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Gurgaon, India, October 9, 2025: MDI Gurgaon, one of the premier business schools in India, held a Leadership Lecture on the theme “Collaboration Across Countries: Roadmap for a Sustainable Future” at the MDI Gurgaon Auditorium, featuring Mr. Erik Solheim, Former Minister of Environment, Norway, and former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program. The lecture was facilitated by the Centre for Ethics, ESG Initiatives and Responsible Organisations (CERO), MDI Gurgaon’s institutional centre promoting sustainability, ethical leadership, and responsible management practices.

This session brought together students, faculty, and industry leaders to discuss the importance of collective responsibility and cross-border collaboration for a sustainable and inclusive future. Mr. Solheim delivered a powerful lecture about the need for a new global architecture for peace and development with respect for state sovereignty, saying that to change borders is a “recipe for war.” Mr. Solheim also added, no nation should interfere in another nation’s internal affairs, and there needs to be a global framework for trade in which all nations benefit, and suggested deep structural reform of global institutions to move from a culture of bureaucracy to a culture of delivering.

Reflecting on collective responsibility and sustainability, he said, “True progress comes when nations, organisations, and individuals come together to share a vision. Working across borders is not just an opportunity; it is our responsibility to build a sustainable future for all.”

The event also welcomed Mr. Nishaanth Balashanmugam, the CEO and Director of Green Hydrogen India (GH2 India), who is actively involved in catalysing India’s green hydrogen future, underscoring the vital link between global dialogue and national action on sustainability. He also addressed the gathering, discussing India’s rising leadership in the clean energy space, followed by how innovation and cross-border partnerships in green hydrogen can help accelerate the transition to sustainability and energy security at a global scale.

The lecture focused on how ethical leadership and ESG (environmental, social, governance) principles are essential enablers of global collaboration. Using case studies and discussion, speakers and participants examined the significance of responsible leadership in achieving sustainable business and civil society outcomes.

The gathering convened MDI faculty, students, alumni, and corporate leaders, reinforcing MDI Gurgaon’s position as a thought leader in responsible management education. Through global experts and conversation, MDI Gurgaon continues to advance sustainability, ethics and leadership for change in the real world.

Mumbai, 08 Oct 2025: Managing your credit just got easier. CRIF High Mark, one of the country’s leading credit bureaus, today launched its Consumer Credit Management Platform along with the CRIF Grameen Credit Score a first-of-its-kind credit score designed especially for rural India. Developed as part of the Union Budget 2025–26 vision and backed by the RBI’s directive to improve rural credit access, this platform is aimed at enabling Indians to take control of their credit health, plan their financial future, and access loans more easily.

The Consumer Credit Management Platform acts as a personal financial companion, helping users track, monitor, and improve their credit profile all in one place. Whether planning to buy a home, upgrade a lifestyle, or start a business, the platform provides the tools to achieve financial goals faster. Users can track their credit score history, simulate upcoming score changes, receive alerts for any credit activity, monitor late payments, benchmark their credit score with their peers, and raise disputes if there are discrepancies. By giving consumers actionable insights, the platform helps avoid delays in loan approvals and supports smarter financial decisions.

The CRIF Grameen Credit Score brings the benefits of credit visibility to rural India. Tailored to suit the behavioural pattern of the rural population, it allows lenders to make more informed decisions while helping rural consumers establish a strong credit identity. This opens up opportunities for securing loans, growing businesses, achieving personal goals, driving financial inclusion, and empowerment across the country.

CRIF High Mark is an RBI-regulated credit information company that has data privacy and protection at its core, ensuring that consumer data is safe, accurate, and unbiased. With tools like score simulation, social comparison, and real-time alerts, CRIF empowers users to actively manage their credit profile and take steps to improve it over time, turning numbers into meaningful actions.

Ramkumar Gunasekaran, Wholetime Director, CRIF High Park, said: “Financial empowerment starts with knowing where you stand. Our new Consumer Credit Management Platform and Grameen Credit Score make it simple for Indians  whether in cities or villages to track, understand, and improve their credit health. It’s about helping people access opportunities, achieve dreams, and achieve financial growth responsibly”.

Cais, Joona and Tempestini secure a decisive team effort in the last round of the season, sealing the third crown for MRF Tyres after 2022 and 2023.

October 8th, 2025: Team MRF Tyres secured the prestigious FIA European Rally Championship team title during the Croatia Rally. This victory marked a remarkable milestone for the team, which is from India’s No 1 tyre manufacturer, MRF Tyres. The season was highly competitive and intense, culminating in a dramatic finale that was decided only in the final round, underscoring the team’s resilience and skill throughout the championship.

Following victories in 2022 and 2023, the ERC championship has been reclaimed by Team MRF Tyres, a testament to the collective effort and dedication of their drivers and co-drivers. Throughout this period, the team demonstrated exceptional teamwork and resilience, successfully representing their colors across various European events. The team’s success is attributed to a diverse roster of talented individuals from multiple countries, each contributing their skills and determination to achieve outstanding results.

The Team MRF Tyres lineup included Erik Cais and Igor Bagigal from the Czech Republic and Slovakia, respectively. Miklós Csomós, alongside Attila Nagy and Krisztián Kertészfrom Hungary; Callum Devinewith Niall Burns from Ireland. Chris Ingram from Great Britain paired with Alexander Kihurani from USA, Lauri Joona and Kristian Temonen from Finland, along with Roope Korhonenand Anssii Viinikka, also from Finland. Benjamin Korholafrom Finland, and the Norwegian duo Frank-Tore Larsen and Lars-Håkon Lundgreen, Stéphane Lefebvre with Andy Malfoy from France, Max McRae paired with Cameron Fair from Great Britain, and Mārtiņš Sesks with Renārs Francis from Latvia, and Jan Solans and Rodrigo Sanjuan from Spain, along with Simone Tempestini and Sergiu Itu from Romania, completed the diverse and talented roster.

Their collective effort underscores the importance of teamwork, strategic planning, and international collaboration in achieving success in competitive motorsport. The team’s ability to unify drivers from different backgrounds and harness their collective talent has been instrumental in reclaiming the crown and setting a high standard for future competitions.

The season was marked by strong performances, with team victories in Hungary and Poland and a one-two finish in Sweden, supported by consistent results on both tarmac and gravel. At the Croatia Rally, the final round of the series, the crews gave everything they had to secure the decisive points.

The event itself was a demanding challenge. The route was already tough and technical, and heavy rain on the final day made conditions even more complicated. Still, all three Team MRF Tyres crews finished inside the overall top ten, showing determination, resilience and strength from the technical package.

The best result came from Lauri Joona and Kristian Temonen (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2), who finished sixth overall. Making their debut on MRF Tyres, the Finnish crew drove a clean rally without mistakes, focusing on rhythm and consistency. They completed all ten special stages without issues, a strategy that paid off.

“It’s a big thanks to Team MRF Tyres. We had the chance to take on a really tricky rally, and we experienced everything you can face on a tarmac event. It was a big learning weekend and I’m happy to have contributed to earning the points that secured the Teams’ Title. Thanks to everyone involved,” Joona said.

Erik Cais and Igor Bacigál, also debuting on MRF Tyres with the Hyundai i20 N Rally2, finished seventh overall. The driver from Zlín showed the pace to fight for the podium, but setbacks on both legs cost him time. Despite this, Cais kept pushing to the end and played a key role in the final outcome.

“I am really happy with the Team title. Thanks to MRF Tyres we did a great job with strong support, and I am proud to be part of this. This was a really tough rally that brought many ups and downs. What matters most is the final result – a real team success,” Cais said.

Simone Tempestini and Sergiu Itu (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) also placed in the top ten with tenth overall. The Romanian had to cope with issues that limited his ambitions but recovered positions in the heavy rain of the final day. He also came close to winning the Power Stage, missing the podium by only six tenths.

“For sure it was not our year. Sometimes we made mistakes, sometimes we were really fast, but we missed a bit of luck. A big thank you to our partners, MRF Tyres, the team and all the people who follow us every rally. Even if this was not our best event, I am happy to have contributed to the success. Let’s move on to the next one” Tempestini said.

2025 FIA European Rally Championship – Teams Championship

1. Team MRF Tyres pt. 208;

2. M-Sport Ford World Rally Team pt. 206;

3. TRT Rally Team pt. 133;

4. Kowax DST Racing pt. 120;

5. J2X Rally Team pt. 82;

6. Proformance Service KFT – Team Staff House pt. 66;

7. Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy pt. 55;

8. MRF Tyres Dealer Team pt. 37;

9. ADAC Opel Rally Junior Team im ADAC e.V. pt. 34;

10. F.P.F. Sport pt. 30

2025 FIA European Rally Championship – Drivers Championship

1. Miko Marczyk (Škoda) pt. 154;

2. Jon Armstrong (Ford) pt. 148;

3. Andrea Mabellini (Škoda) pt. 131;

4. Mads Østberg (Citroën) pt. 104;

5. Roope Korhonen (Toyota) pt. 60;

6. Isak Reiersen (Škoda) pt. 60;

7. Romet Jürgenson (Ford) pt. 50;

8. Mille Johansson (Škoda) pt. 49;

9. Simone Tempestini (Škoda) pt. 36;

10. Mārtiņš Sesks (Škoda) pt. 35

Pic Credit: Pexel

Introduction to the PM-KUSUM Scheme

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme was initiated by the Government of India in 2019 with the primary objective of promoting the adoption of solar energy within the agricultural sector. Recognizing the increasing energy demands of farmers, the initiative aims to enhance the resilience of rural economies while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.

Under the PM-KUSUM scheme, the government has set an ambitious target to install 30,800 MW of solar capacity across various agricultural applications. This includes the installation of solar power plants on barren or uncultivable land, grid-connected solar power projects, and solar pumps for irrigation. By providing access to solar energy, the initiative endeavors to alleviate the energy costs incurred by farmers, thereby enabling them to utilize electric pumps for irrigation at a fraction of their current expenditure.

The scheme is bolstered by a significant financial investment from both the central and state governments, aimed at facilitating the deployment of solar technologies across rural landscapes. By focusing on promoting renewable energy, the PM-KUSUM scheme not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also supports the protection of farmers’ interests. The reduced reliance on diesel and other fossil fuels for irrigation can lead to financial savings, while simultaneously fostering a greener planet.

In essence, the PM-KUSUM scheme serves as a vital step towards integrating renewable energy solutions into India’s agricultural framework. It is designed to empower farmers, enhance energy independence, and promote sustainable agricultural practices that align with the country’s broader climate goals. As the scheme progresses, challenges and setbacks must be addressed to ensure its successful implementation and to realize its full potential for the agricultural community.

Current Challenges and Setbacks

The PM-KUSUM scheme, aimed at promoting renewable energy through solar energy generation, has encountered a series of challenges that have significantly impeded its progress. Each of the scheme’s three components—setting up solar pumps, decentralised solar power generation, and grid-connected solar projects—has reported inadequate achievements relative to the established targets. For instance, as of the latest data, only about 35% of the allocated solar pumps have been installed, falling short of the anticipated objectives. Similarly, grid-connected solar projects across various states have shown sluggish development, with numerous regions failing to meet their specified timelines.

This lack of progress is exacerbated by the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted supply chains and delayed crucial installation processes. The pandemic led to a significant dip in workforce availability and has stymied project execution on multiple fronts. Additionally, the procedural delays often seen in state and central approvals have further stalled activities, culminating in missed deadlines and increasing frustration among stakeholders. Particularly in regions where implementation was already weak, such as certain rural and remote areas, the pandemic has amplified existing challenges, including limited access to resources and uncertainty in project funding.

Moreover, financial constraints and budget reallocations have surfaced as pivotal barriers. The limited availability of funds to support infrastructure development has deterred many potential beneficiaries from participating in the scheme. The increasing bureaucratic red tape has only added to the contention, creating a climate of uncertainty for investors and applicants alike. These systemic issues underscore the pressing need for an urgent reassessment of strategies and a more flexible adaptation to current circumstances. Without such adjustments, the PM-KUSUM scheme risks falling significantly short of its potential impact in the renewable energy sector.

Government Response and Future Plans

The central government has been actively addressing the challenges that have arisen within the PM-KUSUM scheme, particularly as it faces the pressures of achieving set targets within the existing timeline. Recent discussions suggest that an extension of the scheme’s deadline may be on the horizon, allowing for necessary adjustments to enhance its efficacy and reach. This proposed extension aims to mitigate the issues confronting stakeholders and ensure that intended benefits are realized, primarily for the agricultural sector.

In addition to a possible timeline extension, the government is contemplating revisions to the original targets of the PM-KUSUM initiative. These potential changes are critical, as they could significantly influence the pace at which farmers adopt solar energy solutions. By adapting the goals of the scheme to reflect current realities, the government acknowledges the need to foster an environment conducive to solar energy deployment. This adaptability could not only improve participation but also enhance the overall impact of the scheme on India’s solar energy landscape.

The implications of these adjustments are manifold. For farmers, an extension and revised targets could translate into enhanced access to solar technology and financial support, enabling them to diversify their energy sources and reduce reliance on traditional methods. Such changes could also bolster the confidence of stakeholders, encouraging further investment in solar infrastructure that aligns with the broader objectives of sustainability and energy transition.

As the government navigates these challenges, the future of the PM-KUSUM scheme remains contingent upon its ability to remain flexible and responsive to the evolving needs of the agricultural community. Ultimately, the success of this initiative will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of renewable energy adoption in India, particularly within the agricultural sector.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for PM-KUSUM

The PM-KUSUM scheme, aimed at promoting solar energy usage in agriculture, has encountered various setbacks that have raised concerns about its efficiency and effectiveness. As the government contemplates a deadline extension, it becomes crucial to analyze both the current challenges and the measures being taken to address them. These challenges include procedural delays, financial constraints, and the need for stakeholder engagement. The scheme’s potential to positively impact farmers and enhance the agricultural landscape in India cannot be overstated. By integrating solar energy solutions, farmers can reduce dependency on traditional energy sources, lower costs, and increase productivity.

The prospect of a deadline extension allows for reevaluation of the existing obstacles, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to better align their objectives with the overarching goals of the PM-KUSUM scheme. However, prolonged timelines may also risk diluting the urgency of implementation. The government’s responses to these issues will play a fundamental role in shaping the scheme’s success. A collaborative approach, involving farmers, local authorities, and private sector actors, is essential to tackle these hurdles effectively.

Moreover, the long-term vision of the PM-KUSUM scheme extends beyond immediate benefits; it aims to instill a sustainable framework for agricultural practices powered by renewable energy. The drive towards solar energy can contribute significantly to India’s overall goal of sustainable development. Engagement of all stakeholders will ensure that the challenges are surmounted, facilitating smoother progress towards the revised targets of the scheme. By fostering a culture of collaboration and transparency, the PM-KUSUM initiative can be positioned not just as a short-term scheme, but as a cornerstone for a resilient agricultural future.

Manipal, October 08th, 2025: The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, inaugurated the ICMR–MAHE Centre for Advanced Research (CAR) at the Manipal Hospice and Respite Centre (MHRC), following the award of a INR 12.84 crore grant from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The Centre is led by Dr. Naveen Salins, Professor and Head of the Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, as Principal Investigator, with Dr. Arun Ghoshal, Assistant Professor, serving as Co-Principal Investigator.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Dr. Ashoo Grover, Scientist G and Head, Division of Delivery Research, ICMR, as Chief Guest, and Dr. Roopa Shivashankar, Scientist E (Medical), Division of Delivery Research, ICMR, as Guest of Honour. The event was presided over by Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, and organised by Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE. Distinguished participants included Dr. Anil K. Bhat, Dean, KMC Manipal, and Dr. Cherian Varghese, Director, Prasanna School of Public Health.

In his address, Dr. Ballal noted that the collaboration between ICMR and MAHE represents “the highest level of national recognition for MAHE’s research culture,” underscoring the University’s commitment to science that heals and research that transforms. Dr. Sharath K. Rao further outlined MAHE’s strategic roadmap for advancing health research and innovation.

The Centre for Advanced Research (CAR) seeks to address a critical gap in India’s healthcare system the need for ethical, compassionate, and evidence-based care for patients with advanced and terminal illnesses in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). The Centre will design and evaluate a Multifaceted Comprehensive Appropriate Care Package (MCACP) integrating palliative care principles into critical care settings.

Building upon MAHE’s pioneering BLUE MAPLE framework, developed and implemented at Kasturba Hospital and KMC Manipal, which has already influenced national end-of-life care standards, the CAR will now expand this initiative nationwide. The project will establish a multi-centre collaborative network of ten clinical centres and seven technical partners, advancing the reach and impact of this transformative model.

Encompassing multiple disciplines medicine, nursing, bioethics, health economics, law, and public health the Centre embodies MAHE’s One Health–One Humanity philosophy. By co-developing and testing a scalable model of appropriate ICU care for advanced illness, CAR aims to inform policy, enhance health-system responsiveness, and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

With a strong legacy in research, innovation, and translational excellence, MAHE continues to strengthen its role as a leader in India’s health-research ecosystem. The establishment of the ICMR–MAHE Centre for Advanced Research reaffirms the university’s mission to integrate science, ethics, and empathy in healthcare delivery, setting new national and global benchmarks in ICU and palliative-care research through interdisciplinary and implementation science.

For the first time in Gujarat, the unique presentation “Mera Desh Pahle” embodying Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Nation First’ will be held at GIFT City on October 10

Gandhinagar, 08 October 2025: The unique presentation, “Mera Desh Pahle,” depicting the inspiring story of New India’s transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, will be showcased for the first time in Gujarat at GIFT City, Gandhinagar, on Friday, 10 October 2025.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has consistently prioritised the nation’s interests above all else, dedicating his life to serving the country. The remarkable events and milestones from his life continue to inspire citizens across India with a spirit of patriotism, selfless dedication, and the ethos of “Nation First.” The mega show “Mera Desh Pahle” vividly brings to life this extraordinary journey of Shri Narendra Modi through a powerful and inspiring presentation.

Following its successful and widely acclaimed presentations in other states of India, the show “Mera Desh Pahle” will be staged for the first time in Gujarat at GIFT City, with free entry for all.

The show will take place at GIFT City on Friday, October 10, at 6:00 PM, and free entry is available exclusively through online registration at www.giftgujarat.in.

Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, state ministers, and prominent personalities from various sectors of society have also been invited to witness the staging of “Mera Desh Pahle”, produced by the renowned writer Shri Manoj Muntashir.

Mumbai, October 07, 2025: Netflix India announced a partnership with the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) and FICCI to support students in India’s AVGC-XR sector (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality). The MoU was exchanged in the presence of Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India at the 25th edition of FICCI Frames. This partnership will leverage Netflix’s creative excellence, IICT’s industry driven curriculum, and FICCI’s network to develop the next generation of creative-technology talent in India.

Netflix will support IICT in curriculum development and facilitate industry professionals to share real-world experience and best practices with IICT students. The collaboration will include workshops, masterclasses, and guest lectures—delivered directly or through partners—designed to mentor students, enhance the academic environment and equip students with future ready skills to thrive in the creative industry.

Under this MoU, Netflix will leverage the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity to offer scholarships to select students identified in collaboration with IICT. The Netflix Fund for Creative Equity is a dedicated effort to create opportunities for underrepresented talent in the media and entertainment sector.

To strengthen this partnership, Netflix will participate in three of IICT’s national councils: the R&D Council, the Academic Council, and the Industry Development Council, bringing together leading voices from academia, industry, and policy to help shape India’s AVGC-XR ecosystem.

Mahima Kaul, Director – Global Affairs, Netflix India, shares, “Building on our efforts to promote skill development and inclusive access in the media and entertainment sector, this collaboration with IICT and FICCI aligns with the government’s vision to strengthen India’s AVGC sector. By nurturing world-class talent, IICT aims to serve as a catalyst for India’s digital economy—empowering youth and enhancing the nation’s creative capabilities. Together, we aim to equip every aspiring creator with the tools and opportunities to drive innovation in entertainment.”

Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, Chief Executive Officer, IICT, shares “This collaboration with Netflix and FICCI marks a significant step in bridging the gap between academia and the creative industry. By providing our students with hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to global best practices, we are equipping the next generation of storytellers and technologists to thrive in India’s dynamic AVGC-XR ecosystem.”

Munjal Shroff, Chairman, FICCI AVGC-XR Forum, shares “The establishment of the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) as the National Centre of Excellence marks a transformative moment for India’s AVGC-XR sector. This MoU with IICT and Netflix underscores our commitment to building an industry-led ecosystem where academia, industry, and policy converge to unlock new opportunities. FICCI is proud to facilitate this collaboration, which will not only strengthen India’s position as a global hub for creative technologies but also nurture future-ready talent, drive innovation, and create pathways for sustainable growth in the sector.”

Mumbai, 07 October 2025: Kia India, a leading premium carmaker, today announced a significant leadership transition with the appointment of Mr. Sunhack Park as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Mr. Joonsu Cho as Chief Business Officer (CBO).

In his new role as CSO, Mr. Park will lead Kia India’s sales strategy, prioritizing sustainable growth, boosting operational efficiency, and expanding the brand’s market reach. With 28 years of international automotive experience, he has held key leadership roles at Kia Headquarters in South Korea, the Middle East & Africa (MEA), and India.

As CBO, Mr. Cho will be responsible for crafting comprehensive business strategies, production planning, export logistics, leading cross-functional teams, forging strategic alliances, and ensuring operational excellence. With over 32 years of leadership experience, Mr. Cho has served in multiple global roles across Australia, the UK, and Europe.

Mr. Sunhack Park, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India, said, “I am privileged to take on the role as Chief Sales Officer. This is an exciting phase for the brand as we continue to expand our presence in a dynamic and evolving market. My focus will be on driving sales growth, optimizing operational efficiency, and strengthening our dealer and partner ecosystem.”

Mr. Joonsu Cho, Chief Business Officer, Kia India, said, “I am honored to assume the role of Chief Business Officer. Kia India has made remarkable strides in the market, and my priority will be to develop and execute robust business strategies that support sustainable growth and operational excellence.

With this transition, Kia reinforces its commitment to India with a strong leadership team, driving innovation, and sustaining its growth trajectory in the Indian automotive market.

India, 7th october 2025: As Diwali approaches, homes shimmer with the glow of diyas, as the season’s excitement builds; not just for celebration, but for discovering gifts that truly light up family get-togethers. This Diwali, celebrate with the seventh edition of Diwali with Marriott Bonvoy where traditions sparkle, artistry delights, and every mithai takes you to India’s diverse delicacies for Diwali.

Our specially curated festive boxes blend the richness of heritage with a contemporary touch. Each offering is crafted with subtle elegance, intricate embossing, and accents of gold and iridescence — designed to bring festive joy and a sense of refined celebration. Available in options including the Box of 36 Sweets (INR 2,800 + GST), Box of 18 Sweets (INR 1,800 + GST), Variety Box of Nuts & Sweets (INR 2,100 + GST), Festive Crunch Box (INR 1,200 + GST), and Diwali Treasures (INR 1,500 + GST) there’s something to make every moment special.

The mithais, prepared by Marriott’s master chefs, are a creative reimagining of tradition: The Rosette, a luxurious peda with finger millet flour, Kerala cardamom, wrapped in rose petals and crowned with 24-karat gold foil; Citrus Noir, with rich cacao layered between vibrant orange and candied orange cubes; Cashew Bloom, pairing orange and chocolate barfi topped with marzipan; and Besan Soleil, a golden besan tartlet with a mango cashew sphere, almond flakes, and crowned with Pishori pistachio.

For those who crave savory crunch, the nut selection is irresistible: Kashmiri Ver Almonds with authentic Kashmiri spices, Tamarind & Curry Leaf Pecans, Bombay Bhel Spiced Cashews with smoked hickory and kasoori methi, and rustic yet refreshing Mint Cashews. 

Marriott Bonvoy members can make their celebrations even more rewarding by earning points on every festive box purchased, apart from using existing points to gift the mithai boxes to your loved ones.

The exquisite festive boxes are available at Marriott Bonvoy hotels across India. Pre-booking is now open, with availability till Diwali, making it the perfect time to secure your celebrations in advance.

This Diwali, let your gifts tell a story – of timeless elegance, thoughtful gestures, and joyful celebration. 

India, October 07, 2025: In the quarterly market update from Knight Frank India highlighted that the top 8 residential markets maintained sales momentum in Q3 2025 with a total of 87,603 housing units. Despite expectation of correction, residential sales recorded a 1% year-on-year (YoY) growth in Q3 2025, while year-to-date (YTD) sales figure was only marginally lower by 1%. As sales momentum continued to stay steady, Q3 2025 registered an increase in prices across all the markets, while supply recorded at 88,655 units for Q3 2025, noted a 2% decline over same time last year 

The macroeconomic backdrop provided stability with inflation easing to 2.07% in August 2025 from 3.65% a year ago. The RBI raised its FY 2026 GDP forecast to 6.8%, while the repo rate stood 1% lower compared to end-2024, boosting liquidity and sentiment in the real estate sector.

Residential Sales Performance

Mumbai continued to lead with 24,706 units sold (+2% YoY), accounting for 28% of the overall sales. Chennai recorded the strongest growth at 12% YoY with 4,617 units, its highest sales since the pandemic. Other major markets like NCR (12,955 units) and Bengaluru (14,538 units) remained steady, while Pune was the only laggard with sales declining by 8% YoY.

Source: Knight Frank Research

In Q3 2025 prices have continued to rise even as developers are increasingly introducing financing options, including bank tie-ups and subvention schemes, to stimulate sales. Defying expectations of a correction, the residential market remained rangebound yet resilient in Q3 2025. Premium housing sales, meanwhile, held firm as financing innovations, fiscal incentives, and buyer-focused measures continued to channel demand into higher-value segments.

Shishir Baijal, Chairman & Managing Director, Knight Frank India, said, “India’s residential market in Q3 2025 has demonstrated an impressive ability to sustain momentum and the market is now in its fifth year of an upcycle. Consequently, Y-o-Y growth rate is beginning to rationalise, and we may be entering a prolonged plateau phase. Within a volatile geopolitical environment, India’s macroeconomic conditions remain stable. The rate cut of up to 100 basis points, and liquidity support through the simplification of both direct taxes and GST have collectively strengthened end-user confidence. A notable outcome of this upcycle has been the surge in demand for premium housing, which has emerged as a key driver in recent years, reflecting the evolving aspirations of urban buyers for larger and higher-quality homes.”

India’s top eight markets saw 88,655 new units launched in Q3 2025, a slight dip of 2% YoY. Growth in new launches was led by Chennai (+44% YoY) and Bengaluru (+28% YoY). However, significant declines in Mumbai and NCR (-19% YoY each) constrained overall supply.

The quarter underscored the continued shift towards premium housing. Units priced below INR 1 Cr saw their share of sales drop to 48% in Q3 2025 compared to 54% in Q3 2024. By contrast, sales of homes priced over INR 1 Cr rose to 52% and grew by 15% YoY compared to a degrowth in ticket-size segments under INR 1 Cr.  With in the premium segment, the strongest growth was noted in the category INR 1 – 2 Cr which made up 28% of total sales. While on low base, the best YoY performance was noted in the category of INR 10-20 Cr which recorded 170% rise in sales in Q3 2025 compared to same period last year. 

Source: Knight Frank Research

The Quarters to Sell (QTS) – a key indicator of the health of the market, remained steady at 5.8 quarters, equivalent to less than 18 months of stock currently available, signalling a healthy market. Even while unsold inventory rose 4% YoY to 506,400 units, the velocity of sales noted over the last 8 quarters, indicates towards continued demand. Having said so, the unsold inventory in higher ticket-size categories over INR 10 mn such as such as INR 20–50 mn (+47% YoY) and INR 200–500 mn (+19% YoY) has been notably higher than the lower end of the market. Luxury and super-luxury segments (>INR 200 mn), though small in size (<1,500 units combined), displayed volatility in QTS such as in the category of INR 20 – 50 Cr the recorded QTS was of 14.4 quarters while in INR >50 Cr the was recorded at QTS 9.0. 

Strong demand for premium housing supported healthy price growth across markets. Market activity continues to be concentrated at the top end of the market while momentum persistently slides in ticket sizes under INR 10 mn. Price growth has been healthy in Q3 2025 despite overall sales not seeing any growth. The price growth has been strong in NCR, Bengaluru and Hyderabad at 19%, 15% and 13% YoY respectively.

Source: Knight Frank Research

Gulam Zia, Senior Executive Director – Valuation, Advisory and Research, Knight Frank India, added, “Premium housing has decisively taken centre stage, accounting for more than half of all sales this quarter. The strength of the INR 1–2 Cr segment, now the largest by volume, underscores a structural shift in buyer demand. Even with rising inventory, absorption levels remain stable, reaffirming the market’s ability to adjust and grow within a healthy and sustainable framework.”