JK Cement Ltd., one of India’s leading cement manufacturers, today announced the commissioning of its new state-of-the-art Grey Cement plant in Buxar, Bihar, marking a major milestone in the company’s growth journey. With this addition, JK Cement’s total production capacity now stands at 31.26 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), taking the company past the 30 MTPA mark. With this expansion, JK Cement now ranks among the top five Grey Cement manufacturers in India, strengthening its national footprint and reinforcing its long-term growth strategy.

JK Cement Leadership at the Buxar, Bihar plant

Commenting on the strategic achievement, Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement, said, “Crossing 31 MTPA is a significant turning point in JK Cement’s expansion and demonstrates the scale, resilience, and aspirations of our company. In addition to making a significant contribution to Bihar’s development vision, the commissioning of our Buxar plant represents a strategic step towards expanding our national footprint. We are committed to developing top-notch manufacturing capabilities that boost India’s infrastructure development and generate long-term benefits for local communities.”

The Buxar plant, with a capacity of 3 MTPA, is spread across 100 acres and is strategically located on the Patna–Buxar highway, enabling faster and more efficient distribution across the state and adjoining regions. While JK Cement entered the Bihar market last year through supplies from its Prayagraj plant, the Buxar facility will now allow the company to serve the region locally, with deliveries possible within 24 hours across the state.

Sharing his views on the expansion, Mr. Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director & CEO, JK Cement, added, “JK Cement is now among India’s top five producers of grey cement after the Buxar plant commissioning. Our capacity to serve Bihar locally, more effectively, and on a larger scale is strengthened by this facility. Although we had already entered the Bihar market last year using Prayagraj supplies, local manufacturing now enables us to be nearer to our clients and significantly raise service standards throughout the state. Buxar places us at the center of this chance to promote sustainable growth for both the company and the region in Bihar, a high-growth market with strong infrastructure momentum.”

The new facility is a strategic step in supporting Bihar’s development vision, ensuring faster access to superior quality cement for infrastructure, housing and commercial projects. About ₹500 crore has been invested by the company in the project. Commercial production started on January 29, 2026, after construction started in March 2025. In addition to drawing ancillary industries to the area, the plant is anticipated to create a sizable number of direct and indirect jobs, bolstering the local economy and industrial ecosystem.

About JK Cement Ltd.
JK Cement Ltd. is among India’s top manufacturers of Grey and White Cement, and home-building solutions globally. For over five decades, JKCement has contributed to India’s infrastructure through product quality, customer focus, and technology leadership, beginning with its flagship grey cement unit in Nimbahera, Rajasthan, in May 1975. 

The Company’s Grey Cement capacity is 31.26 MTPA, making it a leading manufacturer with a strong presence across 15 states, especially in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. With a total White Cement and Wall Putty Capacity of 3.05 MTPA, JK White Cement is sold in 36 countries around the globe. 

The Company has a strong international presence with two subsidiaries, JK Cement Works Fujairah FZC and JK White Cement (Africa) Ltd. In 2023, JKCement launched JKMaxx Paints, offering wall, wood, and metal finishes. In the same year, JKCement expanded into construction chemicals with JK Profix, a waterproofing line, and also entered the Ready-Mix Concrete segment with JK Super Concrete, serving Delhi NCR and set for nationwide growth.

For more information, please visit JK Cement: www.jkcement.com

Budget 2026 is widely seen as a potential inflection point for India’s real estate sector, as the gap between the luxury housing market and a stressed affordable segment continues to widen. While premium and high-end homes have sustained healthy demand and capital inflows, the affordable and mid-income housing categories, crucial for first-time buyers and urban workforce housing, have come under pressure due to rising land and construction costs. Against this backdrop, developers closely watch Budget 2026 for policy signals that can restore balance to the housing ecosystem, revive affordability and support inclusive urbanisation, while preserving growth momentum in the premium and luxury segments.
 

Pre Budget 2026
 

Deepak Kapoor, Director, Gulshan Group, says, “Housing developments that are quality-led and design-intensive operate on longer gestation cycles with higher capital commitment than mass housing. From Budget 2026, the sector’s key expectation is policy stability – predictable GST on construction inputs, clarity on works contracts, and uniform compliance norms. Granting real estate industry status will improve access to structured financing, enhance investor confidence, and enable the sector’s progression towards global standards and long-term value creation.”
 

Sanjay Sharma, Director, SKA Group, said that the real estate sector is looking at the Union Budget 2026 for meaningful reforms that enhance housing affordability. Rationalisation of stamp duty and simplification of tax structures can reduce the financial burden on homebuyers and support faster decision-making. Combined with continued incentives on home loans, these steps can strengthen end-user demand and ensure sustainable growth across the housing sector.
 

Saurab Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments, says, “For the real estate sector, Budget 2026 is an opportunity to align policy with the sector’s economic weight finally. One long-standing expectation is the grant of industry status to real estate, which would significantly improve access to organised financing and reduce the cost of capital, critical for large, design-led luxury projects with long gestation cycles. The sector also looks forward to the creation of a dedicated revival fund for stalled projects at both the central and state levels, aimed at fast-tracking completion, enabling the timely delivery of homes and restoring buyer confidence.”
 

Rakesh Kaul, CEO & Managing Director, Ralith Realty, says, “Housing demand in India has always followed infrastructure. As we look towards Budget 2026, continued and targeted investment in connectivity, urban utilities and social infrastructure remains critical to unlocking new residential markets. When infrastructure planning aligns with housing supply, it not only improves liveability but also ensures more balanced urban growth beyond traditional city centres. A strong infrastructure push, backed by execution-focused reforms, can be the single biggest catalyst for the next phase of housing growth.”
 

Ashok Singh Jaunapuria, Managing Director & CEO, SS Group, says, “As the housing market matures, we expect Budget 2026 to take a more buyer-centric view of policy design. Homebuyers today are financially aware and long-term in their outlook, yet many tax benefits and eligibility thresholds have not kept pace with rising urban housing prices. Revisiting ownership-linked tax incentives and improving affordability through financing support can significantly strengthen end-user demand. Equally important is easing approval bottlenecks through faster, more transparent processes, which ultimately improve delivery timelines and buyer confidence.”
 

Mohit Batra, Regional Director, Realistic Realtors, said, “The policy direction over the past few budgets has helped bring greater stability and transparency to the real estate sector, and we expect Budget 2026 to sustain this momentum. We implore the government to address housing affordability more realistically by revisiting tax deductions and income limits that no longer reflect current property values or loan sizes. Enhanced tax incentives can meaningfully ease the decision-making process for homebuyers and improve market absorption. Alongside this, a sustained infrastructure push remains essential to support urban expansion and unlock new housing markets.”
 

Viren Mehta, Founder & Director, ElitePro Infra, says, “The industry seems to have gotten back on track, but going forward, only if the ownership base expands, meaning if the industry gets to serve more people and not just the high end, can it experience steady growth. More tax relief on loans for housing, particularly under section 80C, would be highly effective in benefiting the first-time buyer and upgrade cycles. Incentivising developers to venture into affordable housing also needs renewed attention in metro peripheries and tier-2 cities where demand is real, but supply economics remain tight. Faster approvals and regulatory consistency will further improve execution quality and buyer confidence.”
 

Harjeet Singh Sahni, CMD, Solitairriann Group, says, “The commercial property market is moving on to a more complex plane where quality and operational efficiencies are more valued than mere size. Supportive policies, which are able to facilitate greater access to funding, provide rationalisation of taxes on materials used in the development process, and ease the approvals process, would enable developers to invest in the next generation of quality assets. Classification of the sector as an industry would facilitate greater institutional participation, which would help the real estate adhere to further its participation in the country’s growth.”
 

Goldi Arora, Co-founder & Managing Director of Property Master, says, “We expect the Budget 2026 to be judged by how effectively it converts intent into on-ground housing momentum. Across markets, we see buyers delaying decisions not due to lack of demand, but due to uncertainty around approvals, financing and post-tax costs. Introducing a single-window clearance system would directly address execution risk, while better tax incentives for first-time buyers could unlock pent-up demand at the entry and mid segments. If the Budget aligns tax policy with these emerging urban realities, it can create more predictable housing cycles rather than episodic spurts.”
 

Therefore, as Budget 2026 approaches, the real estate sector is seeking clear, forward-looking signals to bring coherence to housing, taxation, and urban development policies. The expectation is not for disruptive shifts, but for a calibrated framework that sustains market momentum, improves buyer confidence and supports India’s evolving urban growth story over the long term.

Magic Bus India Foundation, one of India’s leading NGOs in education and skilling, is scaling its ‘AI for Masses’ initiative through a suite of inclusive and high-impact AI skilling programmes designed to prepare youth from underserved communities for an AI-driven economy.

Magic Bus representatives with youth participants at their Employers Summit

As part of this initiative, Magic Bus is convening the Employers Summit Series, its official pre-summit engagement ahead of the India AI Impact Summit 2026. The multi-city series, being held across Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai, is anchored in the theme “AI-Ready Talent: What Employers Really Want Tomorrow.” With editions in Chennai and Hyderabad already concluded, the Employers Summit Series now moves to Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai, building on early conversations that set the tone for inclusive, ethical, and scalable AI adoption.

The series aims to strengthen employer–youth linkages and shape demand-driven skilling pathways by bringing together employers, policymakers, CSR leaders, academia, and youth innovators. By aligning industry expectations with grassroot realities, the series supports India’s goal of democratising access to AI skills and preparing an AI-ready workforce at scale.

The India AI Impact Summit 2026, organised under the IndiaAI Mission by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), is India’s flagship platform to accelerate AI adoption and workforce transformation. The Summit will convene global leaders to shape a future where AI benefits every citizen. Magic Bus’s pre-summit series plays a vital role by channelling employer insights and workforce readiness strategies into national deliberations.

Arun Nalavadi, Chief of Programmes – Livelihood, Magic Bus India Foundation, said, “At Magic Bus, our mission is to ensure that youth from underserved communities are not left behind as the world of work evolves. Our AI skilling programmes are built on the belief that access to future-ready skills should not be limited by geography or socio-economic background. Leveraging technology, we combine AI with life and employability skills to deliver impact at scale. By aligning with employers and providing foundational AI literacy, we bridge the gap between aspiration and opportunity, making AI a pathway to sustainable employment.”

As one of the early movers in the development sector, Magic Bus launched the AI for Masses initiative to equip young people with future-ready skills and enable a smooth transition to the world of work. A flagship programme under this initiative, AI–Connect with Work (AI-CWW), is a 7–10-day intervention for college students and graduates from underserved communities. It builds practical AI awareness and workplace-relevant skills, preparing youth for emerging roles in an AI-driven economy. Last year, 35,000 youth were skilled through AI-CWW, and the programme is on track to reach 1.5 lakh participants this year. By equipping youth with the skills and confidence to make informed career and life choices, the programme empowers them to support their families, break the cycle of poverty, and become role models in their communities.

About Magic Bus India Foundation

Magic Bus India Foundation is one of India’s leading NGOs in education and skilling. Over the past 26 years, the organisation has expanded its reach and impact across the country through innovative, inclusive, and gender-responsive programmes.

With a strong focus on school-to-work transition, Magic Bus enables adolescents and youth from underserved communities to build the life and employability skills needed to break cycles of poverty and empower future generations. Magic Bus is also empowering women aged 25 years and above, in peri-urban and rural areas, to enable their economic and financial independence.

Through its Adolescent Programme, Magic Bus equips adolescents aged 12 to 18 years with life skills and Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN), reaching over 38 lakh adolescents. The programme is implemented across 22 states and Union Territories and is strengthened through partnerships with 12 state governments and NITI Aayog, with interventions across nearly 30% of India’s aspirational blocks. Girls account for 52% of participants.

The Livelihood Programme empowers youth aged 18 to 25 years by equipping them with life and employability skills. Since 2015, over 7.15 lakh youth have been skilled, with 80% placed in sustainable jobs. Young women constitute 60% of participants, reflecting a continued focus on gender equity.

The Rural Livelihood Programme empowers women by strengthening life skills, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills. The programme has supported over 1,100 women across six states to establish and sustain enterprises and move towards financial independence.

For more information, visit: www.magicbus.org.

Theia Ventures, India’s specialist early-stage fund focused on AI, deeptech, energy transition, and decarbonization, today announced that it has led a pre-seed investment round of US$1M in EarthSync, a unified Artificial Intelligence platform for renewable energy planning, procurement, and operations. The round also saw participation from Eximius Ventures, India’s first dedicated pre-seed fund, investing across Enterprise AI, Fintech & ConsumerTech.

EarthSync’s Co-founders Rajat Singh & Mehul Kumar

The investment will support the development of EarthSync’s AI-enabled clean energy modelling and forecasting engine, policy-enabled techno-economic optimizations, and project marketplace. EarthSync’s mission is to accelerate energy transitions through big data systems, providing cloud-first clean energy finance modelling and insights platforms to energy stakeholders including Independent Power Producers (IPPs), Commercial & Industrial (C&I) consumers, advisors, and utilities.

EarthSync is engineering a unified Artificial Intelligence platform that enables C&I enterprises, energy advisors, and Independent Power Producers to plan, procure, and manage renewable energy assets with clarity and precision. The platform combines techno-economic modelling, regulatory data, real-time simulations, and advanced AI to help users evaluate options, optimize returns, improve forecasting, and make confident, data-driven decisions before committing capital.

The EarthSync platform has already run 10 GW of solar and wind and 4 GWh of BESS simulations through pilots with key IPPs and C&I consumers, enabling decision-makers to strategize and bid for over 200 MW of solar and wind and 100 MWh of BESS projects. This fundraise will support EarthSync’s team and product build-out, enable higher project and bid volumes on the marketplace, and accelerate global scaling to power the next wave of clean energy deployments.

“We are delighted to partner with the EarthSync team as they transform how C&I customers and IPPs measure and manage the performance of their renewable energy installations. Through their proprietary AI-powered tech stack, the company is well positioned to deliver an agile, customizable, and accurate engine that disrupts the conventional Excel-based or legacy software models in this sector,” said Priya Shah, Founder & GP, Theia Ventures.

“EarthSync is providing a single, trusted view of policy, pricing, and asset performance, one that every stakeholder around the table can finally rely on. We’re excited to welcome EarthSync into Fund II and partner with a team that understands this problem at a systems level,” said Preeti Sampat, Partner, Eximius Ventures.

 “We are thrilled to welcome Theia and Eximius as our first institutional investors, partnering with us to accelerate and simplify energy transitions for IPPs, C&I consumers, and key industry stakeholders. We are building the digital energy backbone that converts policy, technical, and climate complexity into executable intelligence, working across auto manufacturing, data centres, metal and mining, chemicals, and textiles”, said EarthSync’s Co-founders Rajat Singh & Mehul Kumar.

India’s clean energy market is expanding rapidly as companies seek reliable and cost-effective solutions to meet long-term power needs, driven by rising demand, supportive policy momentum, and strong investment interest. However, adoption remains challenging due to evolving state-level policies, uncertain pricing and grid conditions, stricter compliance requirements, and fragmented data that slow planning, procurement, and operations. As renewable energy becomes a core business priority, the continued growth of the open access market depends on digital decision tools that can accurately interpret policy, model demand, manage risk, and enable financially sound choices.

This is Theia Ventures’ fifth investment from its new fund, which announced its first close, anchored by British International Investment, in October 2025. The fund counts Sarla Aviation, Climitra Carbon, Lemnisca, and Novyte Materials among its earlier investments and has committed to a few additional investments to be deployed within this financial year.

About EarthSync

EarthSync is engineering a unified intelligence platform that enables C&I enterprises, energy advisors, and Independent Power Producers to plan, procure, and manage renewable energy with clarity. The platform integrates regulatory intelligence, real-time simulation, and techno-economic modelling into a single workflow, turning a fragmented process into a clear and consistent system.

About Theia Ventures

Theia Ventures is one of India’s first specialist early-stage funds focused on energy transition, deep tech, and decarbonization. The fund backs founders building technologies that transform industrial systems and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

About Eximius Ventures
Eximius Ventures is India’s first dedicated pre-seed venture capital fund, backing ambitious founders building globally scalable companies from India. The fund follows a thesis-driven approach across fintech, consumer tech & enterprise AI, and works closely with founders from day zero to help build enduring, category-defining businesses.

3EA Global and Indian origin, Global Management Consulting group has taken the project of Rudri Beverages and Food Industries Pvt. Ltd. Rudri Beverages and Food Industries Pvt. Ltd. has officially announced to enter India’s booming beverage market with two dynamic and innovative water brands — “Nothing – But Pure Water” and “Zinga – Premium Water.” With this bold move, the company aims to redefine the nation’s hydration habits — from affordable, pure drinking water for the masses to luxury, wellness-driven premium hydration for the elite.

Feasibility study, Innovative Business Model followed by first three year Business Plan has been developed by 3EA Global. Positioning strategy of both brands is by Dr. Vibhor Mishra, Brand Consultant at 3EA Global.

A powerful moment of leadership and collaboration as Sanjay Mehra, Rushil Mehra, Rashmi Mehra, Vibhor Mishra, Pranav Bhaskar and Kritagaya Singh align on vision, strategy and growth

Nothing – But Pure Water: Purity for All

As the name says, Nothing stands for Nothing but pure water. Designed to reach every corner of India, this brand promises high-quality, 100% pure drinking water at an affordable price point — ensuring that purity is no longer a privilege, but a basic right.

What sets Nothing apart is its unique customized branding model — a first-of-its-kind in India. The brand will provide custom-labelled water bottles for corporates, startups, hotels, restaurants, and cafes (HoReCa industry) — allowing brands to enhance visibility while serving hydration.

And here’s the revolutionary twist — Nothing will also offer FREE water bottles customized with company names for CSR activities. This initiative will empower companies to spread awareness and goodwill while ensuring clean water reaches those who need it most.

“We wanted to build a brand that doesn’t just sell water, but makes people feel proud of every drop they drink,” said Mr. Pranav Bhaskar, Business Partner 3EA Global.

Zinga – Premium Water: Health. Luxury. Assurance.

‘Nothing’ redefines purity, Zinga luxury. Positioned as a premium lifestyle water, Zinga goes beyond hydration — it’s an experience, a statement, and a wellness revolution in a bottle.

Zinga’s portfolio includes exotic and health-boosting variants like:

• Black Water – rich in essential minerals for superior detoxification.

• Sparkling Water – the perfect blend of bubbles and elegance.

• Gold Water – infused with edible gold flakes symbolizing luxury and vitality.

• Ginseng Flavoured Water – designed for rejuvenation and improved stamina.

Post-COVID, the demand for premium, health-centric beverages has skyrocketed as people have become more conscious about what they consume. Zinga answers this need with its commitment to purity, immunity, and innovation.

“Zinga flavoured hai, smart hai — it justifies that health is wealth, and Zinga is the assurance of health,” added Ms. Rashmi Mehra, Director of Rudri Beverages and Food Industries Pvt. Ltd.

She further emphasized, “Our body is 70% water — and it’s time we purify that 70% through Zinga. Each sip is scientifically designed to detoxify and rejuvenate the body from within.”

During a recent media interaction, Rushil Mehra shared the thought process behind launching two distinct water brands under one umbrella. He highlighted India’s vast consumer diversity, explaining that while one segment seeks pure drinking water at an accessible price point, another is increasingly inclined towards premium, wellness-driven hydration. With Nothing and Zinga, the idea was to cater to both ends of the spectrum while staying rooted in a single philosophy — making hydration meaningful and relevant for every lifestyle.

Adding to the conversation, Rashmi Mehra spoke about the growing relevance of premium water in a post-COVID world. She noted that the pandemic has significantly reshaped consumer behaviour, with people becoming more conscious about immunity, health, and daily wellness choices. According to her, Zinga’s mineral-rich and flavoured variants are designed not just to hydrate, but to support overall well-being — positioning the brand as a refined, health-forward choice rather than just another beverage.

Sharing his perspective on evolving lifestyle trends, Rushil Mehra further emphasized that today’s consumers are embracing the idea of mindful luxury. Essentials like water are no longer seen as basic commodities but as intentional choices that reflect one’s health priorities and lifestyle. Zinga, he explained, represents “luxury with logic” — a smart hydration solution aligned with the aspirations of modern India.

Speaking about the company’s vision, Mr. Rushil Mehra, Director of Rudri Beverages and Food Industries Pvt. Ltd., shared, “Rudri Beverages and Food Industries Pvt.   on a simple yet powerful belief — that hydration should be more than a necessity; it should be a lifestyle choice. We’re committed to delivering innovative, high-quality beverage solutions that redefine how India consumes water. Through our twin brands — Nothing – But Pure Water and Zinga – Premium Water — we’re creating a balance between affordability and exclusivity, ensuring that both purity and luxury are within everyone’s reach.”

Mr. Rushil Mehra further highlighted that the feasibility study, development of business canvas model, and strategic concept development for this venture were meticulously carried out by 3EA Global, a leading management consulting company known for its expertise in market research, strategic planning, and business model innovation.

“3EA Global played a pivotal role in shaping our business strategy from the ground up,” Mr. Rushil Mehra added. “Their research-driven insights helped us validate our market potential, identify untapped opportunities, and structure a sustainable business model that aligns with our long-term vision. With their support, we transformed an idea into a brand that’s ready to revolutionize the beverage industry.”

As India’s venture capital ecosystem enters a more disciplined and institutionally driven phase, the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA) today kicked off the second edition of #VC101, its industry-led capability-building programme for first-time fund managers. The programme, with IC RegFin Legal and Price Waterhouse & Co LLP as Lead Partners, and Peak XV Partners and IvyCap Ventures as Partners, is being held in Mumbai on January 29–30, 2026, followed by Bengaluru on February 11–12, 2026.

IVCA Announces Second Edition of #VC101

Over the last two years, India’s venture capital landscape has shown renewed resilience, with funding rebounding to approximately $13.7 billion in 2024, driven largely by increased deal activity and smaller-ticket investments, which accounted for nearly 95% of all VC deals. Even as overall VC and PE investments remained steady at around $49 billion in 2025, the early-stage ecosystem has continued to deepen, supported by the rapid expansion of alternative investment platforms.

Cumulative commitments across Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) structures have crossed INR 15 lakh crore, underscoring the growing role of institutional and strategy-led capital. Within this landscape, India’s Micro VC ecosystem has scaled sharply to over 250 active funds as of early 2026, up from about 200 just two years ago, with these funds increasingly acting as critical first-cheque investors at the pre-seed, seed, and early Series A stages.

Commenting on the programme, Rajat Tandon, President, IVCA, said, “India’s venture ecosystem has reached a stage where institutional capability is as critical as access to capital. As first-time fund managers and Micro VCs scale and move towards subsequent fundraises, the focus must shift to building credible structures around regulatory compliance, governance, portfolio discipline, and LP engagement. Through #VC101, IVCA aims to support this transition by promoting best practices and strengthening the foundations of emerging venture platforms, contributing to India’s ambition of becoming a leading global fund management ecosystem.”

The programme is supported by ecosystem partners who bring complementary expertise across regulation, data, and venture-building experience.

Speaking on the regulatory and structural considerations shaping first-time fund managers today, Tejesh Chitlangi, Managing Partner, IC RegFin Legal, said,  “Venture capital (VC) landscape is undergoing a pivotal phase, marked by significant regulatory developments and growing acceptance among a broad spectrum of investors. For first-time fund managers (FTFMs), the process of building a fund platform extends well beyond deploying capital. It involves navigating a complex interplay between regulatory frameworks and regulatory expectations on the one hand, and fund-raising dynamics and investor requirements on the other. #VC101 serves as an ideal platform for FTFMs to gain practical insights from leading practitioners and experienced industry participants, for the right head start to build and scale a resilient VC set up.”

Reflecting on the growing need for structured, end-to-end fund-building capabilities as India’s domestic VC ecosystem matures, Himanshu Mandavia, Partner, Price Waterhouse & Co LLP, said, “#VC101 is a very useful initiative that provides a comprehensive overview of all the aspects that a fund manager needs to consider for raising and running a fund. Apart from the various tax and regulatory nuances, this program helps them get candid insights on various commercial aspects as well, which is a unique value proposition of this franchise. With the increased number of fund managers and maturing of the Indian domestic fund industry, this kind of an institutionalized program helps provide a platform for a well-rounded and future‑ready fund‑building journey.”

Emphasising the broader maturity of India’s entrepreneurial and capital ecosystem, Rajan Anandan, Managing Director, Peak XV Partners and Co-Chair, VC Council, IVCA, said, “There has never been a better time to build in ​India: we have a new generation of battle-hardened, seasoned founders at the helm​, IPOs are delivering massive exits, our public markets are getting deeper. With domestic capital opening up, the fuel for India’s next decade of growth is ready.​ ​That is why #VC101 is so ripe for this moment. It is a high-octane masterclass where first-time managers gain real, practical insights directly from leading practitioners who have lived through every cycle. As the stakes get higher, we have to up our game to build world-class institutions from the ground up. The time is now.”

Highlighting the importance of early institutional thinking for first- and second-time fund managers, Vikram Gupta, Founder and Managing Partner, IvyCap Ventures said, “As the Indian venture ecosystem evolves, the focus is steadily shifting from just deal-making to building enduring institutions. A programme like #VC101 is timely because it addresses a critical gap—helping emerging fund managers think deeply about governance, discipline, capital stewardship, and long-term fund building. As more first- and second-time managers enter the ecosystem, institutional readiness and maturity will define who can sustain through cycles. Initiatives like this play an important role in shaping that mindset early, which is essential for the next phase of India’s venture capital journey.”

The second edition of #VC101 brings together Micro VCs, first-time fund managers, and emerging venture platforms from across the country, creating a focused forum for learning, peer exchange, and long-term network building. Anchored in lived experience and current market realities, the programme is designed to help participants navigate a more exit-aware, disciplined, and institutionally aligned venture environment.

DAC Developers, a fast-growing construction company known for quality construction and customer-centric development, announced on 28th Jan. 2026, legendary composer and global music icon A.R. Rahman as its brand ambassador. The announcement coincided with the launch of around 1,000 new homes, across five locations in the city, Kattupakkam in Porur, Sunguvarchatram on Chennai – Bangalore Highway, Kumananchavadi near Porur Ramachandra, Sholinganallur and Siruseri on OMR at a special event attended by Maestro himself. 

DAC Developers Appoints A.R. Rahman as its Brand Ambassador 

The association marks a significant milestone as the company strengthens its positioning as a modern, trustworthy, and globally inspired brand, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, integrity, and world-class living standards.

Speaking about the partnership, S. Sathish Kumar, Managing Director, DAC Developers, said, “We are truly delighted and honoured to welcome A.R. Rahman as part of the DAC family, where we don’t just build structures, but create spaces that inspire life. Celebrated globally for his creativity, precision, and excellence, he embodies the values we stand for – innovation, integrity, and timeless appeal. His journey of global recognition rooted in Indian values closely aligns with our commitment to delivering world-class developments with enduring value.”

Expressing his thoughts on the association, A.R. Rahman said, “The home is where all our dreams are born and live. I’m very happy to begin a beautiful new partnership with DAC Developers, one of South India’s most-promising real estate brands. Like how we create music from the heart, in DAC, I have found a team that creates beautiful homes, with love. I trust DAC Developers to build homes that are filled with harmony and happiness.”

This collaboration will feature A.R. Rahman as the face of DAC Developers’ upcoming campaigns across digital, print, outdoor, and television platforms. The initiative is designed to reinforce the company’s reputation among aspiring homeowners and investors seeking reliability, design excellence, and future-ready living spaces, while also underscoring DAC Developers’ commitment to scaling new heights by partnering with revered personalities who inspire trust and global admiration.

About DAC Developers:
DAC Developers, established in 2014, is a Chennai-based leading construction company with over a decade of experience in creating quality homes that enhance lifestyles. Committed to providing essential luxuries at affordable prices, DAC Developers are known for their aesthetics, amenities, and accessibility to essential facilities, where each project is uniquely designed to meet homebuyers’ needs, offering convenience and comfort. With a focus on transparency, customer trust, and superior construction standards, the company has been redefining urban living experiences with over 110 plus projects, 45 lakhs plus square feet construction, 3000 and counting happy home owners till date.

For more details, please visit: www.dacdevelopers.com 

Tanishq, India’s largest jewellery brand from the House of Tata, cemented its global presence with its fourth showcase at Paris Couture Week 2026, marking a defining milestone in its global luxury journey and reinforcing its position as a design-led, globally aspirational jewellery maison. Continuing its celebrated collaboration with internationally acclaimed couturier Rahul Mishra, Tanishq returned to the world’s most prestigious fashion platform, unveiling an exceptional high-jewellery presentation centred exclusively on its evocative Desert diamonds collection. Choosing a diamond born of the desert, is choosing something truly unique – a fragment of the earth’s history that captures the hues of the land where they are found.

Tanishq’s latest collection spotted taking center stage as the model flaunts the pieces on the runway

Building on its continued presence at Paris Couture Week since 2023, Tanishq’s exclusive collection of Desert diamonds, placed the spotlight firmly on the origin of natural diamonds. Formed in the depths of the earth over millennia, Desert diamonds carry the spirit of the land – connecting each stone back to wild desert landscapes. A spectrum of natural colours, with diamonds ranging from warm whites and honey tones through to whiskey and sunset browns form a palette that’s both rare and unmistakable. Prized for their individuality, subtle tonal variations, and depth of character, these stones are considered connoisseur diamonds—markers of rarity, quiet power, and refined self-expression.

Rahul Mishra’s Spring 2026 collection, Alchemy, showcased at Paris Couture Week, draws inspiration from the cosmic and elemental origins of life, interpreting the continuity of matter and the transience of existence. It begins at the ether (akasha), the cosmic vastness, the eternal silence; which is not nothingness, but intelligible potential. The impression of air (vayu), its lightness, movement and enormous strength, traced into fabric through instinct and memory. Fire (agni) is the transformational force, like a contemplation. Shapeless by nature, but gives form to anything it touches. Water, (apas) obedient to gravity yet constantly in motion, a mirror to the moon and the world around it, yet humbly adapting to each vessel it inhabits. And Earth, the eternity’s ledger of memories. Shaped from the interactions between the other forms, it is a vessel retaining their traces and textures, the force of resilience and tenderness. Rooted in the interplay of air, fire, water, earth, and space, the collection reflects how these classical elements interact and transform—mirroring the patient formation of diamonds over billions of years. Through texture, scale, and movement, Mishra’s couture translates these unseen forces into a poetic narrative, where design echoes nature’s rhythms, elemental harmony, and timeless cycles of transformation. This philosophy celebrates creation as a process shaped by time, balance, and quiet resilience—values intrinsic to both couture and natural diamonds.

The jewellery showcased in Paris highlighted how Tanishq’s Desert diamonds bring these natural elements to life, perfectly mirroring the vision of Rahul Mishra. Each rare, naturally coloured diamond was crafted into bold, sculptural silhouettes that celebrate both strength and subtlety, reflecting the desert’s timeless landscapes and the slow, meticulous artistry of its formation. Following their successful launch in the USA, Tanishq now introduces these exceptionally rare diamonds to India, offering connoisseurs and jewellery enthusiasts an opportunity to experience natural diamonds of extraordinary provenance, individuality, and elegance. With scale, form, and thoughtful settings designed to let each stone’s brilliance shine, these creations are conceived as wearable art, elevating high jewellery on one of the world’s most prestigious fashion platforms.

Every creation showcased in Paris was the result of extensive design ideation, hundreds of artisanal man-hours, intricate settings, and uncompromising attention to detail—a testament to Indian artistry that stands confidently among the world’s finest. With its fourth appearance at Paris Couture Week, Tanishq continues to strengthen its position as a globally aspirational luxury jewellery brand, engaging with the world’s leading maisons on an international stage. The Desert diamonds collection provides a new perspective – a sense of freshness and innovation in natural diamonds and was crafted in collaboration with De Beers Group, the world’s leading diamond company.

Speaking on Tanishq’s continued presence at Paris Couture Week, Pelki Tshering, Chief Marketing Officer, Tanishq, said, “Paris Couture Week is where design speaks without borders. For Tanishq, returning for the fourth time reflects our belief that Indian jewellery can engage the world through a shared language of design, rarity, and expression. With Desert diamonds, created in partnership with De Beers, we are presenting a story shaped by nature and refined through design—one that feels both deeply rooted and globally relevant. Our collaboration with Rahul Mishra allows us to translate this vision onto one of fashion’s most influential stages, reinforcing our commitment to creating distinctive natural diamond jewellery that resonates with a new generation of global connoisseurs.”

Speaking on the collaboration and the association with Paris Couture Week, Garima Maheshwari, Head of Design, Tanishq, said, “Paris Couture Week represents the pinnacle of global luxury and creative expression. Our third presentation with Rahul Mishra marks a deeper creative dialogue between couture and high jewellery, where fashion and craftsmanship move together seamlessly. With Desert Diamonds, we showcased rare natural diamonds shaped by ancient desert landscapes, interpreted through bold, sculptural forms that echoed Rahul Mishra’s nature-inspired silhouettes. The collection’s natural hues—ranging from luminous whites to warm champagnes and deep ochres—were highlighted through intricate settings and meticulous detailing. Each creation was conceived as wearable art, reinforcing our shared commitment to authenticity, rarity, and presenting Indian high jewellery with confidence on a global couture stage.”

Speaking on the launch of Dessert Diamonds in India, Shweta Harit, Global Senior Vice President, De Beers, said, “De Beers has now been a long-standing partner of Tanishq, and together we share a vision of bringing the world’s finest natural diamonds to discerning audiences in India. Desert diamonds exemplify this collaboration, each stone is part of a unique origin concept, showcasing the rarity, individuality, and natural beauty that only nature can create. With Desert diamonds, the ancient sands of time meet today’s desire for authentic beauty. Having already launched these exceptional diamonds in the USA, Tanishq is now bringing Desert diamonds to India, unveiling them on the global stage at Paris Couture Week and reinforcing our shared commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship.”

Rahul Mishra, Founder and Creative Director, said, “This collaboration with Tanishq is a meeting of philosophies shaped by time, nature, and human hands, and I am honoured to join hands with the legacy and trust created by them. Desert diamonds, formed over billions of years, resonate deeply with my couture collection Alchemy, which explores the elemental forces that bind creation and transformation. Presenting this dialogue at Paris Haute Couture Week allows us to honour rarity, not just in materials, but in thought, process, and craftsmanship. Together, we are telling a story where Indian artistry evolves naturally onto a global stage, rooted in heritage yet expressed through contemporary design.”

About Tanishq

Tanishq, India’s largest jewellery brand from the Tata Group, is synonymous with superior craftsmanship, distinctive design, and uncompromising quality. With a deep understanding of the modern consumer, Tanishq creates jewellery that seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary expression. Reinforcing its commitment to transparency and trust, all Tanishq stores are equipped with the Karatmeter. Today, the brand has a presence across 500+ exclusive boutiques in over 300 cities, alongside a growing global footprint.

About Rahul Mishra

Rahul Mishra, the first Indian designer to be invited to showcase at the Paris Haute Couture Week was also the winner of International Woolmark Prize in 2014. He was conferred the insignia of ‘Chevalier de Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government in November 2023.

Rooted in the philosophy of sustainability, his work reimagines fashion as an agent of social change—fostering participation and uplifting India’s artisan communities. Through his couture house and prêt-à-porter label, AFEW Rahul Mishra, he envisions luxury not merely as consumption, but as a celebration of collective craftsmanship.

Described by Suzy Menkes as a “national treasure” and praised by the late Franca Sozzani for “highlighting the best and most peculiar features of his homeland,” Rahul’s creations resonate across cultures. With six flagship stores in India and a growing global presence, his brand embodies ‘mindful luxury,’ where purpose guides process and each garment becomes a living narrative of human hands and heritage.

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers London and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair.

De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach to sustainability that underpins our efforts to create meaningful impact for the people and places where our diamonds are discovered. Building Forever focuses on three key areas where, through collaborations and partnerships around the globe, we have an enhanced ability to drive positive impact; Livelihoods, Climate and Nature. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group.

For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.

As day-to-day aspects of life have moved online, cybercrime is becoming increasingly frequent and sophisticated, with fraudsters leveraging social engineering, data misuse, and impersonation tactics to target individuals.

Safeguard your digital world with SBI General’s Cyber VaultEdge

India’s digital ecosystem is expanding rapidly, underpinned by widespread smartphone use and growing digital adoption. December 2025 alone saw 21.63 billion transactions worth INR 27.97 trillion, according to the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). This surge also reflects the growing adoption of digital tools and platforms, highlighting India’s shift toward a more connected, digitally integrated economy.

According to data from the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) and the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS), cyber fraud losses in India jumped to INR 22,845.73 crore in 2024 from INR 7,465.18 crore in 2023, a 206% year-on-year surge, highlighting the rapidly escalating scale of cybercrime nationwide.

On the occasion of Data Privacy Day, SBI General Insurance reinforces the importance of safeguarding personal data, underscoring the need to embed data protection at the core of digital adoption. As digital dependence grows, cyber insurance is emerging as a critical layer of protection offering not just financial cover, but comprehensive support to help individuals and families recover and move forward with confidence.

Here are key reasons why cyber insurance is essential in today’s digital world:

• Identity Theft Protection: Covers financial losses arising from identity theft, including unauthorized use of personal information or fraudulent transactions. Supports legal recourse against perpetrators to help restore your digital identity.

• Theft of funds: Cyber insurance covers losses from unauthorised access to your finances, including bank accounts, credit cards, debit cards, digital wallets, etc. Any legal costs necessary to prosecute cybercriminals are covered as well.

• IT Specialist and Data Restoration: Reimburses costs for engaging IT experts to investigate cyber breaches, restore lost data, or secure affected devices. Ensures timely technical support to limit damage and resume normal operations.

• Psychological Consultation: Covers professional counseling or therapy to address stress, trauma, or emotional impact resulting from cyber violations. Supports mental well-being alongside financial and technical recovery.

• Loss of Wage Due to Identity Theft: Compensates for income lost as a direct consequence of identity theft. Helps maintain financial stability while resolving the aftermath of cyber incidents.

• Family Coverage Extension: Policyholders can extend protection to their immediate family, including spouses and dependent children. This ensures that the entire household benefits from a robust safety net against cyber threats.

SBI General’s cyber offering delivers holistic support through every stage of recovery. With this comprehensive approach, SBI General’s Cyber VaultEdge offers extensive and comprehensive protection against a spectrum of cyber risks, including data breaches and cyber extortion. Designed to meet the demands of today’s digital world, the policy provides financial security while offering reassurance to policyholders and their families.

With SBI General’s Cyber VaultEdge, individuals and families can navigate the digital world with confidence, backed by comprehensive protection against evolving cyber risks ensuring security, resilience, and peace of mind.

About SBI General Insurance
SBI General Insurance, one of the fastest-growing private general insurance firms, backed by the robust support of SBI, upholds a legacy of trust and security. We position ourselves as India’s most trusted general insurer amidst a dynamic landscape. Since our establishment in 2009, our expansion has been substantial, growing from 17 branches in 2011 to a nationwide presence in 146 branches. In FY 2024-25, SBI General Insurance reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of INR 14,140 crores, recording a YOY growth of 11.1%.

The company received numerous prestigious accolades, showcasing its excellence across various domains. Key honors include being named as the Domestic General Insurer of the Year – India and Claims Initiative of the Year – India at Insurance Asia Awards 2025 Singapore, Large General Insurance category at the Mint BFSI Summit & Awards, the 3rd InsureNext Awards 2024 for Best Claims Settlement, and India’s Best General Insurer of the Year at the 7th Insurance Conclave Awards. At the India Insurance Summit & Awards 2024, the company secured titles for General Insurance Company of the Year and Leading Implementer of Analytics Technology in Insurance. Additionally, it was honored as the Best BFSI Brand at the ET NOW Best BFSI Brands Conclave 2024 and included in BW BusinessWorld’s India’s Most Respected Companies. Certified as a Great Place to Work in 2024, the company also excelled at the ETBFSI Exceller Awards 2024 with recognition for Best Claims Management in Insurance and Best CSR Campaign of the Year, further highlighting its commitment to social responsibility and innovation.

With a team of over 9,000+ employees and our multi-distribution model covering Bancassurance, Agency, OEM, Broking, Retail Direct Channels, and Digital collaborations, we are committed to providing both Suraksha and Bharosa to all our consumers. Leveraging a vast network that includes over 22000+ SBI branches, plus agents, financial alliances, OEMs, and digital partners, we extend our services to even the most remote areas of India. Our offerings cater to Retail, Corporate, SME and Rural segments, and our diverse product portfolio ensures accessibility through both digital and physical channels.