Understanding how interest works is often the first step in building financial awareness. Before exploring market-linked products, some investors prefer to understand basic interest concepts and how money grows over time in a linear manner. A simple interest calculator helps explain this foundation in a straightforward way, without introducing complexity. This understanding may help you place mutual fund investing in the right context and set realistic expectations.

Simple interest calculator

What simple interest means in everyday terms
Simple interest is calculated only on the original amount invested, also known as the principal. The interest earned does not compound or earn further interest. This makes it easier to understand and predict.

For example, if a sum is invested at a fixed rate for a fixed period, the interest is calculated once on the principal for the entire duration.
For illustrative purpose only

Because of this linear structure, simple interest is often used for short-term instruments or basic learning purposes, rather than long-term wealth planning.

How a simple interest calculator works
A simple interest calculator uses three basic inputs: principal amount, rate of interest, and time. Based on these, it shows the interest earned and the total value at the end of the period.

The calculation follows a standard formula, which keeps outcomes predictable and easy to interpret. This makes the simple interest calculator suitable for understanding time-value concepts without market variables.

The calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It may provide only an indicative picture.

Why understanding simple interest may still matter
While mutual funds do not operate on simple interest, understanding this concept may help you build financial clarity. It shows how time and rate influence outcomes in a direct manner, without compounding effects.

This clarity may be useful when comparing different savings and investment options. It may also help you recognise why long-term market-linked investments behave differently from fixed-return instruments.

Comparing simple interest with market-linked investing
Simple interest offers certainty in calculation, but it does not reflect how mutual funds work. Mutual fund returns depend on market movements and portfolio performance.

performance: Past performance may or may not be sustained in future.

Unlike simple interest, mutual fund returns may vary year to year. Over longer periods, compounding plays a role, which is not captured in simple interest calculations. Understanding this distinction may help you set suitable expectations and avoid comparing unrelated return structures.

Using a simple interest calculator for basic planning
You may choose to use a simple interest calculator when planning short-term goals or understanding how fixed-rate products behave. It may also help in estimating interest from basic lending or savings arrangements.

The calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It may provide only an indicative picture.

However, it is generally not used to evaluate mutual fund investments, as these involve varying returns and compounding over time.

Where mutual funds fit into the picture
Mutual funds are managed investment products where money is invested across assets such as equity or debt, depending on the scheme objective. An asset management company oversees these investments, following stated mandates and regulatory frameworks.

Unlike simple interest-based products, mutual funds do not promise fixed outcomes. Returns depend on multiple factors including market conditions, asset allocation, and time horizon. Understanding simple interest first may help you appreciate why mutual fund outcomes are not linear.

Understanding the role of an asset management company
An asset management company is responsible for managing mutual fund schemes and making investment decisions in line with the scheme objective. The company appoints fund managers, ensures compliance, and handles day-to-day operations.

The asset management company does not guarantee returns. Its role is to manage investments professionally within defined risk parameters, while outcomes remain linked to market performance.

Conclusion
A simple interest calculator is a useful learning tool for understanding basic interest concepts and linear growth. It may help build financial awareness and provide clarity on how time and rate influence money. However, mutual fund investing operates differently, with returns linked to markets and compounding over time. Understanding this distinction may help you approach investments with more informed expectations and a suitable perspective.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

Roca, the global leader in bathroom design and innovation, continues to set industry benchmarks with over a century of excellence since its founding in 1917. With a presence spanning more than 170 countries and supported by 81 production plants worldwide, Roca has established itself as the ultimate reference for creating exceptional bathroom experiences. The company’s unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, design, and sustainability has made it a trusted name in homes and commercial spaces across five continents.

In India, Roca has built a strong foundation through Roca Bathroom Products Private Limited, operating eight state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and maintaining a robust pan-India retail presence. The brand represents premium bathroom solutions that combine Spanish design heritage with cutting-edge technology, catering to the evolving needs of Indian consumers who seek both sophistication and functionality in their living spaces.

The In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 represents a revolutionary advancement in electronic toilets and smart water closet toilet technology, embodying the pinnacle of Roca’s research and development efforts. This next-generation smart toilet seamlessly integrates advanced hygiene systems, intelligent automation, and sustainable design principles to deliver an unparalleled bathroom experience that transforms daily routines into moments of comfort and wellbeing.

Roca Insignia 2-0 Smart toilet

Revolutionary Features of In-Wash® Insignia 2.0

Dual UV Light Technology for Maximum Sterilisation
The In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 introduces an advanced dual UV light system that elevates hygiene to unprecedented levels. This cutting-edge solution features a self-cleaning nozzle equipped with UV light technology and an integrated water sterilisation system. As water flows through the system, powerful UV-C light actively targets and neutralises harmful bacteria and viruses, delivering water that meets the highest standards of purity. The intelligent self-cleaning nozzle operates by applying water before and after each use, while UV light treatment removes 99.9% of all bacteria, providing users with complete peace of mind.

Electrolytic Water Disinfection System
Roca’s innovative electrolytic water system represents a breakthrough in automated hygiene maintenance for electronic toilets. Designed to disinfect nozzles before and after each use, this advanced technology eliminates up to 99% of harmful pathogens including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The electrolysed water process ensures impeccable hygiene through self-cleaning nozzles that maintain optimal cleanliness without manual intervention, delivering consistent protection and superior sanitation.

Roca Rimless® Vortex – Signature Innovation
The 360° Roca Rimless® Vortex flushing system stands as Roca’s signature innovation, delivering maximum hygiene through intelligent engineering. This revolutionary dual flush toilet design ensures thorough cleaning while minimising water consumption, using just 3.8 litres per full flush. The system generates an effective 360° whirlwind flushing action that reaches every corner of the bowl up to four times, guaranteeing unparalleled cleanliness. By eliminating the traditional rim, the design removes hidden areas where bacteria can accumulate, while the powerful vortex motion ensures complete coverage and superior sanitation with every flush.

Optimum Hygiene with Supraglaze® Ag+ Technology
The In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 elevates cleanliness through the integration of an antibacterial seat and Roca’s exclusive Supraglaze® Ag+ glazing technology. This advanced ceramic coating creates an extremely smooth and waterproof surface that actively resists bacterial growth and prevents the accumulation of dirt and microorganisms. The Supraglaze® finish allows dirt particles to slide off effortlessly, maintaining a pristine appearance with minimal maintenance while continuously inhibiting bacterial adhesion.

Soft Front Wash and Rear Wash with Multi-Stream Technology
In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 introduces an advanced washing system that delivers the next level of cleaning efficiency, responding precisely to individual needs and preferences. The innovative multi-stream technology offers customisable washing sprays for both rear and front cleansing, ensuring optimal comfort and thorough hygiene. This sophisticated system allows users to personalise their experience, adapting water pressure, temperature, and spray patterns to achieve the perfect wash every time.

Coanda Effect – State-of-the-Art Drying Technology
The In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 harnesses the scientific principle of the Coanda effect to deliver state-of-the-art drying performance. This aerodynamic phenomenon inspired the precision-engineered design of the drying nozzle, which directs warm air exactly where it is needed with exceptional accuracy. By optimising airflow dynamics, this innovative system accelerates the drying process by 20%, ensuring peak performance at any power level while reducing energy consumption.

In-Tank® Pro – Integrated Design Excellence
In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 showcases In-Tank® technology, another signature innovation from Roca that integrates the cistern directly into the water closet toilet bowl. This unique architectural approach maximises available bathroom space while seamlessly combining aesthetic elegance with practical functionality. Powered by advanced in-pump technology, the In-Tank® Pro system delivers powerful and consistent flushing performance that remains unaffected by fluctuations in water supply pressure, using just 3.8 litres of water per flush.

Automatic Functions – The Connected Toilet Experience
The In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 transforms the bathroom experience through intelligent automation powered by advanced presence sensors. As users approach, the seat and lid open automatically in welcome, creating a touchless, hygienic interaction. Following use, the system initiates automatic flushing and concludes with automatic lid closure, ensuring complete hands-free operation. This seamless integration of automated functions elevates convenience while maintaining the highest standards of hygiene.

The Best Bathroom Experience
The Roca In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 represents more than a smart toilet. It embodies Roca’s century-long commitment to excellence, innovation, and wellbeing. By integrating cutting-edge technology with thoughtful design, Roca has created a bathroom solution that transforms daily routines into moments of comfort and care. From its advanced dual UV sterilisation and electrolytic disinfection to its intuitive automatic functions and space-saving In-Tank® design, every feature has been meticulously crafted to deliver the best bathroom experience.

The In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 sets a new standard in smart bathroom technology and electronic toilets, offering users the perfect combination of hygiene, efficiency, and sophisticated design that elevates the modern bathroom into a personal sanctuary. As Roca continues to lead the global bathroom industry, the In-Wash® Insignia 2.0 stands as a testament to the brand’s unwavering dedication to creating products that enhance lives and redefine what’s possible in bathroom innovation.

For more information, you may visit www.roca.in or call 7777-87-7622, Follow Roca on Instagram (@roca_india) and on Linkedin (www.linkedin.com/company/roca-bathroom-products-private-limited/).

• Completes acquisition of South Korea–based Yozma BMTech, strengthening global precision imaging strategy

• Unveils BPL Cortex, an AI-powered radiology platform to support faster, smarter diagnosis

BPL Medical Technologies made a strong impact at the 78th Annual Conference of the diagnostics, and women’s health technologies.

During the conference, the company unveiled a suite of next-generation imaging and digital health solutions through expert-led launch sessions conducted alongside BPL’s leadership. These launches reflected the company’s focus on developing scalable, clinically meaningful, and India-centric technologies aligned with real-world healthcare delivery.

BPL Medical Technologies, established in 2013, is India’s leading homegrown medical equipment brand, delivering reliable and innovative solutions

Further strengthening its global imaging and diagnostics capabilities, BPL Medical Technologies completed the acquisition of Yozma BMTech Co., Ltd., in South Korea, in December 2025. The move underscores BPL’s strategic focus on precision imaging, global technology integration, and expanding access to advanced diagnostic solutions within India’s evolving healthcare ecosystem.

The company also announced the launch of BMTech, in the presence of industry expert Mr. Govindarajan, founder & CEO of Aarthi scans highlighting the role of precision imaging and global technology partnerships in strengthening India’s diagnostic ecosystem. This was complemented by focused discussions on women’s health imaging, with emphasis on advancements in bone densitometry and mammography.

Further expanding its AI portfolio, BPL Medical Technologies unveiled BPL Cortex, an AI-powered radiology platform designed to enhance clinical decision-making, streamline workflows, and improve reporting efficiency. The company also announced a strategic partnership with 5C Network, India’s AI-native radiology platform, to jointly develop a groundbreaking OEM-embedded solution within imaging systems for the first time in India.

A key highlight of BPL Medical Technologies’ participation was RIA, a robotic assistant, which hosted multiple expert-led educational sessions across imaging solutions, women’s health, and AI in radiology. The sessions witnessed strong engagement from delegates, reflecting growing interest in intelligent, technology-enabled diagnostic education.

Commenting on the participation, Dr Shravan, Managing Director, BPL Medical Technologies, said, “IRIA provides a valuable platform to engage directly with the radiology community. Our focus remains on building integrated imaging and AI solutions that enhance diagnostic confidence while remaining scalable, affordable, and relevant to India’s healthcare ecosystem.”

BPL Medical Technologies’ participation at IRIA 2026 reaffirmed its commitment to driving innovation that is clinically impactful, technologically advanced, and aligned with the evolving needs of India’s healthcare landscape.

About BPL Medical Technologies

BPL Medical Technologies, established in 2013, is India’s leading homegrown medical equipment brand, delivering reliable and innovative solutions across cardiology, critical care, imaging, and home healthcare. Backed by the legacy of BPL (British Physical Laboratories), founded in 1967, the company pioneered India’s first ECG machine and continues to design and manufacture a wide range of ‘Made in India’ medical devices, including patient monitors, ventilators, ultrasound and X-ray systems, digital health solutions, and consumer health products.

With a nationwide presence through 14 regional offices and a team of over 500 professionals, BPL serves hospitals, clinics, and caregivers across urban and rural India. The company has achieved a CAGR of 16.9% between 2014 and 2024 and is targeting 32% growth in the next fiscal year. Recognized for its customer-centric innovation and manufacturing excellence, BPL has received multiple industry honours, including the Best Healthcare Brand by The Economic Times and Most Leading Brand in Medical Equipment by Medgate Today. BPL Medical Technologies is backed by Claypond Capital, the family office of Ranjan Pai.

The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) and WTW India have partnered to produce the WTW India & IAMAI Comprehensive Compensation Benchmarking Study for Technology Sector, the first comprehensive report in the country to examine compensation data for unique job roles.

The benchmarking study addresses the growing need for standardized compensation frameworks as industry faces challenges of hiring good talent with proper compensations, evolving employee expectations, and the shift toward hybrid work models. With detailed sub-sector analysis, organizations can now compare their compensation packages against industry peers and understand market positioning within their specific domain.

The study provides critical insights into pay trends across India’s dynamic tech sector. It comprehensively examines compensation data for over 200 unique job roles spanning the entire organizational hierarchy, from entry-level positions to senior leadership. The study offers detailed analysis across four key technology sub-sectors: E-commerce, fintech, large tech and product companies, and media and Gaming.

As India’s technology sector continues its rapid growth trajectory, organizations need reliable compensation data to attract and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive market. The WTW India & IAMAI Comprehensive Compensation Benchmarking Study for Technology Sector provides the transparency and insights necessary for companies to make informed decisions about their compensation strategies.

The collaboration between IAMAI and WTW India represents a significant step forward in establishing industry standards. The granular insights across different technology verticals will help companies structure competitive and equitable compensation programmes.

About Internet and Mobile Association of India  

The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) is a not-for-profit industry body with more than 750 members, including Indian and multinational corporations, as well as start-ups. IAMAI has been instrumental in shaping India’s digital economy. IAMAI advocates free and fair competition, and progressive and enabling laws for businesses as well as for consumers. The overarching objective of IAMAI is to ensure the progress of the internet and the digital economy. Its major areas of activities are public policy and advocacy, business to business conferences, research, promotion of start-ups and promotion of consumer trust and safety. 

In a country where intercity travel is often synonymous with complex pricing, limited availability, and last-minute surprises, CabBazar has steadily emerged as one of India’s most reliable intercity cab platforms. Founded eight years ago as a bootstrapped venture, the company today operates across 3,000+ cities, has completed over 10 lakh rides, and has crossed Rs. 70 crore in annual revenue, marking a significant milestone in India’s mobility ecosystem.

Rishabh Gupta, Amit Dhall & Deepanshu Rustagi identified a gap in one way and outstation mobility & founded CabBazar

CabBazar’s growth story mirrors the evolution of intercity travel in India itself. What began as an attempt to simplify outstation cab bookings has now become a full-stack mobility platform catering to metros, Tier-2 cities, and a vast network of Tier-3 towns that are often underserved by large ride-hailing players.

Outstation Taxi matlab CabBazar

YouTube link: youtu.be/NbJQaDxqgPM?si=3QoUQt7GXhXX3Zj9

Pioneering True One-Way Intercity Cabs

One of CabBazar’s most defining contributions to the industry has been the introduction of true one-way intercity cab pricing in India. At a time when travelers were forced to pay for return journeys even when they didn’t need them, CabBazar challenged the norm by allowing customers to pay only for the distance they actually travel.

Another shift shaping intercity mobility is the changing attitude of Gen Z toward ownership. Increasingly, younger travelers are prioritising experiences over assets, choosing flexibility and freedom instead of long-term commitments such as owning a car. One way pricing perfectly suits such travellers best.

This model not only reduced costs for travelers but also set a new industry benchmark. Over the years, one-way intercity cabs have moved from being a niche offering to an expected feature, a shift that CabBazar was instrumental in driving.

Taking this a step further, the platform now enables one-way, multi-city travel, allowing customers to stop at multiple destinations on a single one-way trip. This flexibility has found strong traction among business travelers, families, and long-distance tourists who prefer customized routes over rigid point-to-point travel.

Transparency Over Surprises: The Rise of All-Inclusive Pricing

Pricing transparency remains a key decision factor in India’s highly price-sensitive travel market. CabBazar offers both tax-inclusive and tax-exclusive pricing, giving users control over how they want to plan their expenses.

Interestingly, internal data shows that nearly 5 out of 10 customers now opt for all-inclusive pricing, preferring a single, upfront fare that covers tolls, taxes, and driver charges. The appeal is simple: no last-minute costs, no confusion, and no uncomfortable conversations at the end of a journey.

This shift reflects a broader consumer trend across India’s digital economy, where predictability and clarity increasingly outweigh marginal price differences.

Speed, Scale, and Reliability

In an era of instant gratification, CabBazar has optimized its platform for speed and simplicity. From selecting cities to completing checkout, a cab can be booked in under 30 seconds, making it one of the fastest booking flows in the intercity segment.

Operationally, the company handles 800 to 1,000 rides daily, supported by a large network of verified driver partners. While many mobility platforms remain metro-centric, CabBazar’s strongest presence lies beyond India’s largest cities. Its deep penetration into Tier-2 and Tier-3 locations aligns with industry estimates that a significant share of India’s next phase of travel demand will come from non-metro regions.

Value-Added Services for Real-World Travel Needs

Beyond pricing and availability, CabBazar has focused on solving everyday travel pain points. Services such as assured luggage carriers and pet friendly options ensure that customers travelling with extra baggage or with their furry family are not left guessing about vehicle suitability or extra baggage.

Coupled with a lowest price guarantee, these features have helped CabBazar build trust among repeat users who often compare multiple platforms before booking.

Building from a Tier-2 City, Creating Inclusive Employment

While many startups centralize operations in metros, CabBazar’s primary operational office is located in a Tier-2 city in Uttar Pradesh. This decision has enabled the company to generate meaningful employment outside traditional startup hubs.

Notably, 50% of CabBazar’s workforce comprises women, with a 24×7 customer support team operating from our support office. The company has actively invested in creating a safe, inclusive, and professional work environment, demonstrating how tech-enabled businesses can decentralize opportunity without compromising service quality.

A Bootstrapped, Profitable Growth Story

CabBazar’s journey has been defined by experimentation and resilience. Over the years, the company tested multiple business models before refining its focus on intercity and outstation mobility. Today, it stands as a bootstrapped and profitable enterprise, with profits growing year on year which is a rarity in a sector often driven by heavy discounting and cash burn.

According to Rishabh Gupta, Founder, CabBazar, “India is a price-sensitive market, and it’s important to deliver genuine value, not just discounts. Every service we build is designed around how India travels today, focusing on transparency, flexibility, and expanding reliable last-mile connectivity across the country.”

Co-founder Amit Dhall adds, “Being profitable has allowed us to grow sustainably, invest in our people, and build features that genuinely improve the travel experience, especially for users outside metro cities.”

Looking Ahead: Connecting Drivers and Demand More Efficiently

As part of its next phase of growth, CabBazar is working on a B2B marketplace initiative aimed for travel agents, tour companies, drivers, and fleet owners to work together.

CabBazar has over 2.5 Lakh fleet partners and identified a pressing gap of unorganised communication and networking on Whatsapp. TaxiMarket, as a SaaS platform, helps drivers forward a taxi requirement they can’t fulfill and earn commission, in exchange for a small fee.

India’s retail real estate market is showing clear signs of resurgence, with leasing activity touching a three-year high in 2025, underscoring a decisive turnaround for physical retail. As per JLL, the sector’s momentum translated into a 54% year-on-year jump in gross leasing during the year, reaching a total of 12.5 million sq ft. The December quarter emerged as the best performing, with 3.6 million sq. ft of space leased. The sharp uptick reflects renewed consumer confidence and an acceleration in brand expansion plans, as retailers once again prioritise store-led growth to capture footfalls and deepen market presence after years of cautious recovery.

India’s Retail Sector Rebound- Leasing Volumes Hit a Three-Year Peak in 2025

No longer in a defensive mode, the retail sector is entering a phase of measured scale-up, driven by experiential store formats, omnichannel strategies and the steady addition of organised retail supply. More than a real estate statistic, the surge in retail leasing has emerged as a key barometer of India’s broader consumption momentum.

This renewed momentum in retail leasing comes after a prolonged phase of disruption, when pandemic-led restrictions, shifting consumer behaviour and cost pressures kept expansion plans on hold across much of the sector. The rebound is unfolding against a backdrop of improving economic growth, rising disposable incomes and stabilising inflation, which have collectively lifted discretionary spending. At the same time, consumption patterns are evolving, with retailers increasingly recognising the limitations of an online-only approach and leaning towards store-led formats that strengthen brand recall and customer engagement.

Further, the data showed that key markets of Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad together accounted for 71% of total leasing, with Delhi NCR and Bengaluru each capturing 24%, and Hyderabad close behind at 23%. The growth was supported by 6.3 million sq. ft of new retail supply and the launch of 15 shopping malls across Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, expanding total mall stock in the top seven cities to nearly 92 million sq ft by year-end. Shopping malls captured 45% of leasing activity, while high streets remained in strong demand, accounting for 48%.

Jatin Goel, Executive Director, Omaxe Group, says, “In high-density markets like Chandni Chowk, leasing is about precision. Space here carries both cultural and commercial weight, and data allows us to understand exactly what visitors seek, what’s underrepresented, and how footfall evolves through the day. Our analytics framework tracks category performance to ensure each tenant strengthens the ecosystem’s overall vitality. In a heritage marketplace transitioning toward modern retail, data becomes the bridge, helping us balance legacy traders with new-age brands. The result: a leasing model that feels authentic to Chandni Chowk’s spirit while remaining commercially strong and future-ready.”

Pankaj Jain, Founder and CMD, SPJ Group, says, “Gurugram’s retail story in 2026 is no longer limited to marquee destinations. Some of the strongest momentum is coming from high-potential micro-markets like Old Gurgaon, where density, familiarity, and daily consumption patterns are deeply entrenched. These locations benefit from organic footfalls, strong local demand, and faster absorption cycles. High streets anchored by F&B, essential services, and experience-driven brands, are seeing consistent traction here. For developers and investors, this shift reinforces one truth: well-designed retail in lived-in neighbourhoods often delivers more resilient returns than oversized, destination-led formats. These trends are here to redefine the successful transition of retail real estate in the year ahead.”

Harinder Singh Hora, Founder Chairman, Reach Group, says, “Organised retail is shaping the present and future of urban commerce, and it is increasingly expressed through well-planned mixed-use destinations where malls, high streets and commercial spaces come together in one integrated ecosystem. In markets like Gurugram, these organised formats are outperforming fragmented developments because they bring design, consumer demand and capital into alignment—creating environments people choose to visit, brands prefer to lease and investors trust to deliver stable returns. A thoughtfully curated mix of global and home-grown brands across food, fashion, wellness and entertainment drives stronger footfalls, longer dwell time and healthier trading densities. Supported by intelligent design with walkable streets, open plazas and flexible layouts, retail spaces remain adaptable as consumer behaviour evolves. In 2026, successful retail real estate functions as a dynamic extension of urban life.”

Siddharth Katyal, CEO, Bhumika Realty, said, “Earlier, tenant curation was based largely on intuition and brand relationships. Today, it’s a quantifiable process. We rely on a blend of demographic analysis and performance mapping to identify which categories resonate most with our visitors. For instance, data may reveal a higher conversion potential in F & B or family entertainment for a specific micro-market. The goal is not just to fill space but to ensure a symbiotic ecosystem where anchor brands pull traffic and smaller stores benefit equally. That’s how leasing becomes a value chain, not a random assortment.“

Besides, domestic retailers led the expansion, making up 82% of gross leasing in 2025, with take-up increasing from 6.5 million sq ft in 2024 to over 10 million sq ft. Foreign retailers also expanded, achieving 36% on-year growth, with 29 new brands.

Umang Jindal, CEO, Homeland Group, says, “Retail real estate landscape is at an interesting juncture and witnessing a more disciplined and investor-aligned approach. The growth momentum achieved by tier 2 markets continue to sustain the pace with quality retail space developments. Besides, today’s consumer seeks quality experiences, and likewise, the investor approach is data-driven, relying on the quality brand-mix and consistent footfalls. What’s particularly interesting is to see that the improved infrastructure, residential growth, and limited quality supply are creating a strong case for organized retail. Demand is driven by everyday consumption, family-oriented leisure, and service-led formats rather than luxury indulgence. From an investment standpoint, stable occupancies and predictable rental behavior are restoring confidence in retail assets. As small urban centers continue to evolve, retail will increasingly follow population movement, making integrated, well-located developments the most resilient bets for the next cycle.”

Mohit Batra, regional Director of Realistic Realtors, said, “NCR’s commercial landscape is going through a structural transformation backed by growth in consumption, expansion by corporates, and a preference for organized retail formats. The market has demonstrated resilience even when global conditions were uncertain. The investor community sees footfall, spending power, and high-quality mixed-use developments coming together. As retail-led destinations become community meeting points and offices increasingly see experiential spaces, NCR presents an interesting case for long-term yield-driven investment.“

Raj Kumar Sisodia, COO of Biigtech, says, “Retail leasing today goes far beyond simply occupying space; it is about building a well-planned commercial ecosystem. In a rapidly growing market like Greater Noida, leasing strategies are increasingly driven by data that maps consumer demographics, catchment potential, and evolving lifestyle preferences. Curating the right tenant mix from essential retail and strong anchor brands to F&B and entertainment plays a crucial role in driving consistent footfall and improving overall trading performance. A thoughtfully leased retail destination not only enhances customer experience but also ensures long-term rental resilience and stronger asset value in emerging commercial corridors like Greater Noida.”

Thus, the sustainability of this momentum into 2026 will hinge on how effectively retailers and developers adapt to evolving consumption patterns and capital flows. Growing interest in retail-focused REITs could further improve institutional participation and asset quality in the sector, while the next phase of growth is expected to extend beyond metros into select tier-II and tier-III cities backed by improving infrastructure and purchasing power.

Even as number of degree holders have been increasing rapidly in India in recent years, the employability outcome has remained stagnant. As per the latest India Skills Report 2025 released by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in collaboration with Wheebox and All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) only 55 per cent of Indian graduates are employable, indicating that nearly half of the country’s graduates are still not industry ready.

Rajnath Singh, Union Minister of Defence along with Chancellor Satnam Singh Sandhu inaugurating Kalpana Chawla Space & Research Centre at Chandigarh University Gharuan

The report clearly highlights a persistent disconnect between academic learning and industry expectations, forcing industries to invest heavily in time-consuming and costly on-the-job training to make new recruits productive. Bridging this widening academia–industry gap, Chandigarh University has built a strong industry-aligned academic ecosystem, where curriculum across engineering, management and sciences among other academic domains are designed by the industry, for the industry and delivered with active participation of the industry.

Chandigarh University offers new-age industry collaborative programmes designed by industry leaders, embedding skills required to thrive in the ever-evolving job market, into academic programs that is guided by Corporate Advisory Boards (CAB) comprising industry experts and CEOs from top Indian and global industry giants.

This unique collaborative teaching–learning model at Chandigarh University has been fueling bright young minds through a broad spectrum of industry-ready, future-oriented academic programmes, enhanced by continuous industry insights and exposure to emerging technologies, while empowering students with corporate mentorship, international exposure, value-centric learning, entrepreneurial spirit and professional competencies, collectively strengthening their employability and shaping them into future-ready industry leaders.

Continuing with its stellar performance in global rankings, Chandigarh University achieved 1st Rank for the third consecutive year in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026. CU also demonstrated a significant rise across key performance indicators in the coveted ranking by securing 1st rank in Employer Reputation and secured 2nd rank in Academic Reputation among private universities in India.

In Employability Rankings which shows universities producing the most employable graduates for the modern workplace, Chandigarh University secured the 1st rank in Engineering and Technology, Computer Science Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Chemistry among private universities in India in the latest edition of QS World University Rankings 2026 by Subject.

Cultivating Future-ready Engineering Leaders through Cutting-Edge Industry Collaborative Programs with Global Giants like Microsoft, TCS, Virtusa & IBM

Chandigarh University with its world-class, high-tech academic infrastructure has been integrating the latest industry practices and requirements into academic programs by fostering innovation in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Blockchain, Big Data, Analytics and Fintech.

For Engineering students, Chandigarh University has collaborated with tech giant Microsoft to offer BE in Artificial Intelligence and BE CSE (Computer Science & Business Systems) with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

Moreover, CU provides six Computer Science Engineering Programs in collaboration with IBM including BE CSE Cloud Computing, BE CSE (AI & IoT), BE CSE Data Science, BE CSE Cyber Security, BE CSE (AI&ML) and BE CSE (Full Stack Development). As part of the collaboration IBM, India’s first advanced information technology lab established at CU that train students in Cloud Computing, Information Security, Big Data and Business Analytics.

Chandigarh University also offers a Master of Engineering Program in Computer Science with a specialization in Cloud Computing in collaboration with Virtusa, making it one of the most in-demand CSE- CC programs in India. CU has collaborated with Coforge and established an innovation center focused on conducting R&D in AI applications within healthcare, addressing agricultural issues globally and developing autonomous vehicle technology. CU was ranked 7th among all private universities in the country in Engineering domain in NIRF Rankings – 2025.

For Automobile Engineering students, CU has tied-up with industry giants that established high-tech labs including Mahindra and Mahindra T-School, Honda Research and Skill Development Centre, Hyundai Professional Development Centre, VE Commercial Training Centre, MG Motors Lab, Eicher – CU Centre of Excellence in Automobile engineering lab, Vehicle Maintenance and Diagnostic Lab, BS-VI engines, EV technologies and intelligent mobility platforms. CU has also collaborated with Coforge and established an innovation center focused on conducting R&D in AI applications within healthcare, addressing agricultural issues globally and developing autonomous vehicle technology.

CU holds the prestigious accreditation from the US-based Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), placing it among the top 0.1 percent of Indian universities with accredited Engineering programs CU is accredited with an A+ rating by NAAC, placing it among the top 5 per cent universities in India to get the coveted accreditation. The varsity also holds National Board of Accreditation (NBA) accreditation for Engineering and Management programs.

These facilities enable students to transition seamlessly from theory to application, cultivate research thinking and develop innovation-driven solutions aligned with real-world industry needs.

Nurturing Future Business Leaders with 17 Industry Collaborative Cutting-Edge Management Programs

To nurture future business leaders through its unique experiential learning model, Chandigarh University has established collaborations with as many as 11 industry giants to offer MBA programs. CU collaborated with global consulting giant KPMG – one amongst ‘Big Four’ consulting firms of the world to offer MBA in Global Business Management and BBA in Financial Technology (FinTech). MBA Data Science & Al with SAS, MBA Business Analytics with IBM, MBA in Applied Finance with PWC, MBA with State Bank of India in Banking & Financial Engineering and MBA Fintech with NSE, MBA in Capital Markets with NISM, MBA Strategic HR with AON and MBA in Healthcare and Hospital Management.

These academic collaborations not only offer a broad spectrum of industry-oriented, futuristic academic programs but also empower students with corporate mentorship, international exposure, value-driven learning, entrepreneurial development and professional skill-building transforming them into dynamic business leaders of tomorrow. CU has also secured 7^th place among all private universities in the management domain in NIRF Rankings 2025.

Chandigarh University offers specialized management programs in emerging and high-growth business areas, enabling students to stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving global landscape of industry. With these academic collaborations, CU also ensures that students earn globally recognized certifications that enhance their professional credibility and employability. With a strong focus on outcomes, students gain access to excellent employment and placement opportunities with top global organizations and leading multinational companies. Moreover, students benefit from global exposure through immersive international programs and receive continuous mentorship from experienced industry leaders, preparing them to excel in competitive professional environments.

Nurturing Future Leaders with 154 Industry-Oriented Academic Programs, 32 High-Tech R&D Labs, 15 COEs and Mentorship by 980 Industry Stalwarts

Chandigarh University provides its students an environment conducive to innovation and discovery with as many as 32 industry-sponsored high-tech R&D labs and 15 Centers of Excellence others established by leading MNCs and global giants such as Microsoft, Adobe, Cisco, Hyundai, Tech Mahindra, Capgemini, LinkedIn and IBM among others that play a crucial role in elevating capabilities of students and faculty members through exposure to live industry projects.

Chandigarh University continues to set new benchmarks in outcome-driven education by nurturing future leaders across emerging and high-growth domains through its 154 industry-oriented academic programs. Designed in close collaboration with global industry partners, these programs seamlessly integrate cutting-edge curricula, hands-on learning, live industry projects, and real-world problem solving. This unique experiential learning ecosystem is further strengthened with mentorship of 980 seasoned industry stalwarts who bring invaluable insights, practical expertise and market-aligned perspectives into the classroom. This unique combination of academic excellence and industry immersion ensures that students graduate not just with degrees, but with the required skill sets and leadership acumen required to thrive and lead in an ever-evolving global workforce.

CU has tied-up with industry leaders that provide hands-on training to students with high-tech labs including Microsoft Innovation Center, Google Android Lab, Adobe Express Lounge Lab, Cloud Computing Lab, Oracle Academy, Tech Mahindra IMS Academy, Unisys Innovation Lab, EMC Academic Alliance, Microsoft Global Technical Support Center, Red Hat Academy Lab, SAP Next Gen Lab, Infor Lab and Microsoft Azure LAAS (Learning as a Service) platform, BOT lab, Bosch Bridge Centre and Cisco Networking Lab among others.

Over 40 Industry Collaborations in 2025 with Global Tech Leaders like Microsoft, LinkedIn, Capgemini, Adobe, Altium & Intel to Provide Outcome-Oriented Learning and Enhance Employabiliy

Chandigarh University has established India’s first LinkedIn Experience Zone on its campus in association with LinkedIn that empowers students with hands-on access to AI-driven career tools, expert guidance on digital profile building, personal branding and professional networking, while leveraging LinkedIn’s global network of over 1.2 billion professionals to enhance employability and connect students with global career opportunities.

Adobe, the global leader in digital media established India’s first Adobe Express Lounge Lab at CU to empower students with future-ready creative and digital skills. The state-of-the-art lab provides hands-on access to Adobe’s industry-leading tools, including Adobe Express, Creative Cloud applications, and AI-powered platforms like Adobe Firefly, enabling experiential learning across engineering, media, design, fine arts and business disciplines. Designed as a dynamic innovation hub, the initiative bridges academic learning with real-world applications through certified courses, workshops, mentorship, hackathons and portfolio-building support, significantly enhancing students’ employability and preparing them for the evolving digital economy.

The global consulting giant, Capgemini has established academic collaboration with Chandigarh University to equip engineering students, particularly Computer Science Engineering with industry-relevant skills in emerging technology domains and provide professional mentorship, certifications, internships and placement opportunities, aligning academic outcomes with the evolving demands of India’s digital economy and preparing a future-ready workforce.

Similarly, CU has established collaborations with tech giants like Microsoft, Intel and Altium among others to provide outcome-oriented learning and enhance employability prospects of students.

12 Lakh LinkedIn Certifications, 6747 Infosys Springboard, 652 UNESCO Certifications & 99% Paid Internships in 2025

Aligned to the National Education Policy (NEP) guidelines on multidisciplinary approach to education that allow students to combine diverse fields for holistic development, fostering critical thinking and adaptability, Chandigarh University (CU) places strong emphasis on integrated learning that transcends traditional academic boundaries. This approach is strengthened through multidisciplinary courses, focused soft-skills training and continuous enhancement of technical competencies to develop well-rounded, adaptable and future-ready professionals.

CU integrates global digital learning platforms into its curriculum. Through LinkedIn Learning, students across Generic Programmes (GP), University Core (UC), Open Electives (OE) and Value-Added Courses (VAC) accessed short, practical, skill-based modules, resulting in over 12 lakh certifications completed by nearly 60,000 students and faculty in a single year (2025). Infosys Springboard further enabled industry-aligned technical and soft-skills learning, with 6,747 certifications earned, while UNESCO-certified courses under GP strengthened global citizenship and sustainability awareness, leading to 652 value-based certifications.

Moreover, CU leveraged the SWAYAM government portal to promote flexible, self-paced, credit-based learning in technical and soft skills with 6,825 students completing certifications and 29,849 students registering which is supported by curriculum-mapped assignments.

Benchmarking its offerings with global standards, CU has aligned its NEP-driven, outcome-based curriculum with Coursera, where faculty curated 642 multidisciplinary courses mapped to international best practices and integrated into regular teaching. Complementing this academic rigor, CU processed 1,534 internships during the Jan–Dec 2025 cycle across 6 academic clusters and 167 programs, with 99% paid internships and 37 international placements (internship), reinforcing strong industry demand, global exposure and career readiness.

Industry-Curated Curriculum Cultivating Future Technocrats

Core curriculum offered by CU in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Virtual Reality, IOT, Bioinformatics, Information Network Security, Grid Computing, Structural Engineering, Geo-Technical Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Construction Technology, Environmental Engineering, GIS, Water Resource Engineering among others is specially designed by industry giants themselves. The industry-oriented curriculum of CU is aligned with leading International Universities and Research Agencies; CSE curriculum is aligned with Stanford University, ISACA, NASSCOM for Civil Engineering, University of Singapore, Imperial College London, ASME and ISTE.

The curriculum is prepared by renowned academicians and subject experts from IITs, NITs and industry experts from top MNCs such as IBM and Quark among others top brands. These engagements not only provide students with practical exposure but also equip them with the latest industry trends and practices, enhancing their employability and readiness for the competitive job market.

This industry-centric experiential learning model of CU has been instrumental in not just nurturing futuristic workforce and make CU students globally-competitive but also ensure their job placements in top national and international firms, provide exposure to live industry projects and enable them to conduct collaborative research projects at industry-sponsored high-end R&D labs and Centre of Excellences, offer internships, conduct workshops, certifications, hands-on training using the cutting-edge technology and futuristic tools, exposure to case studies and corporate mentorship programs to create the next generation technology and business leaders.

About Chandigarh University

Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: www.cuchd.in.

Vedam School of Technology, a next-generation institution redefining computer science education in India, today announced the successful completion of the first academic semester of its inaugural cohort. The milestone underscores the institution’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates through an immersive, hands-on, and project-driven learning model.

Vedam School of Technology:

Breaking away from conventional classroom-centric approaches, Vedam placed students in real-world problem-solving environments from the very first day. Within just a few months, first-year students have already begun building AI chatbots, developing live applications, and shaping their own startup concepts.

The curriculum seamlessly integrates core academic fundamentals with contest-style Java coding challenges, intensive algorithmic bootcamps, and high-intensity 24-hour hackathons focused on rapid prototyping and execution under pressure. A major highlight of the semester was Vedam’s flagship 24-hour hackathon, during which all 28 participating teams successfully delivered functional prototypes. The top three teams were recognized for exceptional innovation and execution and have been selected to further develop their projects in Vedam’s Innovation Lab.

Deep industry integration forms the cornerstone of Vedam’s educational philosophy. Throughout the semester, students received continuous mentorship and collaborated directly with leading professionals from the technology ecosystem, including Nishant Chahar (Smart India Hackathon winner, ex-Microsoft, and renowned tech YouTuber), Shreyas Mante (SDE II, Oracle), Prathamesh Sahasrabhojane (Software Engineer II, Rippling), Tushar Khattar (CEO, Amora AI), Uttaran Nayak (CEO, Alchemyst AI), and Jasbir Singh (Tech Lead, CARS24), who led a full Visiting Faculty Week during which students co-built an AI product following real industry workflows.

The curriculum is designed and led by Subhesh Kumar, former Google engineer, DTU’s five-star coder, and mentor to over 5,000 students, ensuring an AI-first curriculum supported by regular project reviews, 1-to-1 doubt-clearing sessions, and personalized one-on-one guidance.

Entrepreneurial thinking was woven throughout the academic journey. Founder-led sessions conducted by Piyush Nangru (Co-founder), Chandan Mathur (SVP), and Kumar Vivek (DVP) regularly engaged with students through pitch reviews, mentoring sessions, and live project walkthroughs, ensuring ideas were challenged and sharpened in real time.The semester concluded with a Live Project Exhibition, where students presented the applications and tools they had built, many for the first time in their academic careers, directly to peers, faculty, leadership, and industry mentors.

For more information, please visit www.vedam.org

www.youtube.com/@vedamschooloftechnology

Beyond the classroom, students have already established and now lead six campus clubs focused on entrepreneurship, competitive programming, open source, cultural activities, esports, and sports, selected through a rigorous process of competitive pitches and interviews, fostering a strong sense of ownership and community from day one.

“At Vedam, we believe future graduates are shaped by building, not just by studying,” said Piyush Nangru, Co-founder of Vedam School of Technology. “Watching our founding cohort take full ownership of real projects and collaborate closely with industry leaders reaffirms our conviction that computer science education must evolve to remain relevant in today’s fast-changing world.”

Admissions to this highly selective program are now open for the four-year Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence program (Batch 2026–2030), with the B.Tech degree awarded by Ajeenkya DY Patil University, Pune; a UGC-approved university on its 100-acre lush-green campus in Maharashtra.

Vedam admits only the top 5% of talent through a rigorous, merit-based process centered on the Vedam Scholastic Aptitude Test (VSAT); a national-level, online proctored entrance exam. Unlike traditional exams that emphasize rote learning, VSAT focuses on assessing problem-solving abilities, mathematical proficiency, logical reasoning, learnability, and quick thinking under time pressure.

The VSAT is a 2-hour online exam with 50 questions worth 200 marks, designed to reward accuracy and speed (approx. 2 min/question). Apply at vedam.org, take the test, receive results in 2 days, attend an online PI within 5 days, and get final offers shortly after.

Candidates can attempt VSAT up to two times to improve scores. Exceptional performers receive scholarships up to 100%. Visit vedam.org for VSAT details, syllabus videos, and apply now; join a truly transformative program.