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Category: News Desk

  • 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.
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  • 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.
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  • 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.
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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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  • Early Warning Signs of Urological Cancers Often Go Unnoticed, Say Specialists at HCG Cancer Centre

    Dr Gaurav Aggarwal, Consultant Uro-Oncology and Robotic Surgeon at HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata, explains how subtle urinary symptoms are frequently misread, delaying diagnosis and treatment

    Urological cancers affecting the kidneys, bladder, prostate, testicles, and urinary tract are among the most commonly delayed cancer diagnoses, largely because their early symptoms are subtle and often mistaken for routine health issues. Specialists say early detection plays a decisive role in treatment outcomes, yet many patients seek medical attention only after the disease has progressed.
    Unlike cancers that present with acute pain in early stages, urological cancers often begin with mild, intermittent symptoms. Changes in urination patterns, occasional discomfort, or traces of blood in the urine may appear and disappear, leading individuals to dismiss them as infections, age-related changes, or lifestyle-related discomforts.

    Medical observations in India indicate that working adults frequently delay consultations due to time constraints, while older individuals often attribute symptoms to ageing. As a result, diagnosis may occur only when symptoms begin to interfere with daily life, by which time the disease may be at a more advanced stage.
    One of the most important warning signs is blood in the urine. Even a single episode, whether visible or detected during routine testing, warrants immediate medical evaluation. Although it may be painless or short-lived, blood in the urine is commonly associated with bladder and kidney cancers and should never be ignored.

    Persistent changes in urination are another key indicator. Increased frequency, difficulty starting or maintaining urine flow, a weak stream, or the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying may point to prostate or bladder conditions. While such symptoms can result from benign causes, persistence should prompt further investigation.
    Unexplained pain or swelling is also significant. A dull ache in the lower back, side, or groin that does not resolve with rest may indicate kidney-related issues. Painless swelling in the testicles is a recognised early symptom of testicular cancer and requires immediate medical attention.

    Recurrent urinary tract infections, particularly in men or older adults, can also signal an underlying obstruction or malignancy rather than repeated infection. Specialists advise that repeated infections should be evaluated beyond routine antibiotic treatment.
    Certain groups face a higher risk of developing urological cancers. Men in midlife and beyond are more vulnerable to prostate-related conditions. Tobacco users are at increased risk of bladder and kidney cancers, as carcinogenic substances are filtered through the urinary system. Individuals with diabetes, obesity, or high blood pressure are increasingly identified as higher-risk groups, while occupational exposure to chemicals and dyes adds to vulnerability. A family history of urological cancers further elevates risk, making regular screening especially important.
    Early detection does not always require complex or invasive procedures. Initial evaluation may involve urine tests, blood tests, ultrasound imaging, and physical examinations. For prostate health, structured discussions with a doctor help determine whether further screening is appropriate based on age and risk factors.
    Specialists emphasise that cancers detected early often require less aggressive treatment, are associated with fewer side effects, and allow for quicker recovery. Early-stage diagnosis also helps preserve urinary and sexual function in many cases, significantly improving quality of life.
    Caregivers and family members play an essential role by encouraging timely consultations, routine check-ups, and open conversations around urinary health. Awareness and early action remain the most effective tools in reducing the burden of urological cancers.
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  • Tokenized Gold Hits Fresh Highs as Bybit Emerges as the Leading Venue for XAUT Spot Trading

    Han Tan, Chief Market Analyst at Bybit Learn, Emily Bao, Head of Spot at Bybit, and Vikas Gupta, Country Manager India at Bybit, say rising macro uncertainty and demand for gold-backed tokens have driven XAUT volumes to new peaks

    Tokenized gold trading has gained momentum as macroeconomic uncertainty and rising gold prices push investors toward safe-haven assets, with Bybit emerging as the leading centralised exchange for spot trading in Tether Gold (XAUT). The exchange currently accounts for approximately 15.75 percent of total XAUT spot trading volume across centralised platforms, according to data cited from CoinGecko
    The surge in trading activity coincides with XAUT reaching new all-time highs near $5,500, closely tracking spot gold prices that have crossed the $5,000 mark. Gold prices have risen amid persistent inflation risks, geopolitical tensions, central bank accumulation, and broader macroeconomic uncertainty, reinforcing gold’s role as a store of value.

    Han Tan, Chief Market Analyst at Bybit Learn, said spot gold recorded its strongest annual performance in decades during 2025. He said continued central bank buying and sustained investor demand could support further upside if current macro conditions persist into 2026.
    As interest in gold-backed digital assets accelerates, Bybit has become a key liquidity and price discovery venue for XAUT. Trading activity on the platform has remained active even during weekends and periods when traditional commodities markets are closed, allowing participants to gain or adjust gold exposure in real time.

    The concentration of XAUT trading on Bybit reflects a broader shift in how market participants are navigating the current bull cycle. Traders are increasingly using tokenized real-world assets such as gold-backed tokens to manage volatility in digital asset portfolios while retaining the speed and accessibility of crypto markets.
    Emily Bao, Head of Spot at Bybit, said the exchange’s focus has been on building deep liquidity and reliable market access to support efficient execution as tokenized gold becomes a core macro-linked asset within crypto markets.

    In India, where gold has long held cultural and financial significance, interest in tokenized gold products is also growing. Vikas Gupta, Country Manager India at Bybit, said Indian traders are increasingly seeking transparent, round-the-clock access to gold exposure through digital assets, particularly amid ongoing global uncertainty.
    Bybit offers multiple ways for traders to participate in the XAUT market, including spot trading, margin trading with leverage of up to ten times, and derivatives trading with leverage of up to fifty times. The platform supports XAUT deposits across several blockchains, including Solana, Ethereum, Mantle, Monad, and TON, along with automated strategies such as recurring buys and grid-based trading tools.
    As the tokenized gold market expands, Bybit said it will continue to focus on liquidity depth, continuous market access, and institutional-grade infrastructure to support trading activity during the current gold-driven cycle.
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  • After 15 Years and Five IVF Failures, a Breakthrough Emerges at Birla Fertility and IVF Hyderabad

    Dr. Alimileti Jhansi Rani, Consultant and Centre Head, Birla Fertility and IVF Hyderabad, explains how reassessment and embryo donation helped overcome long standing infertility in a high risk case

    Birla Fertility and IVF Hyderabad recently treated a couple whose infertility journey spanned 15 years and multiple unsuccessful treatment cycles across countries. When they arrived at the centre, the 43 year old woman and her 45 year old husband had already undergone five failed IVF cycles, four in Australia and one in India, without the formation of viable embryos.
    Their history included repeated pregnancy losses even before assisted reproduction. Two spontaneous abortions occurred at around three months, while another pregnancy ended at six weeks. Both natural conception and ovulation induction had failed to result in a sustained pregnancy. By the time they sought care in Hyderabad, age related risks were evident, particularly the increased likelihood of embryo aneuploidy.

    A comprehensive reassessment at Birla Fertility and IVF Hyderabad revealed a critical factor that had not been sufficiently addressed earlier. The male partner was diagnosed with severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, a condition that significantly affects fertilisation potential and embryo quality. This, combined with advanced maternal age, sharply reduced the chances of success using the couple’s own gametes.
    According to Dr. Alimileti Jhansi Rani, Consultant and Centre Head at Birla Fertility and IVF Hyderabad, repeating the same protocol was unlikely to change the outcome. “When a couple has had repeated cycles with no embryo formation at all, it is important to pause and reassess rather than push forward with the same approach. In this case, the male factor was playing a much larger role than initially recognised, and combined with maternal age, the chances with self gametes were extremely limited,” she said.

    The couple was counselled extensively on available options. These included another IVF attempt using their own gametes with genetic testing, or proceeding with embryo donation to improve the probability of a healthy pregnancy. After careful consideration, they opted for embryo donation, acknowledging both the emotional complexity of the decision and the clinical realities of their case.
    Prior to embryo transfer, a diagnostic hysteroscopy was conducted to evaluate and optimise the uterine cavity. Endometrial preparation followed in the next cycle, and a single embryo transfer was performed under close medical supervision.

    The pregnancy test returned positive, marking a significant turning point after years of repeated disappointment. For the couple, the outcome underscored the importance of personalised decision making rather than persistence alone.
    The case highlights a broader reality in fertility care. In long standing infertility, particularly beyond the age of 40, success often depends on recognising biological limitations, reassessing earlier assumptions, and selecting the option that offers the most realistic path forward rather than repeating approaches that have consistently failed.
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  • A Superman Themed Flip Up Helmet Enters the Indian Market Through STUDDS’ Trooper Range

    Sidhartha Bhushan Khurana, Managing Director of STUDDS Accessories Ltd., says the new helmet combines certified safety with everyday riding convenience

    STUDDS Accessories Ltd. has introduced the Trooper Superman Edition helmet in India, adding a new design variant to its flip up helmet portfolio. The product brings Superman inspired graphics to the Trooper range, marking an extension of the company’s collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products.
    The Trooper Superman Edition is positioned within STUDDS’ flip up helmet category and is designed for urban commuting, touring, and daily riding use. The helmet features a full face flip up configuration, allowing riders to lift the chin bar without removing the helmet, while retaining full face protection during rides.

    According to the company, the helmet is constructed using a high impact engineered thermoplastic outer shell and is certified under ISI standards issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards, as well as DOT certification from the United States Department of Transportation. These certifications are intended to meet safety and protection requirements for riders.
    Commenting on the launch, Sidhartha Bhushan Khurana, Managing Director, STUDDS Accessories Ltd., said the Trooper Superman Edition extends the Superman identity into the company’s premium flip up helmet category. He noted that the product builds on the earlier Superman themed Helios full face helmet and is aimed at riders looking for a balance between certified safety, distinctive design, and everyday usability.

    The helmet is equipped with a dual visor system, including a scratch resistant, silicon coated visor, and features a quick release visor mechanism for ease of replacement and maintenance. A hypoallergenic liner is included to support comfort during prolonged use and can be removed and replaced to maintain hygiene over time.
    Additional design elements include a removable and replaceable lower trim, a quick release chin strap, and a stainless steel rust proof buckle intended to ensure durability across varying riding conditions. The helmet also features a UV resistant paint finish to help preserve the Superman graphics during prolonged exposure to sunlight.

    The Trooper Superman Edition is available in Medium, Large, and Extra Large sizes. Prices start at INR 2,290. The helmet is available through offline retail outlets, STUDDS exclusive business outlets, and the company’s official website.
    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 MoU Brings DATASMITH AI and TCS Pace Together on Tender Decision Intelligence

    Kirti Bihade, Chief Executive Officer of DATASMITH AI, and Lalit Karwa, Head of TCS Pace Europe, outline plans to advance AI driven tender and RFP workflows

    DATASMITH AI, a Pune based enterprise artificial intelligence company, has announced a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with TCS Pace, Netherlands, alongside the introduction of TenderGenie™, a platform focused on tender and request for proposal decision intelligence.
    The collaboration reflects a shared intent to improve how enterprises assess, structure, and decide on tender and RFP opportunities by combining product focused innovation with a global co creation ecosystem. The initiative is aimed at addressing challenges associated with complex, large scale tender documentation and fragmented decision workflows.

    In sectors such as oil and gas equipment manufacturing, engineering procurement and construction, infrastructure, and real estate construction, enterprises often face losses at the bidding stage due to misaligned opportunity selection, overlooked contractual obligations, and inconsistent decision making. Tender and RFP documents frequently run into thousands of pages, making it difficult for teams to consistently assess scope, risk, and commercial exposure.
    TenderGenie™ is designed as an enterprise grade decision intelligence platform that processes large volumes of tender documentation within minutes. The platform identifies compliance gaps, deviations, risks, and commercial obligations, while applying learnings from past tenders and execution cycles to support informed bid decisions. Unlike document automation tools, the platform focuses on bid readiness and decision confidence.

    According to DATASMITH AI, the platform enables structured go or no go recommendations, improves visibility into scope mismatches, and supports enterprises in retaining institutional knowledge across bidding cycles. It is also positioned to reduce revenue leakage by flagging ambiguous clauses and obligations that may impact margins.
    Commenting on the development, Kirti Bihade, Chief Executive Officer of DATASMITH AI, said tender teams often spend significant time navigating fragmented documents and tight timelines. She said the platform applies agentic artificial intelligence to convert complexity into clarity, allowing professionals to focus on judgment, strategy, and selecting the right opportunities, while retaining full control over decisions and accountability.

    From the TCS Pace perspective, Lalit Karwa, Head of TCS Pace Europe, said the integration of platforms such as TenderGenie™ into the TCS Pace ecosystem supports its approach to co creating solutions that help enterprises transform with speed and precision.DATASMITH AI currently works with customers in the construction and oil and gas sectors in India. Through the MoU with TCS Pace, Netherlands, the collaboration aims to extend AI driven tender and RFP intelligence workflows to European markets. The association brings together focused product development and global co creation to support enterprise adoption, while reinforcing DATASMITH AI’s commitment to responsible, human centric AI platforms.
    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 Healthcare AI Initiative Takes Shape Through Innovaccer and Coforge Collaboration

    Abhinav Shashank, Co founder and Chief Executive Officer, Innovaccer, says the G Forge initiative will help healthcare organizations scale AI and integrate enterprise data

    Innovaccer and Coforge have entered into a strategic collaboration aimed at advancing artificial intelligence adoption across the healthcare ecosystem. The partnership brings together Innovaccer’s AI driven data infrastructure with Coforge’s experience in large scale implementation and enterprise transformation to support measurable improvements across clinical, financial, and administrative functions.
    As part of the collaboration, the two companies have launched G Forge, a joint initiative designed to help healthcare organizations integrate siloed data, operationalize AI across the enterprise, and strengthen decision making at scale. The initiative is targeted at healthcare providers, payers, life sciences organizations, and healthcare technology companies seeking to modernize operations through data led intelligence.

    G Forge combines Innovaccer’s Gravity platform with Coforge’s capabilities in implementation, change management, and organizational transformation. Coforge will serve as the preferred platinum implementation partner for the Gravity AI platform and will also establish a Healthcare AI Center of Excellence to support deployments and enterprise wide adoption.
    Through this partnership, Innovaccer and Coforge plan to develop industry specific accelerators focused on member and provider experience, care management, and revenue cycle management. The offering will include end to end implementation, integration, and managed services to support healthcare organizations at different stages of AI maturity.

    Commenting on the initiative, Abhinav Shashank, Co founder and Chief Executive Officer of Innovaccer, said, “The G Forge initiative is designed to help healthcare organizations move beyond pilots and scale AI across the enterprise. By combining Gravity’s healthcare intelligence platform with Coforge’s execution capabilities, organizations can modernize their data foundations and translate intelligence into real world outcomes.”
    Sudhir Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Coforge, said the collaboration reflects a shared focus on data driven healthcare transformation. “As Innovaccer’s platinum implementation partner, Coforge will help healthcare enterprises deploy and scale Gravity AI with certainty, enabling improvements in operational efficiency and care delivery.”

    Preeti Singh, Executive Vice President and Head of North America Business Unit at Coforge, said the partnership responds to growing demand for solutions that deliver tangible impact. “By aligning Innovaccer’s AI platform with our healthcare technology expertise, we are addressing the need for integrated solutions that improve both clinical and administrative performance while supporting sustainable cost efficiency.”
    The initiative will be supported by forward deployed Innovaccer engineers working alongside Coforge professionals trained on the Gravity platform. These teams will collaborate with customers to design, deploy, and operate AI solutions across a range of healthcare use cases. G Forge will also act as a co innovation platform for building scalable solutions on Gravity’s secure and compliant foundation.
    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.