All posts by Neel Achary

Kochi, Mar 05: “Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system, and their contribution to patient care is invaluable. At Aster DM Healthcare, we have always held the highest respect for the nursing profession and deeply recognise the dedication, commitment and compassionate care they bring to their work every single day.

We understand the concerns raised by nurses in Kerala regarding compensation and as a responsible healthcare provider, Aster DM Healthcare will fully comply with the directions on this matter and the Minimum Wages Notification issued by the Government of Kerala.

Aster has consistently aligned employee compensation with government notifications in the past. In addition to statutory wages, we extend several benefits to employees, including staff insurance coverage and other benefits as determined by the board and management from time to time.

At this juncture, I would also like to thank the nursing community for continuing to prioritise patient care even as they voice their concerns. Their professionalism and commitment during this time truly reflect the noble spirit of the nursing profession. We remain committed to creating a healthcare environment where nurses feel valued, respected, and supported.”

Sale hailed as major sign of confidence in city’s real estate market and security in UAE

Dubai, UAE, March 5:  A luxury apartment in Dubai has been sold off-plan for AED422 million, and the deal has been hailed as powerful sign of confidence in the city’s real estate market, and security in the UAE. 

The sale yesterday of the 31,201 sq ft apartment at Aman Residences Dubai on the Jumeirah Peninsula, has been confirmed by fäm Properties.

Data from DXBinteract, the data platform developed by the company in partnership with Dubai Land Department, said the transaction put the value at AED 13,525 per sq ft.

Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties, said: “The sale of an ultra-luxury villa at this level is particularly relevant in the current circumstances. It underlines the fact that the Dubai real estate market is structurally stronger than it has ever been.

“Over 70% of transactions are now end-user driven, not speculative. The buyer base is globally diversified. Mortgage activity has doubled in four years.

“The regulatory environment has matured. The UBS Global Real Estate Bubble Index rates Dubai moderate risk, while cities like Miami and Tokyo sit in the high-risk zone. The fundamentals haven’t changed overnight because of regional events.

“And of course, the enormous lengths that the UAE authorities have gone to in order to keep everyone who lives and works here safe at all times, sends out the strongest possible message to investors.

“That has long been the case, and the effect of all this is highlighted by an apartment being sold for AED422 million in the current climate, at a time when the eyes of the world are on Dubai, and the Gulf region.

“It’s a sale which says so much about the UAE as a whole, and in this case in particular, about Dubai as one of the world’s leading destinations for wealthy real estate investors.

“While headlines elsewhere paint one picture of the UAE, the reality for those of us living and working here is completely different.”

Mar 05: In a major push toward strengthening India’s artificial intelligence infrastructure, Silicon Valley-based entrepreneur Adesh Kumar Tyagi has announced a $7.7 billion commitment to develop a 1-gigawatt hyperscale AI data centre platform in Uttar Pradesh.

The project, spearheaded by his company TryfactaConnex, has been formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Government of Uttar Pradesh. At 1 gigawatt of planned capacity, the campus ranks among the largest AI-dedicated infrastructure commitments announced in India.

Tyagi positioned the initiative as a response to India’s rapidly accelerating AI demand, which he believes is beginning to outpace available compute and energy capacity.

“AI demand in India is growing exponentially. The constraint today is not talent or ambition — it is reliable, scalable power infrastructure,” said Tyagi. “AI infrastructure is becoming core national economic infrastructure.”

Built for AI-First Workloads

Unlike traditional data centres that were retrofitted for AI applications, the proposed campus is being designed specifically for high-density AI workloads, with planned power densities ranging from 80 to 120 kilowatts per rack. The modular design will allow the facility to adapt to successive chip generations while deploying hybrid and liquid cooling systems to optimise performance and efficiency at scale.
A key differentiator of the project is its integrated energy planning model. Instead of relying solely on grid connectivity, the infrastructure roadmap envisions a diversified energy backbone combining grid power, solar integration, gas-based systems, battery storage, and future-ready options aligned with evolving nuclear energy frameworks.

Industry experts note that as AI models grow in scale and complexity, dependable base-load energy is becoming as critical as compute capability itself.

Strategic Location Advantage

Uttar Pradesh has been actively positioning itself as a destination for large-scale digital infrastructure investments, supported by policy incentives, improving power availability, and enhanced connectivity.
With demand in northern India — particularly around the NCR corridor — projected to rise significantly in the coming years, the state offers both geographic and infrastructure advantages for hyperscale deployment.

The 1-GW campus will be developed in phased blocks, allowing capital deployment and infrastructure build-out to align with demand growth and long-lead equipment procurement cycles.

Broader Economic and Global Context

Headquartered in Silicon Valley, TryfactaConnex is advancing AI infrastructure strategies across the United States, India, and Brazil. The India project forms a central pillar of the company’s broader vision to build globally distributed, sovereign AI capacity capable of supporting hyperscalers, enterprises, and national AI programmes.

Beyond computing capacity, the project is expected to generate high-value employment, enable advanced technology skill development, and strengthen India’s domestic AI ecosystem by reducing reliance on overseas infrastructure.

“In the AI economy, uptime equals economic advantage,” Tyagi added. “When compute becomes reliably available at scale, it unlocks innovation across sectors.”

As artificial intelligence increasingly shapes economic competitiveness, infrastructure investments of this scale signal a larger shift: hyperscale AI facilities are no longer peripheral assets — they are strategic national infrastructure.

With planning and financing processes underway, the TryfactaConnex campus represents a significant step in India’s ambition to emerge as a global hub for AI-driven growth.

Pune, Mar 05:  Pune, a city renowned for its youthful energy, vibrant college scene, and evolving food culture, offers a diverse range of hangout spots perfect for friends, colleagues, and families. From cosy cafés to lively restaurants, Pune’s food and beverage scene caters to every mood, occasion, and budget, making it a go-to destination for socialising and relaxation.

 Here are five must-visit hangout spots in Pune:

1. Burger Singh – India’s Desi Burger Favourite
Known for its uniquely Indian twist on classic burgers, Burger Singh is a hit among students and young professionals. Bold spices, playful names, and local flavours make it perfect for casual group hangouts. Its friendly ambience, prompt service, and pocket-friendly pricing ensure a satisfying and fun experience.

2. Starbucks – Premium Café Culture
Starbucks is more than just coffee; it’s a hub for group study sessions, brainstorming meetings, or long chats with friends. Its cozy interiors, consistent service, and welcoming atmosphere make it a preferred spot for those seeking a calm, premium café experience in Pune.

3. McDonald’s – The All-Time Favourite
With outlets across the city, McDonald’s remains a reliable choice for families, students, and friend groups. Known for quick service, familiar menu options, and budget-friendly combos, it is a convenient and hassle-free option for casual hangouts.

4. Social – The Trendy Hangout Spot
Social blends café culture with contemporary vibes, offering a creative menu, signature drinks, and eclectic interiors. Popular among young professionals and students, it is ideal for casual meet-ups, evening hangouts, and brainstorming sessions in a lively and modern setting.

5. Barbeque Nation – For Group Celebrations
Barbeque Nation is perfect for large gatherings, birthdays, and weekend get-togethers. Its unlimited grills, buffet-style offerings, and interactive live-grill concept make dining a social and memorable experience, where guests can enjoy food cooked to their preference.

Practical, fun, and social, Pune’s hangout spots cater to a wide spectrum of tastes and experiences, encouraging connections over good food and great company. Whether you are looking for a relaxed café session or a lively group celebration, the city has something for everyone.

Jonas Field

Amsterdam, Mar 5: PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips Professional Displays and complementary solutions, is excited to announce the appointment of sought-after AV professional, Jonas Field, to lead its next wave of growth in the Norwegian market.

Accepting the role of Country Sales Manager for Philips Professional Displays, Jonas brings more than 10 years of hands on, top tier AV/IT knowledge and experience, and is a highly regarded and commercially driven industry professional. Throughout his career, he has built strong relationships across the channel, including distributors, integrators, consultants, and end customers.

Based in Oslo, and reporting to Roeland Scholten, PPDS Sales Director for Benelux and Nordics, Jonas will take ownership of the commercial strategy for Philips Professional Displays in Norway. His focus will include expanding distributor partnerships, increasing brand visibility within the channel, supporting partners with targeted go to market initiatives, and driving market share growth across key verticals.

Total market solutions 

Jonas joins PPDS as the AV market in Norway continues to flourish, with rising demand for high quality AV solutions in markets such as corporate, education, and entertainment due to a growing need for video conferencing, digital signage, and live event production, including LED.

PPDS has maintained an upward trajectory in the country – and the Nordics region – in recent years, with sales of Philips digital signage, ePaper, interactive displays, and dvLED surpassing expectations, while Philips hotel TVs continue to be firmly established as a brand of choice for the hospitality industry. Sister brand, AOC, was also recently named as Norway’s market leader for home and office monitors.

Jonas will work closely with the full AV channel, including distributors, system integrators, AV/IT teams, designers/architects, among others, to identify new market and project opportunities, ensuring PPDS remains a key choice for tenders, big and small, across all market verticals, including retail, corporate, hospitality, transportation, control rooms, public venues, and broadcast.

Seizing opportunity

Discussing his appointment, Jonas commented: “PPDS has become a major force in Norway, and I am excited to seize this opportunity to join such a flexible and forward thinking company with a great team. I believe that, with my skillset and understanding of the market, backed by the incredible portfolio of Philips Professional Displays and associated software and solutions, together we can achieve great things.”

 Roeland Scholten added: “In a competitive market, we need strong leaders and personalities to move forward and get where we want to be. Jonas has an impeccable background, working at some of the industry’s most established manufacturers and distributors, and has demonstrated from day one that he is the right fit for PPDS, sharing our values and ambitions. I am delighted to welcome Jonas to the team.”

Mumbai, Mar 5: Mr. Ishwar Chand Agarwal, Executive Chairman and Founder of Genus Group of Companies and Genus Power Infrastructure, India’s leading end-to-end energy measurement solutions provider, has been felicitated with the prestigious Hurun Industry Achievement Award 2025-26 for his visionary leadership and pioneering contribution to India’s energy and electronics manufacturing ecosystem.

 Presented at India’s Most Respected Entrepreneurs Awards, the recognition celebrates entrepreneurs who have not only achieved scale but also shaped industries through innovation and long-term value creation. Mr. Agarwal’s felicitation alongside India’s most eminent industrialists acknowledges his five-decade long journey of building indigenous technology capabilities and transforming the country’s power distribution landscape.

From humble beginnings, Mr. Agarwal founded Genus with a clear mission: to place Indian engineering and electronics manufacturing at the forefront of critical infrastructure. Across a distinguished 50-year journey, his leadership has steered Genus from a single-product enterprise into a globally competitive, diversified energy solutions group, anchored in innovation, operational discipline, and sustainable long-term value creation. With deep and diverse experience across industries including coke, coal, sugar, finance, cement, paper, power, electronics, apparel and agro-processing, and with specialized expertise in power infrastructure; he brings a proven record of business turnarounds, value-accretive acquisitions and R&D-led growth.

Mr. Agarwal established Genus Power Infrastructure in Jaipur in 1996, and under his stewardship, Genus Group of Companies has consistently navigated industry cycles and thrived through strategic foresight, technology-led innovation with a deep understanding of utility economics. Indigenous ‘Made in India’ manufacturing coupled with large-scale employment generation, has been central to Mr. Agarwal’s vision and remains deeply embedded in the Group’s philosophy. Today, Genus Group provides over 25,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, contributing significantly to nation’s economic and social development.

Commenting on the recognition, Mr. Ishwar Chand Agarwal, Founding Chairman, Genus Power Infrastructures Ltd., said,

“This honour is deeply humbling, and belongs to the Genus institution we have built that is deeply rooted in Indian innovation, powered by our people and dedicated towards nation-building. Our journey began with a simple belief that India must build its own world-class electronics and power infrastructure solutions. We pioneered electronic metering long before the industry recognized the shift. Every milestone since then has been powered by the dedication of our people and the trust of our stakeholders. As India’s energy landscape evolves, we remain committed to innovation that drives sustainable progress while enabling large-scale employment across our value chain.”

A long-standing champion of indigenous electronics manufacturing, Mr. Agarwal advocated local design and production decades before ‘Make in India’ became a national movement. His foresight in advancing electronic and smart metering has been pivotal in the evolution of India’s power distribution reforms and digital grid architecture.

Under his leadership, Genus Power has achieved several industry-first milestones. Most recently, the company surpassed the deployment of over one crore smart meters under the Government of India’s National Smart Grid Mission, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s most trusted and scalable smart metering technology provider. Mr. Agarwal’s recognition at Hurun Industry Achievement Award 2025-26 not only celebrates his personal legacy but also reaffirms Genus Power’s role as a champion for indigenous innovation, sustainable technology and transformative impact across India’s energy sector.

Mumbai, Mar 5: BSE Limited reported that it received 113 investor complaints against 94 companies during February 2026. In the same period, the exchange successfully resolved 150 complaints involving 114 companies, including complaints carried forward from previous months.

The resolution of these complaints reflects BSE’s continued efforts to address investor grievances and maintain transparency and accountability within the capital markets.

However, as of February 28, 2026, a few companies still have complaints pending for redressal for more than one month. The top three companies with pending complaints are:

BSE continues to monitor investor complaints closely and encourages listed companies to resolve grievances promptly to ensure effective investor protection and confidence in the market.

New Delhi, Mar 05: Seagram’s Royal Stag Packaged Drinking Water announced the launch of its new brand campaign, Live it Large. Marking a significant evolution in the brand’s journey, this campaign brings alive the fearless and expressive attitude of today’s generation — Generation Large — that strives to re-define the paths to success. Featuring an eclectic mix of icons across genres —, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Badshah, Sidharth Malhotra, Naga Chaitanya, and Payal Dhare, each exemplifying the fearless attitude and confident spirit of the brand’s Live It Large philosophy.

Set in the ‘Land of Large’—a vibrant celebration of modern India—the campaign film journeys across regions to showcase how every part of India Lives It Large through its own cultural lens: from the Tashan of North India to South’s vibrant blend of tech and celebration, the music of the East, and the rustic vibrance of the West. Each moment embodies the bold belief that out here, large is the only way to live. The film captures the essence of modern India through a fresh, vibrant, and culturally nuanced lens, reinforcing Royal Stag’s position as a brand that continues to inspire the nation to dream big and Live It Large.

Through these diverse regional celebrations, the campaign film brings to life the brand’s ethos —“yahan, bus large chalta hai!”— encapsulating the unstoppable energy and optimism of India’s New Generation – Generation Large, where ambition takes many forms and success is no longer defined by a single path. Royal Stag reinforces its role as a catalyst for inspiration, encouraging millions to embrace who they are, where they come from, and the dreams they choose to chase.

The campaign will be amplified through a high-impact, 360-degree rollout across TV, digital, print and OOH to ensure the campaign reaches and resonates with Generation Large.

Debasree Dasgupta, Chief Marketing Officer, Pernod Ricard India shared

“Royal Stag has always celebrated the spirit of dreaming, achieving, and Living It Large. With our new campaign, we are taking this philosophy a step further— capturing the energy, passion, and cultural vibrancy of today’s Generation and embodies the ethos of this new generation, Generation Large. By bringing together six icons from different fields and regions, we’re showing that Living It Large isn’t about conforming to one definition—it’s about owning your journey. This campaign captures how every corner of India celebrates ambition through its own cultural lens. It will give further impetus to the brand’s transformational journey as it transcends from being a category leader to a cultural icon continues to inspire India to think large, dream large, and Live It Large.”

Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma, exclusively managed by RISE Worldwide said,

“Live It Large isn’t just a tagline — it’s a philosophy. It’s about stepping up when it matters, backing yourself even when the odds aren’t in your favour, and savouring every moment of the journey. This campaign resonates with me because it speaks to everyone who refuses to play small — on the field, or in life.”

Actor Sidharth Malhotra expressed his excitement about the partnership, saying:

“Royal Stag is all about what I believe in, the courage to try new things and the drive to Live It Large. It’s more than a brand, it’s an attitude that celebrates passion, ambition, and pushing yourself to the next level. I’m excited to be part of a journey that inspires people to dream bigger and live bolder.”

Rapper Badshah shared, “Living large is all about owning who you are, unapologetically. Doesn’t matter where you start from—what matters is the confidence and the hustle you carry. Royal Stag stands for that same belief, and that’s why I vibe with it. Together, we’re here to celebrate individuality and push people to chase their journey, their way.”

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, exclusively managed by RISE Worldwide, said,

“To me, living large is about showing up fully every day — with discipline, belief through tough spells, and the joy of giving your all. Royal Stag’s Live It Large campaign reflects that mindset — it’s not just about big moments, but how you approach each one.”

Actor Naga Chaitanya reflected on the collaboration:

“Royal Stag is a brand that stays rooted in culture while constantly moving forward, and that’s what makes it so relevant today. I truly connect with this philosophy, and I’m excited to be part of a brand that reflects these values and connects so meaningfully with today’s youth.”

Gamer Payal Dhare added:

“Royal Stag embodies the fearless spirit that drives every passionate dreamer. For me, my passion has become my profession. I have broken barriers, challenged stereotypes and redefined success on my own terms. For me, living large is about seizing every opportunity, celebrating every milestone big or small. This is just the beginning of something extraordinary.”

Coimbatore, India Mar 05: Salzer has announced the integration of Wirepas Certified platform into its smart electricity meters, delivering next-generation metering solutions that help utilities operate more efficiently and intelligently. This adoption highlights Salzer’s commitment to innovation, interoperability and building resilient energy infrastructure across India.

The Wirepas Certified platform allows Salzer meters to form a self-optimizing, collaborative network, automatically adjusting to ensure uninterrupted data flow across urban, rural and mixed infrastructure environments. Utilities benefit from reliable performance without the need for extensive additional infrastructure, enabling smarter energy management at every scale.

“Smart metering is about empowering utilities with accurate, reliable and adaptable technology,” said Lakshminarayana (LN), Vice President at Salzer. “With the Wirepas Certified platform, we can offer solutions that not only meet current industry standards but are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow’s grids. This partnership strengthens our vision of creating truly intelligent energy systems.”

Sebastian Pellorce, SVP AMI India at Wirepas, added, “Salzer’s adoption of the Wirepas Certified platform demonstrates a forward-looking approach to smart metering. It’s about building networks that utilities can trust for years to come.”

By leveraging the platform’s adaptive capabilities, Salzer meters work together to ensure network resilience, scalability and operational efficiency, helping utilities deliver consistent service to customers while reducing operational complexity.

New Delhi, Mar 05: International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder that leadership today takes many forms—shaped as much by resilience and empathy as by strategy and scale. Across industries such as healthcare, beauty, wellness, hospitality, travel, mental health, and food innovation, women entrepreneurs are not just participating in the economy—they are redefining it.

 This year, a diverse collective of founders and leaders is being spotlighted for their role in shaping industries, introducing new standards, and building purpose-driven businesses. From medical innovation and clean beauty to culinary entrepreneurship and mental health advocacy, these women demonstrate how ambition, when combined with purpose and perseverance, creates lasting impact.

Among them is Saloni Anand, Co-Founder of Traya, who launched the digital health platform in 2019 with a mission to address hair fall as a medical concern rather than a cosmetic issue. By introducing research-backed, personalised treatment plans, she helped expand structured hair health solutions across India, including non-metro regions.

Naina Parekh, Co-Founder of EUME, brought global expertise in luxury brand management and strategic negotiation to India’s travel accessories market. Her patented massager backpack concept reflects the innovative thinking driving women-led businesses in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

In the field of dermatology, Dr. Chytra V. Anand, Founder of Kosmoderma Clinics and SkinQ, has played a pivotal role in elevating cosmetic dermatology standards in India. Internationally trained and deeply committed to education, she has trained more than 2,000 doctors globally, contributing significantly to advancements in aesthetic medicine and skin-of-colour science.

Women founders are also redefining India’s beauty and skincare industry. Divya Malpani Maheshwari, Founder and CEO of Skinvest, transformed her personal struggle with acne into a science-driven skincare brand tailored for Indian skin. Similarly, Supriya Malik, Founder of Indulgeo Essentials, helped shape India’s clean beauty movement by blending traditional ingredient knowledge with modern formulation and sustainable practices.

Entrepreneurial resilience is also reflected in Laxmi Asrani, Co-Founder and Director of Skinwood Luxury Aesthetic Centre, whose journey from overcoming MDR-TB to building a premium aesthetic clinic highlights the power of determination. Meanwhile, Archana Mayekar, Founder of Archana Wellness Clinic, has pioneered a holistic approach to wellness by integrating therapies across nutrition, fitness, and mind–body care.

In the organic beauty space, Megha Asher, Co-Founder and COO of Juicy Chemistry, has led operations for a brand built on certified organic formulations and community engagement. Pratishtha Rawat, Founder of Glow Glossary, is part of a new generation of entrepreneurs promoting conscious consumption and functional wellness, bringing matcha-based nutrition concepts into everyday lifestyle products.

Entrepreneurship stories also emerge from unexpected beginnings. Arshia Kaur, Founder of Tint Cosmetics, began by creating lip glosses in her bedroom and went on to build a rapidly growing beauty brand. Dr. Mikki Singh, Founder and Medical Director of Bodycraft Clinics, has helped transform aesthetic dermatology into a confidence-building and preventive healthcare approach rather than a purely cosmetic service.

In the hospitality and lifestyle sectors, Renu Kant, Founder of Envi Salon and Spa, has expanded her salon brand across major cities, while Swati Gupta, Capability Director and Head of Creative Development at Bodycraft, has strengthened professional training systems in India’s organised salon industry.

The beauty and cosmetics sector continues to see innovation through founders like Nikita Jain, Founder of re/do Beauty, who is blending skincare with makeup to create performance-driven cosmetic products.

Beyond beauty and wellness, women entrepreneurs are shaping mental health and community spaces. Ayesha Sharma, Founder of Dialogue Mental Health and a UCL-trained psychotherapist, is building trauma-informed and inclusive counselling services in India. Natasha Hemani, Brand Director of Blondie by Bastian, is redefining hospitality through community-focused café culture.

Food and beverage entrepreneurship is also witnessing remarkable women-led growth. Chef Ayushi Agarwal, Founder of Creme Cookies, built a successful dessert brand from a lockdown experiment, now run by an all-women team. Gayatri Chona, Founder of Phab, is transforming the snacking industry with protein-rich, flavour-forward products designed to bridge the gap between indulgence and nutrition.

Similarly, Vasuki Punj, Founder of Frozen Fun, transitioned from a career in international law to launching a premium gelato brand centred on craftsmanship and quality.

Creative entrepreneurship is represented by Shrruti Saraff, a Mumbai-based luxury makeup artist known for her work with high-net-worth clients and celebrity families at high-profile events. Her skin-first approach and precision have positioned her among India’s most trusted beauty professionals.

In the fragrance industry, Sharvi Mehta, Founder and CEO of Daily Compounds, is introducing a new generation of gender-neutral, formulation-focused scents rooted in transparency and scientific integrity.

While their industries differ, their journeys share a common thread—determination, innovation, and a commitment to building businesses with purpose. Together, these women entrepreneurs represent the evolving face of leadership in India.

Their stories are not exceptions but powerful examples of what sustained vision and conviction can achieve, shaping industries while inspiring the next generation of women leaders.