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  • Republic Day menus take shape across ITC Maratha, Courtyard by Marriott, Hyatt Centric and more

    Culinary teams across hotels, cafés and restaurants curate tricolour inspired menus, brunches and festive experiences for the long weekend

    Republic Day celebrations across cities are finding expression at the dining table, with hospitality brands and neighbourhood favourites curating menus and experiences that reflect the colours, flavours, and shared spirit of the occasion. From luxury hotels to casual cafés and family friendly spaces, the long weekend has become an opportunity to gather, slow down, and celebrate through food.
    At ITC Maratha, Peshwa Pavilion marks Republic Day with a curated buffet that brings together regional Indian cuisines under the theme “A Festive Spread to Honour the Week”. Tricolour inspired dishes sit alongside traditional favourites and sweets, served through a Republic Week dinner buffet on 23 and 24 January, followed by a Sunday brunch on 25 January. The experience focuses on shared tables and the diversity of Indian culinary traditions.

    A two day celebration unfolds at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, where MoMo Café hosts a Republic Day brunch on 25 January, followed by lunch and dinner on 26 January. Alongside an extensive regional spread covering flavours from across the country, the venue features tricolour themed décor, live music, and a dedicated children’s engagement zone with creative activities. Live counters, regional classics, global additions, and traditional desserts shape an inclusive dining experience designed for families and groups.
    At Hyatt Centric Juhu Mumbai, Sesame hosts a Tricolour Brunch on 26 January. The buffet blends Indian and global influences, with live counters, a sushi station, and desserts inspired by the colours of the tricolour. A buy one get one free offer accompanies the brunch, which is positioned as a festive yet relaxed mid day gathering.

    For those seeking a slower start to the day, T24 Retro, home to Blend Kitchen and Bar, offers a Republic Day breakfast rooted in familiar comfort. The menu spans classic omelettes, pancakes, dosas, parathas, and traditional breakfast staples, paired with freshly brewed coffees and teas, encouraging guests to celebrate at an unhurried pace.
    At Toast Bistro and Bar, located at T24 Residency, Republic Day is marked through a mix of global favourites and local flavours. The menu features dishes designed for sharing, complemented by rooftop seating, upbeat music, and a lively atmosphere that extends the celebration into the evening.

    A playful approach to the tricolour comes through at The Bluebop Cafe, where a vegetarian Tricolour Menu is served across 25 and 26 January. Colour coded pizzas, pasta, desserts, and mocktails shape a light hearted tribute to the national holiday.
    In Bengaluru, Kalpaney uses Republic Day as a moment to highlight vegetarian Indian cuisine as a contemporary global expression. The menu draws from regional roots while reimagining flavours through modern techniques and thoughtful beverage pairings.

    Those craving an international detour can head to Si Nonna’s, where the Republic Day weekend features sourdough pizzas, panuozzos, desserts, and beverages served in a relaxed setting across its Mumbai outlets.
    Completing the line up is Pokiddo Junior, which marks Republic Day with a child focused programme combining creative workshops, themed food and beverage offerings, and interactive activities. Designed for families, the celebrations extend beyond the holiday itself through a calendar of workshops running into early February.
    ogether, these experiences reflect how Republic Day celebrations have evolved beyond formal ceremonies into moments of connection, creativity, and shared indulgence, with food at the centre of the long weekend.
    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.

  • NAREDCO Maharashtra, Shriram Group, Apollo AyurVAID, ProV, Bhanzu, and others flag priorities ahead of Budget 2026

    Prashant Sharma, Kaushal Agarwal, Shilpin Tater, Kamlesh Thakur, Shraddha Kedia Agarwal, Gaurav Varma, Dhruman Shah, Ashwani Dhanawat, Umesh Revankar, Rajiv Vasudevan, Ankush Jain, and D L Prachotan share expectations

    As India approaches the Union Budget 2026, leaders across housing, finance, healthcare, food, and education are calling for targeted policy measures to sustain demand, improve affordability, and strengthen people-facing sectors that have a direct bearing on household consumption, employment, and social outcomes. From real estate and insurance to healthcare delivery, nutrition, and education, industry voices highlight the need for continuity, access, and long-term structural support.

    Housing and Real Estate

    Prashant Sharma, President, NAREDCO Maharashtra, said the real estate sector remains a critical contributor to economic growth and employment, and expects policy support that strengthens affordability and project execution.
    “The real estate sector continues to be a critical driver of economic growth, employment generation, and allied industries. In the upcoming Union Budget, the industry is hopeful of measures that further strengthen end-user demand, enhance affordability, and accelerate project execution. Granting infrastructure status to housing, especially affordable and mid-income segments, would significantly improve access to institutional finance and reduce borrowing costs for developers.
    We strongly urge the government to revisit tax benefits for homebuyers by increasing the deduction limits on home loan interest and principal repayment under Sections 24(b) and 80C, which have remained unchanged for years. Rationalization of GST on construction materials and clarity on input tax credit would also help ease cost pressures. Additionally, faster approvals, policy support for redevelopment and urban housing, and incentives for sustainable and green developments will go a long way in supporting the sector’s long-term, inclusive growth.”

    Kaushal Agarwal, Chairman, The Guardians Real Estate Advisory, said housing demand has shown resilience but requires calibrated relief to sustain momentum.
    “As the Union Budget 2026 approaches, the real estate sector will be watching closely for policy continuity and targeted measures that further strengthen housing affordability and sustain end-user confidence. The market has demonstrated strong resilience over the past year, supported by steady sales across major cities and rising participation from genuine homebuyers.
    In this context, calibrated tax relief for buyers, particularly in the mid-income and affordable segments, such as enhanced deductions on home loan interest and principal, along with a relook at stamp duty and registration charges, could meaningfully ease the cost of ownership and encourage first-time buyers.”

    Shilpin Tater, Managing Director, Superb Realty, pointed to rising construction costs and the need for execution support.
    “The real estate sector continues to be a key driver of economic growth, employment generation, and urban transformation. As we approach the Union Budget, the industry is optimistic about policy measures that enhance project viability and sustain end-user demand across both residential and commercial segments.
    We also expect the government to address rising construction costs through rationalisation of GST on key building materials and greater clarity on input tax credit. Faster approvals, policy support for redevelopment, and targeted incentives for green and sustainable developments will help improve supply efficiency.”

    Kamlesh Thakur, Co-founder and Managing Director, Srishti Group, emphasised infrastructure-led growth and access to capital.
    “The real estate sector remains a key pillar of India’s economic growth and urban transformation. In the forthcoming Union Budget, we expect policy measures that strengthen housing affordability, improve project viability, and accelerate urban development.
    Increasing tax benefits for homebuyers and extending interest subsidy schemes will go a long way in supporting genuine end-user demand, particularly in the affordable and mid-income segments.”

    Shraddha Kedia Agarwal, Director, Transcon Developers, said clarity and execution will be essential across housing segments.
    “In the forthcoming Union Budget, we expect policy measures that further strengthen housing affordability, provide greater ease of doing business, and support timely project execution. Enhancing tax benefits for homebuyers and ensuring easier access to long-term, low-cost funding will help sustain end-user confidence across housing segments, including luxury housing and mixed-use developments.”

    Gaurav Varma, Director, ORA Group, highlighted evolving buyer preferences and redevelopment-led demand.
    “The real estate sector continues to be a vital enabler of urban growth and economic momentum. Strengthening tax incentives for homebuyers and ensuring access to long-term, cost-efficient funding will help sustain healthy end-user demand across segments.
    In addition to apartments, plotted developments and second homes are witnessing rising interest, driven by improved infrastructure, work-from-anywhere trends, and the aspiration for lifestyle-led ownership.”

    Dhruman Shah, Promoter, Ariha Group, pointed to the growing role of luxury and redevelopment projects.
    “In the forthcoming Union Budget, we expect policy measures that improve project viability, streamline approvals, and enhance housing affordability for end users. Strengthening tax incentives for homebuyers and ensuring easier access to long-term, low-cost funding will help sustain demand across segments, including premium and luxury housing.”

    Finance and Insurance

    Ashwani Dhanawat, Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer, Shriram General Insurance, said deeper reforms are required to improve penetration and affordability.
    “Union Budget 2025 delivered positive measures for the non-life insurance sector, including the increase in FDI to 100%, but insurance penetration in India remains low at around 1% of GDP, underscoring the need for deeper structural reforms.
    In health insurance, enhancing Section 80D limits to ₹50,000/₹1 lakh and extending full tax benefits to senior citizens with standalone policies will help address rising healthcare costs.”

    Umesh Revankar, Executive Vice Chairman, Shriram Finance, highlighted the importance of execution and funding stability.
    “The broad expectation from the upcoming Budget is continued support for India’s growth priorities with a strong focus on implementation. With large infrastructure projects already identified, timely execution, smoother coordination, and reduced approval friction will be key to ensuring that spending translates into durable assets that improve productivity.”

    Healthcare and Ayurveda

    Rajiv Vasudevan, MD, CEO and Founder, Apollo AyurVAID, called for sustained investment in evidence-based Ayurveda.
    “Over the last few years, the government has made sustained and visible efforts to build awareness and credibility for the Ayush medical system, both within India and globally.
    However, translating this intent into substantial reality shall require dedicated investment commitments of the order of a minimum of INR 500 cr. per year over the next 5 years whereby robust evidence is built for Ayurveda as treatment of choice for select medical conditions.”

    Food and Nutrition

    Ankush Jain, CFO, Proventus Agrocom Limited (ProV), said policy support is needed to strengthen healthy food ecosystems.
    In recent years, India’s FMCG and food ecosystem has witnessed a meaningful shift, with consumers becoming more conscious about nutrition, transparency, and quality of the food they are having.
    As India is awaiting the upcoming budget 2026–27, the expectation speaks out loud this time demanding the government to continue strengthening support for food innovation, healthy living, sustainable sourcing and packaging, and modern retail infrastructure.”

    Education and Entrepreneurship

    D L Prachotan, Co-founder and Head of Business Development, Bhanzu, emphasised the importance of nurturing entrepreneurship.
    “India’s entrepreneurial landscape has transformed dramatically in the last few years. We are transitioning from job seekers to job creators.
    As India is awaiting the next budget, my expectation is that the government will double down on enabling this momentum wherein we not just create more opportunities for Indian entrepreneurs but also build strong ecosystems which attract global talent.”

    Closing Context
    Across sectors, the expectations ahead of Budget 2026 converge on a common theme: sustaining affordability, improving access to finance and services, and strengthening execution across people-facing industries that directly shape consumption, wellbeing, and opportunity

    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.

  • Rural youth in Okhamandal receive structured defence training support through Tata Chemicals

    Ujas Dave, Head of CSR at Tata Chemicals, explains how the programme is helping aspirants prepare for careers in the Indian Armed Forces

    Rural youth in Gujarat’s Okhamandal block are receiving structured preparation for careers in the Indian Armed Forces through a training initiative supported by Tata Chemicals. The programme is being implemented by the company’s CSR arm, Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development, in partnership with Ramshingbha Trust, also known as Manek Defence Academy.
    The Armed Forces Training Programme was initiated during the 2024–25 financial year with the objective of supporting young aspirants from rural backgrounds who aim to join the Indian Armed Forces. The initiative focuses on systematic training while addressing affordability, a key barrier for many candidates in the region.

    The first batch of the programme enrolled 12 candidates, of whom seven were selected for the Indian Army under the Agniveer scheme. In the current year, 27 candidates are undergoing training. One candidate has been selected for the Indian Air Force, while three candidates have cleared the written, physical, and medical examinations under the SSC GD category and are awaiting the final merit list. An additional 14 candidates have cleared the written examination and are preparing for subsequent stages of the selection process.
    To support wider participation, the programme offers financial assistance through subsidised training fees. Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development has extended 75 percent fee support to candidates from SC and ST communities as well as women candidates, while candidates from other social categories receive 50 percent support. The model is intended to reduce financial constraints and enable sustained participation in the training process.

    Commenting on the initiative, Ujas Dave, Head of CSR at Tata Chemicals, said that the collaboration is aimed at enabling rural youth in Okhamandal to access structured and affordable preparation for armed forces recruitment. He noted that the programme addresses both training quality and cost, helping aspirants improve their readiness for competitive selection processes.

    The initiative forms part of Tata Chemicals’ broader efforts to support rural youth through targeted skill development and employment-oriented interventions, with a focus on long-term outcomes rather than short-term placement alone.
    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.

  • Bedse Caves: Unexplored Wonder Just Outside Lonavala

    Tucked away near Lonavala, the ancient Buddhist caves offer quiet trails, early rock cut architecture, and valley views away from crowded tourist circuits

    There are travel destinations that appear frequently on every recommended list, and then there are those that stay quietly hidden in the background, waiting for the curious ones to stumble upon them. Bedse Caves fall into the latter category, offering a sense of intrigue for those who enjoy taking the road less travelled.
    Located near Lonavala, this site is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat filled with history and quiet reflection. With fewer crowds and plenty of charm, this spot feels refreshing in its simplicity and offers a meaningful break from regular tourist trails.

    Table of Contents

    A Glimpse into Bedse’s Ancient Past
    The Bedse Caves are believed to have been created during the 1st century BCE, during the rule of the Satavahana dynasty. These caves were used as a place of meditation and residence by Buddhist monks and served both religious and social purposes during their time.
    The complex mainly consists of a Chaitya, a prayer hall, and a Vihara, a space used for living and meeting. The carvings within the caves are modest in size compared to more famous counterparts like Karla and Bhaja, but they feature intricate details such as lotus motifs, animal figures, and symmetrical pillars.
    This careful craftsmanship highlights the site’s significance and its pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism in Western India. Travelling to this site by booking a Lonavala cab servicemakes the journey both easy and comfortable.

    What Makes Bedse Caves Worth the Climb
    Several unique aspects of the Bedse Caves make them worth a visit, especially if you’re someone who prefers to explore lesser-known destinations. Here are a few highlights of what makes Bedse special:

    • No Crowds or Queues: Since this location is not yet heavily promoted, it remains fairly quiet even on weekends, giving you the space to explore freely.
    • Peaceful Environment: The silence here is not accidental but feels like an important part of the experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy being close to nature without distraction.
    • Short and Manageable Climb: Although you need to walk up a flight of stairs to reach the caves, the effort is minimal, and the payoff at the top is absolutely worth it.
    • Interesting Rock-Cut Architecture: The stone-carved interiors and exteriors hold a kind of beauty that is both natural and intentional, making it a delight for anyone interested in history or ancient architecture.
    • Photogenic Views: Once at the top, the wide views of the valley and surroundings offer plenty of opportunities for photography, whether you prefer wide-angle nature shots or detailed architectural frames.

    If you’re looking to explore Bedse Caves at a relaxed pace, with the comfort of a private vehicle and the advantage of a local chauffeur who knows the best routes, booking a Lonavala cab service is a smart move.

    What You’ll Discover Inside: A Peek Into Bedse Caves
    A visit to Bedse Caves feels like stepping into a forgotten chapter of ancient life. After a gentle climb up stone steps, you’ll reach the Chaitya, a beautifully carved prayer hall with a central stupa and curved ceiling, once used by monks for meditation.
    Nearby, the Vihara contains small living cells that offer a quiet glimpse into monastic life. You’ll also spot delicate carvings of animals and floral motifs, along with old water tanks cut into the rock.
    The space is simple and untouched, allowing you to explore freely and connect with its quiet atmosphere. If you’re sold and planning to visit already, book a car rental in Lonavala to avoid unnecessary hassle with multiple transfers or local transport delays.

    Finding Bedse Caves: A Quick Guide for Smooth Travel
    The caves are located approximately 8.8 kilometres from Kamshet and can be accessed via a short drive followed by a brief walk uphill. If you’re travelling from Lonavala, the distance is around 27 kilometres, which takes under an hour by car.
    While it is possible to use local transport options like auto rickshaws or shared jeeps, they may not always be available or willing to go the full distance, especially in the early hours or late afternoon. A more reliable and convenient option is to hire a car rental in Lonavala, which allows you the freedom to explore not just Bedse Caves but other nearby places as well, without having to worry about return transport.
    • Entry Fees: INR 5 per person
    • Timings: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM daily
    Wrapping Up
    The Bedse Caves offer a refreshing change of pace for travellers who enjoy thoughtful exploration and quiet spaces away from the usual crowd. The site holds strong appeal for anyone drawn to early Indian rock-cut architecture, Buddhist heritage, or peaceful destinations close to Lonavala.
    To make your visit smoother and more convenient, you can rely on Savaari Car Rentals, a trusted name in chauffeur-driven cab services across India. With reliable drivers, easy booking, and comfortable rides, Savaari lets you focus on the experience while they handle the travel.
    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.

  • Leaders from BenQ, Hisense, Moglix, Avaali, Lumina Datamatics, and Paras Defence weigh in ahead of Budget 2026

    Rajeev Singh, Pankaj Rana, Rahul Garg, Srividya Kannan, Sameer Kanodia, Siddhartha Abburi, Chanakya Bellam, Nandagopal P, Taranbir Singh, Hiren Shah, Amit Mahajan, Raj Kumar Medimi, Murali Mantravadi, and Madhu Rajputra Peravalli share expectations

    As India approaches the Union Budget 2026, leaders across technology, manufacturing, logistics, defence, energy, and deep tech are calling for policy clarity that goes beyond short-term stimulus and focuses on long-term capability building. With digital public infrastructure firmly in place, industry voices now emphasise the need to deepen innovation, manufacturing competitiveness, R&D intensity, and global relevance.

    Technology, AI, and Digital Infrastructure

    Rajeev Singh, Managing Director, BenQ India and South Asia, said expectations from the Budget are centred on education technology, local manufacturing, and skilling.
    “The Union Budget 2026–27 will boldly advance India’s Viksit Bharat@2047 vision by prioritizing transformative investments in education technology, youth skilling, and middle-class prosperity essential catalysts for the consumer electronics and edtech sectors. As a pioneer in monitors, projectors, and interactive flat panels (IFPs) that power modern homes, hybrid offices, and smart classrooms across the nation, we anticipate a comprehensive strategy that aligns fiscal measures with our sector’s growth trajectory

    In particular, we foresee a substantial allocation under PM SHRI and Samagra Shiksha schemes to revolutionize smart classrooms, mandating at least 50% local procurement of IFPs and projectors to equip 1.5 lakh schools and transform hybrid learning for 20 million students, enabling brands like ours to deploy over 2.5 lakh units annually. Complementing this, an enhanced PLI 2.0 scheme with ₹10,000 crore outlay would offer 7–10% incentives for localizing advanced 4K/8K panels, laser projection technology, and eye-care monitors, slashing import dependence from 45% to under 10% while scaling manufacturing capacity.
    Moreover, a dedicated skilling fund for display manufacturing, AV integration, and optics training would empower the upskilling of over 4 lakh youth across 20 Tier-2/3 hubs, generating 6 lakh direct and indirect jobs in the ecosystem.”

    Pankaj Rana, CEO, Hisense India, highlighted the importance of localisation and vocational skilling.
    “The Union Budget 2026–27 offers a transformative platform to operationalize India’s Viksit Bharat@2047 vision, with youth skilling and middle-class empowerment as foundational pillars that will cascade benefits to high-growth sectors like consumer electronics. As Hisense India accelerates its Make in India commitment producing advanced MiniLED TVs, smart ACs, refrigerators, and washing machines we anticipate a few targeted measures to unlock our sector’s potential.
    For instance, an increase in allocation for electronics by 20–25% with simplified norms for next-gen components like RGB MiniLED panels and AI chipsets would enable us to localize 60% of TV production value by FY27. Moreover, a dedicated fund for vocational training in semiconductors, display tech, and assembly lines, potentially partnering with tech brands, would also serve to skill 5 lakh youth annually and create 2 million jobs in the electronics value chain.
    Furthermore, fast-tracking electronics parks in Tier-2/3 cities with subsidized power and land, plus duty drawbacks on exports would help target $50 billion in TV and appliance shipments by 2028, aligning with global innovation.”

    Ravi Agarwal, Co-founder and Managing Director, Cellecor, emphasised stability and localisation.
    “The Union Budget 2026–27 is a pivotal opportunity to accelerate India’s Viksit Bharat@2047 vision by reinforcing domestic manufacturing as the backbone of the consumer electronics sector. For Cellecor, which is steadily expanding its Make in India footprint across smart TVs, air conditioners, refrigerators, and kitchen appliances, policy stability and targeted manufacturing support will be critical to building long-term scale and competitiveness.
    A sharper focus on electronics manufacturing incentives, rationalised component duties, and simplified input norms can meaningfully deepen localisation and help the industry progress towards 50–60 percent domestic value addition. Strengthening India’s manufacturing ecosystem through investments in skilling, electronics clusters, and MSME supplier networks will be essential to move up the value chain and reduce import dependence.
    With Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets emerging as the next engines of both consumption and production growth, a manufacturing-first policy approach can enable Indian brands to serve domestic demand while building globally competitive capabilities.”

    AI, Data, and Enterprise Technology

    Srividya Kannan, Founder and CEO, Avaali, stressed the importance of trust, privacy, and AI adoption.
    “As India prepares for Union Budget 2026, the focus should continue on building a robust ecosystem for technology, innovation, and trust. We hope to see continued support for AI research and development, including grants, incentives, and policy measures that encourage enterprises to adopt AI and automation, strengthen efficiencies, and make data-driven decisions. Strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure and frameworks will be essential as digital and AI workflows become more pervasive.
    India’s Data Protection and Privacy landscape also marks a critical juncture. While the DPDP Rules introduce global-standard protections, enterprises face the challenge of aligning compliance with trust. Budget 2026 could help by supporting technology-driven approaches to privacy, promoting architectures where consent, encryption, access controls, and automated governance are foundational, not performative.
    Continued focus on the Global Capability Center ecosystem, Tier-II and Tier-III city growth, and future-ready talent development, including initiatives promoting women in tech, remains crucial.”

    Sameer Kanodia, Managing Director and CEO, Lumina Datamatics Limited, pointed to AI-led productivity in publishing and commerce.
    “As India prepares for the Union Budget, we expect a sharper policy focus on strengthening digital and AI-led infrastructure that underpins knowledge services, publishing, and the fast-growing retail and e-commerce ecosystem. Continued investments in advanced technologies such as AI, automation, and cloud platforms will be critical to improving productivity across content creation, digital publishing workflows, and large-scale retail operations.
    For the publishing sector, targeted support for technology-enabled content production, research digitisation, and global content services exports can help Indian companies deepen their role in the international knowledge economy.
    Aligned with our expectations, a strong emphasis on AI-focused skill development, R&D incentives, and ease of doing business for technology-driven service providers will enable companies to continue building globally competitive solutions from India.”

    Nandagopal P, CEO, Asymmetri; CTO, Gacsym Ventures; and Limited Partner, Arya Ventures, framed Budget 2026 as a strategic inflection point.
    “India is approaching Budget 2026 at a stage where its vast digital scale must now evolve into true global digital leadership. Over the last decade, we’ve built remarkable digital public infrastructure, but global competitiveness will be decided by depth of compute, AI capability, R&D, cybersecurity, and talent.
    The approval of the ₹1 lakh crore RDI Scheme is a bold and timely step, but capital alone will not create global technology leaders. Budget 2026 must provide the policy backbone, stronger R&D tax incentives, clear IP commercialisation pathways, and support for deep-tech venture funding, so that innovation can move faster from lab to market.
    If Budget 2026 gets this right, India can shift from being a large digital market to becoming a true digital superpower.”

    Chanakya Bellam, Director, AION-Tech Solutions Ltd., highlighted AI and full-stack capabilities.
    “As India prepares its Union Budget for 2026–27, AION-Tech Solutions urges policymakers to place future-ready technologies at the center of national economic planning. Strategic investments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, full-stack digital platforms, business intelligence, and cloud infrastructure will be critical for sustained economic growth, job creation, and global competitiveness.
    To fully realize this potential, proactive governance is essential, including R&D incentives for AI and digital startups, stronger public-private partnerships, large-scale skill development, and responsible frameworks that balance innovation with ethics, privacy, and security.”

    Logistics, Manufacturing, Energy, and Defence

    Taranbir Singh, Founder and CEO, Bharat Supply, spoke on logistics and rural infrastructure.
    “As India’s consumption story deepens beyond metros, the Union Budget holds an opportunity to meaningfully strengthen last-mile and beyond-metro logistics. A key step would be to simplify and rationalise GST for logistics, particularly last-mile delivery services, to lower operating costs and unlock new private investment.
    Equally important is sustained focus on rural consumption, where logistics is the critical backbone connecting farmers, MSMEs, and small retailers to markets.”

    Hiren Shah, Managing Director, Jyoti Global Plast, addressed MSMEs and defence manufacturing.
    “The importance of MSMEs is growing at a fast pace in the economy. The industry is emerging as a key pillar supporting India’s manufacturing renaissance in the defence sector and beyond. Targeted capex incentives, output-linked support, rationalised taxation, and R&D enablement can help MSMEs scale indigenous technologies and accelerate adoption.”

    Amit Mahajan, Director, Paras Defence and Space Technologies Limited, called for deeper industry-led R&D.
    “As India accelerates its transition from import dependent to a technology-driven and self-reliant defence manufacturing ecosystem, the Union Budget 2026 must deepen industry-led research, design and development… Beyond core defence platforms, strong support is needed for drones, counter-drone systems, and aerospace technologies.”
    Raj Kumar Medimi, Executive Director, Trinity Cleantech, focused on power infrastructure.
    “The upcoming Union Budget presents a critical opportunity to strengthen the country’s power and energy infrastructure at the grassroots level… Incentivizing high-efficiency, low-loss transformers and supporting indigenously manufactured electrical equipment can significantly reduce long-term system costs for DISCOMs.”
    Murali Mantravadi, Joint Managing Director, Energy Bots, emphasised long-term tech capacity.
    “India’s digital ecosystem has reached a structural inflection point… This budget must treat AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and deep tech as national digital infrastructure.”
    Madhu Rajputra Peravalli, Co-founder, Troogue, addressed startups and skilling.
    “We keep talking about enabling startups, but real scale comes when the government becomes a customer, not just a regulator… Strengthening R&D tax incentives for startups building original IP will boost innovation.”
    Closing Context
    Taken together, the voices reflect a consistent theme ahead of Budget 2026: the need to move decisively from scale to sophistication, from access to capability, and from incremental incentives to long-term policy certainty across technology, manufacturing, logistics, energy, and defence.
    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.

  • Slow travel finds its moment this Republic Day across Taj, Jaypee and Aahana

    Wellness led resorts around Delhi NCR and the hills offer unhurried stays for a long weekend pause

    The Republic Day long weekend arrives as a natural breather in an otherwise packed calendar, offering a rare chance to slow down without planning a long holiday. Around Delhi NCR and the nearby hills, a cluster of wellness led resorts are shaping short stays that prioritise space, calm, and a gentler pace of travel.
    Just outside the city, Taj Damdama Lake Resort & Spa presents a nature anchored retreat at the foothills of the Aravallis. Spread across a large, reimagined estate, the resort blends open landscapes with thoughtfully designed rooms, suites, and private villas. Days here revolve around unhurried meals, quiet walks, and restorative wellness experiences, with Damdama Lake and nearby heritage sites adding to the sense of escape without distance.

    For those seeking forest bound stillness, Aahana Resort offers a slower rhythm shaped by nature. Set against dense greenery, the resort focuses on privacy and immersion, with private pool villas, shaded trails, and farm driven dining. The emphasis remains on mindfulness, allowing guests to disconnect from schedules and reconnect with the surrounding landscape through long, quiet days.
    Closer to the capital yet distinctly removed in feel, Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa balances accessibility with retreat like calm. Framed by the Aravalli hills, the resort combines expansive views with classic Taj hospitality. Guests can ease into the weekend through relaxed dining, time by the infinity pool, or extended sessions at the wellness centre, all within easy reach of Delhi NCR.

    A short drive further east brings travellers to Jaypee Greens Golf & Spa Resort, where landscaped greens and open skies set the tone. Overlooking a championship golf course, the resort lends itself to slow mornings, spa rituals, and easy indulgence without the need for extensive travel. The setting works equally well for couples, families, or solo travellers looking for a low effort reset.
    For those willing to trade city horizons for mountain air, Jaypee Residency Manor offers a hilltop escape defined by panoramic views. Perched above Mussoorie, the property pairs cosy interiors with sweeping vistas that stretch from sunrise to starlight. The long weekend unfolds here through quiet meals, mountain walks, and evenings that invite stillness rather than schedules.

    Together, these destinations reflect a growing preference for slow travel during short breaks. Instead of ticking off sights, the focus shifts to rest, comfort, and presence. This Republic Day, the luxury lies not in distance covered, but in time reclaimed.
    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.

  • Early cricketing roots revisited as ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour reaches Indian campuses

    The Class of 26 initiative took the trophy to the former schools and colleges of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson during the DP World supported tour

    The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour visited educational institutions across India as part of the Class of 26 initiative, which traces the formative journeys of current members of the Indian squad. The programme aims to connect students with the early years of international cricketers by taking the World Cup trophy back to the places where their ambitions first took shape.

    As part of the tour, the trophy was taken to the former schools and colleges of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, and Sanju Samson. The visits form a key segment of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour, supported by DP World, and are designed to highlight the early environments that shaped the players’ careers.
    The initiative seeks to carry the trophy to the alma maters of every member of the Indian team, linking school and college grounds with the international stage. By revisiting these institutions, the programme acknowledges the role played by early mentors, peers, and facilities in nurturing talent long before national selection and global recognition.

    At each campus, students welcomed the trophy with ceremonial honours and participated in interactive activities alongside tournament mascots Blaze and Tonk. The engagement included games, challenges, and opportunities for students to interact with the trophy, with select participants receiving ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with DP World merchandise.
    The first visit took place at MK High School in Vadodara, the former school of Hardik Pandya, in the presence of Principal Vinaya Tulasi and Director Subhash Pandya. The tour then moved to the College of Commerce in Patna, where Ishan Kishan studied, attended by Vice Principal Dr M Faizal, Sports In-charge K B Padmadeo, and members of the teaching faculty. The third stop was Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram, the former college of Sanju Samson, with Principal Dr Meera George and faculty members present.

    At Mar Ivanios College, students added a personal element to the visit by creating a backdrop spelling Sanju Samson’s name using notes and leaving written messages, reflecting the emotional connection between current students and alumni who have gone on to represent the country.
    The Class of 26 initiative also recognises the years of discipline and persistence that underpin international careers. By presenting the trophy within educational settings, the programme places emphasis on long-term effort rather than outcomes alone, encouraging students to engage with sport as a pathway shaped over time.

    The tour will continue with visits to other educational institutions associated with members of the Indian squad. Fans can follow updates through the official ICC Trophy Tour social media handle.
    The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from 7 February to 8 March across venues in India and Sri Lanka. Matches will be hosted at stadiums including Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Eden Gardens in Kolkata, R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground in Colombo, and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.
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  • Mobile led content creation is reshaping storage usage patterns at Biwin

    Rajesh Khurana, Country Manager for Consumer Business at Biwin, explains how storage products are being designed around everyday creator needs

    Mobile led content creation in India has accelerated in recent years, driven by the widespread use of smartphones, digital platforms, and the need to create and manage content while on the move. From users documenting daily activities to professionals handling high resolution images and video, dependable data storage has become a routine requirement rather than a secondary consideration.
    Biwin operates in the consumer storage and memory segment, offering products designed for use across smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other digital devices. Its approach in the Indian market focuses on consistency, durability, and ease of use to support everyday digital workflows.
    Among the portable storage products available is the Biwin MS160 microSD card, developed for high end mobile applications. The card supports read speeds of up to 160 MB per second and write speeds of up to 120 MB per second. It carries U3, V30, and A2 certifications, which support multitasking and sustained performance for mobile devices used in content creation.

    The Biwin MS100 microSD card addresses more routine storage needs where stability and reliability are required. With read speeds of up to 100 MB per second and UHS I U3 and V30 certification, the card supports recording and application usage on compatible devices. Available in capacities up to 256 GB, it is designed to accommodate personal, creative, and professional data. The product is built to withstand shock, dust, X rays, and temperature variation to protect stored content in different environments.
    Biwin’s consumer storage portfolio in India also includes the UD150 USB flash drive. The device features a dual port interface with both Type A and Type C connectors, allowing compatibility across a range of devices. With read speeds of up to 150 MB per second and a compact form factor, it is positioned as a portable option for everyday data access and transfer.

    Commenting on the company’s focus in India, Rajesh Khurana, Country Manager for Consumer Business at Biwin, said the company studies how storage is used in daily life across connected devices. He noted that product development is shaped by real usage patterns, whether related to everyday content creation or professional workflows. He added that Biwin is working to improve access to dependable storage through its presence in India and an expanding distribution network.
    Biwin’s consumer storage products are distributed in India through authorised channel partners including RJM Sanghvi Computers in Mumbai, King Technology in Delhi, Petralene Products Pvt Ltd in Bengaluru, and GGC Industries Pvt Ltd in Kolkata. The distribution model is intended to support availability across major regions through established retail and enterprise channels.
    As digital activity in India continues to expand across work, communication, and content creation, storage reliability has become a functional requirement. Biwin’s stated focus remains on providing storage solutions that integrate into daily device usage without adding complexity.

    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.

  • Scrap share in steelmaking expected to rise as India scales production, IMRC 2026 hears

    Daya Nidhan Pandey cited current and projected scrap availability while addressing the conference

    Jaipur, January 20, 2026: The share of scrap in India’s steelmaking process is expected to rise as the country continues to expand its steel production capacity, according to remarks made at the 13th International Material Recycling Conference and Exposition.
    Addressing the inaugural session of International Material Recycling Conference and Exposition 2026, Daya Nidhan Pandey, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Steel, said scrap currently contributes nearly 21 percent of India’s crude steel production, compared to a global average of around one-third. He added that scrap availability in India is estimated to reach nearly 36 million tonnes, indicating a sharp rise in demand as large-scale capacity expansion continues.

    Pandey referred to recent policy measures, including the Steel Scrap Recycling Policy 2019, the Vehicle Scrappage Policy, the rollout of Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities, and the integration of scrap management with national circular economy initiatives. He said newly notified Extended Producer Responsibility mandates for end-of-life vehicles and construction and demolition waste are expected to accelerate formal scrap recycling.
    Looking ahead, Pandey said India is aiming to progressively raise the share of scrap in steelmaking toward the global average of 31 percent. He said that as the country moves toward 300 million tonnes of steel capacity by 2030 and 500 million tonnes by 2047, scrap-based steelmaking will play a key role in conserving raw materials, reducing coal imports, lowering emissions, and supporting India’s net zero target for 2070.

    He also said scrap-based steel production supports decarbonisation by substituting iron ore and coking coal while avoiding carbon emissions. With India targeting 300 million tonnes of crude steel capacity by 2030–31, recycled steel scrap consumption is expected to gain further momentum.
    Highlighting operational challenges, Sanjay Mehta, President of Material Recycling Association of India, called for policy rationalisation, including a reduction in GST on scrap to 5 percent. He said high tax rates are affecting sector growth and compliance, and added that import duty on aluminium scrap should be removed. He also pointed to gaps in the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility across e-waste, tyres, and plastics.

    Mehta said nearly one-third of scrap in India originates from ragpickers, households, and small workshops. He added that routing scrap purchases from the unorganised sector through UPI-based transactions, while discouraging cash at the first level of collection, would help bring workers into the formal economy.
    Speaking on industry trends, Dhawal Shah, Senior Vice President, MRAI, said recycling in India has shifted from being a CSR-linked activity to a core business strategy. He said the country now has more than 1,400 startups operating across waste management and sustainability, and that recycling could surpass mining as an industry well before 2050.
    Other speakers at the session included Zain Nathani, Amar Singh, and Rajat Agarwal, Managing Director of Gravita India Limited. Agarwal said global green funds and ESG-focused investors are actively backing scalable recycling platforms, adding that capital availability is no longer a constraint for responsible recyclers.
    Organised by the Material Recycling Association of India, the three-day conference is being held from January 20 to 22, 2026, at the Novotel Jaipur and Convention Centre, Jaipur.
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  • Postgraduate engineering education expands through IIIT Dharwad and TeamLease EdTech

    Prof. S. R. Mahadeva Prasanna, Director, IIIT Dharwad, and Shantanu Rooj, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, TeamLease EdTech, describe the programme framework

    Postgraduate engineering education in computer science is being expanded through a new online M.Tech programme associated with Indian Institute of Information Technology Dharwad and TeamLease EdTech. The programme has been structured to offer advanced academic and applied learning pathways in key technology domains relevant to industry and research.
    The online M.Tech programme in Computer Science and Engineering includes three specialisation tracks: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing. Each track is designed to combine foundational theory with applied learning to support both working professionals and recent engineering graduates seeking deeper technical expertise.

    The Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning specialisation covers areas such as deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and intelligent data driven systems. The Cybersecurity track focuses on threat modelling, cryptography, governance, risk and compliance, and resilient digital infrastructure. The Cloud Computing pathway addresses cloud architecture, multi cloud deployment models, container and serverless technologies, DevOps practices, and cloud native system design.
    According to Prof. S. R. Mahadeva Prasanna, Director of IIIT Dharwad, the programme reflects the institute’s focus on academic rigour, applied research, and alignment with evolving technology requirements. He said the structure is intended to support learners in developing domain specific expertise across emerging areas of computer science.

    Shantanu Rooj, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of TeamLease EdTech, said the collaboration aligns with the organisation’s focus on building education to employment pathways that are responsive to industry needs. He noted that the programme is designed to help learners build relevant skills for professional environments where advanced computing systems and human decision making intersect.

    The programme is positioned for software engineers, technology professionals, cybersecurity and cloud practitioners, and graduates seeking to transition into specialised technical roles. Learners will engage with academic content supported by project based learning, drawing on IIIT Dharwad’s academic environment and industry oriented approach.
    Admissions for the first cohort are currently open, with programme details including eligibility criteria, curriculum structure, and application timelines available through official channels.
    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.