Archives 2026

Signature Packaged Drinking Water Unites Music and Climate Action with ‘Root for Mangroves’ in Gurugram

Signature Packaged Drinking Water Brings Music and Climate Action Together with ‘Root for Mangroves’ in Gurugram

Gurugram, Feb 09: Signature Packaged Drinking Water continued its first of-its-kind concert series, Root for Mangroves, with an electrifying performance by Armaan Malik at Leisure Valley Ground, Gurugram. The concert marked the second stop of a three-city cultural platform that brings live music together with meaningful action to support mangrove regeneration in India.

Conceptualised as a culture-led initiative to spotlight the importance of mangroves, Root for Mangroves transforms live entertainment into a vehicle for environmental awareness and participation. Produced and promoted by TribeVibe Entertainment, the Gurugram concert marked the continuation of the series by combining high-energy performances with a strong message on climate resilience and conscious living.

Armaan Malik brought his energy to the stage, captivating the audience with chart-topping hits and fan favourites including ‘Pehla Pyaar’, ‘Bol Do Na Zara’, ‘Chale Aana’, ‘Jab Tak’ among others. The performance was more than just entertainment—it was a call to action, reminding fans that music has the power to inspire change beyond the stage.

“Climate change often feels like tomorrow’s problem, but it’s impacting our lives today,” said Aanandita Datta, Vice President and Portfolio Head – Marketing, Diageo India. “Root for Mangroves is an exciting music festival and a celebration of the meaningful work we are doing in Odisha, where Signature Packaged Drinking Water is already helping restore 62 acres of degraded mangrove land, planting over 30,000 saplings, and supporting five coastal villages. The festival directly fuels these efforts – every ticket sold contributes Rs 50 towards the ongoing on-groundwork. So when people attend the concerts, they are not just enjoying music; they are actively participating in protecting our environment. This is how we turn entertainment into impact, making climate action meaningful and joyful for everyone.”

Armaan Malik said,

“Performing in Gurugram was incredibly special – there’s an electrifying energy here that you can truly feel. Music has always been about connection for me; it brings people together and reminds us of the world we collectively share and protect. Supporting Signature Packaged Drinking Water’s Root for Mangroves is close to my heart because these ecosystems quietly safeguard millions of lives and livelihoods. If this performance inspires even a few people to pause, reflect, and take action – it would mean everything. I’m grateful to be part of a movement that gives music a larger purpose.”

Shoven Shah, Founder & CEO, TribeVibe Entertainment, added,

“We’re constantly looking to build experiences that go beyond the stage and Root for Mangroves is a powerful expression of that vision. Partnering with Signature Packaged Drinking Water, we’ve created a concert series where music becomes a catalyst for real-world impact. With a cause as vital as mangrove regeneration at its core, the property reflects how live entertainment can drive purpose at scale. Having icons like Armaan Malik lead this movement adds immense creative energy and reach, helping us connect audiences with a message that truly matters while setting a new benchmark for purpose-driven entertainment in India.”

Mangroves are among India’s most effective natural climate shields, protecting coastal communities, absorbing carbon, and supporting biodiversity. Through Root for Mangroves, Signature Packaged Drinking Water continues its commitment to conscious living by championing awareness and action around mangrove regeneration.

PhysicsWallah Offers Free Doubt Support and Mock Preboards for Class 10 CBSE Students

PhysicsWallah Announces Free Doubt Resolution Support and Mock Preboards for Class 10 CBSE Students across India

Bengaluru, Feb 09: Education company PhysicsWallah (PW) announced a student support initiative aimed at assisting aspirants appearing for the Class 10 CBSE Board Exams in 2026. Students across the country can avail free doubt resolution and expert guidance. This initiative is not only open for PW students but any Class 10 student across the country. The initiative is designed to help reduce academic pressure during the exam season.

PW will also facilitate offline preboards in Science and Mathematics nationwide in an attempt to strengthen student readiness. These examinations will be conducted at PW’s physical centres like Vidyapeeth, Pathshala, and Tuition Centres to simulate real board exam conditions and help students improve proficiency and time-management skills under exam-day constraints.

Ankit Gupta, CEO of Vidyapeeth-Offline of PhysicsWallah (PW), said,

 “Education should never be restricted by boundaries, especially when a student is preparing for a defining moment like the Board Exams. Many students lack immediate access to quality exam support and we know even a single unresolved doubt can cause stress. By opening our Vidyapeeth, Pathshala and Tuition centres to every student, regardless of whether they are enrolled with us or not, we are simply doing what is right for the student community. We want aspirants to feel supported, confident, and ready to perform to their full potential.”

Students across India can visit their nearest PW Vidyapeeth, Pathshala or Tuition Centre to obtain a Doubt Buster Pass, valid till the board exams, and book a slot for doubt resolution. Experienced faculty members will address specific queries, explain complex topics, and offer strategic guidance on answer-writing techniques. Students can clarify doubts across subjects including Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology, and also receive revision cards for the CBSE Class 10 syllabus to support their preparation.

Students can book a slot at their nearest centre for the Science exam scheduled on 1 February 2026 and the Mathematics exam scheduled on 8 February 2026 through the PW app.

The initiative is being rolled out through PhysicsWallah’s network of 192 tech-enabled Vidyapeeth and Pathshala centres located across 132 cities in India as of 30th September 2025.

Sanawar Success Summit 2026 Brings India’s Most Influential Minds Together in New Delhi

Feb 9, New Delhi: Hailed as one of the most powerful thought-leadership gatherings of the year – The Sanawar Success Summit 2026, was held on a crisp, sunlit Saturday at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC), 15 Janpath, New Delhi. Organised by The Old Sanawarian Society (OSS), the alumni association of The Lawrence School, Sanawar, one of the world’s oldest co-educational boarding schools, the Summit brought together exceptional minds for a day of high-impact conversations, insights, and inspiration. The Summit was proudly sponsored by DKG Landcorp, Mohali, under the leadership of Directors Mr. Mohit Gupta and Mr. Lakshay Gupta.

The Summit commenced with a warm and elegant Chhota Haziri, a traditional high tea, setting the tone for the day ahead. This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the Board of Governors of the Sanawar Society. The formal proceedings began with a welcome address by Pankaj Sapru, Immediate Past President, OSS, followed by a keynote address from Vipin Sondhi, Former MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland; Ex-Chairman, JCB India & TAFE. The gathering was further enriched by remarks from the Chief Guest, Sanjay Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, and Chairman, Board of Governors.

The Summit witnessed an energetic and impactful start with one of Sanawar’s distinguished alumni, emcee of the programme and also a prominent name in the business world, Gaurav Bhagat, Founder and Managing Director, Consortium Gifts, and a leading skill-training expert, who set the momentum with his engaging presence and insightful observations.

The first panel featured an eminent line-up of speakers, including Vandana Mohan, Founder & Director, The Wedding Design Company; Armeet Sandhu, Managing Partner, MSB Docs; Former CEO, Stoneware Systems Inc.; Ajeet Bajaj, Padma Shri Awardee, renowned mountaineer and Managing Director, Snow Leopard Adventures; renowned agripreneur Jang Bahadur Singh Sangha, widely recognised as the Potato King of India and leader of one of India’s largest potato and maize farming enterprises; and Dushyant Chautala, Deputy Chief Minister of Haryana (2019–2024).

Subsequent sessions throughout the day featured an extraordinary roster of speakers spanning defence, diplomacy, policy, business, academia, healthcare, technology, sustainability, and the arts. These included Lt Gen Ajai Singh, Former Commander-in-Chief, Andaman & Nicobar Command and Independent Director, DLF Ltd; Yashish Dhaiya, Founder & Group CEO, Policybazaar; critically acclaimed Bollywood costume designer and National Film Award winner Niharika Bhasin; Dr Tarun Batra, Cancer Surgeon and Associate Professor, Banaras Hindu University; Rajeev Ahal, Director, Natural Resource Management & Agroecology, GIZ India; Taranjit Sandhu, Diplomat and Former Ambassador of India to the United States and High Commissioner to Sri Lanka; Shaila Brijnath, Founder & Chairperson, Aasraa Trust; Arun Maira, Former Member, Planning Commission of India; Akshay Dalal, Head of Regional Risk, Compliance and Ethics – Google (Middle East, Turkey & Africa); Gaurav Raina, Professor, IIT Madras and Research Fellow, Cambridge University; Ruby Garg, Director, Indus Group; Surbhi Garg, Joint Commissioner of Income Tax; Vivek Mehra, Senior Partner, PwC (Retd.) and Director on the boards of HT, DLF, Vaillant Pharma and Chambal Fertiliser; and Dr Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group.

The day-long Summit stood out for its depth and diversity of discourse, featuring insightful discussions on education, leadership, the future of work, youth mentorship, governance, and the intersection of creativity with institution-building. The event concluded with a closing address by Brigadier Adarsh Butail, President, The Old Sanawarian Society, bringing to a close an intellectually enriching and purpose-driven gathering that reaffirmed Sanawar’s enduring legacy of leadership and excellence.

Real Estate Sector of Maharashtra Gears Up for the Next Level of Urban Growth at the National Urban and Real Estate Development Conclave

Mumbai, Feb 07: Maharashtra’s real estate sector continues to play a key role in the state’s urban growth, supported by large-scale infrastructure development, strong industrial and commercial activity, and expanding metropolitan regions. As one of India’s most urbanised states, Maharashtra is set to present its urban development journey and future priorities as NAREDCO Maharashtra leads the state’s participation at the National Urban and Real Estate Development Conclave 2026.

Scheduled to be held on 13–14 February 2026 at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, the conclave will provide a platform for states to share their development experiences and future roadmaps. Maharashtra’s participation will underline its ongoing efforts to strengthen urban infrastructure, improve housing supply, and support sustainable city growth across regions such as Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, and other emerging urban centres.

The participation will highlight Maharashtra’s focus on transit-led development, large-scale redevelopment projects, rental housing initiatives, and a balanced mix of residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. The state’s emphasis on ease of doing business, infrastructure-led expansion, and technology-driven urban planning will be presented before industry stakeholders from across the country.

The conclave will bring together senior policymakers, government officials, leading developers, financial institutions, investors, urban planners, and industry experts to deliberate on the future of India’s real estate and urban development landscape. Discussions will focus on strengthening urban infrastructure, encouraging investments, adopting sustainable development practices, and leveraging technology to improve urban efficiency.

Key discussions at the conclave will cover transit-oriented development, rental housing, structured and sustainable redevelopment, regulatory reforms under RERA, alignment with the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code and the Consumer Protection Act, institutional investments, digitisation of property transactions, proptech adoption, and affordable housing solutions. The agenda aligns with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, recognising real estate as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth and resilient urban ecosystems.

India’s real estate sector is entering a critical phase, supported by steady economic growth, rapid urbanisation, and a supportive policy environment. With urbanisation expected to approach 50 percent by 2047, the need for efficient, transparent, and technology-driven urban development frameworks has become increasingly important. The conclave aims to generate actionable insights that can support long-term growth, strengthen investor confidence, and enhance quality of life in urban India.

Highlighting the importance of Maharashtra’s participation, Mr. Prashant Sharma, President, NAREDCO Maharashtrasaid, “Maharashtra has long been at the forefront of urban and real estate development in India. From large-scale redevelopment in metropolitan regions to growth in emerging cities, the state offers valuable learnings. Through this platform, NAREDCO Maharashtra looks forward to sharing regional insights and contributing to discussions that support sustainable urban growth.”

Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Chairman, NAREDCO, said, “The National Urban and Real Estate Development Conclave 2026 arrives at a crucial juncture in India’s growth trajectory. Real estate today is far more than a standalone industry—it is a key driver of economic expansion, employment generation, and urban transformation. This conclave’s focused discussions on transit-oriented development (TOD), regulatory reforms, institutional investments, and digital governance will pave the way for a transparent, resilient, and future-ready real estate ecosystem. Aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the conclave serves as a vital platform to bring together diverse stakeholders and innovative ideas, strengthening the foundation for a sustainable and globally competitive urban landscape amid India’s rapidly expanding urban population.”

Mr. Parveen Jain, President, NAREDCO, added, “NAREDCO believes that sustained urban development can only be achieved through constructive dialogue and practical reforms. The conclave will focus on key areas such as regulatory harmonisation, investor confidence, and technology adoption, which are essential for the sector’s next phase of growth.”

The National Urban and Real Estate Development Conclave 2026 is expected to attract wide participation from across the country and will act as a catalyst for policy dialogue, investment momentum and innovation in the sector. NAREDCO Maharashtra invites industry leaders, developers, investors, and professionals from across the state to participate actively and contribute to shaping the future of India’s urban and real estate landscape.

On National Cleft Day, NGO Smile Train India Brings Cleft Awareness into NDMC Classrooms

New Delhi, Feb 07: On the occasion of National Cleft Day, Smile Train India, the country’s largest cleft focused NGO, partnered with the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) to raise awareness and advocate for cleft lip and palate issues. They implemented a comprehensive school-based engagement programme across NDMC schools in the national capital.

As part of this initiative, Smile Train India rolled out The ABCs of Change” (Awareness, Behaviour, and Confidence) across 10 NDMC schools, using storytelling, interactive learning, and creative engagement to build early awareness, empathy, and inclusion among primary school children. The programme integrates cleft awareness into classrooms, positioning children as active participants and ambassadors of change within their schools, families, and communities.

Central to the initiative is Smile Train India’s picture book series, “Smiles that Shine,” the first-of-its-kind children’s series designed to promote empathy, kindness, and understanding around facial differences, including cleft lip and palate. Through imaginative storytelling and relatable characters, the books normalise differences, encourage conversations around self-confidence and identity, and help reduce stigma from an early age.

The school programme concluded with a three-day creative theatre workshop led by Rahul Khanna, a renowned theatre practitioner and storytelling facilitator. Primary school students from NDMC schools developed and performed short plays inspired by the “Smiles that Shine” stories, bringing the narratives to life through expressive enactment and reinforcing messages of empathy, inclusion, and acceptance.

Cleft lip and palate is a treatable birth difference, affecting approximately 1 in every 700 children. However, lack of awareness, social stigma, and misinformation often delay treatment, impacting a child’s health, speech development, confidence, and social integration. By embedding awareness within schools, Smile Train India and NDMC aim to encourage a more inclusive environment for children with facial differences.

Speaking on the initiative, Kritika Choudhary, Director, New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) said, “Schools are not only places of learning but also where empathy and inclusion are shaped. This partnership with Smile Train India brings together health awareness and creative learning. By engaging children through stories and theatre, we hope these values extend beyond classrooms into homes and communities.” 

Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President and Regional Director, Asia Smile Train India, added, “Cleft care goes beyond medical treatment; it is about building confidence, dignity, and a sense of belonging. Through initiatives like Smiles that Shine, The ABCs of Change, and the culminating theatre workshops, we are using storytelling to help children understand and embrace differences, and to grow up with empathy, kindness, and inclusion at their core.”

By anchoring cleft awareness within classrooms and creative expression, Smile Train India and NDMC reaffirm their shared commitment to early intervention, inclusive education, and community-led advocacy, ensuring every child born with a cleft has the opportunity to grow up healthy, confident, and included.

Over 35,000 babies with cleft conditions are born in India each year, and many of them go untreated because of social stigma, misconceptions and a lack of knowledge about the treatment that is available, by improving community level awareness. Smile Train’s school outreach program aims to spread awareness amongst the young minds.

Industry Impact: What the EU Trade Framework Means for Artisan Rug Manufacturers

Jaipur: The European Union’s evolving trade framework is redefining expectations across the global home and design industry. For rug manufacturers who work with manufactures, the changes go far beyond paperwork and policy. They are reshaping how credibility is established, how value is perceived, and how long-term relationships are built between makers and markets.

India, and particularly Jaipur, has long been synonymous with masterful rug craftsmanship. Rooted in generations of weaving knowledge, the region now finds itself at the intersection of heritage and heightened global accountability.

Redefining Global Relationships

The renewed EU focus on transparency, traceability, and ethical production has shifted buyer priorities. European partners are no longer looking solely at finished products. They are seeking clarity around sourcing, artisan welfare, and environmental responsibility.

For manufacturers, this means that trust is no longer implied. It is demonstrated. Production processes, material choices, and working conditions are becoming part of the product narrative itself, influencing purchasing decisions as much as design and quality.

Craft as a Strategic Advantage

For Man Made Rugs, the framework has strengthened an approach already rooted in conscious craftsmanship. The brand works closely with artisan communities, focusing on ethical production, controlled processes, and design-led collections that resonate with contemporary European interiors.

“European partners today are not just evaluating products. They are evaluating intent,” says Nirmit Khanna, Founder of Man Made Rugs. “The new trade framework encourages conversations around responsibility, continuity, and trust. That fundamentally changes how relationships are formed.”

Design, Documentation, and Discipline

As expectations evolve, design development itself is becoming more intentional. Buyers are gravitating toward collections that balance authenticity with restraint. Natural materials, responsible dyeing practices, and refined finishes are being assessed alongside documentation and process transparency.

This shift has encouraged artisan manufacturers to invest further in quality systems, traceability, and storytelling that communicates both craft and conscience with equal clarity.

Jaipur’s Moment on the Global Stage

For Jaipur-based manufacturers, the EU framework presents an inflection point. The region’s artisanal ecosystem is inherently aligned with the values now being prioritized globally. Handwoven processes, small-batch production, and human-led craftsmanship offer an alternative to industrial uniformity.

“What we are witnessing is a renewed respect for craft,” Khanna adds. “The framework allows artisan manufacturers to present their work not as a commodity, but as a cultural and creative exchange.”

A Future Built on Intentional Trade

The EU trade framework is influencing more than export pathways. It is shaping how artisan rug manufacturers position themselves within a global design conversation. Relationships are becoming deeper. Expectations are clearer. And success is increasingly defined by integrity rather than scale.

From Jaipur to Europe, the loom continues to speak. Today, its story is being heard with greater intention.

Manappuram Finance Chairman Welcomes RBI’s Stable Rate Stance, Backs MSME Credit Push

Mr V P Nandakumar, Chairman & MD, Manappuram Finance Ltd.

“The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, while maintaining a neutral stance, reflects confidence in India’s strengthening macroeconomic fundamentals. The upward revision in FY26 GDP growth projections and the expectation of benign inflation indicate a supportive environment for sustained credit expansion and business activity.”

“We welcome the RBI’s direction to dispense with prior approval for branch expansion by large NBFC-ICCs. It reflects regulatory confidence in the strengthened governance and prudential framework applicable to well-regulated NBFCs. This direction will provide greater operational flexibility, which will enable responsible lenders to expand their reach more efficiently, particularly in underserved and semi-urban markets, thereby improving access to formal credit.”

“The increase in the collateral-free loan limit for MSMEs to ₹20 lakh and the move towards a unified portal under the Lead Bank Scheme are also important steps. They will help improve credit access and streamline delivery mechanisms. These measures will further strengthen financing support for small businesses and entrepreneurs, enabling more inclusive and sustainable economic growth, an area where Manappuram Finance continues to play an important role.”

Pearl Global Industries Records INR 3,711 Cr Revenue in 9M FY26

New Delhi, Feb 7:Pearl Global Industries Limited (PGIL), India’s largest listed garment exporter with manufacturing operations across South Asia, South-East Asia, and Central America, has announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2025.

Consolidated Financial Highlights – 9M FY26

  • Revenue: INR 3,711 crore, up 13.2% YoY, driven by strong growth in high value-added products from Vietnam and Indonesia

  • Adjusted EBITDA (excluding ESOP expense): INR 333 crore, up 14.0% YoY

    • EBITDA margin: ~9.0%

    • Adjusted EBITDA margin (excluding reciprocal tariff impact of ~INR 31 crore and ramp-up costs of ~INR 11 crore): ~10.1%

  • PAT: INR 189 crore, up 14.0% YoY

Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q3 FY26

  • Revenue: INR 1,170 crore, up 14.4% YoY

  • Adjusted EBITDA: INR 97 crore, up 4.4% YoY

    • EBITDA margin: 8.3%

    • Adjusted EBITDA margin (excluding tariff impact and ramp-up costs of ~INR 9 crore): ~9.1%

  • PAT: INR 52 crore, up 6.8% YoY

Standalone Financial Highlights – 9M FY26

  • Revenue: INR 777 crore

  • Adjusted EBITDA: INR 43 crore, up 63.7% YoY

    • EBITDA margin: 5.5%, improvement of 220 bps YoY, driven by cost restructuring

    • Adjusted EBITDA margin (excluding reciprocal tariff cost of ~INR 14 crore): ~7.3%

  • PAT: INR 55 crore, compared to INR 32 crore in 9M FY25

Standalone Financial Highlights – Q3 FY26

  • Revenue: INR 246 crore

  • Adjusted EBITDA: INR 13 crore

    • EBITDA margin: 5.1%, improvement of 140 bps YoY

    • Adjusted EBITDA margin (excluding reciprocal tariff cost of ~INR 5 crore): ~7.2%

  • PAT: INR 14 crore, compared to INR 4 crore in Q3 FY25

Other Highlights

  • Leadership Recognition:
    Founder & Chairman Dr. Deepak Seth was conferred the Global Leadership Award for building the world’s largest apparel supply chain company from India for FY23–24 and FY24–25. The award was presented by C. P. Radhakrishnan, Hon’ble Vice President of India, at the AEPC Excellence Honours Ceremony in New Delhi.

  • Credit Rating Upgrade:
    The Company recorded a significant improvement in its credit profile, with the long-term rating upgraded from [ICRA] BBB (Stable) in 2021 to [ICRA] A+ (Stable) in 2026, and the short-term rating upgraded from [ICRA] A3+ to [ICRA] A1+, reflecting strong liquidity, disciplined financial management, and operational resilience.

Management Commentary

Mr. Pulkit Seth, Vice-Chairman & Non-Executive Director,

“We are pleased to deliver another quarter of encouraging performance in FY26 despite a challenging macroeconomic and geopolitical environment. Our 9M FY26 revenue grew by 13.2% and EBITDA by 14.0% YoY.

India operations are expected to gain significant momentum following the reduction of U.S. tariffs to 18%, removing the burden of the additional 25% duty and enhancing profitability. The India–EU and UK FTAs further strengthen growth prospects by enabling us to leverage existing customer relationships.

Bangladesh’s capacity expansion remains on track for completion by Q2 FY27, while Indonesia and Vietnam continue to operate at optimal utilization levels. Supported by tariff relief, FTAs, and capacity readiness, we are well positioned to scale efficiently and deliver sustained long-term value.”

Mr. Pallab Banerjee, Managing Director,

“We delivered a resilient performance in Q3 and 9M FY26, with revenue of INR 3,711 crore and EBITDA of INR 333 crore. Adjusted EBITDA margins stood at ~10.1% after normalizing for tariffs and ramp-up costs, reflecting the strength of our diversified operating model and execution discipline.

The removal of U.S. tariffs eliminates discount pressure extended to customers during the tariff period, directly improving profitability from February onwards. With trade agreements now covering key global markets and capacity in place, Pearl Global is well positioned to regain momentum in India from FY27 and capitalize on broader global opportunities.”

KIMS Hospital Trains Auto Drivers as First Responders in CPR & First Aid

Against the Backdrop of India’s approx 1.77 Lakh Road Deaths yearly, KIMS Hospital Trains Auto-Rickshaw Drivers in Life-Saving CPR, First Aid as First Responders 

Thane, Feb 07: KIMS Hospitals, Thane, has launched a community-focused, community-led initiative to strengthen emergency response during the critical golden hour by training auto-rickshaw drivers as first responders. As part of the program, over 100 auto-rickshaw drivers from the Thane–Ghodbunder Road belt*are receiving hands-on training in CPR and basic first aid to help stabilize patients before ambulances arrive along with a first aid kit which they can keep in their auto rickshaws.

WhatsApp Image 2026-02-06 at 5.10.19 PM

As road crashes and lifestyle-related cardiac arrests continue to claim hundreds of lives daily, KIMS Hospital is empowering auto-rickshaw drivers in Thane with CPR training and basic first aid. With traffic congestion often delaying emergency vehicles, auto-rickshaw drivers are frequently the first to reach accident sites and medical emergencies. This initiative equips them with life-saving skills and first-aid kits, enabling immediate support and early stabilization until professional medical care takes over.

The training includes live CPR demonstrations and hands-on training on mannequins, basic trauma care, and early patient stabilisation techniques, conducted by expert doctors from KIMS Hospital. Each trained driver is also being provided with a First-Aid Kit, strengthening on-ground emergency response.

The initiative is being carried out by KIMS Hospital in association with Amar Gharat Foundation, which is supporting community mobilisation and outreach among auto-rickshaw drivers in the region.

Speaking on the broader vision behind the initiative, Saurabh Gupta, Regional Director, KIMS Hospitals, said,

“Care during the golden hour often starts on the road. By training auto-rickshaw drivers as first responders and also offering them Oral cancer screenings, we are extending critical care beyond hospital walls and into the community.”

Highlighting the medical importance of early action, Dr. Anil Heroor, Director – Oncological Sciences, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, said,

“Many auto-rickshaw drivers are at higher risk of oral cancer due to tobacco use. Simple screenings like these can catch early signs and make a real difference.”

Dr. Hitesh Singhavi, Consultant – Head & Neck Oncosurgery, KIMS Hospitals , Thane, added,

“Oral cancer often goes unnoticed until it becomes serious. Bringing screening closer to people helps with early detection and better outcomes.” 

Emphasising emergency preparedness, Dr. Ankit Biyani, HOD – Emergency Medicine, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, added,

“The first few minutes after an accident or medical emergency are critical. Training auto drivers helps bridge the gap between an emergency and ambulance care.”

Alongside the training program, KIMS Hospitals Thane is also conducting oral health screenings for participating auto-rickshaw drivers, with a focus on early detection of oral health issues among those who consume tobacco, reinforcing the hospital’s focus on preventive and community healthcare.

Through this initiative, KIMS Hospitals continues to extend care beyond hospital walls, empowering everyday citizens, strengthening emergency response systems, and building a safer, more prepared community in Thane.

Gateway Distriparks Reports Strong Q3 FY26 Performance, Declares Special Dividend

Delhi, Feb 07: Gateway Distriparks Limited (GDL), one of India’s leading multimodal logistics companies, announced its financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2025 (Q3 FY26), delivering strong operational and financial performance despite Q3 traditionally being a seasonally weaker quarter.

Operational Performance

During Q3 FY26, GDL recorded a total throughput of 1,90,675 TEUs, reflecting a 4.74% year-on-year growth. Year-to-date (YTD) throughput stood at 5,75,887 TEUs, registering a 6.61% YoY increase.

  • Rail Vertical:

    • Q3 FY26: 1,02,575 TEUs (up 10.97% YoY)

    • YTD FY26: 2,97,097 TEUs (up 11.18% YoY)

  • CFS Vertical:

    • Q3 FY26: 88,100 TEUs

    • YTD FY26: 2,78,790 TEUs (up 2.13% YoY)

Financial Highlights

For Q3 FY26, the Company reported strong growth across key financial metrics:

  • Total Revenue: Up 39.10% YoY

  • EBITDA: Up 26.67% YoY

  • Profit Before Tax (PBT): Up 11.87% YoY

  • Profit After Tax (PAT): Maintained steady performance

On a YTD basis, GDL recorded:

  • Total Revenue: Up 45.85% YoY

  • EBITDA: Up 28.43% YoY

  • PBT: Up 16.63% YoY

  • PAT: Up 12.47% YoY

The financials include the consolidation of Snowman Logistics Limited as a subsidiary effective December 24, 2024. Exceptional income related to fair valuation recorded in FY25 has been excluded to ensure comparability.

Dividend Announcement

The Board of Directors declared a Second Interim Dividend for FY26, along with a Special Interim Dividend.

The special dividend is a one-time, non-recurring payout, marking GDL’s achievement of a net debt-free position for the first time since inception, and commemorating 30 years since the acquisition of land for its first facility at Nhava Sheva CFS.

Management Commentary

Prem Kishan Dass Gupta, Chairman & Managing Director, Gateway Distriparks Limited, said:

“Normally Q3 is a weaker quarter, but our performance has remained strong and consistent with the momentum seen in recent quarters. We are optimistic about the future, particularly with the Free Trade Agreement signed with the EU and the trade deal with the USA, which are expected to significantly boost India’s global trade once ratified.”

He added that the Company has commenced domestic rail services from MMLP New Ankleshwar and is witnessing encouraging traction. GDL is expanding its rail capacity through the addition of new high-capacity rakes and the upgradation of existing leased rakes, taking the total rake count to 37 by the end of Q1 FY27.

Growth Initiatives

GDL has announced the acquisition of land for setting up a greenfield Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Indore, located near the Pithampur Industrial Area, one of India’s fastest-growing industrial regions. The Company continues to actively explore opportunities to further expand its rail and logistics network.

Snowman Logistics is also expected to benefit from upcoming trade agreements, particularly with the revival of seafood exports, and is planning to expand its warehouse network through a combination of owned assets and asset-light build-to-suit models.