Archives 2026

Swaranjali to Host ‘Baithaki’ – An Evening of Indian Classical Music in West Bengal on March 14

Swaranjali, an organization dedicated to promoting Indian classical music and culture, is set to present “Baithaki – An Evening of Indian Classical Music” on March 14, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Barasat 5 Number Panna Jhil (Upasana Sanskritik Charcha Kendra), West Bengal. The event marks a special celebration as Swaranjali commemorates 25 years of its cultural journey.

Swaranjali to Host ‘Baithaki’ – An Evening of Indian Classical Music in West Bengal on March 14

 

The musical evening will feature renowned and emerging artists performing various forms of Indian classical music. The program includes Smt. Chandana Chakraborty, who will present Tagore songs, Ms. Haimantika Dutta performing Raag Pradhan, Smt. Soma Bhaduri showcasing Khayal, and Shri Akhil Roy on the Santoor, offering a rich instrumental performance.

The event will also include contributions from co-artists Shri Tapas Guha Thakurata, Pabir Saha, and Shri Pintu Roy, adding depth and accompaniment to the performances.

Organizers say the Baithaki format aims to recreate the traditional intimate setting of classical music gatherings, allowing audiences to experience the nuances and emotional depth of Indian classical traditions. The evening is expected to attract music enthusiasts, cultural patrons, and local audiences interested in classical and semi-classical forms.

Swaranjali, which has been working for over two decades to promote Indian music and arts, continues to organize concerts, workshops, and cultural exchanges to nurture appreciation for classical traditions.

For further information and RSVP, organizers have shared contact numbers 9910300319, 9831367216, and 6291948076, and additional details are available at www.swaranjali.org.

 

PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026 Sparks Conversations on Innovation, Policy and Industry Growth

Hyderabad, March 08, 2026: A full-day, power-packed PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026, bringing together national leaders in technology, governance and industry, was held on Sunday at The Westin, Madhapur in the city. More than 250 participants attended the summit. The event was organised by PanIIT Alumni India, the umbrella organisation representing more than five lakh IIT alumni.

PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026 brings together national leaders in technology, governance and industry; more than 500 participate

 

Shri Etela Rajender, Member of Parliament, inaugurated the summit. Speaking on the occasion, he said the IIT ecosystem is helping spread high-quality science and technology education across India. Collaboration among ecosystem players and research and development institutions will further strengthen the innovation landscape, he noted.

He said Indian talent in science and technology enjoys global demand, and Indians have immensely contributed to the tremendous technological growth of the United States of America, which is known for its technological superiority. However, he observed that the same country is now trying to dominate others in certain spheres. Addressing the IIT talent pool assembled at the summit, he asked, “Why should we not use the same talent and power to make India even stronger?”

PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026 brings together national leaders in technology, governance and industry; more than 500 participate

 

Reiterating his message, he said, “India’s scientific and technological talent has global demand—let us use it to strengthen our nation.” He also urged the community to build technology for construction and development rather than for destruction.

Speaking on Healthcare Transformation in India, Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal, IAS, CEO, National Health Authority, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, highlighted the challenges of fragmented healthcare systems. He noted that multiple health identities for a single citizen and lack of integration lead to high Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE).

PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026 brings together national leaders in technology, governance and industry; more than 500 participate

 

He explained that India’s healthcare ecosystem is undergoing a significant transformation. “From a fragmented healthcare system, we are now moving towards an intelligent and productive ecosystem,” he said. Through India Stack, India has become the first country to implement all three core Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs): digital identity, real-time payments and consent-based data sharing.

He added that in 2020, the Hon’ble Prime Minister announced the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), which leverages digital public infrastructure to facilitate interoperability in digital health transactions. ABDM is now becoming the digital backbone of Indian healthcare.

Referring to Ayushman Bharat – PM Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), he said its robust IT platforms and anti-fraud mechanisms enable nearly 20 lakh claims to be processed every month. “The infrastructure is now built. Data moves only with consent. Health systems are connected. We are now moving from digitised health to intelligent healthcare,” he said.

PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026 brings together national leaders in technology, governance and industry; more than 500 participate

 

Speaking on Policy, Regulation and the Future of India’s Energy Infrastructure – Backbone of Industrial Expansion, Shri Navin Mittal, IAS, Special Chief Secretary, Energy, Government of Telangana, shared insights into India’s and Telangana’s energy production and distribution landscape. He said solar energy generation during the day now surpasses thermal power in many instances.

He also highlighted potential petroleum supply challenges due to geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel, noting that about 85 percent of India’s petroleum requirements are imported. He pointed out that electric vehicles have significantly lower operational costs compared to conventional vehicles.

He further stated that in December 2025, India’s renewable installed capacity crossed conventional power capacity for the first time in history, marking a major milestone in the country’s energy transition.

Speaking on Digital Governance and Public Technology Transformation, Shri Bhavesh Mishra, IAS, Special Secretary, IT & Electronics Department, Government of Telangana, explained how Hyderabad has overtaken Bengaluru to become India’s top destination for Global Capability Centres (GCCs). Citing a study by UnearthInsights, he said Hyderabad accounted for 46 percent of all new GCCs, while Bengaluru captured 33 percent between January and November 2025.

He said the city currently hosts around 60 GCCs, with another 25 in expansion, and highlighted that Hyderabad has emerged as a major hub for IT, GCCs, pharmaceuticals, defence and aerospace sectors.

He also spoke about OpenClaw and the rise of the “One-Person Unicorn.” OpenClaw, an open-source autonomous AI assistant developed by software engineer Peter Steinberger in 2025, demonstrates the emerging concept of a one-person unicorn. Built by a single developer, OpenClaw can autonomously perform tasks such as managing files, sending messages, writing code and interacting with digital services using advanced AI models. The project quickly gained global attention. Its rapid success highlights how AI-powered tools are enabling individual innovators to build impactful, globally scalable technologies, signalling a new era where a single entrepreneur could potentially build billion-dollar innovations.

He also referred to ancient Indian scholar Pāṇini, regarded as one of the greatest linguists in history. His work Aṣṭādhyāyī, consisting of around 4,000 grammatical rules, created a highly systematic and scientific framework for the Sanskrit language.

Shri Prabhat Kumar, IRS, Chairman, PanIIT Alumni India, said IITians have played a significant role not only in nation building in India but also in the development of many countries worldwide. He noted that the United States is the largest importer of IIT talent, and IITians have contributed significantly to global technology leadership.

He also referred to the recent AI Summit, where IITians played a major role. He mentioned that French President Emmanuel Macron recently observed that many global CEOs of multinational companies are Indians and IITians. He described the PanIIT Summit as a convergence of brilliant minds and added that Hyderabad, known as the City of Pearls, would ensure that participants take back a “pearl of wisdom” by the end of the summit.

Welcoming the gathering and setting the tone for the summit, Shri Sudhakar Gande, Convener, PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026, said Hyderabad is among the most dynamic and fastest-growing cities in India. Nearly 46 percent of GCCs are located in the city, and about 16 percent of India’s software exports originate from Hyderabad, with the city growing three times faster than the national average. He also noted that around 25 percent of Fortune 500 companies are headed by IIT alumni.

A panel discussion titled “Tradition Meets Transformation: The IIT Growth Story” was moderated by Shri Amitabh Ranjan, Registrar, IIPA. The panelists included Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad; Prof. Venkappayya R. Desai, Director, IIT Dharwad; and Prof. Mahendrakumar Madhavan, Dean, IIT Hyderabad.

The moderator observed that India possesses a rich knowledge tradition spanning thousands of years, from Aryabhatta and Sushruta to remarkable engineering feats such as the Ram Setu. He noted that India’s civilisational heritage remains unmatched and emphasised the Prime Minister’s vision that 200 years of colonial influence must be intellectually decolonised by 2047 as India moves towards Viksit Bharat.

He also pointed out that since their inception in 1951, IITs have helped create lakhs of direct jobs in India.

Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, said India’s education system and the IIT ecosystem have evolved from science to applied science, to engineering and advanced technology, playing a critical role in national development.

Prof. Venkappayya R. Desai, Director, IIT Dharwad, cited examples from Singapore and the Netherlands on sustainable water management. He referred to Singapore’s NEWater initiative, where wastewater recycling has grown from 2.5 percent to nearly 40 percent of water supply, helping the country manage scarce resources effectively.

He also highlighted the Netherlands’ innovative water management practices, including floating infrastructure and advanced wastewater treatment technologies that allow water to be reused for agriculture, industry and environmental conservation. This circular water approach, he said, ensures that demand remains aligned with supply.

Prof. Mahendrakumar Madhavan, Dean, IIT Hyderabad, emphasised that IITs are no longer just teaching institutions but centres of innovation, invention and technology for humanity. He raised an important policy question, suggesting that spending on research and development should be considered under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and that CSR funds should be allowed to support R&D.

In another session on Healthcare Transformation in India, Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal, IAS, reiterated that technology, policy innovation and collaborative governance are reshaping India’s healthcare ecosystem, making quality healthcare more accessible and equitable for millions.

Dr. Tessy Thomas, former Director, DRDO, spoke on “Science, Strategy and Security.” She highlighted that space-based defence infrastructure will shape the future of global security, and that artificial intelligence will significantly influence how future wars are fought. She emphasised that the future of defence and aerospace will depend on how effectively India harnesses science and talent.

The summit featured focused thematic tracks addressing some of India’s most pressing opportunities, including: Infrastructure & Energy Leadership; Defence Innovation and Aatmanirbhar Bharat; Urban Infrastructure; Digital Transformation

And Healthcare & Life Sciences for Bharat

Eminent speakers from leading organisations such as DRDO, Microsoft India, NMDC, MIDHANI, Apollo Hospitals and Yashoda Hospitals shared their insights, alongside leaders from several high-growth startups and technology firms. Directors from IIT Dharwad and IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, as well as the Dean of IIT Hyderabad, participated in the discussions.

The summit served as a major convergence point for policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs and members of the global IIT alumni network. It aimed to foster meaningful dialogue on innovation, technology-driven growth, infrastructure development and collaborative nation building, reinforcing the role of the IIT ecosystem as a strategic asset for India’s future.

Key sessions covered innovation ecosystems in emerging IITs, healthcare transformation in India, digital governance and public technology, and policy-driven industrial growth. Discussions also covered AI-driven innovation, startup growth strategies, resource security and large-scale infrastructure projects shaping modern India.

A dedicated startup session provided an opportunity for startups to pitch their ideas before angel investors and venture capitalists. This session was organised in collaboration with T-Hub and T-Works.

Shri Ashok Kumar, General Secretary, PanIIT, proposed the vote of thanks during the inaugural function.

 


Union Minister G Kishan Reddy to inaugurate PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026, bringing together national leaders in Technology, Governance and Industry

Hyderabad, March 8: PanIIT Alumni India, the umbrella organisation representing alumni of all 23 Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) to host the “PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026” on 8th March 2026 at The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace, Madhapur. 

Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Union Minister of Coal & Mines to grace and deliver a special address. He is expected to provide a national perspective on technology’s role in achieving Viksit Bharat (Developed India) and highlight opportunities for the IIT community to contribute to key sectors like energy security and defence indigenisation.

Shri Etela Rajender, MP, will deliver a special address.  

Shri Prabhat Kumar, IRS, Chairman of PanIIT Alumni India, Shri Sudhakar Gande, Convenor of the Summit, Shri Ashok Kumar, General Secretary, PanIIT will grace and address the attendees. 

Senior government IITian leaders such as Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal, IAS, CEO of the National Health Authority; Shri Sanjay Kumar, IAS, Special Chief Secretary for Rural Development; Shri Ajith Reddy, Special Secretary to the Chief Minister of Telangana; Shri Bhavesh Mishra, IAS, Special Secretary (IT & Electronics), Government of Telangana; Navin Mittal, IAS, Special Chief Secretary, Energy at Government of Telangana

8th March being the International Women’s Day, and to celebrate that, the summit will feature Dr. Tessy Thomas, former Director at DRDO delivering a special session titled “Missile Woman of India: Science, Strategy & Sovereignty,”   This session will provide a rare glimpse into India’s remarkable achievements in strategic technology and defence research, celebrating the spirit of self-reliance and scientific prowess.

Shri Prabhat Kumar, IRS, Chairman, Pan IIT Alumni India, said: “We are delighted to host the PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026 in Hyderabad for the first time. The Summit will bring together eminent dignitaries, policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, and members of the global IIT alumni community. With an outstanding lineup of speakers and delegates, the Summit promises to serve as a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of transformative ideas that can help shape India’s future.”

Shri Ashok Kumar, General Secretary, Pan IIT Alumni India, added: “The Summit reflects the collective strength and diversity of the IIT alumni ecosystem. By bringing together leaders from government, industry, startups, and academia, we aim to create meaningful conversations, foster partnerships, and generate actionable insights that can contribute to India’s next phase of innovation-led growth and technological leadership.”

Shri Sudhakar Gande, Convener, PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026, remarked: “We are extremely pleased that Hyderabad is hosting the PanIIT Summit for the first time. With its vibrant technology landscape and thriving startup ecosystem, the city provides an ideal setting for discussions on deep-tech innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry transformation. The Summit will bring together an exceptional community of leaders and thinkers to explore new opportunities for collaboration and innovation.”

The summit will feature focused thematic tracks designed to address India’s most pressing opportunities: · Infrastructure & Energy Leadership · Defence Innovation and Aatmanirbhar Bharat · Urban Infrastructure · Digital Transformation · Healthcare & Life Sciences for Bharat Eminent speakers from leading organizations such as DRDO, Microsoft India, NMDC, MIDHANI, Apollo Hospitals, and Yashoda Hospitals will share their expertise, alongside leaders from numerous high-growth startups and technology firms. The Directors from IIT Dharwad and IIT Dhanbad will also be present to share their views. Dean of IIT Hyderabad will also be present.

The summit will serve as a convergence point for policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and members of the formidable global IIT alumni network. The Summit aims to foster meaningful dialogue on innovation, technology-driven growth, infrastructure development, and collaborative nation-building, reinforcing the role of the IIT ecosystem as a strategic asset for India’s future. Inaugural Ceremony

Key sessions will explore critical themes, including innovation ecosystems in emerging IITs, healthcare transformation in India, digital governance and public technology, and policy-driven industrial growth.

The summit will also include in-depth discussions on AI-driven innovation, startup growth and scale-up strategies, resource security, and the mega infrastructure projects shaping modern India.

There will be separate startup sessions where the startups will be given the opportunity to pitch before the angel and VC investors. This will be held in collaboration with T Hub and T Works.

A dedicated networking session throughout the day will facilitate collaboration among industry leaders, investors, and innovators, fostering partnerships that extend beyond the event.

The PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026 will conclude with a Valedictory Address by a Member of Parliament

 


Betting on geopolitics Economist explains risks of prediction markets

Prediction markets, like Kalshi and Polymarket, allow users the opportunity to bet on just about any real-world event, from the trivial to the monumental, including major geopolitical conflicts and elections here at home.

Economist David Bieri explains how these markets work, why they appeal to a distinctly American economic mindset, and the risks that they pose for both users and broader structures. 

From the growth of day trading to the widespread use of smartphones, technology has lowered the threshold for everyday Americans to tap into markets that were previously accessible only to high-level specialists or required a lot of effort to participate in. Combined with the growing popularity of the “investor mindset,” Bieri says these changes have helped create the current landscape. 

“It’s part of the gamification and digitization of financial markets, which turn everything now,” said Bieri. “There’s been a reduction of friction for participating in risky things that could get you killed, or lose your money if you do them underground. Now everyone can do them. We’re at a unique junction where technology meets that mindset.”

But unlike purchasing a stock, there is no investment in anything. Instead, participants are relying solely on their ability to predict an outcome. For Bieri, that’s a fundamental shift, one he sees tied to the cultural fascination with being rich as an achievement in and of itself, and the ability to “make money in your sleep.”

“Now everybody can take part in these markets just to make money, not because they’re invested in anything else,” he said. “There’s no real skin in the game — no stake in a company, no ownership of an asset, no productive activity underneath the wager. That’s a textbook moral hazard: when you strip away any connection to underlying value, the only thing left is the bet itself. And that’s where the platform owners are the ones getting rich.”

Prediction markets make their money by taking a small cut of every transaction. According to Bieri, this creates a fundamental misalignment: the platforms have no commercial incentive to police insider trading and every incentive to encourage more action, more contracts, and bigger bets. 

“These platforms have seen large bets placed by newly-created accounts shortly before major geopolitical events, like the U.S. strikes on Iran and the arrest of Venezuelan President  Nicolás Maduro, raising questions about whether traders may have acted on privileged information,” Bieri said.

The death of Iran’s leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has provided perhaps these markets’ sternest test so far. Kalshi is refusing to pay out “winners” in the $54 million market on bets that he would be “out as Supreme Leader” by a certain date. The platform froze the market, saying the site doesn’t allow transactions directly tied to death. 

For Bieri, this example illustrates the broader challenge of regulation struggling to keep up with these platforms.

“The issue of the regulatory state limping behind the frontier is exactly what fuels innovation,” he said. “The history of a fragmented regulatory system in the U.S. compounds the problem, as different regulatory agencies fight for domain over spaces. But the whole regulation of FinTech companies is still unresolved.”

 

Girl Power soars higher: IndiGo becomes the first airline in India with over 1,000 women pilots

Girl Power soars higher: IndiGo becomes the first airline in India with over 1,000 women pilots

Mar 07: IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, announced that it now has over 1,000 women pilots in its workforce, becoming the first and only airline in India to reach this milestone. At IndiGo, women pilots represent 17.5% of the total pilot workforce, which is more than thrice the global average. The airline is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, one that reflects the evolving aspirations of a new generation of women in aviation across India.

With women representing over 45% of its overall workforce today, IndiGo continues to expand equal opportunities across roles. Beyond the cockpit, women make over 30% of airport operations staff, almost 25% of its Operations Control Centre workforce, over 20% in finance, more than 15% in digital, with more than 23% women representation in leadership positions.

Sukhjit Singh Pasricha, Group Chief Human Resources Officer, IndiGo, said: “On International Women’s Day, we are proud to announce that IndiGo now has over 1,000 women pilots, among the highest in the world. This milestone truly reflects the spirit of Girl Power at IndiGo. As we continue to give wings to the nation, we remain committed to creating more opportunities for talented women to soar and shape the future of aviation.”

IndiGo launches special film on Girl Power

Observing International Women’s Day, IndiGo also unveiled a film on social media. Bringing alive the theme of Girl Power, the video depicts women of IndiGo, celebrating moments that gave them their wings.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at IndiGo

Being an equal opportunity employer, IndiGo has always reinforced the importance and relevance of diversity, equity and inclusion in workplace through several initiatives under the umbrella of EMBRACE (Equity, Multiculturalism, Belonging, Respect, Accessibility, Community, Empowerment), which includes Girl Power. IndiGo recognises the value of a diverse workforce that encourages gender equality, champions the strengths of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and fosters an inclusive work environment for people from across communities.

IndiGo is championing Girl Power through women-led developments, enabling career growth, building community, and offering workplace flexibility. For instance, Take-Off 2.0 supports women returning to the workforce after a career break, while the 6E Girl Power Community offers a peer network dedicated to empowering women across all roles. From its hiring policies, to learning and development programmes and employee-centric initiatives, everything is aligned towards achieving the collective goals of the employees and the organisation, cohesively with a balanced approach to diversity. With this milestone, IndiGo continues to cement its position as an industry pioneer, shaping a future where more women advance into diverse roles and leadership positions.

Myntra expands its women entrepreneur program with MynShakti 2.0 to support 100 women-led fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands

Bengaluru, Mar 07: Ahead of International Women’s Day, Myntra has announced the launch of MynShakti 2.0, the next phase of its women seller enablement initiative under its ShECommerce umbrella. Building on the success of its first edition, the program aims to onboard and nurture 100 women-led businesses across fashion, beauty and home categories, reinforcing Myntra’s commitment to inclusive growth in digital commerce.

The first edition of MynShakti supported 20 women entrepreneurs across categories, including clothing, jewellery, educational toys, pet apparel and personal gifting. Many of these brands were early-stage brands with fewer than 50 SKUs. Through access to Myntra’s large customer base, tech-enabled shopping ecosystem and operational support, these entrepreneurs strengthened their brand presence, streamlined logistics and expanded their reach nationwide.

Open to women-led businesses across fashion, beauty and home, MynShakti 2.0 offers structured enablement support, including:

  • Seamless Onboarding & Dedicated Account Management: End-to-end onboarding support with dedicated account managers for six months to help optimise performance.
  • Expert-led Webinars & Mentorship: Through a series of interactive mentorship sessions and expert-led webinars, brands will receive strategic recommendations on marketing, order fulfillment, and leveraging Myntra’s platform for maximum impact.

A significant addition this year, Myntra has introduced a dedicated vernacular video series to simplify seller onboarding, account management and growth strategies. By making knowledge resources accessible in regional languages, the initiative aims to drive participation from aspiring women entrepreneurs across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

Commenting on the launch, Govindraj MK, CHRO, Myntra, said, “India’s e-lifestyle landscape is being shaped by a new generation of entrepreneurs, with women increasingly taking the lead in building brands that cater to the evolving aspirations of diverse consumer cohorts. MynShakti, under our ShECommerce vision, is focused on enabling women-led brands with the right tools, insights and mentorship to scale sustainably. Following a successful first edition, we are expanding the program with a sharper structure and deeper support to empower more women entrepreneurs to build, lead and transform meaningful brands at scale.”

Women entrepreneurs looking to scale their made-in-India fashion, beauty and lifestyle businesses can apply through the program survey link or can apply through our social media channels (LinkedIn & Instagram).

MynShakti 2.0 underscores Myntra’s vision of building a more inclusive digital commerce ecosystem, one that enables women-led businesses to transition from local enterprises to national brands.

Tata Capital Launches Stop Blaming Her Campaign to Highlight Everyday Gender Bias

Mar 7: Tata Capital has launched its new campaign #StopBlamingHer, bringing attention to the subtle yet pervasive biases women across India continue to experience in everyday conversations. The campaign seeks to highlight the casual and conditioned blame often directed at women in workplaces, public spaces, and even within families.

Through the initiative, Tata Capital aims to shed light on common phrases and assumptions that many women have heard at some point in their lives — comments made casually but remembered long after they are spoken. Statements such as “Must be a girl driving” or “Did your wife pick a fight again?” reflect deeply ingrained biases that persist in everyday language.

The campaign film, conceptualised and executed by Schbang, portrays a series of slice-of-life moments set in offices, social gatherings, and public spaces. Each scene captures familiar situations where women are casually blamed or judged, illustrating how these remarks often go unnoticed yet reinforce long-standing stereotypes.

By presenting these scenarios drawn from real-life experiences, the campaign aims to encourage audiences to reflect on everyday language and recognise the impact of unconscious bias.

Speaking about the initiative, Kaushik Chakraborty, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Tata Capital, said:

“#StopBlamingHer is not about words spoken in anger — it is about the things we say casually, without even thinking. That is where the real problem lies, and where real change must begin. At Tata Capital, enabling women goes beyond financial empowerment. It also means challenging the everyday judgments women face and helping build a culture of respect and accountability.”

Adding to this, Dipshika Ravi, National Creative Director at Schbang, said the campaign reflects a reality that exists alongside conversations about empowerment.

“India exists in two realities at once. One celebrates female ambition and empowerment, while the other still reflexively assigns fault to women in everyday moments — often not deliberately, but out of conditioning. This campaign focuses on one of the most dangerous biases — the one we don’t even realise is a bias. Through a film rooted in everyday reality, we are encouraging people to become more mindful.”

Positioned as more than a Women’s Day initiative, #StopBlamingHer aims to spark a broader conversation about unconscious bias and everyday language. The campaign underscores a simple message: while words may not always be spoken deliberately, individuals can always choose to be mindful.

Through this initiative, Tata Capital reinforces its commitment to supporting women across geographies, professions, and life stages — emphasising that a woman’s potential should never be defined by labels or assumptions.

Mia by Tanishq Launches Landmark 275th Store in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 07: Mia by Tanishq has officially launched its 275th store in Kamanahalli, Bengaluru. The event was inaugurated by Ms. Shyamala Ramanan, Business Head, Mia By Tanishq and Mr. Ajay Dwivedi, Regional Business Head- South, Titan Company Ltd.

Mia by Tanishq Launches Landmark 275th Store in Bengaluru

 The new, flagship store celebrated this incredible milestone with irresistible offers and an exciting launch. The curtain raiser was followed by a cultural performance and the Pink Drive where women rode fifteen pink scooters through the streets of Kammanahalli in a vibrant 3.5 km-long convoy, finally meeting at the Mia by Tanishq store. The all-women ride featured influencers and models, who came together for a spirited journey filled with music, energy, and celebration as they made their way to the store.

Conveniently located at 509, 4th main, HRBR layout, 3rd Block, Kammanahalli Main Road, Bengaluru, the store spans across 1200 sq. ft. further solidifying the brand’s presence across the city. This expansion reflects the brand’s commitment to being a go-to destination for stylish, contemporary jewellery.

Customers can explore a wide range of elegant pieces, including rings, earrings, bracelets, pendants, neckwear, and mangalsutras, crafted in gold, diamonds, silver, and vibrant gemstones. Customers can also invest in the Golden Harvest Scheme with instalments starting at just Rs.2000/- and avail exclusive discounts of up to 75% of their monthly investment value on stunning jewellery purchases at any Mia store across the country.

 To mark the grand store launch, Mia announced its special Joy of Gifting offer where customers can get up to 20% off on select diamond jewellery – and on purchases of ₹10,000 and above, receive a complimentary 5-gram silver coin.

In celebration of the 275th store milestone, the brand also gave away 275 exclusive gifts, available for customers to claim at the flagship store. These offers are valid from 6th March 2026 to 8th March 2026, making it the perfect time for customers to add vibrant and stylish pieces to their collection.

The new store features ‘Bee my Valentine’, the latest Valentine’s collection, inspired by nature’s sweetest symbols of love – turning bees and honeycomb geometry into delicate, modern designs made for everyday romance. The store also houses ‘Manifest’, a collection that reimagines classic motifs like palace arches, paisley and the lotus in gold and natural diamonds, accented with pearls, multi-coloured sapphires and aventurine quartz.

The store brings together a diverse mix of classic Mia pieces, from the ‘Fiora’ collection’s floral, filigree-inspired designs reflecting spring and personal growth, to the ‘Cupid Edit 3.0’ collection’s chic gifting pieces. It also features the bold ’70s-inspired ‘Disco’ range and the symbolic ‘Evil Eye’ collection, offering something for every style and sentiment.

Speaking at the launch, Shyamala Ramanan, Business Head, Mia By Tanishq, said,

“The launch of our 275th store in Kammanahalli marks a significant milestone in Mia’s growth journey. Bengaluru has been Mia’s hometown, and has always embraced contemporary design and self-expression, which makes it the perfect city for this landmark expansion. At Mia, we are committed to making fine jewellery approachable, versatile, and deeply personal for the modern woman. With thoughtfully curated collections, clutter breaking activations like the Pink Ride and engaging, fun in-store experiences made even sweeter with the Joy of Gifting launch offer, we aim to create more than just a retail space – we’re aiming to build a vibrant community around style, confidence, and everyday elegance.”

Dfns Launches Payouts

Business Wire India

 

Dfns today announced the launch of Payouts, a new API enabling institutions to convert stablecoins to fiat and route payouts across multiple bank accounts while keeping wallet-level governance and controls in place.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260305327930/en/

 

 

Convert stablecoins to fiat and settle payouts to bank accounts in 94 countries, today.

Convert stablecoins to fiat and settle payouts to bank accounts in 94 countries, today.

 

 

Solving the problem of single-rail off-ramps

 

Today, most fintechs and institutions still hard-wire a single payout provider into their stack, or rely on vertically integrated models that bundle routing, pricing, custody, and settlement together. That approach may be convenient early on, but it creates structural problems at scale: weak price discovery because there is no competitive pressure on margins, limited auditability because routing decisions are opaque, and operational fragility because a single provider degradation in any corridor requires architectural intervention to resolve.

 

 

Dfns Payouts introduces a different model. Stablecoin off-ramps move from being a vendor dependency to programmable infrastructure, where routing is competitive and governance is consistent. For fintechs, banks, and enterprises, the advantages are tangible:

 

 

  1. Pricing improves because providers compete per transaction instead of operating behind a single embedded margin.
  2. Execution becomes auditable and defensible, as routing decisions can be evaluated against cost, speed, and reliability criteria before any signature occurs.
  3. Operational resilience is strengthened because routing can shift if a provider degrades in a corridor, without requiring wallet migration or architectural changes.
  4. Stablecoin off-ramps move from being a vendor dependency to becoming programmable infrastructure.

 

Initial Integration with Borderless.xyz

 

The initial Payouts integration with Borderless enables stablecoin-to-fiat settlement into bank accounts across more than 94 countries and 60 currencies, through a network of 14+ licensed financial institutions.

 

 

“Stablecoins have matured. Off-ramps haven’t,” said Clarisse Hagège, CEO of Dfns. “Institutions should not have to choose between execution quality and governance. With Payouts, they get programmable routing underneath and institutional control at the wallet layer.”

 

 

“Orchestration changes the economics of stablecoin payouts,” said Kevin Lehtiniitty, CEO of Borderless. “When providers compete per transaction, customers benefit from better pricing, broader coverage, and built-in resilience.”

 

 

Availability

 

 

Payouts are available today for Dfns clients.

 

 

  • For more information or to request a demo, visit dfns.co.
  • To start integrating, visit app.dfns.io.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lendingkart on Public Capex Increase: Turning INR 11.2+ Lakh Crore Spending into Opportunities for MSMEs with the Right Business Loans

Business Wire India

On 1 February, the Union Budget announced government plans to significantly increase its capital spending. The allocation is INR 11.21 lakh crore for FY 2025-26 and is expected to increase further next year. For MSMEs, this will shape how demand and business opportunities develop in the period ahead.

When the government spends at this scale, it creates work across the economy. Large projects rely on many suppliers, contractors, and service providers, and MSMEs are a key part of this chain. Along with new projects, the budget also focuses on structural reforms such as easier access to MSME business loan options, simpler tender participation, and better support for business expansion.

However, accessing these opportunities requires more than just intent; it requires immediate liquidity. When a tender opens, the window to mobilise resources is often short. This is where the synergy between government policy and agile financial partners becomes critical. Platforms like Lendingkart are increasingly pivoting to ensure that, as the government opens doors, MSMEs have the immediate working capital required to walk through them, moving beyond the slow processing times of traditional financing.

Lendingkart explains how government spending turns into real opportunities for MSMEs, what role policy reforms play, how a business loan for MSMEs can support growth during this phase, and how you can position your enterprise to benefit from this momentum.

Public Capex Meaning

Public capital expenditure refers to the funds the government allocates for creating long-term physical assets such as transport infrastructure, power facilities, public buildings, and urban infrastructure. Unlike revenue expenditure, which covers recurring expenses such as salaries and administration, capital expenditure (capex) focuses on asset creation that adds to the country’s productive capacity.

This is important because most public projects are executed through private participation. The government relies on local manufacturing units, contractors, and service providers for materials, equipment, construction, and ongoing services. As public capex increases, project activity rises, procurement expands, and MSMEs across the supply chain see more structured and sustained business opportunities.

Capital Expenditure Allocation Across Key Sectors

Now that the concept of capital expenditure is clear, the next step is to see where the money is going. The Union Budget outlines specific sectors where capital spending will be concentrated, offering a clear view of priority areas.

 

Reference Link: https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/index.php

 

Sector

Allocation (INR Cr)

Key Focus Areas

Defence

7,85,000

Modernisation, indigenous procurement, border infrastructure

Railways

2,78,000

New lines, electrification, station redevelopment, Vande Bharat

Roads & Highways

2,87,000

National Highways, Bharatmala Phase 2, expressways

Urban Development

95,000+

Smart Cities 2.0, metro expansion, water supply

Rural Development

1,78,000+

PMGSY roads, rural housing, sanitation

Education & Health

1,50,000+

New institutions, hospital upgrades, digital infra

 

These allocations will open up a wide range of opportunities for MSMEs across sectors. As capital spending increases in areas such as railways, defence, roads, and urban development, demand rises for components, materials, services, and specialised support across the value chain. This sector-wise flow of spending creates multiple entry points for MSMEs, particularly in areas linked to local manufacturing and domestic supply chains.

Direct Procurement and Tender Opportunities

Once key sectors are identified, the next step is understanding how businesses can access this spending. Government procurement is becoming more inclusive, with a stronger focus on participation from MSMEs and local manufacturing units.

Massive Infrastructure Pipeline

Higher capital spending leads to more infrastructure projects across roads, railways, ports, and urban development. While large firms may secure the main contracts, these projects rely on a wide network of suppliers for materials, components, services, and maintenance. This structure allows MSMEs, especially those involved in local manufacturing, to participate across different stages of execution.

MSME Procurement Mandate

To ensure smaller businesses benefit consistently, the government has formalised procurement rules as part of broader government schemes for MSME growth. Central ministries and public sector enterprises must source at least 25% of their annual purchases from MSEs, with dedicated sub-targets for SC/ST-owned and women-owned enterprises. These measures provide a structured and reliable pathway for MSMEs that meet quality and compliance requirements.

The INR 10,000 Crore SME Growth Fund

As outlined in the Union Budget, the ability of MSMEs to scale alongside higher public spending has become a key focus. To support this, an INR 10,000 crore SME Growth Fund has been proposed to help small businesses grow at the right time.

This fund is different from a regular MSME business loan. Instead of short-term financing, it is designed to provide growth capital so businesses can expand capacity, upgrade technology, and meet the requirements of larger contracts. The aim is to help MSMEs move from small-scale execution to handling bigger opportunities with confidence.

Enhanced Credit Guarantees (CGTMSE) And Speed

While some businesses may look for growth capital, many simply need easier access to debt without heavy collateral requirements. This is where the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises, or CGTMSE, becomes relevant.

As part of the Union Budget approach to strengthening MSME financing, additional support has been provided to expand CGTMSE coverage. This gives banks and NBFCs greater confidence to lend, as a portion of the risk is backed by the government. For MSMEs, this can mean simpler access to an MSME business loan, with reduced collateral pressure and better support for meeting working capital needs linked to new orders.

In a capex-driven economy, speed is currency. This is where digital lending platforms have transformed the landscape. By simplified documentation, Lendingkart enables MSMEs to bypass the waiting period associated with business loans. Whether it’s bridging a gap for material procurement or scaling the workforce for a new tender, the ability to secure unsecured business loans online ensures that capital availability matches the pace of project execution.

Improving Cash Flow Access through TReDS Upgrades

Delayed payments are one of the biggest challenges for MSMEs working on large projects. You deliver the work, but payments often take months to come through. To address this, the government is strengthening the Trade Receivables Discounting System, or TReDS, to improve cash flow for MSMEs.

  • CPSE Mandate: Central Public Sector Enterprises will now be required to use TReDS to settle payments with MSMEs. This ensures faster payment cycles and also encourages private buyers to adopt the same system.

  • Credit Guarantee Integration: A dedicated credit guarantee support through CGTMSE has been introduced for invoice discounting on TReDS. This reduces risk for lenders and makes it easier for MSMEs to raise funds against approved invoices.

  • GeM Integration: The Government e-Marketplace will be linked with TReDS to share transaction data with financiers. This helps MSMEs access quicker and more affordable advances against government orders.

  • Secondary Market Creation: Invoices on TReDS will be converted into asset-backed securities, creating a secondary market. This improves liquidity in the system and speeds up the availability of funds.

Together, these steps make it easier for MSMEs to convert invoices into cash without long delays. When combined with other government schemes for MSME financing, they help reduce the working capital pressure that often affects businesses supplying to government projects.

Introducing ‘Corporate Mitras’ for Easier Compliance

To support MSMEs in making the most of new opportunities, the government has introduced the concept of “Corporate Mitras.” The aim is to simplify compliance and reduce the effort required to meet regulatory requirements.

Corporate Mitras act as a support link between MSMEs and government systems, helping with routine filings and documentation. This cuts down time spent on paperwork and allows businesses to focus more on local manufacturing and daily operations, which is a key priority highlighted in the MSME Budget.

Reviving Legacy Clusters

The capex push is not limited to new infrastructure projects. It also focuses on strengthening traditional industrial clusters that already support a large number of MSMEs. The budget has allocated funds to modernise long-standing hubs, such as the textile clusters of Gujarat and the brassware cluster of Moradabad.

This support includes common facility centres, better waste treatment systems, and improved logistics connectivity. For MSMEs operating in these clusters, this means access to upgraded infrastructure without having to invest individually. These efforts help revive local manufacturing hubs and improve efficiency at the ground level.

What Does this Mean for Your Business

Higher capital spending is expected to lead to more tenders across sectors and at both the central and state levels. New areas such as green energy, digital infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing are also opening up, giving MSMEs more options to expand into related lines of work.

At the same time, improvements in payment systems and credit support have made participation easier. Faster invoice discounting, stronger guarantees, and better digital platforms help reduce cash flow gaps that earlier made government projects difficult for smaller businesses.

As these opportunities grow, access to timely funding becomes essential. Securing the right MSME business loan or working capital support through platforms like Lendingkart can help MSMEs bid confidently, execute orders smoothly, and scale without financial strain.

The Union Budget signals a clear push toward higher capital spending, backed by policy reforms and financial support aimed at improving MSME participation. Together, these measures create a more structured environment where opportunities are easier to identify and access.

Ultimately, the difference between winning a tender and passing it up often comes down to financial confidence. With Lendingkart’s focus on offering collateral-free business loans and rapid disbursals, MSMEs are no longer restricted by asset-heavy requirements or slow banking approvals. By aligning your financial planning with a partner that understands the urgency of government contracts, you ensure that your business is ready to capitalise on the INR 11.2+ lakh crore wave.

For MSMEs, especially those engaged in local manufacturing, this means better visibility, smoother execution, and stronger support systems. With the right planning and access to finance, businesses are better positioned to align with this spending cycle and grow sustainably.