Category news

New Delhi, September 13 2025: In its efforts to strengthen collaborative research and data sharing in meteorology, climate science, and environmental studies, Ashoka University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India. The MoU was formalised during the 2nd Annual Workshop on AI/ML Methods in Weather and Climate Modelling, hosted by Ashoka University’s Safexpress Centre for Data, Learning and Decision Sciences (SCDLDS). The Centre has been working over the past few years to strengthen India’s capacity for improved weather forecasting, particularly in predicting extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall, droughts, heat and cold waves and is engaging with IMD to bring in new machine learning tools and mathematical methodologies to such activities.

The partnership aims to promote deeper collaboration by facilitating data sharing for solutions to key scientific and societal problems pertaining to weather, climate variability, forecasting, and disaster risk reduction. It will support joint research initiatives across meteorology, climate science, atmospheric physics, hydrology, and environmental sustainability. It will encourage the exploration of interdisciplinary topics such as impact of climate change, extreme weather events, air quality, and agro-meteorology, combining IMD’s observational datasets with Ashoka University’s analytical and computational expertise to improve weather and climate forecasting models,  heatwave prediction, monsoon variability, assess climate risks & adaptation strategies, and the impact on agriculture. 

Both IMD and Ashoka University will collaborate in the design and delivery of coursework, including lectures, practical training, fieldwork, examinations, and project guidance, in line with Ashoka University’s academic framework. The MoU also entails facilitation of student and researcher internships at IMD for hands-on experience with weather monitoring and forecasting.

Highlighting the importance of this collaboration, Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General, IMD, said, “We are delighted to partner with Ashoka University to advance the culture of research and innovation in the domains of meteorology and climate science. This partnership is set to benefit both the institutions, as the university will get IMD’s vast operational expertise and data resources, and we will  benefit from Ashoka’s analytical and academic strengths. Together, we can develop better tools, models, and knowledge systems that will benefit society at large.” 

Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor of Ashoka University, said, “Our partnership with IMD represents a significant step in Ashoka’s commitment to interdisciplinary research with societal impact. By leveraging IMD’s extensive data and expertise, we will be able to contribute meaningfully to advancing climate science, improving weather forecasting, and preparing communities to adapt to the challenges of a changing environment.”

Sandeep Juneja, Professor of Computer Science, Director of Safexpress Centre for Data, Learning and Decision Sciences, said, “the new developments in machine learning in weather and climate modelling when combined with increased availability of large datasets and physics based classical weather and climate models, can dramatically improve extreme weather forecasts that may help in many ways including in saving lives and  enhancing agricultural productivity.” 

A key component of this collaboration is data sharing and management. Both institutions will establish clear protocols for secure and ethical sharing of meteorological, climatological, and remote sensing data with the university researchers, while setting clear guidelines on access, usage, storage, and intellectual property rights. 

Moreover, capacity building and training will be integral to the partnership. The institutions will organise workshops, short-term courses, and training programmes in meteorological data analysis, climate modelling, and computational methods. Ashoka University and IMD will also jointly design and refine machine learning, and dynamical models for weather and climate applications, validating these tools using IMD’s historical datasets and Ashoka’s computational infrastructure.

To maintain effective oversight, a Joint Steering Committee (JSC) comprising representatives from both institutions will be established. The committee will monitor progress, hold periodic reviews, and ensure smooth coordination between research teams.

Mumbai 13 september 2025:Mumbai’s housing market is on the brink of a major transformation, as ongoing society redevelopment projects are expected to add over 44,277 new homes valued at INR 1,305 billion by 2030, according to a recent report by Knight Frank India.

The study reveals that since 2020, 910 housing societies across the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) limits have signed development agreements, unlocking nearly 327 acres of land for redevelopment. Despite this surge, the city has only begun to tap into its vast potential, with an estimated 1.6 lakh societies over 30 years old still eligible for redevelopment.

The Western Suburbs, stretching from Bandra to Borivali, account for the lion’s share of redevelopment activity with 32,354 units (73% of the total pipeline). This is followed by the Central Suburbs with 10,422 units, Central Mumbai with 1,085 units, and South Mumbai with 416 units. Hotspots such as Borivali, Andheri, and Bandra together contribute nearly 139 acres of redevelopment activity, underscoring their position as the city’s leading transformation corridors. Between 2020 and H1 2025, the Western Suburbs alone accounted for 633 out of 910 society deals, recording 70% of all agreements signed since 2020. Central Suburbs may add another 234 societies, pushing the suburban contribution to almost 96%.

Beyond housing supply, redevelopment also carries major fiscal benefits. The free sale component from society redevelopment is expected to generate approximately Rs 7,830 crore in stamp duty and another Rs 6,525 crore as GST over the next five years.

Data indicates that over 80% of redevelopment deals signed since 2020 involved societies with plot sizes below 0.49 acres—highlighting the dominance of small, compact projects. Yet, larger cluster projects are gradually gaining momentum, hinting at a shift in the city’s redevelopment model.

Welcoming the findings, industry leaders emphasized the economic and social importance of redevelopment:

Mr. Prashant Sharma, President, NAREDCO Maharashtra said, “Redevelopment is the most vital force driving Mumbai’s real estate growth today. With limited greenfield land availability, society redevelopment not only provides safer, modern homes for existing residents but also fuels the city’s housing supply pipeline. The Knight Frank findings highlight how this opportunity, if supported by policy stability, faster approvals, and rational taxation, can be the foundation for Mumbai’s urban transformation. It is imperative that all stakeholders – government, developers, and housing societies – work in sync to ensure timely execution and affordability.”

Mr. Vikas Jain, CEO, Labdhi Lifestyle and President, NAREDCO Maharashtra NextGen said, “Redevelopment is the future of Mumbai’s real estate, and the report captures its economic and social significance well. The younger generation of developers and professionals see this as an opportunity to infuse new ideas, technology, and customer-centric practices into legacy housing clusters. It is also a chance to address the city’s housing shortage in a sustainable way. The focus now should be on collaborative governance and faster project timelines, so that the benefits reach both residents and the broader economy in time.”

Mr. Navin Makhija, Managing Director, The Wadhwa Group said, “Society redevelopment is a win-win for all stakeholders – residents get modern homes with upgraded lifestyle amenities, developers gain access to scarce land parcels, and the state benefits through increased revenues while contributing to the central government’s ‘Housing for All’ initiative. Housing demand continues to remain robust, further fueling growth in the redevelopment sector. Customers also benefit by gaining access to multiple project options as redevelopment unlocks new housing opportunities in their preferred locations.”

A Spokesperson from Chandak Group added, “The sheer scale of society redevelopment in Mumbai points to the city’s unique growth story. With over 44,000 new homes expected by 2030, the transformation is unprecedented. Developers today carry the responsibility of balancing aspiration with execution. We believe redevelopment is not just about buildings but about creating thriving communities with better infrastructure, amenities, and quality of life. A stable policy framework will further accelerate this transition.”

Mr. Dhruman Shah, Promoter, Ariha Group said, “Society redevelopment is no longer just an alternative – it is the primary growth driver for Mumbai’s housing market. The numbers shared reaffirm the enormous potential of this segment. For developers, the opportunity lies in bringing efficiency, transparency, and trust into the process, ensuring that societies feel confident in handing over their most valuable asset. With strong demand, government revenues, and improved infrastructure, redevelopment will continue to be the backbone of Mumbai’s real estate growth story.”

With nearly 160,000 societies aged over 30 years and eligible for redevelopment, the sector’s potential is immense. While Knight Frank projects an optimistic outlook, developers caution that timely execution, transparent practices, and policy support will determine whether this transformation can be delivered at scale.

India, 13September 2025 – Courchevel, the distinguished jewel of the French Alps, is set to showcase its world of alpine luxury to India through an exclusive four-city roadshow in collaboration with One Rep Global.

The highly anticipated showcase will begin in Bangalore on September 15, travel to Ahmedabad on September 16, continue to New Delhi on September 18, and conclude in Mumbai on September 19.

Over the course of the week, India’s leading luxury travel advisors and trade professionals will be introduced to Courchevel’s finest experiences—from world-class skiing on the slopes of Les 3 Vallées and Michelin-starred gastronomy to luxury chalets, alpine events, and the cultural richness that has long defined Courchevel as a global luxury destination.

Alexia Laine, Director, Courchevel Tourisme, shared: “India is an incredibly important market for us, and we are delighted to return with a stronger presence across four key cities. Courchevel offers an unmatched combination of thrilling alpine adventure and world-class luxury. For Indian travellers seeking refined experiences with a touch of cultural authenticity, Courchevel represents the very best of the French Alps.”

The roadshow is being curated by One Rep Global, India’s leading sales and marketing representation company for luxury hospitality and travel.

Hemant Mediratta, Founder & CEO of One Rep Global, said: “At One Rep Global, we are committed to connecting India’s discerning travellers with the world’s most exceptional destinations. Courchevel is a perfect example of luxury that goes beyond indulgence—it is about experiences, authenticity, and connections. This roadshow provides an invaluable opportunity for India’s luxury travel community to engage deeply with the destination.”

Loveleen Arun, Advisory Board Member of One Rep Global and Founder of Panache World, commented: “Indian travellers today are evolving rapidly in their preferences—they want destinations that not only deliver luxury but also embody a sense of place and uniqueness. Courchevel offers exactly this—a rare harmony of elegance, culture, gastronomy, and adventure. We are delighted to be a part of this initiative to bring Courchevel closer to the Indian market.”

With its timeless allure, Courchevel continues to define haute montagne living, where glamour, gastronomy, and alpine adventure come together. Celebrating 80 years of setting the standard for luxury alpine experiences, 2026 marks a special milestone in Courchevel’s storied history. This exclusive roadshow is a gateway for Indian travellers to discover why Courchevel remains one of the world’s most coveted luxury destinations.

13th September 2025, New Delhi – PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) hosted the Art & Culture Conclave 2025 today at PHD House, New Delhi, convening distinguished voices from government, art, music and culture to deliberate on the intersection of heritage and economics in shaping India’s creative future.

The inaugural session featured Chief Guest, Smt. Rashmi Singh (IAS), Secretary, Department of Art, Culture & Languages, Government of NCT of Delhi, who lauded Delhi’s role as a cultural capital. She emphasized that art and culture are not just about aesthetics, but also about livelihoods, inclusivity and sustainability. “Delhi is a living museum of languages, traditions and heritage. Our responsibility is to safeguard this wealth while making it accessible to all sections of society,” she noted.

Delivering the Theme Address, Mr. Chhatrapati Ranjit Rai, Chair – Art & Culture Committee, PHDCCI, stressed the importance of building an ecosystem where art and culture are not restricted to elite circles, but are positioned as inclusive and sustainable drivers of India’s growth.

Mrs. Anuradha Goel, Chairperson, PHD Family Welfare Foundation, further underlined the need to ensure that the fruits of culture and creativity reach every community and region, broadening access and strengthening India’s inclusive development narrative.

Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General, PHDCCI, highlighted the Chamber’s 120-year-old legacy in advancing not only business, but also intellectual and cultural dialogue. He described art and culture as India’s strongest soft power and urged that their preservation must go hand in hand with sustainability. “By bridging preservation with sustainability, we can ensure that this sector flourishes as a vital part of India’s growth journey,” he said.

Ms. Shalini S Sharma, Assistant Secretary General, PHDCCI, expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, partners and participants, noting that the conclave reflects PHDCCI’s vision of integrating heritage with modernity and creating platforms that transform culture into opportunities for the future.

The discussions during the day addressed the pressing economic and social questions facing India’s creative sector. The first panel, ‘Beyond the canvas – The ecosystem of art & galleries’, moderated by Mr. Kishore Singh, Author & Former Head of Exhibitions & Publications, Delhi Art Gallery, featuring Ms. Vandana Kalra, Senior Art Writer, The Indian Express; Ms. Ranjana Steinruecke, Director, Galerie Mirchandani + Steinruecke, Delhi & Mumbai; and Ms. Payal Kapoor, Owner, Arushi Arts, explored how emerging artists can gain wider visibility and how art can move beyond exclusive spaces to resonate with society at large. Panellists stressed inclusivity, accessibility and community engagement as essential to democratizing art and strengthening the gallery ecosystem.

The second session, ‘The economics behind classical music concerts’, moderated by Ms. Suanshu Khurana, Senior Assistant Editor, The Indian Express, including Pandit Vishwanath, Eminent Hindustani Classical Vocalist; Mr. Sanjeev Bhargava, Founder & Festival Director, Seher, New Delhi; and Ms. Rashmi Malik, Director, Spic Macay, reflected on the financial challenges of sustaining classical performances in a changing cultural landscape. Speakers highlighted the urgent need for corporate patronage, CSR initiatives and innovative funding models to ensure that classical music not only survives but thrives with new audiences.

The evening was graced by Justice Arjan Sikri, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India, Chief Guest for the cultural segment. In his address, he underlined the vital role of cultural heritage in shaping national identity. He observed that a nation draws strength not only from its economy, but also from its civilisational roots and urged collective responsibility for preserving and promoting India’s traditions.

The conclave concluded with ‘Mehfil-e-Ghazal’, a soulful performance by celebrated Bollywood Sufi and Ghazal singer Mr. Javed Khan Kalawant, alongside Mr. Chhatrapati Ranjit Rai. Their mesmerizing renditions immersed the audience in timeless melodies and provided a fitting finale to a day of thought-provoking conversations.

As participants continued their exchanges over hi-tea and networking, the conclave reaffirmed PHDCCI’s commitment to positioning art and culture not merely as legacies to be preserved, but as dynamic, inclusive and sustainable pillars of India’s economic and social growth.

The conclave was supported by C & R Textiles, PHD Family Welfare Foundation and Galerie Mirchandani + Steinruecke.

Hyderabad, 13th September 2025: Representatives of BNI (Business Network International), led by Ms. Sanjana Shah, Executive Director of BNI Hyderabad, called on the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Revanth Reddy garu, today.

The delegation apprised him of BNI GoNat, the region’s largest MSME Expo, to be held on September 13–14, 2025, at SS Convention, Shamshabad.

CPI inflation stood at 2.07% for the month of August 2025, GST 2.0 Reforms expected to maintain Price Stability: PHDCCI

Year-on-year CPI inflation for August 2025 stood with RBI’s tolerance limit at 2.07%, despite international policy uncertainties, said Mr. Hemant Jain, President, PHDCCI, in a press statement issued here today.

The year-on-year inflation rate, based on the All-India Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI), stood at –0.69% (provisional) in August 2025 compared with August 2024, supporting the prevailing low CPI inflation, Mr. Jain noted.

He further highlighted that the softening in the prices in August 2025 for cereals and products, pulses & products, as well as moderation in clothing and footwear, housing, and fuel and light, in comparison to July 2025, have collectively helped keep inflation within RBI tolerance level, he said.

Looking ahead, we anticipate a further decline in CPI inflation, aided by the GST 2.0 reforms package. The proposed simplified two-tier structure will reduce production costs, translate into lower prices, and, in turn, stimulate consumption, he added.

12 TH SEOTEMBER 2025; Renowned artist and designer Mahesh Sharma is set to unveil his latest exhibition, NAR + NARI, a powerful exploration of the eternal balance between masculine and feminine energies. Representing the dichotomy of yin and yang that is celebrated across literature, the arts, crafts, and culture in our country, this show by Mahesh interprets the concept of symbolic balance, fertility, and forces that sustain the cosmic order. Drawing inspiration and inferences from Mahesh’s personal journey of spiritual exploration, this unique show is divided into four powerful sections, showcasing aesthetics, paintings, sculptures, and installations, transporting audiences into a world of self-reflection, transformation, and balance.

Opening with an exclusive preview evening on September 12, 2025, at Bikaner House, New Delhi, the exhibition promises to be a landmark event in the city’s cultural calendar. NAR + NARI will continue at the LTC, Exhibition Hall, Bikaner House, Gate No. 3, Pandara Road, New Delhi, from the 13th to 17th September, between 11 AM and 7 PM.

A celebrated artist and space designer, Mahesh Sharma has long been acclaimed for his evocative works that bridge Indian aesthetics with contemporary thought. NAR + NARI continues this journey, presenting a solo exhibition that delves into the dualities of masculine (Nar) and feminine (Nari) energies through layered, soulful compositions.

Known for his distinct visual language that is rooted in Indian traditions and essayed with contemporary ease. Mahesh’s works invite viewers to reflect on identity, duality, and harmony. This latest body of work is an embodiment of the visitors ‘ experience, an artistic dialogue between man and woman as envisioned through the artist’s distinctive lens. This exhibition offers not only a showcase of creativity but also a space for reflection on balance, identity, and harmony.

September 12, 2025, Gurugram: Indifi Technologies, one of India’s leading digital platforms for MSME lending, today announced its FY25 financial performance, reflecting a year of strategic realignment, deeper technology integration, and sharper credit risk management.

Despite macroeconomic challenges across the MSME credit ecosystem, Indifi delivered a 22% year-over-year increase in operational revenue, driven by improved monetisation and platform activity. Over 55,000 MSMEs across India are now actively working with Indifi, with growing traction in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

Over the past year, Indifi has strengthened its credit portfolio, with a 30% improvement in the quality of disbursals during the last two quarters (Q3 FY’25 and Q4 FY’25), compared to the previous two quarters. This follows the tightening of risk policies and a strategic shift toward more resilient customer profiles. FY25 included provisioning-led losses due to wider credit stress and a change of accounting standards from IGAAP to IND AS. Additionally, Indifi’s portfolio recorded a 15% improvement in credit quality during Q1 FY’26, compared to the preceding two quarters.

 Building on this momentum, Indifi expanded its lending portfolio by scaling working capital and supply chain finance, and introducing sector-focused solutions for D2C, packaging, and retail. Over 50 per cent of new disbursals were covered under credit guarantee schemes, providing an added layer of protection against volatility.

The company continued to invest heavily in technology, deploying Document AI to automate classification and fraud detection, and integrating with consent-based platforms such as Account Aggregator, GSTN, and DigiLocker to streamline underwriting. It also introduced AI-powered tools to boost development efficiency. Together, these innovations reduced disbursal time, minimized human intervention, and strengthened the digital delivery experience. Financially, Indifi maintained capital adequacy well above the mandated thresholds, held a conservative debt-to-equity ratio, and kept elevated provisioning in line with the long-term health of its portfolio.

Commenting on the development, Alok Mittal, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Indifi, said: “The past year has been transformative for us at Indifi as we took proactive steps to reinforce the fundamentals of our business. We strengthened our credit filters early, diversified our offerings toward secured lending, and invested in technology and risk management. FY25 was not about chasing scale, but about building a more resilient and future-ready platform. Our ability to grow through this phase reflects the depth of our model and the strength of our long-term commitment to India’s MSMEs.”

As India’s MSME landscape becomes more structured, digital and growth-oriented, Indifi is scaling with strategic intent. The company aims to expand its secured lending footprint, enhance its AI-led credit infrastructure and deepen outreach to high-potential yet underserved small businesses. The objective is to enable responsible credit access while creating long-term value for MSMEs, ecosystem partners and the broader economy.

 12th september,Bihar;The Bihar Urban Symposium 2025 was organized on 11th September 2025 at Chandragupt Institute of Management Patna (CIMP), in collaboration with RERA Bihar and UNICEF, where policymakers, administrators, and thought leaders deliberated on the condition and direction of Bihar’s urban future in the coming years. The session began with the Welcome Address by Prof. (Dr.) Rana Singh, Director, CIMP, who highlighted the institute’s commitment to fostering dialogue on inclusive and sustainable urban development.

Shri Tokhan Sahu, Hon’ble Minister of State, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, in his Presidential Address, spoke about Bihar’s rich history and cultural heritage, citing Mithila paintings as a symbol of tradition and pride. He emphasized Bihar’s potential to emerge as a hub of education, culture, and self-reliance by striking a balance between heritage and modern progress. Stressing on education, infrastructure, and sustainable urban planning, he shared his vision for greener and more resilient cities. Following the inaugural session, Shri Tokhan Sahu also engaged in a policy dialogue with CIMP students, offering detailed insights into government initiatives.

Shri Jibesh Kumar, Hon’ble Minister, Urban Development and Housing Department, Government of Bihar, outlined major initiatives under the Swachh Bihar Mission. He announced plans to generate electricity from plastic waste, establish ‘Pink Toilets’ for women, and initiate priority corridors to improve urban mobility and public amenities.

Delivering the Keynote Address, Shri Durga Shankar Mishra, IAS, Former Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India & Former Chief Secretary, Uttar Pradesh, underlined innovative financing mechanisms, public-private partnerships, and green financing as crucial tools to address the challenges of rapid urbanization.

During the discussions, Dr. S. Siddharth, IAS, Development Commissioner, Bihar, highlighted that improvements in regulatory frameworks and their effective implementation can transform urban landscapes. He noted that the Patna Metro Project, expected to be completed by the end of this month, will be a milestone in modernizing urban transport and reducing congestion. He also emphasized efforts to enhance the quality of life for citizens.

Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh, Inquiry Commissioner, RERA Bihar, stressed the importance of accountability and transparency in real estate regulation to enhance homebuyers’ confidence and ensure orderly urban development. Shri Anand Iyer, Chief Policy and Insights Officer, Janaagraha, emphasized governance reforms and citizen participation, noting that sustainable urban development can only be achieved through active public engagement.

In the first thematic session, discussions focused on developing satellite cities around existing urban areas. Eminent architect Kavi Jain highlighted the vision of creating quality, aesthetic, and livable urban infrastructures. In the second session, discussions centered on investment in future urban needs. Shri Vivek Kumar Singh, Chairman, RERA Bihar, and noted economist Prof. Alakh Narayan Sharma discussed capital requirements for urban growth and strategies to mobilize investment toward achieving sustainable city goals.

The third session deliberated on urban disaster preparedness and resilient living. Dr. Uday Kant Mishra, Vice-Chairman, Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, in his presidential address, stressed the importance of preparedness and preventive measures to mitigate urban disasters. Akash Jha, Director, Institute of Town Planners, emphasized the crucial role of urban planning in sustainable city development.

The symposium collectively reflected on shaping Bihar’s urban future with a vision grounded in sustainability, inclusivity, innovation, and cultural pride. It also underlined the need to work further in detail on these themes in the times ahead.

The symposium concluded with the Vote of Thanks by Prof. (Dr.) Sunil Kumar, Professor, CIMP, who extended heartfelt gratitude to all distinguished dignitaries and participants. The event was attended by faculty members, students, staff, and several eminent guests.

Bharat Prawaas Awards 2025 Celebrates Excellence in Passenger Mobility; Shri Nitin Gadkari Inaugurates Event

Mumbai / New Delhi, September 12, 2025: The Bus and Car Operators Confederation of India (BOCI) successfully hosted the Bharat Prawaas Awards 2025 today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, in the presence of distinguished leaders from government, industry, and the mobility ecosystem.

The Event was inaugurated by Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, who graced the ceremony as Chief Guest. The event was further distinguished by the presence of Shri Prakash Sangam, CEO, redBus, Shri Girish Wagh, Executive Director, Tata Motors, Shri Satish Sehrawat, President, Indian Tourist Transporters Association (IATA), and Dr. Harish Sabharwal, President, All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC). Senior leadership from BOCI, including Shri Jagdeo Singh Khalsa, Chairman; Shri Prasanna Patwardhan, President; Shri Mohammed Afzal, National Vice-President; Shri D.R. Dharmaraj, General Secretary, Shri Harsh Kotak, Treasurer of BOCI and Shri Jagdish Patankar, Exec. Chairman, MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications, the Event Curator.

The Bharat Prawaas Awards, earlier held alongside the biennial Prawaas event, has now emerged as a national platform that will annually recognize and celebrate excellence in India’s passenger mobility and transportation sector. Anchored in the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the Awards honoured organizations and individuals who have contributed to building a modern, inclusive, and sustainable transport ecosystem.

This year’s edition, supported by redBus as the Lead Partner, received nominations from over 230 organizations and individuals across the mobility sector, out of which 63 winners were felicitated. One of the key categories was the People’s Choice Awards, instituted by redBus to honour the invaluable contribution of bus operators to India’s ground transport ecosystem. These awards featured sub-categories such as the Rising Star Awards, recognizing emerging operators demonstrating exceptional growth and innovation, and the STU Awards, highlighting excellence and service delivery by State Transport Undertakings. Driven by public participation and backed by data-based assessments across parameters like safety, operational excellence, and customer service, these recognitions carry special significance. The Prawaas Excellence Awards further honoured 44 winners for best practices in operations, services, technology adoption, and sustainability.

On this occasion, BOCI also formally announced the fifth edition of Prawaas, India’s flagship multimodal transport show, which will be held in August 2026 at the Helipad Exhibition Centre in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. To mark the announcement, a special preview film was screened, offering participants a glimpse of the scale, vision, and highlights expected at Prawaas 5.0.

Another significant milestone was the announcement of a State Ranking Index, being developed by BOCI in partnership with the World Resources Institute (WRI), to assess the ease of bus operations and the sector’s investment climate. Covering themes such as business environment, workforce, safety, clean fuel transition, PPP, and institutional buses, the index aims to spur reforms and healthy competition among states. The full State ranking report will be released at Prawaas 5.0 in 2026.

Following the Awards, BOCI hosted the BOCI Dialogue, a half-day leadership forum designed to bring together policymakers, fleet operators, OEMs, technology pioneers, and industry stakeholders to shape the future of Indian mobility. The opening session titled “Building Future-Ready Mobility for a Viksit Bharat” highlighted how public transport can become the backbone of equitable, efficient, and sustainable growth for a developed India by 2047. The second session, “Regulatory Innovations for Smart and Sustainable Transport”, explored how progressive regulatory frameworks can accelerate the adoption of smart mobility solutions, strengthen safety, and create a transparent, future-ready ecosystem for operators, manufacturers, and passengers.

The Bharat Prawaas Awards 2025 and the BOCI Dialogue together reinforced BOCI’s commitment to advancing India’s transport sector and aligning the industry with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The event not only celebrated excellence but also reaffirmed the collective responsibility of policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators in shaping India’s journey towards a safer, smarter, and more sustainable mobility future.