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  • Budget 2026 infra and real estate signals shape outlook for PwC, NAREDCO, Tata Consulting Engineers, Ramky Infrastructure, Kalpataru, Executive Centre, Superb Realty, Matrix Geo Solutions, Avaada Group, JK Lakshmi Cement and others

    Manish Sharma of PwC, Prashant Sharma of NAREDCO, Amit Sharma of Tata Consulting Engineers, Sunil Nair of Ramky Infrastructure, Parag Munot of Kalpataru, Paul Salnikoff of Executive Centre, Shilpin Tater of Superb Realty, Amit Sharma of Matrix Geo Solutions, Vineet Mittal of Avaada Group, Arun Shukla of JK Lakshmi Cement, along with multiple real estate, infrastructure and urban development leaders, respond to ₹12.2 lakh crore capital expenditure, Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund, REIT-led asset monetisation, City Economic Regions and execution priorities outlined in Union Budget 2026–27

    The Union Budget 2026–27 places Infrastructure and real estate at the centre of India’s medium-term growth strategy, with a capital expenditure outlay of ₹12.2 lakh crore, a continued emphasis on execution quality, and a clear push towards unlocking private investment. Key announcements around the Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund, REIT-led monetisation of CPSE assets, City Economic Regions, and seven high-speed rail corridors signal a shift from aggressive capex expansion towards risk mitigation, capital access, and time-bound delivery. Industry leaders across infrastructure, real estate, urban development, engineering, construction-linked services, and capital providers have responded to the Budget, broadly welcoming the direction while underlining the importance of coordinated execution across states, lenders, and private developers.

    Manish Sharma, Sector Leader Infrastructure Transport and Logistics at PwC, said the Budget reflects a clear transition from rapid capex expansion to execution-led growth. He noted that after more than a 30 percent increase in capital expenditure between FY23 and FY25, growth has moderated to around 11 percent in FY26 and 9 percent in FY27, with the emphasis now shifting to delivery and financial closure. He said initiatives such as partial credit guarantees are critical as more developers enter PPP projects, particularly user-charge based models like toll roads, and stressed that credit guarantees must work before defaults occur. Sharma also observed that while high-speed rail corridors and Dedicated Freight Corridors are welcome, their success depends on irrevocable state-level commitments on land, last-mile connectivity, and security to ensure timely execution. He added that City Economic Regions can help curb unplanned expansion of Tier II and III cities, provided municipal reforms and service delivery keep pace.

    Prashant Sharma, President of NAREDCO Maharashtra, commented that the Union Budget strongly reinforces the government’s long-term commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth through infrastructure-led development. He said the increase in capital expenditure to ₹12.2 lakh crore, combined with the continued focus on Tier II and III cities, will act as a demand catalyst for real estate beyond metros. Sharma noted that improved connectivity, urban infrastructure funding, and the focus on growth corridors are expected to significantly enhance housing demand and accelerate redevelopment, particularly in Maharashtra. He also highlighted that the government’s balanced approach to fiscal consolidation, expansion of REITs, CPSE asset monetisation, and simplified tax processes for NRIs will help strengthen investor confidence and attract long-term capital into the sector.

    Paul Salnikoff, Managing Director and CEO of Executive Centre, said the Budget underscores the government’s continued focus on strengthening urban infrastructure and improving capital access for long-term commercial development. He observed that instruments such as REITs and InvITs have enhanced transparency and institutional participation in India’s real estate ecosystem over the past decade. Salnikoff said the proposed Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund and calibrated partial credit guarantees reinforce lender confidence by addressing construction-phase risks. He added that for enterprise-focused workspace providers, these measures support the creation of high-quality, professionally managed office environments aligned with evolving occupier expectations, while the parallel emphasis on hospitality and service-led institutions contributes to building a skilled, customer-centric workforce.

    Amit Sharma, Founder and Whole Time Director of Matrix Geo Solutions, said the Union Budget sends a clear signal that India’s next phase of infrastructure growth will be driven as much by data and precision as by physical assets. He said that with record capital expenditure of ₹12.2 lakh crore and a strong focus on transport, urban development, water systems, and digital ecosystems, infrastructure planning and execution will become increasingly technology-led and outcome-focused. Sharma noted that large corridor projects, smart cities, flood mitigation, and logistics networks depend on accurate terrain models, authoritative base maps, and real-time geospatial intelligence to reduce risk and accelerate delivery. He added that continued policy support for drones, space technologies, and artificial intelligence reinforces the shift towards integrated planning environments, making decision-ready geospatial data critical for project owners, PSUs, and EPC players.

    Echoing similar sentiment, Amit Sharma, Managing Director and CEO of Tata Consulting Engineers, stated that continued high infrastructure spending strengthens confidence in execution across transportation, urban development, and logistics. He said the emphasis on high-speed rail, along with roads, metros, ports, and urban infrastructure, signals a move towards next-generation connectivity, while policy continuity in clean energy and grid strengthening supports long-term energy security.

    Sunil Nair, CEO of Ramky Infrastructure, observed that the proposed Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund is a forward-looking intervention that directly addresses risk perception during early stages of project development. He said partial credit guarantees can ease financing bottlenecks, embolden private participation, and support large-scale infrastructure execution. Nair also pointed to the role of CPSE REITs in unlocking dormant capital and catalysing investment across allied sectors.

    Parag Munot, Managing Director of Kalpataru, said the rise in public capital expenditure will indirectly drive demand for residential and commercial real estate across the country. He added that the focus on City Economic Regions, high-speed rail corridors, and enhanced municipal bond financing will unlock new micro-markets and support integrated township development.

    Shilpin Tater, Managing Director of Superb Realty, said the government’s intent to monetise surplus CPSE land through dedicated REITs marks a structural reform for the real estate sector. He noted that this shift from ownership to efficient asset management can deepen the REIT market, improve transparency, and reduce dependence on traditional bank financing over time.

    Vineet Mittal, Chairman of Avaada Group, commented that the Budget strikes a balance between ambition, growth, and fiscal discipline. He said sustained public capex, combined with reforms such as the Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund, signals a focus on building long-term productive capacity rather than short-term stimulus.

    Arun Shukla, President and Director of JK Lakshmi Cement, said the continued emphasis on infrastructure-led growth, regional development, and sustainability provides long-term visibility for industries linked to construction and urban expansion, while supporting balanced growth and employment generation.

    Gaurav Varma, Director of ORA Group, said Budget 2026–27 signals a clear commitment to infrastructure-driven urbanisation and regional development. He noted that the continued focus on Tier II and III cities will accelerate planned townships and long-term real estate appreciation in emerging markets. Varma added that proposed high-speed rail corridors will act as growth catalysts by opening new residential, industrial, and mixed-use development corridors, while simplified compliance for NRI property transactions and incentives for digital infrastructure will attract both domestic and foreign investment.

    Shraddha Kedia Agarwal, Director of Transcon Developers, commented that the Budget underscores the government’s intent to strengthen urban infrastructure and financial systems, directly supporting real estate growth. She said increased capital expenditure and sustained infrastructure momentum will improve connectivity, reduce congestion, and enhance quality of life in urban centres, thereby boosting residential demand. Agarwal added that measures such as REIT expansion, municipal bond incentives, and simplified processes for NRIs will improve liquidity and transparency across the sector.

    Kamlesh Thakur, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Srishti Group, stated that the Union Budget reinforces the government’s intent to build inclusive and future-ready cities through sustained infrastructure spending and strategic urban planning. He said the focus on Tier II and III cities will encourage planned development in emerging urban centres, while reforms in NBFCs, improved banking health, and enhanced access to bond markets will support timely project execution and funding stability.

    Dhruman Shah, Promoter of Ariha Group, observed that the Budget provides renewed momentum to the real estate sector through its strong infrastructure push and city-focused growth strategy. He said improved urban connectivity, targeted investment in economic corridors, and enhanced municipal financing will help create more organised and liveable urban spaces. Shah added that the push towards REITs and improved banking health will enhance funding avenues and reduce execution risks for developers.

    Nihar Jayesh Thakkar, Founder of The Mandate House, said the Budget signals structural maturity in India’s growth strategy. He noted that the scale-up of public capital expenditure, expansion of infrastructure financing through REITs and InvITs, and focus on Tier II and III growth centres indicate a shift away from metro-centric development. Thakkar added that the Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund is a timely intervention that will de-risk execution and encourage greater private participation.

    Amit Jain, Chairman and Managing Director of Arkade Developers, said the continued emphasis on capital expenditure and infrastructure investment provides long-term visibility for urban development. He noted that in mature markets such as Mumbai, value creation will increasingly depend on execution of connectivity upgrades, redevelopment, and effective urban planning, while the Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund could improve access to finance for large housing projects.

    Parag Munot, Managing Director of Kalpataru, said the increase in public capital expenditure to ₹12.2 lakh crore will indirectly drive demand for residential and commercial real estate across the country. He added that City Economic Regions, high-speed rail corridors including Mumbai–Pune, and enhanced municipal bond financing will unlock land parcels and create new micro-markets for integrated townships.

    Rohan Khatau, Director of CCI Projects, commented that while the Budget gives limited direct relief to homebuyers, measures such as the Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund and CPSE REITs can unlock funds and speed up asset monetisation. He said simplification of TDS on property transactions involving non-residents through PAN-based challans will improve transparency and ease of transactions.

    Bala Ramajayam, Founder and Managing Director of G Square Group, said the Budget provides a strong tailwind for real estate growth in Tier I and II cities, particularly in Tamil Nadu. He noted that continued infrastructure development, City Economic Regions, and improved connectivity will enhance the attractiveness of planned residential locations and support affordability and homebuyer confidence.

    Ashish Raheja, CEO and Managing Director of Raheja Universal, said the focus on city economic regions and infrastructure-led growth will significantly improve connectivity and urban infrastructure in Tier II and III markets. He added that the Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund and proposed tax incentives for Global Capability Centres could support commercial real estate demand and local employment.

    Chandresh Vithalani, Director of Palladian Partner Advisory, observed that the renewed policy momentum backed by sustained infrastructure investment will unlock demand across key micro-markets in Tier I and II cities. He said this focus lays the groundwork for stronger developer confidence and healthier real estate absorption.

    Arun Shukla, President and Director of JK Lakshmi Cement, said the Budget’s emphasis on infrastructure development in cities with populations above five lakh will strengthen Tier II and III cities as emerging growth centres. He added that the focus on sustainability and carbon capture initiatives provides long-term visibility for industries linked to construction and infrastructure.

    Taken together, responses from a broad cross-section of stakeholders indicate that Budget 2026–27 marks a consolidation phase for Infra and RE, where the scale of public investment is increasingly matched by an emphasis on execution discipline, risk mitigation, and capital market participation. Views from developers, infrastructure companies, consultants, workspace operators, technology enablers, and construction-linked industries point to growing alignment around REIT-led asset monetisation, credit enhancement mechanisms, and planned urban growth through City Economic Regions. While the policy intent has been clearly articulated, industry participants emphasise that the success of this phase will ultimately depend on coordinated implementation, timely clearances, and the ability to translate budgetary intent into consistent on-ground delivery.
    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 LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Zithara AI, NPST, Vartis Platforms, Lumina Datamatics, Asymmetri and AION Tech Solutions Call for Deeper AI, Digital Infrastructure and Fintech Support in Budget 2026

    Varun Kashyap and Sridevi Reddy, Co Founders, Zithara AI; Deepak Chand Thakur, Chairman and Managing Director, NPST; Bhavin Patel, Co Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Vartis Platforms; Sameer Kanodia, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lumina Datamatics Limited; Nandagopal P, Chief Executive Officer, Asymmetri, Chief Technology Officer, Gacsym Ventures and Limited Partner, Arya Ventures; and Chanakya Bellam, Board Member, AION Tech Solutions Limited, outline expectations around AI funding, digital public infrastructure, fintech sustainability and technology led services growth ahead of the Union Budget

    As India prepares for the Union Budget 2026, technology, fintech, and digital infrastructure leaders are calling for a decisive shift from scale-driven growth to innovation-led global competitiveness. With artificial intelligence, digital public infrastructure, and data-led platforms becoming foundational to economic expansion, industry leaders stress that the next phase of India’s growth will depend on sustained investments in deep technology, funding access, and long-term policy clarity.
    Founders and executives across AI, payments, fintech, knowledge services, and enterprise technology point to the need for Budget 2026 to strengthen research and development, improve funding mechanisms, and build sovereign digital capabilities that allow Indian companies to compete globally.

    Varun Kashyap and Sridevi Reddy, Co Founders, Zithara AI, highlighted that while the India AI Mission has set the direction, deeper commitment is required to scale AI adoption across the ecosystem. They said the government’s allocation of over ₹10,300 crore over five years is a positive start but may not be sufficient to treat AI as core infrastructure rather than a niche technology. They emphasised the need for structured funding mechanisms that allow startups with proven performance to scale beyond early-stage support, as well as domestic investment in GPU infrastructure to reduce dependence on foreign technology.
    Deepak Chand Thakur, Chairman and Managing Director, NPST, focused on the sustainability of India’s digital payments ecosystem, noting that with UPI processing over 228.3 billion transactions in 2025, the infrastructure supporting real-time payments requires predictable fiscal alignment. He stated that while the zero MDR framework has driven adoption and inclusion, rising transaction volumes and system complexity necessitate funding models that allow payment service providers to continue investing in security, reliability, and innovation. He added that calibrated MDR structures for high-turnover merchants or structured reimbursement frameworks could help maintain affordability while ensuring long-term resilience.

    Bhavin Patel, Co Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Vartis Platforms, said the Budget presents an opportunity to deepen financial inclusion through regulatory stability and sustained investment in digital public infrastructure. He stated that policy encouragement for responsible AI adoption in regulated digital lending and P2P platforms can strengthen automation, fraud detection, and compliance. He also highlighted that improving access to lower-cost funds for NBFCs will be critical to expanding formal credit access across Bharat, while predictable tax policies and streamlined compliance can support innovation-led growth.
    From the perspective of knowledge services and publishing, Sameer Kanodia, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lumina Datamatics Limited, said the upcoming Budget should sharpen its focus on strengthening AI-led digital infrastructure that underpins publishing, retail, and e-commerce ecosystems. He stated that targeted support for technology-enabled content production, research digitisation, and global content services exports can help Indian companies expand their role in the international knowledge economy, while investments in AI skills, automation, and cloud platforms will drive productivity and high-value employment.

    Nandagopal P, Chief Executive Officer, Asymmetri, Chief Technology Officer, Gacsym Ventures and Limited Partner, Arya Ventures, said Budget 2026 represents a defining moment for India’s digital future. He stated that while digital public infrastructure has delivered scale and access, global leadership will now be determined by depth of compute, AI capability, R&D, cybersecurity, and talent. He added that the ₹1 lakh crore RDI Scheme is a timely step, but must be complemented by stronger R&D tax incentives, clear IP commercialisation pathways, and deep-tech venture funding to move innovation from lab to market at speed.
    Chanakya Bellam, Board Member, AION Tech Solutions Limited, emphasised that future-ready technologies must be placed at the centre of national economic planning. He stated that strategic investments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, full-stack platforms, business intelligence, and cloud infrastructure are essential for sustained growth and global competitiveness. He added that proactive governance, public–private partnerships, large-scale skill development, and responsible innovation frameworks will be key to ensuring that AI-led transformation delivers inclusive growth and high-value jobs.
    Together, these perspectives reflect a growing consensus across the technology ecosystem that Budget 2026 must move beyond incremental reforms and focus on building resilient digital foundations. Industry leaders believe that aligning AI, fintech, digital infrastructure, and skills development under a coherent policy framework will determine whether India emerges as a global technology leader or remains a scale-driven digital 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 LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Apollo AyurVAID, ZEISS India, Laxmi Dental, Shriram General Insurance and Proventus Agrocom Flag Healthcare and Nutrition Priorities Ahead of Budget 2026

    Rajiv Vasudevan, Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Apollo AyurVAID; Dipu Bose, Head Medical Technology, ZEISS India and Neighboring Markets; Sameer Merchant, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Laxmi Dental Limited; Ashwani Dhanawat, Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer, Shriram General Insurance; and Ankush Jain, Chief Financial Officer, Proventus Agrocom Limited, outline expectations on preventive care, medical manufacturing, insurance penetration and nutrition-led consumption

    As India prepares for the Union Budget 2026, healthcare and nutrition leaders are urging policymakers to look beyond short-term allocations and focus on structural reforms that strengthen preventive care, affordability, and domestic manufacturing. From evidence-based Ayurveda and medical technology access to insurance penetration and nutrition-led consumption, industry voices are calling for deeper integration of healthcare with policy planning to reduce long-term public expenditure and improve outcomes.
    A key theme emerging ahead of the Budget is the role of preventive and integrative healthcare in managing India’s growing chronic disease burden. Rajiv Vasudevan, Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Apollo AyurVAID, said that while the government has made visible efforts to build credibility for the Ayush ecosystem, sustained investment is now required to translate intent into measurable outcomes. He stated that dedicated annual funding of at least INR 500 crore over the next five years is essential to build robust clinical evidence for Ayurveda as a treatment of choice for select chronic conditions such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s and neurological disorders. He added that a structured public private mission for evidence generation, similar to models used in biotechnology, could significantly reduce elective surgeries, emergency care costs and long-term healthcare expenditure.

    Vasudevan also emphasised the need for demand-side reforms, stating that the inclusion of Ayurveda Ayush treatments under Ayushman Bharat PMJAY is critical to lowering out-of-pocket expenses, which currently account for nearly half of India’s healthcare spending. According to him, covering secondary and tertiary prevention through integrative care would offer meaningful relief to households while strengthening public health delivery.
    Medical technology leaders echoed similar concerns around affordability, access and domestic capability building. Dipu Bose, Head Medical Technology, ZEISS India and Neighboring Markets, said that the upcoming Budget presents an opportunity to address long-standing gaps in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in underserved regions. He stated that reducing cumulative tax burdens on essential medical devices, aligning GST rates to the 5 percent slab, and simplifying import-export procedures would improve access to critical technologies. Bose also highlighted the importance of expanding PLI schemes and phased manufacturing programmes to reduce import reliance while encouraging investment in research, biosimilars and advanced therapies.

    From the dental healthcare perspective, Sameer Merchant, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Laxmi Dental Limited, said that increased incentives for digital health adoption, AI-driven diagnostics and advanced medical manufacturing could significantly improve accessibility and affordability. He stated that in the dental sector, support for technologies such as CAD CAM, 3D printing and smart diagnostic tools can enable faster, more precise and predictable treatments, while strengthening preventive care and clinical efficiency. According to Merchant, easier regulatory pathways and policy backing for digital dentistry would position India as a global leader in tech-enabled healthcare.
    Insurance sector leaders have also called for reforms that improve penetration and affordability. Ashwani Dhanawat, Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer, Shriram General Insurance, said that despite positive measures such as higher FDI limits, insurance penetration in India remains low. He stated that Budget 2026 must focus on affordability, efficiency and resilience, particularly in health insurance. Dhanawat said that enhancing Section 80D limits, extending tax benefits for senior citizens and integrating insurance with quality healthcare delivery would help address rising medical costs. He also highlighted the need to expand coverage to outpatient care, diagnostics and preventive services, which account for a large share of household healthcare spending.

    Nutrition and food consumption trends are also shaping pre-Budget expectations. Ankush Jain, Chief Financial Officer, Proventus Agrocom Limited, said that Indian consumers are becoming increasingly conscious about nutrition, transparency and quality. He stated that continued government support for food innovation, sustainable sourcing, clean-label manufacturing and modern retail infrastructure is essential to build a resilient food ecosystem. Jain also pointed to initiatives such as the Makhana Board and the INR 476.03 crore makhana development scheme as steps that could benefit farmer training, research and processing modernisation, while strengthening India’s position in healthy snacking and value-added foods.
    Taken together, these perspectives underline a broader expectation that Budget 2026 should move healthcare and nutrition policy towards long-term resilience. By aligning preventive care, insurance coverage, domestic manufacturing and responsible consumption, industry leaders believe the Budget can help reduce systemic costs while improving access and outcomes across India’s healthcare ecosystem.
    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 LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Ramky Infrastructure, Prozeal Green Energy, Paras Defence, Bharat Supply and Trinity Cleantech Outline Budget 2026 Priorities on Capex, Manufacturing and Logistics

    Sunil S. Nair, Chief Executive Officer, Ramky Infrastructure Limited; Shobit Rai, Co Founder and Managing Director, Prozeal Green Energy Limited; Amit Mahajan, Director, Paras Defence and Space Technologies Limited; Taranbir Singh, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Bharat Supply; and Raj Kumar Medimi, Executive Director, Trinity Cleantech, share expectations on sustained infrastructure investment, energy storage, defence indigenisation, last mile logistics and power distribution modernisation ahead of the Union Budget

    As India prepares for Union Budget 2026, leaders across infrastructure, energy, defence manufacturing, logistics and power are calling for policy continuity, sharper execution and deeper support for domestic capacity building. With large capex programmes already underway, industry stakeholders believe the upcoming Budget will be decisive in translating investment commitments into durable productivity gains, resilient supply chains and globally competitive manufacturing ecosystems.
    From urban infrastructure and water systems to renewable energy storage, defence indigenisation and last-mile logistics, the common thread across sectors is the need for scale, reliability and predictability in policy implementation.

    Reflecting on infrastructure priorities, Sunil S. Nair, Chief Executive Officer, Ramky Infrastructure Limited, said,
    “India’s infrastructure journey has gained remarkable momentum, and what’s commendable is the government’s steadfast commitment demonstrated in the Union Budget 2025-26. Key initiatives included a massive ₹11.21 lakh crore capex allocation, fueling projects like the ₹1 trillion Urban Challenge Fund for cities as growth hubs and water sanitation, alongside the second Asset Monetisation Plan targeting ₹10 trillion for new builds. Outcomes have been tangible: accelerated progress on Bharatmala highways, 1,000+ railway station modernisations, and metro expansions, reducing logistics costs and boosting urban connectivity—evident in our own ₹215 crore sewage contracts in Hyderabad.

    For Budget 2026, the sector anticipates sustained capex at ₹12-13 lakh crore with sharper focus on water infrastructure, including viability gap funding for PPPs in 7,000 MLD sewage treatment under Namami Gange and circular reuse mandates across urban areas. Enhanced support for HAM models in industrial parks, green bonds for STPs, and digital twins for O&M will accelerate nationwide execution. These steps will drive resilient growth, aligning with Viksit Bharat@2047 through sustainable urban transformation.”

    In the energy transition narrative, industry leaders are emphasising that renewable capacity addition alone is no longer sufficient without firm power and storage infrastructure. Shobit Rai, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Prozeal Green Energy Limited, stated,
    “India’s renewable journey has been remarkable in terms of capacity addition. Yet the next budget must confront a critical reality: generation alone does not ensure transition. Renewables already account for over 40% of installed power capacity, but grid-scale energy storage remains negligible compared to the requirements of a high-renewables system. Without storage, flexibility, and firm green power, clean energy cannot fully displace fossil fuels. Strategic budgetary support for battery energy storage systems, pumped hydro, and green hydrogen is essential to convert intermittent power into reliable, round-the-clock, industrial-grade energy.

    Equally vital is strengthening domestic manufacturing. India continues to import a significant share of electrolysers, battery cells, and power electronics-components that will define the nex…
    Zithara AI, NPST, Vartis Platforms, Lumina Datamatics, Asymmetri and AION Tech Solutions Call for Deeper AI, Digital Infrastructure and Fintech Support in Budget 2026

    Varun Kashyap and Sridevi Reddy, Co Founders, Zithara AI; Deepak Chand Thakur, Chairman and Managing Director, NPST; Bhavin Patel, Co Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Vartis Platforms; Sameer Kanodia, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lumina Datamatics Limited; Nandagopal P, Chief Executive Officer, Asymmetri, Chief Technology Officer, Gacsym Ventures and Limited Partner, Arya Ventures; and Chanakya Bellam, Board Member, AION Tech Solutions Limited, outline expectations around AI funding, digital public infrastructure, fintech sustainability and technology led services growth ahead of the Union Budget

    As India prepares for the Union Budget 2026, technology, fintech, and digital infrastructure leaders are calling for a decisive shift from scale-driven growth to innovation-led global competitiveness. With artificial intelligence, digital public infrastructure, and data-led platforms becoming foundational to economic expansion, industry leaders stress that the next phase of India’s growth will depend on sustained investments in deep technology, funding access, and long-term policy clarity.
    Founders and executives across AI, payments, fintech, knowledge services, and enterprise technology point to the need for Budget 2026 to strengthen research and development, improve funding mechanisms, and build sovereign digital capabilities that allow Indian companies to compete globally.

    Varun Kashyap and Sridevi Reddy, Co Founders, Zithara AI, highlighted that while the India AI Mission has set the direction, deeper commitment is required to scale AI adoption across the ecosystem. They said the government’s allocation of over ₹10,300 crore over five years is a positive start but may not be sufficient to treat AI as core infrastructure rather than a niche technology. They emphasised the need for structured funding mechanisms that allow startups with proven performance to scale beyond early-stage support, as well as domestic investment in GPU infrastructure to reduce dependence on foreign technology.

    Deepak Chand Thakur, Chairman and Managing Director, NPST, focused on the sustainability of India’s digital payments ecosystem, noting that with UPI processing over 228.3 billion transactions in 2025, the infrastructure supporting real-time payments requires predictable fiscal alignment. He stated that while the zero MDR framework has driven adoption and inclusion, rising transaction volumes and system complexity necessitate funding models that allow payment service providers to continue investing in security, reliability, and innovation. He added that calibrated MDR structures for high-turnover merchants or structured reimbursement frameworks could help maintain affordability while ensuring long-term resilience.

    Bhavin Patel, Co Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Vartis Platforms, said the Budget presents an opportunity to deepen financial inclusion through regulatory stability and sustained investment in digital public infrastructure. He stated that policy encouragement for responsible AI adoption in regulated digital lending and P2P platforms can strengthen automation, fraud detection, and compliance. He also highlighted that improving access to lower-cost funds for NBFCs will be critical to expanding formal credit access across Bharat, while predictable tax policies and streamlined compliance can support innovation-led growth.

    From the perspective of knowledge services and publishing, Sameer Kanodia, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lumina Datamatics Limited, said the upcoming Budget should sharpen its focus on strengthening AI-led digital infrastructure that underpins publishing, retail, and e-commerce ecosystems. He stated that targeted support for technology-enabled content production, research digitisation, and global content services exports can help Indian companies expand their role in the international knowledge economy, while investments in AI skills, automation, and cloud platforms will drive productivity and high-value employment.
    Nandagopal P, Chief Executive Officer, Asymmetri, Chief Technology Officer, Gacsym Ventures and Limited Partner, Arya Ventures, said Budget 2026 represents a defining moment for India’s digital future. He stated that while digital public infrastructure has delivered scale and access, global leadership will now be determined by depth of compute, AI capability, R&D, cybersecurity, and talent. He added that the ₹1 lakh crore RDI Scheme is a timely step, but must be complemented by stronger R&D tax incentives, clear IP commercialisation pathways, and deep-tech venture funding to move innovation from lab to market at speed.
    Chanakya Bellam, Board Member, AION Tech Solutions Limited, emphasised that future-ready technologies must be placed at the centre of national economic planning. He stated that strategic investments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, full-stack platforms, business intelligence, and cloud infrastructure are essential for sustained growth and global competitiveness. He added that proactive governance, public–private partnerships, large-scale skill development, and responsible innovation frameworks will be key to ensuring that AI-led transformation delivers inclusive growth and high-value jobs.
    Together, these perspectives reflect a growing consensus across the technology ecosystem that Budget 2026 must move beyond incremental reforms and focus on building resilient digital foundations. Industry leaders believe that aligning AI, fintech, digital infrastructure, and skills development under a coherent policy framework will determine whether India emerges as a global technology leader or remains a scale-driven digital marke
    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 LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • India’s Grey Cement Capacity Landscape Shifts as JK Cement Crosses 31 MTPA with Buxar Commissioning

    Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, and Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director and CEO of JK Cement Ltd., say the new Bihar plant strengthens regional supply and national scale

    JK Cement Ltd. has commissioned a new grey cement manufacturing facility in Buxar, Bihar, taking its total installed production capacity to 31.26 million tonnes per annum. With this expansion, the company crosses the 30 MTPA milestone and enters the top five grey cement manufacturers in India by capacity.
    The Buxar plant has a production capacity of 3 million tonnes per annum and is spread across 100 acres. Strategically located on the Patna–Buxar highway, the facility is positioned to enable faster distribution across Bihar and adjoining regions. Commercial production at the plant commenced on January 29, 2026, following the start of construction in March 2025.

    Commenting on the commissioning, Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement Ltd., said crossing 31 MTPA represents a significant phase in the company’s expansion journey. He stated that the Buxar plant is a strategic addition that supports JK Cement’s national footprint while contributing to Bihar’s development vision through industrial growth, infrastructure support, and employment generation.
    The new facility strengthens JK Cement’s regional presence in eastern India. While the company entered the Bihar market last year through supplies from its Prayagraj plant, the commissioning of the Buxar unit allows for local manufacturing and delivery within 24 hours across the state. This is expected to improve service levels and supply efficiency for infrastructure, housing, and commercial projects.

    Sharing his perspective, Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director and CEO, JK Cement Ltd., said the Buxar commissioning positions the company among the top five producers of grey cement in India. He noted that local production enhances the company’s ability to serve Bihar more effectively and aligns with the region’s growing infrastructure momentum. He added that proximity to customers and scale of operations will help support sustainable growth for both the company and the state.
    The project involved an investment of approximately ₹500 crore and is expected to generate significant direct and indirect employment. In addition to strengthening the local economy, the plant is anticipated to attract ancillary industries, contributing to the broader industrial ecosystem in the region.

    With the commissioning of the Buxar plant, JK Cement continues to expand its manufacturing footprint while aligning capacity growth with regional demand, logistics efficiency, and long-term infrastructure development across India.
    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 LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • A New SaaS Platform Targets the Operational Gaps in High-Frequency B2B Logistics

    Kapil Makhija, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Unicommerce, says Shipway Cargo is designed to support quick commerce and complex B2B inventory movement beyond parcel shipping

    Unicommerce has expanded the scope of its logistics technology offerings with the launch of Shipway Cargo, a software-as-a-service solution developed to address the operational demands of quick commerce and high-frequency B2B logistics. The platform marks Shipway’s entry into the B2B shipping segment, extending its capabilities beyond traditional parcel logistics.
    Shipway Cargo has been built for use cases where slab-based parcel shipping models prove inefficient or cost-intensive. These include dark-store replenishments, distributor supplies, inter-warehouse inventory transfers, and the movement of heavy or bulky goods. Such workflows are increasingly central to inventory-intensive retail formats, particularly quick commerce, which depends on predictable and rapid replenishment cycles to maintain service levels.

    As manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers adopt technology-led supply chains, the frequency and complexity of B2B shipments have risen sharply. High-frequency distribution models now require structured scheduling, specialised carrier networks, and real-time visibility, capabilities that differ significantly from conventional parcel delivery systems.
    The Shipway Cargo platform enables businesses to manage these workflows through a dedicated B2B dashboard, separate from parcel operations. Sellers can coordinate warehouse-to-warehouse movements, handle bulky last-mile deliveries, and schedule shipments using slot-based delivery windows. The solution also provides access to courier partners equipped to handle non-parcel freight and specialised B2B logistics requirements.

    Early users of Shipway Cargo include direct-to-consumer brands, manufacturers, and B2B sellers managing complex supply chains and varied shipment profiles. By offering greater control and transparency across B2B movements, the platform aims to improve operational efficiency while reducing friction in inventory flows.
    Commenting on the launch, Kapil Makhija, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Unicommerce, said that B2B logistics now form the backbone of India’s expanding retail ecosystem. He noted that as retailers operate across general trade, modern trade, quick commerce, and omnichannel formats, efficient inventory movement behind the scenes has become increasingly critical.

    He added that high-frequency B2B logistics require distinct workflows, service expectations, and logistics partners compared to parcel shipping, and that Shipway Cargo has been developed specifically to address these needs.
    The launch comes at a time when India’s e-commerce logistics market is seeing sustained growth, driven by increased automation, real-time visibility, and connected logistics platforms. Industry projections estimate that the market will grow from USD 7.25 billion in 2026 to USD 11.14 billion by 2031, underlining the importance of scalable technology solutions in reshaping B2B logistics operations.
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  • Young Students Take Centre Stage as HDFC ERGO Concludes Third Edition of State Insurance Quiz Junior in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

    Parthanil Ghosh, Executive Director, HDFC ERGO General Insurance, said the initiative engaged over 1,070 student teams from 42 districts, reflecting sustained efforts to build insurance awareness at the grassroots

    The third edition of the State Insurance Quiz Junior for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry concluded with a competitive grand finale, bringing together young students from government schools across the region to test their understanding of insurance and financial protection. The initiative, organised by HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, reflects a sustained effort to build insurance awareness at the grassroots level through early engagement with students.
    After multiple preliminary and semi-final rounds conducted across the states, eight top-performing teams qualified for the grand finale. The final round saw Team Srinuprasad and Ajesh from GHSS Kalkulam, Kanniyakumari, emerge as winners. Sibidharshan and Nikil from GHSS Palapatti, Namakkal, secured the first runner-up position, while Monisha and Anushya from GHS Vanavareddy, Kallakurichi, finished as second runners-up. The winning team received a cash prize of ₹1.5 lakh, while the first and second runners-up were awarded ₹90,000 and ₹60,000 respectively. The remaining five finalist teams were each awarded ₹30,000.

    The 2026 edition recorded participation from over 1,070 teams representing Tamil-medium government schools across 42 districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. This marked a significant increase from the previous year, when the second edition of the quiz saw participation from over 530 teams, indicating growing interest and awareness among students.
    Commenting on the initiative, Parthanil Ghosh, Executive Director, HDFC ERGO General Insurance, said building financial confidence at a young age plays a crucial role in shaping long-term resilience. He noted that as the lead insurer for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, the company remains focused on strengthening insurance awareness at the grassroots and encouraging informed understanding of insurance products. He added that the quiz, which began with participation from just over 100 schools, has grown steadily over three years, reflecting increasing curiosity and engagement among students across the states.

    The State Insurance Quiz Junior forms part of HDFC ERGO’s broader national efforts to promote insurance literacy among young people. Since 2016, the company has conducted the Insurance Quiz Junior at a national level, engaging over 25 lakh students across India. Expanding this focus further, HDFC ERGO introduced the Insurance Quiz Senior in 2025 for undergraduate students, which saw participation from more than 1,100 students across over 140 cities.
    In addition to the quiz initiative, HDFC ERGO recently concluded the third edition of Kapitu Varaam, or Insurance Week, in collaboration with 29 non-life insurers across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The campaign aimed to improve public understanding of motor, health, home, shopkeeper, and MSME insurance through outreach activities such as pamphlet distribution, newspaper inserts, and awareness drives at high-footfall locations. Collectively, these activities facilitated approximately 17 lakh interactions across the region.

    Through these initiatives, the company continues to focus on expanding insurance awareness among students and communities, reinforcing the role of education in strengthening long-term financial preparedness.
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  • A Republic Day Initiative Brings Inclusion and Shared Citizenship Into Focus at DPS Hinjawadi

    Dr. Jaya Parekh, Principal Learner, Delhi Public School Hinjawadi, says Khushi Utsav reflects the role of schools in nurturing empathy, equality, and constitutional values among children

    Delhi Public School Hinjawadi marked Republic Day 2026 through Khushi Utsav and Khushi Bazaar, an on-campus initiative designed to translate constitutional values of empathy, inclusion, and shared citizenship into lived experience for students and the wider community.
    As part of the programme, the school hosted 50 families from a nearby Zilla Parishad school in Nande village, welcoming students and their family members as special guests. Utility and learning kits were distributed in a manner that emphasised dignity and equality, reinforcing the idea that social responsibility must be practised with respect and sensitivity.

    Student participation formed the core of the initiative. Learners across age groups engaged actively in organising and supporting the event, experiencing first-hand the value of service as a form of learning. Parent-led stalls added warmth and vibrancy to the occasion, with food counters, ice cream stalls, and simple game stations offered as gestures of sharing rather than commerce. Adventure and activity zones were also set up to ensure that visiting children and families experienced the day as one of joy and inclusion.
    A symbolic highlight of the celebration was the flag unfurling ceremony, jointly conducted by the youngest child from the visiting ZP school and the Principal of DPS Hinjawadi. The moment reflected the spirit of equality and collective national pride, reinforcing the message that citizenship belongs equally to every child.

    Addressing the gathering, Dr. Jaya Parekh, Principal Learner of Delhi Public School Hinjawadi, spoke about unity in diversity and the strength that emerges from shared responsibility. She emphasised that all children are equal, and that the joy of sharing and learning together plays a powerful role in shaping values that extend beyond the classroom.
    The initiative received strong appreciation from the visiting ZP school’s Principal, teachers, and students, who acknowledged the school’s culture of inclusion, the involvement of students and parents, and the thoughtful intent behind the programme.

    Conceived as the beginning of a longer journey, Khushi Utsav and Khushi Bazaar are planned to become an annual Republic Day tradition at DPS Hinjawadi. The school views the initiative as part of its broader educational philosophy, which holds that education must develop not only academic competence, but also empathy, responsibility, and active citizenship.
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  • How Data Led Water Planning Is Reshaping Campus Sustainability at KL Deemed to be University

    Er. Koneru Satyanarayana, President, KL Deemed to be University, says long term water resilience depends on integrating reuse, recharge, and monitoring into campus operations

    KL Deemed to be University has adopted a data led and systems driven approach to campus water management, positioning water resilience as a core component of long term infrastructure planning rather than a standalone sustainability initiative. The university’s model integrates reuse, recharge, and continuous monitoring to address growing pressure on water resources within large academic campuses.
    The approach was recently highlighted at the CII–SR Industrial Climate Action Competition, held alongside the Energy Transition Summit in Chennai on 30 January 2026. The platform evaluated institutions on measurable environmental outcomes, implementation depth, scalability, and alignment with climate action priorities.

    KL Deemed to be University’s water strategy is structured around a four pillar framework of Reduce, Recharge, Recycle, and Reuse. At the operational level, this framework is supported by a wastewater recycling system with a capacity of 2,180 kilolitres per day, which currently supplies more than half of the campus’s overall water requirement.
    Advanced sewage treatment technologies, including Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor and ARBiT systems, have enabled significant efficiency gains. Water recovery rates on campus have increased from 53 percent to 74 percent, allowing treated water to be redirected for non potable uses such as flushing, landscaping, and utility operations.

    Groundwater replenishment forms another critical layer of the system. The campus operates 32 rainwater harvesting pits with a combined recharge potential of approximately 3.7 lakh litres per day. These structures are designed to support aquifer sustainability while reducing dependence on external water sources.
    Real time monitoring and demand side management have further strengthened outcomes. Building level interventions and efficient irrigation practices have resulted in a 54 percent reduction in water consumption across built spaces and a 42 percent reduction in landscape irrigation demand. These efficiencies have been achieved while maintaining a green cover exceeding 10.6 lakh square feet across the campus.

    Commenting on the university’s approach, Er. Koneru Satyanarayana, President of KL Deemed to be University, said long term water resilience requires integrating infrastructure, technology, and governance into everyday campus operations. He added that sustainability planning at the university is designed to support future ready education by aligning environmental responsibility with institutional growth.
    The model reflects a broader shift in how academic institutions are responding to climate related resource constraints. By embedding data, monitoring, and reuse into core infrastructure systems, KL Deemed to be University has demonstrated how campuses can function as living laboratories for climate responsive planning.
    The university’s water stewardship efforts add to its wider track record of environmental initiatives that have received national level attention from bodies such as the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Water Digest, CII–SR, and AICTE, reinforcing the role of higher education institutions in advancing scalable climate solutions.
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  • Advanced Energy Storage Manufacturing Takes Shape as Luminous Power Technologies Commissions Lithium-ion Assembly Line in Baddi

    Rajiv Ganju, Senior Vice President Manufacturing and Global Supply Chain, and Ganesh Moorthi, Chief Technology Officer at Luminous Power Technologies, say the new facility strengthens precision manufacturing, digital traceability, and next-generation battery capabilities

    India’s push toward advanced energy storage and clean mobility received a boost with the inauguration of a lithium-ion battery assembly line by Luminous Power Technologies at its manufacturing facility in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. The new line marks the company’s first lithium-ion battery assembly operation and represents a significant step in strengthening its next-generation energy storage capabilities.
    The lithium-ion assembly line has an installed production capacity of 500 megawatt hours and integrates advanced robotic automation with precision-led manufacturing processes. According to the company, the facility has been designed to meet high standards of quality, safety, and performance across lithium-ion battery packs.

    The new line is capable of manufacturing standalone lithium-ion battery packs, stationary Battery Energy Storage Systems, and automotive battery packs for e-rickshaw applications. It supports capacities ranging from 1.2 kilowatt hours to 16 kilowatt hours for individual battery packs, with system-level scalability up to 1 megawatt hour. This enables applications across residential, commercial and industrial energy storage, as well as electric mobility use cases.
    Rajiv Ganju, Senior Vice President Manufacturing and Global Supply Chain at Luminous Power Technologies, said the commissioning of the lithium-ion assembly line strengthens the company’s integrated manufacturing and supply chain capabilities. He said the facility reflects Luminous’ focus on precision, localisation, and building future-ready manufacturing operations to support India’s evolving energy requirements.

    A key feature of the assembly line is end-to-end digital traceability for every battery pack manufactured at the facility. The system is aligned with the latest Battery Aadhaar requirements, enabling full lifecycle tracking and strengthening regulatory compliance, transparency, and consumer confidence.
    Ganesh Moorthi, Chief Technology Officer at Luminous Power Technologies, said the new assembly line marks the beginning of a long-term journey in next-generation energy technologies for the company. He said the facility integrates advanced automation with multiple quality evaluation technologies and is designed to remain scalable as energy storage requirements evolve.

    Beyond manufacturing, the lithium-ion assembly line is expected to contribute to Luminous’ sustainability objectives. The facility supports renewable energy storage deployment, electric vehicle applications, and grid-level storage, while improving manufacturing efficiency through automation. The company said the line will also support circular economy practices through battery recycling and component reuse.
    The operationalisation of the assembly line is expected to generate employment and contribute to local economic development in the Baddi region. The facility further strengthens Luminous’ positioning as a full-stack consumer energy fulfillment company, supporting India’s transition toward cleaner, more efficient, and future-ready energy systems.
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