

“The merger of Badve Autocomps and Eximius Infra Tech with Belrise Industries is a defining step in simplifying our group structure and building a larger, more integrated manufacturing platform, giving us the scale and capability to engage OEMs more deeply and move further up the value chain as a system-level supplier. This consolidation was a key commitment articulated in our DRHP at the time of our IPO, and with this merger, we have delivered on that promise.”

Executed at close to book value, the merger implies a P/E of 8.3x for the merged entities on FY25 basis, compared to 30.9x for the listed entity on a TTM basis, resulting in immediate EPS accretion for Belrise shareholders. EY acted as the independent registered valuer for the transaction, while JM Financial provided the fairness of opinion. The consolidation is also expected to materially reduce related-party transactions by approximately ₹1,152 crore.

  1. Post-merger, Belrise will emerge as one of the largest players in India’s two-wheeler plastic components segment, with an estimated market share of around 25%.
  2. The combined platform significantly enhances Belrise’s ability to increase content per vehicle through engineered plastic components and integrated system offerings, with content per vehicle expected to rise by over ₹3,000 in two-wheelers, or approximately 20%.
  3. The merger is also expected to deepen wallet share among existing OEM customers by 30% and improve customer stickiness.
  4. Around 34% of incremental revenue post-merger are expected to come from the passenger and commercial vehicle segments, supporting diversification beyond two-wheelers.

Alongside the merger, Belrise is also scaling its presence in the defence and aerospace sector. The company has completed its first-ever international acquisition in the aerospace segment through the purchase of SDM, a Europe-based manufacturer specializing in high-precision machined components for aero-structures, aero-engines and robotics. SDM supplies to some of the world’s leading aerospace OEMs, including the largest global commercial aircraft manufacturer and a leading French fighter aircraft OEM, providing Belrise direct entry into global aerospace supply chains. SDM is expected to generate revenues of approximately €3–4 million in FY27, forming a base for Belrise’s longer-term aerospace ambitions.

Belrise has also entered a strategic collaboration with Israel-based Plasan Sasa to localise advanced armoured vehicle technologies and the Autonomous Electric Mission Module (ATEMM) in India, with initial assembly planned domestically and a pathway into Plasan’s global manufacturing ecosystem.

Commenting on the expansion, Swastid Badve, Chief of Staff to the Managing Director, Belrise Industries Limited, said,

“The acquisition of SDM represents a critical inflection point in Belrise’s expansion into high-precision, safety-critical aerospace manufacturing. SDM’s capabilities and its presence in global aerospace supply chains provide us immediate access to international programmes and a strong foundation to build an export-oriented aerospace platform from India. Our collaboration with Plasan Sasa further complements this strategy as we selectively scale our presence in defence applications through localisation and advanced manufacturing.”

The Park Navi Mumbai Awarded IGBC Certification for Sustainable Hospitality Practices

The Park Navi Mumbai

Feb 04, Mumbai, India — The Park Navi Mumbai has been awarded the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Certification, reaffirming the hotel’s strong commitment to sustainable hospitality through responsible design, efficient operations, and environmentally conscious practices.

Conveniently located near the operational Navi Mumbai International Airport (T1), The Park Navi Mumbai has integrated sustainability into its core functioning, offering guests a refined luxury experience that aligns with global environmental standards. The certification recognises the hotel’s consistent efforts to minimise its environmental footprint while maintaining high standards of comfort and service.

Among the key initiatives acknowledged by IGBC is the hotel’s use of solar energy, significantly reducing dependence on conventional power sources. The property has also adopted advanced water-conservation systems, energy-efficient management practices, and comprehensive waste-management processes, including waste segregation and responsible disposal. These measures ensure optimal use of resources across the hotel while supporting long-term environmental goals.

Commenting on the achievement, Rahul Makhija, General Manager, The Park Navi Mumbai, said: “Achieving IGBC certification is a proud moment for our entire team and reinforces our long-standing commitment to sustainable hospitality. From water-saving innovations to robust waste-management systems, environmental responsibility is deeply embedded in our operations. Our approach to sustainability goes beyond compliance—it enhances the guest experience while contributing positively to the community and the environment. We remain focused on protecting the planet and setting higher benchmarks for responsible luxury.”

With this recognition, The Park Navi Mumbai joins a distinguished group of hospitality leaders who are actively embracing environmentally responsible practices, demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand in shaping the future of modern hospitality.

Saisha By Charu Arora: Elegant Valentine’s Ensembles for Her

Saisha Short Anarkali with Sharara

Saisha By Charu Arora, Valentine’s Collection for Her

Short Anarkali with Sharara
A ruby red ensemble featuring a hand-embroidered short kurta paired with a matching sharara. The outfit is delicately embellished with intricate embroidery and beadwork for a timeless, elegant look.

Peplum with Bell Bottom
This stunning red set showcases exquisite French knot and floral embroidery from the peplum to the sharara, complemented by an embroidered dupatta. A harmonious ensemble reflecting refined craftsmanship and graceful elegance

High Low Kurta and Sharara Set
An elegant high-low kurta adorned with tone-on-tone floral embroidery, paired with a matching embroidered dupatta. This ensemble exemplifies sophistication and detailed craftsmanship, perfect for a stylish statement at any occasion.

US-India Trade Deal Seen as Neutral to Positive for Indian Refiners: ICRA

Mr. Prashant Vasisht, Senior Vice President and Co-Group Head, Corporate Ratings, ICRA Ltd.
“The announcement of US-India trade deal reportedly includes removing the 25% penal tariffs on India, with the latter agreeing to stop purchase of crude oil from Russia. Additionally, India is to step up purchase of US crude oil and potentially start buying oil from Venezuela. For the Indian refining sector, there are ample avenues including the US, to purchase crude as Russian crude accounted for less than 2% of Indian crude imports prior to FY2023. The discounts on Russian crude oil were marginal prior to US announcing sanctions on some Russian crude suppliers in October 2025, and ICRA estimates that replacement of Russian crude with market priced crude would lead to an increase in the import bill of the country by less than 2%. Additionally Venezuelan crudes are heavy and sour and therefore cheaper and would be of interest to Indian refiners, many of whom can process these types of crudes.” 

Hyatt Regency Delhi Presents a Kashmiri Food Festival at Cafe

New Delhi, Feb 03: Hyatt Regency Delhi introduces a thoughtfully curated Kashmiri Food Festival at Café, the hotel’s signature all-day dining destination. Taking place from 30 January to 8 February 2026, the festival brings the depth, refinement, and heritage of Kashmiri cuisine to the capital through a limited-period culinary showcase.

Rooted in traditional slow-cooking techniques and the nuanced use of aromatics such as saffron, fennel, dried ginger, and Kashmiri chillies, the festival highlights the region’s distinctive culinary identity. Presented as a multi-course buffet, the offering allows guests to experience the charm of Kashmiri cooking, from slow-cooked gravies and delicately spiced meats to time-honoured preparations that reflect the valley’s ceremonial food culture.

The menu has been curated in collaboration with Chef Rehman, a specialist in Kashmiri cuisine known for his commitment to preserving traditional methods and flavours. His approach ensures cultural accuracy while maintaining the grace expected in a luxury dining setting. “Every dish is rooted in memory, technique, and respect for tradition. This menu is an invitation to experience the fragrance and warmth of Kashmiri hospitality,” says Chef Rehman

Complementing the food experience are traditional beverage pairings, including Kashmiri Kahwa, alongside select coolers and lassi variants. The ambience at Café will be subtly enhanced to reflect the aesthetics of the valley, offering guests an immersive yet composed dining experience.

Positioned as a premium, limited-time offering, the Kashmiri Food Festival at Hyatt Regency Delhi is ideal for guests seeking an authentic regional experience presented with authenticity, elegance, and cultural integrity.

Details:
Venue:
 Café, Hyatt Regency Delhi
Dates: 30 January – 8 February 2026
Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Dinner: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Adani Ports Posts Strong Q3 and 9M FY26 Performance, Raises EBITDA Outlook

Ahmedabad, Feb 3: Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ), India’s largest Integrated Transport Utility, today announced robust financial and operational results for the quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2025, driven by sustained momentum across ports, logistics, marine and international operations.

Financial Highlights (Consolidated)

  • Q3 FY26 Revenue: Up 22% YoY

  • Q3 FY26 EBITDA: Up 20% YoY

  • Q3 FY26 PAT: Up 21% YoY

  • 9M FY26 Revenue: Up 24% YoY

  • 9M FY26 EBITDA: Up 20% YoY

  • 9M FY26 PAT: Up 18% YoY

Operational Performance

  • Cargo handled: 123 MMT in Q3 FY26 (+9% YoY); 367 MMT in 9M FY26 (+11% YoY)

  • All-India cargo market share: 27.4% (9M FY26)

  • Container market share: 45.6% (9M FY26)

  • Rail volume: 528,872 TEUs (+11% YoY, 9M FY26)

  • Marine fleet: Expanded to an all-time high of 129 vessels

FY26 Guidance Update

APSEZ raised its FY26 EBITDA guidance, exceeding the earlier upper band, driven by stronger-than-expected organic growth and consolidation of NQXT Australia.

  • Revenue guidance: Revised upward

  • Capex: Maintained as per earlier guidance

  • Net debt / EBITDA: 1.9x (Proforma: 1.8x)

  • Port cargo volume guidance: 505–515 MMT

Management Commentary

Ashwani Gupta, Whole-time Director & CEO, APSEZ, said:

“APSEZ has once again delivered a strong and resilient performance. Sustained momentum across our four business pillars, along with the consolidation of NQXT, has enabled us to raise our FY26 EBITDA guidance. Even post-acquisition, our leverage remains unchanged, underscoring balance sheet strength and disciplined capital allocation.

Our ambition to double revenue and EBITDA by FY29 remains firmly on track, supported by capacity expansion, operational excellence, and superior customer experience. Sustainability continues to be central to our strategy, and our adoption of the TNFD framework reinforces our commitment to nature-positive infrastructure development.”

Business Segment Highlights

  • Domestic Ports: 15% YoY revenue growth in 9M FY26, driven by rising market share and container volumes

  • International Ports: Highest-ever 9M revenue, strengthened further by the NQXT Australia acquisition

  • Logistics: Q3 FY26 revenue surged 62% YoY, led by asset-light trucking and international freight services

  • Marine: Q3 FY26 revenue grew 91% YoY, supported by offshore vessel acquisitions and long-term contracts

Strategic & Operational Milestones

  • Vizhinjam Port crossed 1.3 million TEUs in its inaugural year, becoming the fastest Indian port to surpass 1 million TEUs

  • Mundra Port became the first Indian port to directly berth a fully-laden VLCC

  • Completed acquisition of NQXT Australia, adding 50 MTPA capacity

  • Initiated Vizhinjam Phase 2 expansion

  • Launched India’s first ship-to-ship LNG bunkering initiative through an MoU with BPCL

ESG & Sustainability Leadership

  • First Indian Integrated Transport Utility to adopt the TNFD framework

  • 12 ports certified Zero Waste to Landfill

  • Committed to Net Zero by 2040

  • Achieved Top 95th percentile globally in S&P Global CSA 2025

  • MSCI ESG rating upgraded from CCC to B

Credit Ratings & Balance Sheet Strength

  • JCR: A-/Stable (above India’s sovereign rating)

  • Moody’s: Baa3, outlook revised to Stable

  • ICRA: AAA/Stable

  • Fitch: BBB-, outlook Stable

  • S&P: BBB-, outlook Positive

Awards & Recognition

  • Mundra Port ranked among the Top 20 container ports globally

  • Vizhinjam Port won the National Project Excellence Award 2025

  • Dhamra Port won the PAR Excellence Award

  • Kattupalli Port received the Exceed Environment Award 2025

NEET (UG) 2026: A Strategic Roadmap to Scoring 650+

Scoring 650+ in NEET (UG) is no longer just aspirational—it’s achievable with the right strategy, discipline, and execution. With over 20 lakh aspirants competing for limited MBBS seats, success in NEET 2026 demands a data-driven plan and a topper’s mindset.

This authored article presents a comprehensive preparation framework, curated by Dilip Gangaramani, Founder Director & CEO, Target Learning Ventures Pvt. Ltd., designed specifically to help students cross the 650+ benchmark with confidence.

Why 650+ Is the New Admission Benchmark

If you’re asking, “Is 650 a good score in NEET?”—the answer is a resounding yes. In fact, it has become the minimum competitive threshold for admission into top government medical colleges.

  • In NEET 2024, AIQ MBBS cut-offs (General Category) for premier colleges ranged between 620–652

  • A 650+ score places aspirants in the top 1.5% nationwide

  • It significantly boosts chances for institutions such as AIIMS Delhi, MAMC, and KGMU

With rising competition across categories, scoring 650+ offers a decisive edge.

The 3-Phase Strategic Plan for NEET 2026

Phase 1 (June–October): Building a Strong NCERT Foundation

Focus: Concept clarity + problem-solving
Study Hours:

  • 6–8 hrs/day (college-going students)

  • 10–11 hrs/day (droppers)

Goals:

  • Complete full NEET syllabus

  • NCERT + one standard reference book per subject

NCERT remains the backbone of NEET preparation. Supplementing it with one trusted reference book per subject helps expose students to varied question patterns without information overload.

Phase 2 (November–February): Testing & Deep Error Analysis

Focus: Accuracy and consistency
Study Hours: 8–10 hrs/day

Key Actions:

  • Solve NEET previous years’ papers weekly

  • Track weak areas early through performance analytics

  • Apply the Feynman Technique to simplify complex concepts

  • Create mistake-based flashcards for recurring errors

This phase transforms effort into precision.

Phase 3 (March–May): Mocks, Speed & Final Revision

Focus: Speed, recall, and exam temperament
Study Hours: 10–12 hrs/day

Strategy:

  • One full-length NEET mock test every alternate day

  • Intensive revision of notes and NCERT

  • Zero new content—only strengthening recall and minimizing errors

Yes, scoring 650+ in 6 months is possible, but only with disciplined adherence to this structure.

Subject-Wise Strategy for NEET (UG) 2026

Physics: Concept Mastery + High-Pressure Practice

Error Logbook Strategy:
Track:

  • Chapter & concept

  • Nature of error (conceptual, calculation, silly mistake)

  • Correct approach

This alone can reduce errors by 40–60% within three months.

Timed Practice:

  • PYQs under exam conditions

  • Planned mock tests to improve speed and stress handling

Chemistry: Categorised, High-Yield Preparation

Physical Chemistry

  • Solve 2,000+ numericals across 10 key chapters

  • Focus areas: Mole Concept, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Kinetics

Organic Chemistry

  • Master reaction mechanisms

  • Create one-page reaction flowcharts

  • Use colour coding and symbols for faster recall

Inorganic Chemistry

  • NCERT is non-negotiable

  • Use audio repetition of facts, trends, and exceptions for passive reinforcement

Biology: NCERT-First, Line-by-Line Mastery

3-Level NCERT Highlighting System:

  • Yellow: Facts & definitions

  • Blue: Biological processes & cycles

  • Green: Exceptions & confusing concepts

Additional Techniques:

  • Diagram-only notebook for recall practice

  • Redraw NCERT diagrams without labels

  • Reference books only to strengthen NCERT understanding

The Bottom Line

Scoring 650+ in NEET (UG) 2026 is a result of smart revision, structured execution, and mental discipline. Stick to the plan, track your mistakes, and stay consistent.

Start today—and a 650+ score is well within reach.

Budget 2026 to Boost Farm Mechanisation

lalitsharma

By – Mr. Lalit Sharma, Managing Director, Polaris India

“The Union Budget 2026’s emphasis on improving farm credit access and strengthening rural infrastructure is a welcome step towards accelerating farm mechanisation across India. Greater access to credit will enable farmers to invest in modern equipment, helping improve productivity and operational efficiency. At Polaris, we believe these measures will encourage wider adoption of mechanisation solutions, including tractors and implements, ultimately supporting higher farm incomes and sustainable agricultural growth. We remain committed to supporting Indian farmers with reliable and innovative solutions aligned with this national vision.”

Ericsson Launches 5G Advanced Location Services with Unmatched Accuracy

Ericsson unveils 5G Advanced location services – unmatched accuracy for enterprise and mission-critical use cases

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) announced the launch of its 5G Advanced location services offering, a comprehensive suite of innovations designed to redefine location-based services across commercial 5G Standalone (SA) networks. Set for release in Q1 2026, this breakthrough places Ericsson as the leader in 5G positioning technology, offering a scalable and fully integrated solution on top of Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G Core.

By embedding positioning as a core 5G SA network capability, Ericsson 5G Advanced location services enables Communications Service Providers (CSPs) to monetize precise location services and expand beyond traditional mobile offerings into verticals such as manufacturing, healthcare, public safety, automotive, drones, and more.

Key benefits:

  • High Accuracy: Down to sub-meter for indoor and sub-10 cm for outdoor positioning, enabling precise tracking
  • Scalability: Scalable, precise positioning for outdoor applications (automotive, agriculture, drones)
  • Seamless Indoor/Outdoor Coverage: Unified 5G positioning technology for both environments.
  • Developer & Device Friendliness: No need for device-side apps; improved battery life compared to satellite-based solutions
  • Support for Large-Scale Use Cases: Enables massive geofencing, population density analysis, and tracking use cases.

Monica Zethzon, Head of Core Networks, Ericsson, says: “With the launch of 5G Advanced Location Services we are evolving the value of 5G Standalone networks. This innovation gives CSPs the precision and scalability to create differentiated services based on location capabilities.”

Caroline Gabriel, Partner at Analysys Mason, says: “Ericsson’s integrated approach to indoor and outdoor positioning sets a new benchmark in the industry. It addresses critical pain points for operators and enterprises, particularly in sectors where location accuracy is mission-critical.”

The global market for 5G positioning is in its early stages but poised for rapid growth, driven by demand for enhanced precision in diverse sectors. Ericsson’s solution responds to this demand with scalable, developer-friendly capabilities that improve device battery life compared to legacy systems.

This launch further strengthens Ericsson’s location solutions based on Real-Time Kinematics technology, with related devices from Ericsson planned for Q1 2026.

Ericsson’s 5G Advanced Location Services will be commercially available starting Q1 2026.

Ekostay Commends Budget Push Positioning Travel as a Strategic Growth Engine

Varun Arora, CEO and Co-Founder,  Ekostay 

This year’s Union Budget clearly signals a shift in how India views travel and hospitality from a discretionary spend to a strategic growth engine. Measures like the rationalisation of TCS on outbound travel and the announcement of a ₹5,000 crore ‘Growth Connector’ framework for city economic regions show a strong intent to strengthen tourism-led development and urban ecosystems. For hospitality brands, this creates a more confident environment to invest, expand into new destinations, and build experiences that are aligned with long-term economic growth rather than short-term cycles. It’s a welcome step toward positioning travel as a serious contributor to India’s broader growth story.