Sidharth Pansari, Director of Primarc Group
“The upcoming budget can act as a strong confidence trigger for real estate if it prioritises homebuyer affordability, liquidity support for developers, and faster infrastructure-led urban expansion. A clear policy push in these areas would not only revive end-user demand but also accelerate sustainable, long-term growth across cities beyond the metros“.
New Delhi, Jan 29: ACFI is looking to the upcoming Union Budget to extend the policy momentum built over the past decade for betterment of Indian Farmers and agriculture by announcing more measures including halving the import duty on pesticides to 5 per cent.
In a representation to the government, Agro Chem Federation of India also made a strong case for rationalisation of GST on crop protection chemicals.
ACFI said the present government is continuously working towards the empowerment/ betterment of Indian Farmers and is supporting agriculture and farmers through various schemes, and subsidies.
The representation seeks more measures from the government to further help Indian farmers cultivate more cost-effectively.
While emphasising that farmers invest significant money in seeds, fertilisers, water, labour, etc., for farming, ACFI said pesticides serve as insurance that protects their crops.
Indian farmers need newer molecules for this purpose: the changing cropping patterns and agroclimatic conditions make it essential that farmers are provided with a broader range of cost-effective products.
“We suggest reducing the import duty from 10 per cent to 5 per cent to ensure that farmers receive the full benefit of newer, better technology. We believe that the decision should be made in the context of India’s overall agricultural strategy,”
Dr Kalyan Goswami, Director General, Agro Chem Federation of India.
“We should ensure that the highest-quality agri-inputs are made available to farmers at the best prices,” said Dr Goswami.
ACFI further said that the Government’s sustained efforts towards “farmer empowerment”, ranging from targeted subsidies and input support to credit reforms, digital infrastructure and marketing interventions, have created a progressive framework for agriculture.
Simultaneously, the 2025 GST reforms, by simplifying compliance, strengthening ITC mechanisms, and proactively reducing litigation, reflect a commitment to making GST a truly farmer- and taxpayer-friendly system.
Against this backdrop of reforms, ACFI has highlighted the critical incongruity in the taxation of agricultural inputs.
While fertilisers are rightfully taxed at a concessional GST rate of 5 per cent, pesticides continue to attract an 18 per cent GST rate, significantly raising the cost of cultivation for farmers.
Over 85 per cent of Indian farmers are small and marginal, with landholdings of less than 2 acres, and already face severe financial constraints and limited access to subsidy benefits.
Dr Goswami said that the higher GST burden on pesticides directly translates into increased cultivation costs, reduced affordability of vital crop protection solutions, and a risk of lower adoption, ultimately compromising productivity and food security.
Given that pesticides and fertilisers are complementary and essential inputs, both critical for ensuring yield security and farmer income, maintaining two separate and unequal GST slabs creates policy inconsistency. It undermines the principle of neutrality embedded in the GST framework.
“In alignment with the 2025 GST reforms’ objective of rationalisation and fairness, we humbly submit that the GST on pesticides may kindly be reduced to 0 per cent (exempt) as an essential agricultural input, or at least aligned with fertilisers at 5 per cent GST, ensuring parity across essential farm inputs,”
Dr Kalyan Goswami.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to present the Union Budget on February 01, 2026 in the Lok Sabha.
Tagros Chemicals India has taken a significant step toward strengthening its global footprint with the acquisition of global brand assets related to Bayer AG’s Flubendiamide (FLB) active ingredient business across Latin America (LATAM), Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), and Asia-Pacific (APAC).
The definitive agreement includes solo and mixture formulations of Flubendiamide, along with a comprehensive portfolio of globally recognised trademarks such as BELT, FAME, FENOS, FENOS QUICK, BELT EXPERT, and TIHAN. This acquisition positions Tagros as a stronger global player in the Diamide insecticide segment, one of the most critical classes of modern crop protection solutions.
For Indian farmers, the acquisition translates into greater access to globally trusted, high-quality Diamide-based insecticides that deliver effective control of insect pests in key crops including rice, cotton, vegetables, pulses, and fruits. Flubendiamide-based products are known for their targeted mode of action, long-lasting efficacy, and favourable safety profile, enabling farmers to protect yields while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
Backed by Tagros’ robust manufacturing capabilities, deep technical expertise, and strong understanding of local agronomic conditions, farmers in India are expected to benefit from improved product availability, consistent quality, and enhanced technical support. The move reinforces Tagros’ long-term commitment to boosting farm productivity, reducing crop losses, and strengthening food security.
Globally, the acquisition provides Tagros immediate access to markets across more than 25 countries, significantly expanding its presence in Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. It also consolidates the company’s leadership position in the Diamide segment, enhancing its ability to serve diverse agricultural markets worldwide.
Commenting on the transaction, the company said,
“This acquisition marks a defining moment in Tagros’ growth journey. By combining Bayer’s globally established Flubendiamide portfolio with Tagros’ scale, manufacturing strength, and technical depth, we are well positioned to deliver reliable and innovative crop protection solutions to farmers across geographies.”
The transaction also marks Tagros’ strategic entry into the B2C formulations space. The acquired formulations portfolio will be housed under Arqivo, Tagros’ newly established entity focused on branded formulations and direct farmer engagement. Through Arqivo, Tagros aims to build strong farmer-centric brands, enhance on-ground outreach, and deliver solutions tailored to local agronomic needs.
Overall, the acquisition accelerates Tagros’ transformation from a predominantly active-ingredient-focused company into an integrated global crop protection player with strong downstream capabilities. By strengthening customer relationships, enhancing brand equity, and expanding its value chain presence, Tagros is well positioned to create long-term value for farmers in India and across global markets through science-driven, sustainable crop protection solutions.
Hyderabad, jan 29: With Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi set for a global release on 30th January 2026 across 400 screens worldwide, MovieVerse Studios continues to deepen its presence across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, reaffirming its commitment to championing strong regional narratives with pan-Indian and global appeal. The film will release extensively across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, along with international territories including the USA, Canada, the UK and Australia.
The film marks MovieVerse’s first Telugu feature film to release worldwide, underscoring the studio’s strategic and long-term foray into the Telugu film market and its focus on building scalable regional franchises with global reach.
Speaking about the larger content philosophy that drives the company, Aditya Pittie, Managing Director, The EPIC Company, said,
“At The EPIC Company, we see ourselves as a 24/7 story factory with zero downtime, built to serve audiences globally through consistent, high-quality storytelling across platforms. MovieVerse Studios represents our focused push into theatrical filmmaking, aligned with our vision of creating scalable, market-ready content. Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi marks MovieVerse’s first Telugu feature film and a significant milestone in our strategic entry into the Telugu film ecosystem. Our focus remains on expanding meaningful content across languages, formats and markets while building long-term value in key regional industries.”
Sharing MovieVerse’s approach to collaboration and regional storytelling, Vivek Krishani, Chief Executive Officer, MovieVerse Studios, added,
“At MovieVerse, we are keen to collaborate with regional storytellers and take powerful, native Indian stories to national and global audiences. Rooted stories have the strongest wings, and Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi is a natural step in our journey into the Telugu market. Telugu cinema is not just an industry it’s an emotion. If one wants to truly understand emotion in cinema, they learn it from Telugu films. This film is an important milestone as we continue to build long-term relationships within the Telugu film industry.”
With hands-on involvement across production, marketing and distribution, MovieVerse has steadily positioned itself as a trusted name in both mainstream and regional cinema. The studio aims to build on this momentum by backing films that balance creative ambition with commercial relevance.
As MovieVerse strengthens its roots across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, audiences can look forward to a compelling slate of stories that celebrate regional voices while resonating across markets signaling a strong and sustained future for the studio in South Indian cinema.
New Delhi, Jan 29: Prayagraj witnessed a vibrant cultural evening at the Magh Mela as the Department of Culture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, continued its daily cultural programs at the Ganga Pandal. The event was marked by a captivating devotional music performance by renowned bhajan singer Rajeev Acharya, who mesmerized the audience with his soulful renditions and spiritual energy.
Large numbers of devotees and music lovers gathered from far and wide to experience Rajeev Acharya’s live performance. His powerful and melodious bhajans created an atmosphere of devotion and enthusiasm across the venue. Songs such as “Padhare Phir Se Mere Ram,” “Chalo Phir Se Ayodhya Nagariya,” “Hey Mere Ram,” “Madho Madho Man Ka Maan Tyago,” and several other devotional and love-themed bhajans deeply connected with the audience and held them spellbound.
Rajeev Acharya’s devotional music enjoys immense popularity on social media platforms. His bhajan “Padhare Phir Se Mere Ram” recently achieved the top position on Instagram trending, further highlighting his growing influence among listeners across generations. During the performance, the crowd responded with great excitement, swaying and dancing to bhajans like “Avadh Ke Dulare Ram Suno” and “Dharm Dhwaja Mere Saath Thaam Lo,” which energized the entire gathering.
Speaking on the occasion, Rajeev Acharya said,
“The love and appreciation I receive from listeners for my bhajans is a matter of great pride and honor for me. It is equally important that the younger generation comes forward to embrace, preserve, and promote India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage through music and art.”
The program concluded with a felicitation ceremony, where Rajeev Acharya and all the accompanying artists were honored for their outstanding contribution to devotional music and cultural enrichment. The evening left a lasting impression on the audience and reinforced the spirit of devotion and tradition at the Magh Mela, Prayagraj
New Delhi, Jan 29: Col Saurabh Sanyal (Retd.) has assumed charge as the Secretary General of ASSOCHAM, India’s oldest Apex National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, representing over 4.5 lakh direct and indirect members across industry, trade, and services.
With over four decades of experience spanning government, the corporate sector, and industry chambers, Col Sanyal brings extensive expertise in policy engagement, institution-building, and stakeholder collaboration.
“It is an honour to lead an institution of ASSOCHAM’s legacy and national relevance,” said Col Sanyal. “ASSOCHAM will continue to serve as a constructive and trusted partner of the Government of India, focusing on impactful policy advocacy, strengthening member capabilities, and contributing to India’s socio-economic development.”
Col Sanyal has previously served as ASSOCHAM’s Deputy Secretary General during 2019–2020, bringing with him a deep understanding of the Chamber’s operations and strategic priorities.
Welcoming the appointment, ASSOCHAM President Mr Nirmal Kumar Minda said,
“Col Sanyal’s leadership and wide-ranging experience will significantly enhance the Chamber’s engagement with policymakers and improve value delivery to members. His appointment aligns with ASSOCHAM’s focus on the five pillars of Make in India, MSME, Ease of Doing Business, Digital Economy, and Sustainability & Environment.”
Mumbai, Jan 29: In a vibrant display of community spirit and environmental advocacy, the Senior KG students of Gopi Birla Memorial School took to the streets near their school premises, to host an impactful Environmental Protection Awareness Drive. This initiative was organized to foster a deep sense of responsibility toward the Earth from a young age while actively engaging the local community in sustainable practices.
The heart of the activity involved a group of young student representatives who shared brief, insightful messages on the pressing challenges of Air, Water, and Noise pollution, as well as practical solutions for saving our natural resources. Supporting their peers, the remaining students lined the area with hand-crafted placards and banners, creating a powerful visual reminder of the importance of going green.
This interactive flow not only enhanced the students’ public speaking skills but also boosted the school’s visibility as a centre for mindful education. By consistently integrating real-world issues into the early years of learning, Gopi Birla Memorial School successfully empowered its youngest learners to act as true catalysts for change.
The Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) will serve as the official Mumbai jam site for Global Game Jam 2026, the world’s largest game creation event, scheduled from 30 January to 1 February 2026.
Global Game Jam is a globally celebrated initiative that takes place simultaneously across hundreds of locations worldwide, bringing together game developers, designers, artists, programmers, musicians, and storytellers for an intense 48-hour creative sprint. It is facilitated by Underdogs Studio. Participants collaborate across disciplines to conceptualise and build playable games from scratch, driven by innovation, experimentation, and creative problem-solving.
For decades, India has been recognised globally as one of the world’s largest and most passionate gaming markets. With Global Game Jam 2026, that narrative takes a decisive turn. India is no longer positioned solely as a consumer of global gaming content, but as an active creator, building original games, intellectual property, and interactive experiences for the world.
As an official jam site, IICT Mumbai will host participants for an immersive, hands-on experience, providing a collaborative ecosystem where ideas rapidly transform into functional games. The initiative reinforces IICT’s vision of experiential learning, community-led innovation, and skill development within the rapidly growing AVGC-XR sector.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, CEO, Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), said:
“Global Game Jam represents the true spirit of collaboration and creative freedom that defines the gaming and interactive media industry. By hosting Global Game Jam Mumbai at IICT, we are creating a platform where young creators and professionals can learn by doing, experiment fearlessly, and engage with global creative practices. This initiative strongly aligns with IICT’s mission to nurture future-ready talent and position Mumbai as a key hub in the global game development ecosystem.”
Mumbai, India, Jan 29: Wondrlab Network, India’s platform-first marketing network, today announced the appointment of Ishaan Balvani as Creative Lead – Digital. In his new role, Ishaan will spearhead digital-first creative thinking across the network, strengthening Wondrlab’s focus on culture-led full-funnel storytelling, brand relevance, and integrated digital solutions.
Ishaan will report to Hemant Shringy, Chief Creative Officer and Managing Partner, Wondrlab Network.
Before joining Wondrlab, Ishaan was with FCB Kinnect, where he served as Group Creative Director. During his tenure, he played a key role in building impactful digital narratives, leading integrated campaigns for marquee brands, and mentoring creative teams across platforms. Some of the campaigns and brands Ishaan has worked on include HDFC Bank’s “Vigil Aunty – End of Scam Sale”, which won at Kyoorius, secured a Grand Prix at The One Show, and earned a Cannes Lions award. He has also played a pivotal role in TATA.ev, contributing to the launch of multiple vehicles and campaigns such as “Perfect Roads” for Harrier.ev, along with award-winning work including recognition at Kyoorius and The One Show for the #PerryPowerfulPunch campaign.
His portfolio further includes high-impact campaigns for Flipkart, including SASA LELE and Big Bang Diwali, along with work across marquee brands such as Disney+ Hotstar, Durex, Amul, Amazon, Google, Lodha Group, Aditya Birla Capital, and Standard Chartered, spanning categories from finance and e-commerce to entertainment and FMCG.
In this capacity, Ishaan will collaborate closely with strategy, technology, and media teams to translate insights into impactful digital ideas, ensuring creative output is deeply rooted in culture while delivering measurable business outcomes.
Commenting on the appointment, Hemant Shringy, Chief Creative Officer and Managing Partner, Wondrlab Network, said,
“Ishaan brings a rare combination of creative depth and digital instinct. His ability to think in platforms, culture, and ideas makes him a strong addition to our creative leadership. As brands navigate an increasingly complex digital ecosystem, Ishaan’s leadership will help us deliver sharper, more meaningful work.”
Speaking on joining Wondrlab, Ishaan Balvani, Creative Lead – Digital, Wondrlab Network, said,
“Wondrlab’s integrated and platform-first approach really stood out to me. It’s a network that’s building for where brands and culture are headed, not where they’ve been. I’m excited to collaborate with teams across the network to create digital work that is relevant, impactful, and truly connected to people.”
New Delhi, Jan 29: SparxIT, a global AI-first technology partner specializing in intelligent digital transformation and next-generation software solutions, recently conducted cybersecurity awareness sessions at Galgotias University and HRIT University. These initiatives form part of the company’s ongoing efforts to promote safe and responsible digital behaviour among students.
The sessions, attended by over 100 students at each university, addressed the growing cybersecurity risks faced by young users in increasingly digital academic and professional environments. Through interactive discussions and real-world scenarios, SparxIT’s experts highlighted how cybercriminals often target students by exploiting routine online activities.
Participants were introduced to key cybersecurity concepts, including various forms of phishing—email phishing, SMS phishing (smishing), and voice-based scams (vishing). Students learned to identify warning signs, recognize impersonation attempts, and avoid falling prey to attackers creating urgency to extract sensitive information.
The program also emphasized malware awareness, with a focus on ransomware, demonstrating how malicious software can compromise devices, lock users out of systems, and threaten personal and academic data. Preventive measures such as avoiding suspicious links, keeping systems updated, and promptly reporting unusual activity were shared with participants.
Vikash Sharma, CEO, SparxIT, commented:
“Today’s students are among the most active digital users, which also makes them increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. These awareness sessions aim to shift cybersecurity from a purely technical concern to a shared responsibility driven by everyday digital behaviour. By helping students recognize risks such as phishing, malware, and unsafe password practices, we aim to empower them to navigate digital platforms safely and confidently.”
A key focus of the sessions was password safety and account protection. Students learned the importance of strong, unique passwords, the risks of password reuse, and the role of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and one-time passwords (OTP) in securing online accounts. Practical tips were shared to safeguard personal, academic, and financial information across platforms.
The sessions encouraged students to view cybersecurity as a collective responsibility, highlighting that while technology provides protection, individual awareness and informed behaviour remain critical in preventing cyber incidents. Participants also received guidance on how and where to report cybercrime and suspicious digital activity.
Through these engagements, SparxIT aims to foster a more cyber-aware student community, equipping young users with practical knowledge to navigate digital spaces securely and responsibly.