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  • Senior Citizens Face Growing Social Engineering Scams as NPCI Urges Caution

    National Payments Corporation of India outlines common fraud tactics including digital arrest, phishing and fake investment schemes, advises immediate reporting through helpline 1930

    India: As digital transactions become routine for senior citizens, instances of social engineering based fraud have also increased. The National Payments Corporation of India has drawn attention to common scam patterns and precautionary steps to reduce financial risk.
    Digital arrest fraud involves callers posing as law enforcement officials who threaten legal action over fabricated charges and pressure victims to transfer money or disclose personal information. Authorities do not demand payments or conduct investigations through phone or video calls.

    Investment fraud typically includes impersonation of financial experts promising unusually high returns. Fraudsters often misuse the names of reputed institutions to create credibility before disappearing with transferred funds.
    Phishing and vishing scams use emails, text messages or phone calls that appear to originate from banks or government agencies. Victims are prompted to share login credentials, OTPs or banking information.

    Tech support scams involve callers claiming that a device is infected with malware and persuading users to download remote access applications, enabling unauthorised access.
    Refund and payment link fraud directs users to fake web pages designed to capture login details under the pretext of rebates or order refunds.

    NPCI has advised senior citizens not to share UPI PINs, OTPs, passwords or banking credentials with anyone. Unknown links should not be opened and remote access applications should not be installed on request from unsolicited callers. Messages creating urgency regarding KYC expiry, SIM blocking or pension suspension should be verified independently.
    In case of suspected fraud, individuals are advised to contact the national cybercrime helpline at 1930 immediately and inform their bank. Saving communication records and seeking assistance from trusted family members before acting on unexpected instructions can help prevent financial loss.
    NPCI stated that digital payments remain secure when users follow basic verification practices and remain alert to unsolicited requests.
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  • Valentine’s Day D2C Orders Rise 43 Percent as Women Account for 53 Percent of Purchases, GoKwik Data Shows

    Chirag Taneja, Co founder and CEO of GoKwik, says Tier 3 cities contributed over 43 percent of total shopping volume

    New Delhi, February 16, 2026: Valentine’s Day shopping patterns this year reflected a shift toward practical and lifestyle focused purchases, according to data released by GoKwik, which works with more than 15,000 direct to consumer brands.
    During the 2026 Valentine sale period, orders across GoKwik’s D2C network increased 43 percent year on year, while gross merchandise value rose approximately 40 percent. Jewellery and accessories continued to lead volumes, with bracelets and gold plated bangles among the top sellers. Premium fragrances and wellness oriented kits also recorded significant demand.

    The analysis identified three key drivers of the season: early purchasing behaviour, higher participation from female shoppers and strong contribution from Tier 3 towns. Peak shopping activity was recorded as early as February 1, with brands capturing demand soon after Republic Day sales. Promotional codes such as HEART14 and BOGO VALENTINE contributed to early momentum.
    Female shoppers accounted for 53 percent of Valentine themed orders across the network. Purchases included gifting for partners, friends and self use. The data suggests a broader participation trend, with women contributing significantly to overall D2C order volumes during the period.

    Tier 3 districts contributed over 43 percent of total shopping volume, surpassing Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities. According to the company, this reflects widening access to aspirational brands and lifestyle products beyond major metropolitan markets.
    Chirag Taneja, Co founder and CEO of GoKwik, said, “Valentine’s commerce has evolved beyond simple gifting; it is now defined by lifestyle and aspiration. The fact that Tier 3 cities contributed over 43 percent of the shopping volume shows how widely this aspiration has spread. This season proves that for D2C brands, those who employed strategic, early, and thematic engagement were the ones that successfully converted this widespread aspiration into definitive growth signals.”

    The data also showed growing preference for what the company described as utility driven purchases over traditional items such as flowers and chocolates. Health oriented products such as gym shakers and skincare kits featured among high performing categories.
    GoKwik operates as an ecommerce enablement platform serving over 165 million shoppers and provides conversion and checkout solutions to D2C brands.
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  • Ambuja Cements Conducts Industrial Exposure Visit for SEDI Ambujanagar Trainees

    Project Udaan enables BPO, GDA and HAT trainees to visit Ambuja Cements Plant, Thermal Power Plant and BCT Muldwarka for operational learning

    Gujarat, February 16, 2026: Ambuja Cements organised an industrial exposure visit for trainees enrolled under Project Udaan at its Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Institute in Ambujanagar, aimed at strengthening practical learning and industry readiness.
    Trainees from the Business Process Outsourcing, General Duty Assistant and Hospital Assistant Technician trades participated in the visit. The programme included guided tours of the Ambuja Cements Plant and the Thermal Power Plant, where participants were introduced to operational workflows, safety protocols and workplace systems.

    The exposure visit also covered BCT Muldwarka, offering trainees insight into industrial logistics and infrastructure operations. During the visits, officials explained key processes at each facility and addressed queries raised by the trainees.
    The initiative is part of Ambuja Cements’ ongoing efforts to connect classroom instruction with real world industrial environments and improve employability outcomes for trainees.

    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedInInstagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.
  • CII Indian Green Building Council Appoints C Shekar Reddy as National Chairman and A R Unnikrishnan as Vice Chairman

    C Shekar Reddy, Chairman and Managing Director, CSR Estates Ltd, and A R Unnikrishnan, Managing Director Glass Business, Saint Gobain India Pvt Ltd, to assume roles from April 1 as B Thiagarajan completes tenure

    Hyderabad, February 16, 2026: The Confederation of Indian Industry Indian Green Building Council announced a leadership transition effective April 1, 2026, with C Shekar Reddy set to take over as National Chairman and A R Unnikrishnan as National Vice Chairman.
    C Shekar Reddy, currently National Vice Chairman of CII Indian Green Building Council and Chairman and Managing Director of CSR Estates Ltd, will succeed B Thiagarajan, Managing Director of Blue Star Ltd, whose two year term concludes at the end of March. A R Unnikrishnan, Managing Director Glass Business, Saint Gobain India Pvt Ltd, will assume the role of National Vice Chairman.

    Established in 2001 by the Confederation of Indian Industry, the Indian Green Building Council serves as India’s certification body for sustainable and resource efficient buildings. The council currently has more than 18,850 registered projects representing a cumulative green building footprint exceeding 15.52 billion sq ft across commercial, residential, institutional and industrial sectors. It has developed 33 Green and Net Zero rating systems and represents India at the World Green Building Council.

    C Shekar Reddy said, “India’s growth trajectory presents a historic opportunity to shape a built environment that is not only economically vibrant but also environmentally resilient. Sustainability can no longer remain a niche consideration; it must become integral to how we design, construct, and operate our buildings, factories, and infrastructure. Over the coming years, IGBC will intensify its efforts to drive measurable environmental outcomes, strengthen industry capacity, and support India’s long term climate commitments.”
    He added that the focus will include accelerating green retrofits of existing buildings, expanding access to affordable certification for MSMEs, applying AI based tools to improve design efficiency and supporting wider adoption of health and wellbeing standards in buildings.

    A R Unnikrishnan said, “The built environment represents one of the most powerful levers for climate action. Sustainable construction materials, circular economy practices, and energy efficient technologies will be central to this transformation. IGBC is a platform that brings together industry and innovation to enable scalable solutions that enhance environmental and economic performance.”
    Outgoing Chairman B Thiagarajan said, “Leading IGBC during a period of significant transformation in India’s sustainability journey has been both an honour and a privilege. The Council has continued to expand its influence across sectors, helping stakeholders integrate environmental responsibility with business performance. I extend my best wishes to C Shekar Reddy and A R Unnikrishnan as they take on their new roles.”
    The leadership change comes as India continues to expand its infrastructure and manufacturing base, with sustainability standards increasingly integrated into design and construction practices.
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  • Mirchi Partners with National Water Mission and Ministry of Jal Shakti for Nationwide Water Awareness Drive

    RJ Naved and Government recognised Water Warriors feature in Mirchi Jal Vaani campaign focused on community led conservation

    India: Mirchi has launched Mirchi Jal Vaani, a nationwide radio initiative in association with the National Water Mission and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, aimed at promoting responsible water usage and public awareness around conservation.
    The campaign is being broadcast across Mirchi radio stations nationwide and centres on the principle of Jal Sanchay, Jan Bhagidari, highlighting the role of community participation in sustainable water management.

    The initiative comes at a time when several Indian cities are facing water shortages, irregular supply and rising river pollution. Through structured programming, Mirchi Jal Vaani draws attention to the role of individual behaviour alongside infrastructure and policy measures.
    Each episode features Government recognised Water Warriors from different regions of India who have undertaken water conservation efforts within their communities. The segments document practical, local interventions and grassroots participation.

    As part of the campaign, Mirchi conducted a public engagement activity in Delhi led by RJ Naved. A deliberately unattended dripping tap was placed in a high footfall area to observe public response. While many passersby ignored it, some individuals intervened to stop the water flow. These participants were later acknowledged as Mirchi Jal Warriors.
    The Water Warriors featured in the programme collectively stated, “India’s water situation is a result of years of overuse, pollution and disregard for natural limits. The challenge is not just about availability; it is about awareness and attitude. Governments can create systems and policies, but conservation will only succeed when citizens recognise water as a shared and finite resource. Building that understanding through everyday behaviour is essential if we are to secure water for future generations. When this message reaches people in their daily routines, through a medium as familiar and accessible as radio, it has the power to influence how they think and act. When people start taking responsibility in small, ordinary ways, that is when change becomes real.”

    The campaign is further supported by RJ led digital extensions and celebrity participation to widen outreach, particularly in urban areas where consumption patterns and wastage remain key concerns.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedInInstagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.
  • MG Group Completes 30 Years at Zaheerabad Facility and Announces Manufacturing Consolidation Plan

    Mrs. Sudha Mohan Kamat, Co Founder and Director, Mr. Anil Mohan Kamat, Chairman and Managing Director, and Mrs. Devika Anil Kamat, Director, MG Group, mark milestone with founder tribute and expansion roadmap

    Zaheerabad, February 14, 2026: MG Group marked 30 years of operations at its integrated Zaheerabad complex and announced a series of strategic decisions aimed at consolidating high volume manufacturing and sharpening product specialisation across its facilities.
    The event included the unveiling of a marble bust of Late Mr. Mohan Vasant Kamat, Founder Chairman of MG Group. The ceremony was led by Mrs. Sudha Mohan Kamat, Co Founder and Director, Mr. Anil Mohan Kamat, Chairman and Managing Director, and Mrs. Devika Anil Kamat, Director, MG Group.

    The Zaheerabad facility was established in 1996 after an opportunity extended by Mahindra and Mahindra to explore operations in the region. Operations began in a repurposed hacksaw blade factory acquired through a government auction. Over three decades, the site has evolved into an integrated complex housing MG Automotives, MG Bus and Coach, MG Composites and MG Grey Engine.
    The facility has catered to leading OEMs, State Transport Undertakings and private operators across school transport, staff mobility, regional and mofussil services, special application vehicles and intercity coach segments.

    Addressing the gathering, Mr. Anil Mohan Kamat said, “My father helped lay the foundation for India’s modern bus body manufacturing industry. What he built at Zaheerabad was not just a facility, but a culture of courage, discipline and excellence. As we mark 30 years here, we are not looking back, we are strengthening our commitment to India’s mobility future.”
    As part of its next phase, MG Group announced that high volume segments including school, staff, mofussil and economy categories will be consolidated at Zaheerabad, with production migrating from its Belagavi facility. Belagavi will focus on premium and super premium intercity coach manufacturing.

    The Zaheerabad plant, which resumed operations following pandemic disruptions, will undergo a calibrated ramp up in 2026. Planned investments include capacity expansion, process automation, upgraded paint shop and trim line facilities, strengthened composites and lightweighting capabilities, and workforce skill development.
    The Group also intends to deepen integration across its design, engineering, composites, electronics and manufacturing entities to enhance execution efficiency for OEMs and State Transport Undertakings.
    Mr. Kamat stated, “India’s passenger mobility landscape is entering a transformative decade. MG Group is preparing for this shift with deeper engineering integration, strong design capabilities and a sharper focus on product specialization. The next phase of growth will be built on both heritage and innovation.”
    The ceremony concluded with a tribute film, reflections from long serving leadership members and a tree plantation with employees at the Zaheerabad complex.
    Founded in 1980 by Late Mr. Mohan Vasant Kamat and Mrs. Sudha Mohan Kamat, MG Group operates integrated facilities in Telangana and Karnataka, providing end to end bus and coach manufacturing solutions across economy, premium and super premium categories.

  • Daawat e Deccan Festival Brings Nizami Cuisine to Feast at Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel

    Five day popup curated by Chef SK Quadri to feature Haleem, Nihari and traditional iftar dishes from February 18 to 22

    Hyderabad, February 16, 2026: Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel will host Daawat e Deccan, a five day food festival celebrating the culinary traditions of the Deccan region, from February 18 to 22 at Feast. The specially curated popup will be available for both lunch and dinner.
    The festival has been curated by Chef SK Quadri and focuses on traditional Deccani recipes associated with Hyderabad’s culinary heritage. The menu reflects a blend of Mughlai, Persian and South Indian influences, with emphasis on slow cooking and layered spice profiles.

    Chef SK Quadri trained under Hamida Begum, known for her expertise in Nizami cuisine, and began his career with Sheraton Hyderabad. The festival coincides with the period leading up to Ramzan and includes dishes commonly associated with iftar traditions in the city.
    The menu features Haleem prepared using traditional slow cooking methods, along with Nihari, Korma and a range of kebabs. Guests can also sample Lukmi, a savoury pastry popular in Hyderabad, paired with Mohabbat ka Sharbat.
    Feast will incorporate Hyderabadi inspired décor during the festival to reflect elements of the Nizami dining tradition.

    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedInInstagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Ardee Industries Limited Secures ISO IEC 17025 Accreditation for In House Testing Laboratory

    NABL grants Certificate TC 17461 to Ardee Testing Laboratory with validity until January 2030 under ILAC MRA framework

    Ardee Industries Limited has received accreditation for its in house testing facility, Ardee Testing Laboratory, in accordance with ISO IEC 17025:2017, General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories.
    The accreditation has been granted by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories under Certificate Number TC 17461. The certificate was issued on January 21, 2026 and remains valid until January 20, 2030, subject to continued compliance with NABL requirements and the approved scope.

    The accreditation covers testing activities conducted at Ardee Industries Limited’s manufacturing facility located at Plot No. 8A and 8B, Survey No. 35(P), 37(P), 38(P), 49(P) and 51(P), Menakur Village, Naidupet Mandal, SPSR Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh, India.
    NABL is a signatory to the International Laboratory Accreditation Co operation Mutual Recognition Arrangement. Under this framework, test reports issued by NABL accredited laboratories are recognised by other ILAC MRA signatories based on peer evaluation and mutual recognition of accreditation systems.

    The ILAC MRA framework facilitates cross border acceptance of test results, reducing the need for repeated calibration, testing or inspection for imports and exports. This supports the broader objective of accredited once, accepted everywhere.
    With ISO IEC 17025:2017 accreditation and NABL’s participation in the ILAC MRA system, Ardee Testing Laboratory’s test results are positioned for international recognition in line with the approved scope defined by NABL.

    Ardee Industries Limited’s manufacturing facility spans 7.61 acres and supports the production and supply of lead and lead alloy ingots. The facility is equipped with rotary furnaces, refining kettles, ingot casting machines, pollution control systems, a spectrometer and a battery breaker machine. As of March 31, 2025, the installed production capacity stood at 1,04,025 MTPA.
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  • Raheja Universal and Dow Extend 72,811 Sq. Ft. Commercial Agreement at Vashi NX

    Five year lock in structured at ₹125 per sq. ft. with annual escalation and 12 month security deposit for incubation facility

    Mumbai: Raheja Universal has renewed its commercial arrangement with Dow at the Vashi NX Incubation Centre in Navi Mumbai, covering 72,811 sq. ft. of carpet area.
    The agreement has been structured at ₹125 per sq. ft., inclusive of maintenance. It carries a five year lock in for both parties, a 5 percent annual escalation and a 12 month security deposit. The premises also include 73 dedicated car parking spaces.
    Dow has operated from the facility for over 11 years. During this period, the Vashi NX micro market and the broader Navi Mumbai region have witnessed infrastructure improvements including enhanced road access, suburban rail connectivity and proximity to key business corridors. The upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport has further strengthened commercial confidence in the node.

    Within the Vashi NX cluster, Raheja Universal has developed a mix of residential, commercial and industrial projects under its Raheja District framework. Residential developments such as Solaris and Lunaris have added to local housing supply, while Prime at WTC Navi Mumbai has strengthened the commercial profile of the area by attracting multinational occupiers. Industrial projects including Raheja Tesla I and Raheja Tesla II have created organised infrastructure for enterprises seeking connected facilities.

    The renewed agreement reflects continued corporate occupancy and sustained commercial activity in Navi Mumbai’s Vashi NX micro market.

    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedInInstagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.
  • Smart Foodcourt Format Debuts in Jammu as EatSure Expands Offline Presence

    Ankush Grover, Co founder and Global CEO at Rebel Foods, says Jammu marks the brand’s first offline entry into Jammu and Kashmir

    National, February 16, 2026: Rebel Foods has launched EatSure’s first smart foodcourt in Jammu, marking the brand’s sixth offline outlet in India and its first physical presence in Jammu and Kashmir. The new outlet is located at Royal Nest Sapphire.
    The smart foodcourt brings together more than 10 brands under one roof, allowing customers to place orders across multiple restaurants in a single transaction. The approximately 2,000 square foot space follows a digital first format, where orders can be placed through self service kiosks or the EatSure app. Customers receive order updates on digital display screens or via WhatsApp once their meals are ready.

    Brands available at the Jammu outlet include Behrouz Biryani, Faasos, Wendy’s, Sweet Truth, Lunchbox, The Good Bowl, Honest Bowl, Makhani Darbar and Dabba and Co.
    The outlet has seating for more than 50 guests and is designed to allow diners to combine orders across cuisines, including burgers, biryani, wraps and desserts, without separate billing counters.
    Ankush Grover, Co founder and Global CEO at Rebel Foods, said, “We’re delighted to introduce EatSure’s first smart foodcourt in Jammu. With this launch, we’re expanding our presence in the region and offering customers the convenience of ordering from multiple trusted brands in one place through a digital first experience.”

    The Jammu outlet also serves items from Wendy’s global menu, including the Frosty dessert and a range of flavour inspired burgers.
    EatSure’s smart foodcourt format is currently present in cities such as Pune, Vizag and Nashik, with further expansion planned across tier one and tier two markets.

    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedInInstagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.