Terra Motors, a Japanese electric vehicle OEM, has appointed its first L5 category dealer in India, marking a milestone in its nationwide expansion plan. The new dealership, M.M. Enterprises, located in Varanasi, will take charge of Terra’s L5 sales and service operations in the region, offering the flagship model Kyoro+, a high-speed (L5) electric 3-wheeler designed for urban and semi-urban transport.

Mr. Go Suzuki (MD, Terra Motors) with newly appointed L5 dealer in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

This appointment comes in response to the overwhelming interest generated post-launch. Since the official unveiling on May 27, Terra Motors has received over 100 dealership enquiries within just two weeks. Its a signal of the market’s readiness for the high-speed auto segment. Terra Motors is now actively onboarding forward-looking dealers, with a specific focus on partners from both existing L3 markets and established L5 territories.

“This is more than just our first dealer appointment – it’s the milestone for our aggressive expansion strategy,” said Mr. Go Suzuki, Managing Director, Terra Motors India. “We are witnessing a shift in how cities approach clean mobility. With Kyoro+, we aim to lead this transformation by offering a product that is high on performance and accessible through flexible finance options like zero down payment. The appointment in Varanasi reflects the power of the product-market fit and our intent to grow rapidly across Uttar Pradesh.”

With many L3 (e-rickshaw) dealers facing regulatory restrictions in key city areas, Terra Motors is encouraging them to transition to the growing L5 segment. The newly appointed dealer, M.M. Enterprises, had been operating in the L3 category with one of the leading OEMs with strong sales volume, but identified the potential in L5 due to evolving local traffic norms limiting CNG and e-rickshaws on main roads. Recognising this shift, he was attracted to Terra’s L5 offering. Mukhtar Ansari, proprietor of M.M. Enterprises, shared, “We’re excited to partner with Terra Motors and introduce a product that ticks every box – mileage, comfort, price, and most importantly, financing for end customers.”

The Kyoro+ is engineered for efficiency and comfort with a range of 200 km, 5-year warranty, and on-road price starts from Rs. 3.65 lakh. Backed by Terra Finance’s zero down payment offer, it becomes one of the most compelling choices in the L5 passenger vehicle category.

This announcement is just the amplification of Terra Motors’ aggressive dealer network expansion for the L5 segment. We’re inviting established L3 dealers to upgrade with us and lead the L5 shift in your city. Be among the first in your region. The company aims to establish a strong footprint across key Indian cities by onboarding dealers with EV OEM background.

About Terra Motors

Terra Motors Corporation is a leading Japanese manufacturer of electric two- and three-wheelers, founded in April 2010 and headquartered in Tokyo. The company operates production plants in India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Japan, serving markets across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, Taiwan, and Thailand. Since entering India in 2014, Terra Motors has rapidly expanded its presence, establishing over 400 dealers by 2024, and continually increasing its production capacity. Terra Motors also operates Terra Charge, its dedicated EV charging infrastructure division, with the goal of deploying up to 1,000 charging points in India to support the country’s growing electric mobility ecosystem. The company remains committed to sustainable mobility and actively supports India’s “Make in India” initiative through innovative electric vehicle solutions. For dealership inquiries or to book the electric vehicle, please contact us at ev.auto@terramotors.co.jp or WhatsApp us at +91 91477 52921.

HCBS Developments, Gurugram’s real estate developers, has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘Most Trusted Real Estate Brand of the Year‘ at the ET Now Realty Conclave & Awards-2025. The event, held under the theme ‘Shaping Tomorrow’s Real Estate Landscape‘, brought together the biggest names in the industry to celebrate innovation, sustainability, and leadership in Indian real estate.

Vikas Gaur, Col. S.S. Kadyan and Parveen Hooda receives the ‘Most Trusted Real Estate Brand of the Year’ for HCBS Developments

The award reflects HCBS Developments’ commitment to quality, timely delivery, and customer-centric practices that have earned them the trust of thousands of homebuyers, particularly in the luxury housing segments. The group continues to set benchmarks in real estate development with a focus on accessibility, innovation, and sustainable community living.

Speaking on the recognition, Mr. Saurabh Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments, expressed, “Being named the ‘Most Trusted Real Estate Brand of the Year’ is not just an honour, but a responsibility – one we have upheld in every delivery so far. This reflects our core philosophy of delivering not just homes, but the promises that come with them. We are delighted to receive this award and are motivated to remain committed to our ethos. We thank our customers, partners, and teams who are integral to this journey.”

Col. S.S. Kadyan, Director, HCBS Developments, who received the awards on behalf of the organisation, added, “Receiving this award is a huge encouragement for us. Our upcoming project on the Dwarka Expressway is an endeavour we’re committed to nurturing with utmost care and responsibility, and we’re determined to deliver something truly exceptional. This corridor offers immense potential, and we’re excited to bring premium, well-planned developments to this location. Trust is the foundation of everything we do, and as India urbanises rapidly, we remain focused on responsible growth and housing solutions that reflect the country’s evolving aspirations.”

The ET Now Realty Conclave & Awards-2025 serves as a premier platform for recognizing excellence in the real estate sector. By bringing together developers, policymakers, and thought leaders, it fosters collaboration and encourages forward-thinking strategies to shape the future of Indian real estate.

Website- www.hcbs.co.in.

Blue Tokai, India’s leading specialty coffee brand, is stepping beyond its core cafe model with the launch of Blue Tokai Origins, a new experience built for people to slow down and taste the story behind their food. The first Origins cafe has opened on Ireo Grand View High Street, First Floor, Sector-58, Gurugram.

“Origins is where everything we’ve been building over the last decade comes together – the coffee, the craft, the community, the partners. It’s not just a larger cafe; it’s a space to slow down, try something new, and reconnect with what you love about coffee, alongside the warmth of a live bakery and an artisanally crafted menu with locally sourced ingredients. Every detail, from the brewing bar to the live bakery, has been designed to deepen the experience of connection and flavour,” said Shivam Shahi, Co-founder, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters.

Blue Tokai Origins – Play Bar

Inside Blue Tokai Origins

Spread across 2,000 square feet, Origins is designed as a sensorial, layered space that deepens Blue Tokai’s promise of craft and transparency. Guests will find experiences curated to highlight the process and people behind every offering.

Manual Brewing, Made Immersive

Set apart from the main coffee counter where espresso-based drinks are served, Origins features a dedicated manual brewing station called the Play Bar. With the most extensive selection of manual brewing techniques ever introduced in a Blue Tokai space, coffee lovers can now taste their way through seven distinct methods, including the Chemex, Syphon, Slow Drip, and more. Each method brings out unique facets of coffee, from the body to the acidity, and is explained by trained baristas.

Adding to this experience is the Nitro Cold Brew tap, serving chilled, nitrogen-infused single-origin cold brew, crafted using the Baby Hardtank, a patented technology that extracts a wider range of flavour compounds.

The Coffee Cellar

At the Play Bar, some of Blue Tokais rarest lots, frozen at peak flavour, are preserved in a temperature-controlled space called The Coffee Cellar. The selection includes some of Blue Tokais highest-scoring coffees, including lots that are shared as part of their coveted Producer Series. These are brewed exclusively as Pour Overs using tailored recipes to bring out their best.

Live Bakery by Suchali’s Artisan Bakehouse

A standout part of the Origins experience is the live, glass-walled bakery, run by Suchali’s Artisan Bakehouse. From smell to sight, the bakery adds a warm, sensory layer to the space. Here, visitors can witness the process of craft baking, unfolding live. Hand-shaped sourdough loaves, twice-baked croissants, cookies, and beyond are crafted here from scratch.

The artisanal breads baked here are slow fermented using natural cultures. They are also available for customers to take home, fresh off the rack.

Blue Tokai Origins

A Comfort-First, Craft-Led Menu

The menu is designed in collaboration with Chef Auroni Mukherjee, one of India’s most celebrated young chefs, known for his flavour-first approach to modern Indian food. It blends warmth and technique, reflective of the brand’s own identity, rooted in mastery; without losing its accessibility to its wide audiences. Think:

• Handmade pasta with flavour twists like the Chilli Crunch Carbonara.

• Gourmet club sandwiches and open-faced toasts built on signature sourdough breads by Suchalis Artisan Bakehouse.

• Dishes made using farm-sourced produce from trusted partners like Krishi Cress and Shroomery.

• A selection of desserts by Suchali’s Artisan Bakehouse, featuring familiar comforts and sweet surprises like the classic Tiramisu and a light-yet-decadent Coconut Berry Lamington.
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It’s food that feels familiar, but with depth, balance, and an attention to detail you can taste.

An Ode to Blue Tokai’s Mission

Throughout Origins, visual storytelling highlights the people and processes behind the brand – from the farms Blue Tokai sources from to the story of Suchali’s Artisan Bakehouse. Walls, installations, and little details create an unfolding narrative for guests to engage with at their own pace.

Blue Tokai Origins is designed to evolve with its community. In the months ahead, the brand will host producers, run interactive workshops on brewing and baking, and curate sensory experiences that help customers see coffee in new, meaningful ways.

For those looking to slow down, dive deeper into coffee, and taste the story behind their food, Origins offers a space unlike any other.

About Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters

Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters is India’s leading specialty coffee brand founded in 2013, dedicated to sourcing, roasting, and brewing coffee from 80+ of Indias finest coffee farms. Their mission is rooted in making high-quality Indian specialty coffee accessible to more and more people through their cafes and products. With a commitment to quality and innovation, the brand has built a loyal community of coffee lovers and continues to redefine coffee culture in India.

For more information, visit bluetokaicoffee.com.

Hisense, a leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, today announced the launch of its U7Q Mini-LED TV in India. Available in five premium sizes – 55″, 65″, 75″, 85″, and 100″ – the U7Q is the perfect fusion of cutting-edge display technology and intelligent AI processing, delivering an unparalleled viewing experience to consumers.

Hisense U7Q ULED MiniLED

At the heart of this premium television lineup is the Hi-View AI Engine, an intelligent processing powerhouse that optimizes picture quality, audio performance, and energy consumption in real-time. Furthermore, the flagship 100″ model features the enhanced Hi-View AI Engine Pro, delivering AI-mastered picture perfection for the ultimate home cinema experience.

“The U7Q represents our vision for the future of home entertainment in India,” said MrPankaj Rana,CEO, Hisense India, adding, “With AI-powered picture processing and premium gaming-centric features, were delivering exceptional value to Indian families. This launch reinforces our commitment to bringing world-class technology at accessible price points, making premium entertainment experiences available to more consumers across the country.”

Gaming Excellence Redefined

Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the U7Qs native 144Hz Game Mode PRO, ensuring smooth, blur-free gameplay. The 100″ model takes gaming to the next level with 165Hz Game Mode Ultra, featuring native 165Hz VRR technology thats ready for next-generation gaming experiences. Both configurations support AMD FreeSync Premium for tear-free gaming sessions.

Immersive Audio and Smart Connectivity

The U7Q series features a built-in subwoofer that delivers immersive deep bass, complemented by Dolby Atmos support for three-dimensional sound. The VIDAA Smart OS provides easy, fast, and secure access to entertainment, backed by an industry-leading 8-year update commitment. VIDAA supports 28 languages, including Hindi. Multiple voice assistants, including Google Assistant, Alexa, and VIDAA Voice-offer hands-free control for seamless user interaction.

Advanced Display Features

The television incorporates Quantum Dot Color technology, producing over a billion shades of vivid color, while Full Array Local Dimming ensures precise backlighting control. The AI 4K Upscaler enhances lower-resolution content to near-4K quality, while HDR10+ Adaptive and Dolby Vision IQ support deliver stunning high dynamic range visuals.

Availability and Pricing

The Hisense U7Q series is priced starting at INR 59,999. Customers can purchase the TV from offline retailers or online platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, and other nearby stores, starting today.

About Hisense

Hisense India is a subsidiary of Hisense Group, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances. With a presence in over 160 countries, Hisense is known for its innovation, cutting-edge technology, and high-quality products spanning televisions, refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and more. Globally, Hisense holds the No.1 position in the 100″ TV category (Source: Omdia 2023-24). Committed to delivering exceptional value and world-class experiences, the brand is focused on product innovation and manufacturing, robust retail partnerships, and long-term growth in the market.

For more information, please visit: www.hisenseindia.com

Lords Mark Industries Limited, a distinguished company known for its diverse portfolio and one of the leading innovator in diagnostic technology solutions, has been awarded the prestigious Certificate of Honour for Innovation in Diagnostic Technology at NavaBharat Healthcare Summit 2025. The award was presented by Hon. Union Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India, Smt. Anupriya Patel, in recognition of the companys ground-breaking contributions to advancing diagnostic capabilities in the healthcare sector.

Lords Mark Industries Limited Awarded with Certificate of Honour for Innovation in Diagnostic Technology at the NavaBharat Healthcare Summit 2025

The award was received by Mr. Manav Teli, Executive Director of Lords Mark Industries Limited, during the ceremony held to honor organizations making significant strides in healthcare innovation.

Mr. Manav Teli, Executive Director, Lords Mark Industries Limited with Certificate of Honour for Innovation in Diagnostic Technology at the NavaBharat Healthcare Summit 2025

The Certificate of Honour acknowledges Lords Mark Industries Limiteds contributions to the advancement of diagnostic technology, which plays a crucial role in early disease detection, accurate diagnosis, and improved patient care across Indias healthcare system.

On the occasion, Mr. Manav Teli, Executive Director, Lords Mark Industries Limited said, “We are deeply honoured to receive this recognition as this award validates our commitment to developing cutting-edge diagnostic technologies that improve patient outcomes and support healthcare professionals in delivering better care. Our teams dedication to innovation and excellence has made this achievement possible, and we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of multiple possibilities in diagnostic technology.”

This recognition also underscores Lords Mark Industries Limiteds position as a forward-thinking organization dedicated to transforming healthcare through technological innovation.

Lord’s Mark Industries operates through key subsidiaries, Lord’s Mark Biotech, Lords Mark Microbiotech, Lords Automative and Lord’s Mark Insurance Broking Limited (bimaakawach) along with verticals in renewable energy products and paper. Committed to innovation and excellence, the company continues to expand while upholding the highest quality standards. Diversification remains the foundation of Lord’s Mark Industries sustained growth and success. LordsMed, one of the brands of Lords Mark Industries is making a grand and significant mark in the diagnostic sector.

About Lord’s Mark Industries Ltd
Incorporated in 1998, Lord’s Mark Industries Ltd. (Lord’s) has made impressive growth starting from paper to LED to Renewable energy and making grand in the medical diagnostic industry. Lord’s and its subsidiaries have made a mark in Electric Vehicle, Genome Testing, Pharma and Healthcare. Growth through diversification has become the trend setter and has been the cornerstone of success at Lord’s.

Website – lordsmark.com

• 73% are confident of achieving financial goals in 5 years

• 65% believe affordable credit speeds up financial aspirations

• 63% of consumers believe that digital tools have made it easier to pursue their financial goals

• 57% of the respondents reported an increase in income this year

• 50% of respondents reported savings this year, down from 60% in 2024

• 12% of the respondents are borrowing to cover basic needs

• Education spending saw a 34% rise in the wallet share

• Among male consumers, 29% consider affordable credit crucial for achieving their financial aspirations

• Local travel has emerged as a key lifestyle upgrade, with 31% of consumers now exploring nearby destinations at least once a month

• 26% of Gen Z respondents place greater emphasis on improved job opportunities to achieve their aspirations faster

Home Credit India, a leading consumer finance company, today unveiled the findings of the third edition of its landmark report ‘The Great Indian Wallet 2025. This year’s study highlights a transformative shift in how lower middle-class Indians approach financial well-being. With the theme ‘Mapping India’s Aspirations: The Dreams in Every Wallet’, the study representing two-third of the country showcases a picture of a resilient, optimistic, and increasingly digital demographic that is not just surviving, but thriving to meet their aspirations.

The Great Indian Wallet 2025 by Home Credit India

The study offers a window into consumers financial lives across the nation, leveraging insights drawn from the Financial Well-Being Index alongside detailed data on income, expenses, wallet share, aspirations, and discretionary spending. According to the study, the financial pulse of the country remains strong, with consumers demonstrating pragmatic planning and an increasingly aspirational outlook as they adapt to rising costs. This spirit is especially evident in their focus on crucial areas like education, job opportunities, and the desire for affordable credit.

“When we initiated The Great Indian Wallet Study in 2023, we sought to understand the financial pulse of India. What we discovered was a nation of quiet revolutionaries – millions of households transforming constraints into steppingstones, challenges into opportunities,” said Ashish Tiwari, Chief Marketing Officer, Home Credit India. “This years findings reveal something extraordinary: despite economic headwinds, Indias lower middle class is more optimistic, more digital, and more determined than ever before. Their financial discipline, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to the next generation’s prosperity inspire us to innovate and be true partners in making their #ZindagiHit.”

Gauging India’s Financial Pulse

The report unveils a robust spirit of optimism among Indias lower middle class. Home Credit Indias proprietary Financial Well-Being Index (FWBI) reveals a generally positive consumer outlook, with the Future Expectations Index remaining high at 59 in 2025, reflecting robust confidence in future financial improvement. This optimism is supported by 57% of respondents reporting an increase in income (up from 52% last year) and gradual improvements in savings. Overall, 73% of consumers express confidence in achieving their financial goals within the next five years, with 76% hopeful that their financial situation will improve in the coming years, showcasing resilience despite a slight dip in overall optimism compared to last year.

The Balancing Act – Income, Expenses and the Indian Wallet

As per the study, 57% of the respondents reported an increase in income (up from 52% last year). Reflecting a delicate financial balance, the average monthly income for the lower middle class is Rs. 33,000 against essential expenses of Rs. 20,000, underscoring the need for accessing credit solutions. While financial responsibility is increasingly shared – with male contributions to household expenses rising to 74%, and Gen Z (61%) and Millennials (73%) increasing their household contributions – rising living costs are undeniably reshaping their ability to save. Despite a strong desire to save, only 50% of respondents reported saving this year (down from 60% in 2024), with 12% borrowing just to cover basic needs, indicating financial pressure to run the household. The consumers from most of the metropolitan cities continue to earn more (Rs. 36,000) but also bear higher costs (Rs. 23,000), while Tier-2 residents report the lower incomes (Rs. 30,000) and expenses (Rs. 17,000), underscoring regional disparities.

Wallet Priorities: Grocery Leads, Education Rises Fast

Beneath pragmatism, dreams are actively reshaping spending patterns. While groceries remain a dominant expense, consuming 29% of monthly budgets (a 12% surge), education spending has emerged as a soaring priority, rising by 34% over the past year to account for 19% of the monthly wallet share. This reflects a powerful commitment to investing in the next generations progress, with 40% of respondents actively contributing to their childrens education with Gen X, allocating 22% of their monthly spending.

Shifting Habits and Discretionary Spending Trends

India’s lower-middle class is undergoing a subtle yet significant transformation in its spending behaviour, signaling a shift from impulsive materialism to more mindful, aspiration-driven consumption. Local travel has emerged as a key lifestyle upgrade, with 31% of consumers now exploring nearby destinations at least once a month, a trend led by Gen Z contributing 44% to the share of travelers across different generations. Fashion remains popular, with 39% still shopping for clothes and accessories: however, this reflects a notable 20-point decline from previous levels, indicating a move towards more considered, need-based purchases. Emerging categories like fitness (7%) and OTT subscriptions (6%) still occupy niche segments, signifying a deeper cultural shift, where goals are defined less by visible status and more by personal enrichment and practical comfort.

The Shifting landscape of Savings

Despite a strong desire to save, rising living costs are forcing many consumers to reprioritize their finances. Only 50% of respondents reported saving this year, down from 60% in 2024. Liquidity remains key, with 38% preferring to save in cash, while formal options like bank accounts (24%), LIC (8%), property (7%), and gold (4%) see lower adoption. Alarmingly, 12% are resorting to borrowing simply to cover basic needs, pointing to a fragile financial state and an urgent need for accessible, affordable and responsible credit solutions.

Digital Tools Emerge as Critical Enablers of Financial Progress

The digital revolution is a powerful ally in their financial journey. According to the findings, 63% of consumers believe digital tools have made it easier to pursue their financial goals, with the strongest confidence coming from Tier-1 cities like Jaipur (86%), Pune, and Kolkata (80%). While physical stores remain dominant for product purchases like apparel and home appliances, online channels are rapidly gaining traction in financial transactions. Online retail payments now account for 51% of transactions (up from 42% in 2024), and significantly, the preference for online loan applications is nearing parity with offline at 50%, demonstrating growing trust in digital lenders. Online booking for transport and food ordering also shows steady growth, marking a broader digital embrace. In the realm of digital transactions, UPI (Unified Payments Interface) continues to anchor India’s digital financial evolution, with around 80% of consumers now relying on the platform for everyday transactions, as compared to 72% in 2024. Adoption is highest among men, Gen Z, and metro dwellers-especially in Hyderabad (93%) and Kolkata (87%). However, nearly half say they might stop using UPI if fees are introduced, underlining the importance of keeping digital tools affordable to maintain financial inclusion.

Surge of Online Financial Frauds

As digital adoption deepens, the lower middle class faces increasing vulnerabilities to online financial frauds. A significant 74% reported awareness of such frauds, yet concerningly, 28% admit to sharing confidential financial information with friends or family, and 25% store it on their smartphones. Alarmingly, 20% have already fallen victim to online financial fraud, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced digital literacy and secure practices to protect consumers in the evolving digital landscape.

Dreams in Every Wallet: Mapping Indias Aspirations for a Brighter Future

Despite economic constraints, Indias lower middle class harbors strong aspirations, primarily for entrepreneurship and homeownership in both short and long terms, alongside securing childrens education. Notably, 28% believe affordable credit is the most critical enabler in achieving their goals, with 65% feeling it will help them faster. While anxieties persist, especially concerning affording education (18%) and insufficient emergency savings (15%), a substantial 58% express a desire for financial advice. Women strongly correlate improved employment options with financial progress, emphasizing a growing demand for gender-sensitive economic policy.

A Call to Action for Inclusive Growth

The Great Indian Wallet 2025 surveyed consumers aged 18-55 years, across 17 diverse cities, from metros to smaller towns, offering key insights into their financial behaviors, aspirations, and digital adoption. The findings paint a picture of a dynamic segment that, despite facing pressures, remains optimistic and resilient. Their collective aspirations are a powerful engine for national progress. By fostering an environment that provides tailored financial solutions, robust digital education, and equitable opportunities, we can empower these millions to not just dream, but to truly fulfill their financial aspirations, contributing significantly to a more inclusive and prosperous India.

About Home Credit India

Home Credit India Finance Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of TVS Holdings Ltd. is a leading consumer finance company committed to driving credit penetration and financial inclusion across India. Home Credit India offers a diversified range of innovative products, supported by a superior customer experience, and continues to expand its pan-India presence. With a focus on providing simple, trustworthy, transparent, tech-driven accessible financial solutions, Home Credit India has been part of financial journey for over 1.8 Crore customers through a robust network of approximately 53,000 points-of-sale (PoS) spread across 625 cities nationwide.

For more information, visit www.homecredit.co.in

Prominent environmental specialists, policymakers, government representatives, and civil society leaders convened at a national workshop titled “Revitalizing India’s Rivers: Nature-Based Solutions and Policy Approaches for Scalable Action.” Organized by The Nature Conservancy in India, with support from the Rural India Support Trust (RIST), the one-day event saw the participation of over 70 key stakeholders. The focus of the workshop was the urgent need for integrated, nature-inspired strategies to restore Indias river systems, which are increasingly threatened by pollution, urban development, and climate change.

Group Image of the participants from the workshop

The workshop, facilitated by Nature Conservancy India Solutions (NCIS), featured insights from more than 20 esteemed speakers and panelists from the government, academic institutions, and international organizations. Distinguished speakers included Sh. Brijendra Swaroop, IFS, Executive Director (Projects), National Mission for Clean Ganga, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India, and Sh. Rajiv Ranjan Mishra (Retd. IAS), Former DG Namami Gange, and Chief Advisor, National Institute of Urban Affairs.

L -R Dr Sudipto Chatterjee, DOP, NCIS, Dr Anjali Acharya, MD, NCIS, Sh Rajiv Ranjan Mishra, Ex DG Namami Gange & Sh Brijendra Swaroop, ED, NMCG, Min of Jal Shakti, Dept of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation

Dr. Anjali Acharya, Managing Director of Nature Conservancy India Solutions (NCIS), in her address to the participants, emphasized, “India’s rivers are lifelines for over 600 million people, crucial for agriculture, drinking water, and cultural heritage. Nature-based solutions are the scalable answer to restore these vital ecosystems, boost livelihoods, and build climate resilience.”

Sh. Brijendra Swaroop, IFS, Executive Director (Projects), National Mission for Clean Ganga, stated, “Policy frameworks for nature-based solutions with scalable actions must be adapted alongside traditional methods to enhance ecology and invite broader policy support.”

Sh. Rajiv Ranjan Mishra (Retd. IAS), Former DG Namami Gange, Chief Advisor, National Institute of Urban Affairs, remarked, “Our river rejuvenation efforts have progressed significantly. Moving forward, policies and guidelines must adapt and be customized to region-specific requirements, leveraging Nature-based Solutions to meet diverse water system needs.”

According to NITI Aayog’s Composite Water Management Index (2018), approximately 600 million individuals in India are experiencing high to extreme water stress. River basins such as the Ganga, Narmada, and Godavari face increasing pressures from urbanization, pollution, deforestation, groundwater depletion, sand extraction, and climate-induced hydrological changes. It is projected that fourteen out of twenty river basins in India will experience water stress by 2030.

The workshop delved into discussions on “River Rejuvenation through Nature-Based Solutions“, examining the connections between ecological restoration and water security. The session featured insights from Dr. Archana Chatterjee, Programme Manager at IUCN-India, Sh. Gopal Kumar, Deputy Country Representative at IWMI, Dr. Ritesh Kumar, Director of Wetlands International-South Asia, Sh. Suresh Babu, Senior Director at WWF-India, Dr. Partha J Das from Aaranyak, Dr. Ranjana Ray Chaudhuri of TERI, Dr. Sandeep Behera from the National Mission for Clean Ganga, and Dr. Somnath Bandyopadhyay of the Foundation for Ecological Security.

Another session titled “Rivers of India, Stories of Renewal” highlighted the deeper connect of cultural and ecological aspects that play a crucial role in restoring the rivers as living entities bringing along community ownership in building sustainable future pathways. The session was chaired by Sh. Aseem Srivastava, PCCF-HOFF of Madhya Pradesh with contributions from Dr. D N Pandey, former PCCF of Rajasthan, Dr. Amitabh Pande from IGRMS, Bhopal, Dr. Faiyaz A. Khudsar from CEMDE, University of Delhi, Dr. Manish Kumar Goyal from IIT Indore, and Dr. Vikrant Jain from IIT Gandhinagar.

The latter part of the workshop featured discussions on “Legal and Policy Pathways“, diving deep to discuss the role of regulatory frameworks supporting conservational efforts. The session also delved in sharing insights on the interconnectedness of the role of civil society, government and community that are vital for river conservation. This session was chaired by Sh. Avi Prasad, IAS, Commissioner-NREGS in Madhya Pradesh, with notable speakers Dr. Syamal Sarkar, former Secretary at the Ministry of Water Resources, Sh. Shawahiq Siddiqui, Advocate at the Ministry of Jal Shakti, and Dr. Ombir Singh from the Forest Research Institute, sharing recommendations and their learnings.

The workshop concluded with a session on “Financing the Future“, which concentrated on unlocking the future potential and attention of corporates, multi-lateral agencies and funding institutions to strengthen Public Private Partnership, fostering innovative ways for Nature-based Solutions. Moderated by Dr. Anjali Acharya, Managing Director of Nature Conservancy India, the session featured expert insights from Nidhi Pundhir, SVP, Global CSR at HCLTech, Ishrat Jahan, South Asia Lead at 1t.org, World Economic Forum, Tushar Thakkar, Partner at The Blended Finance Company, and Dr. Sanjib Kumar Sarangi of Indian Grameen Services.

The workshop highlighted the necessity for cross-sectoral collaboration, innovative financing, and policy coherence to enhance nature-based solutions for river rejuvenation. The event stressed the importance of cross-sectoral cooperation and community involvement in promoting nature-based solutions, showcased successful pilot initiatives, and urged for stronger policy integration and financial mechanisms to ensure the long-term health of rivers.

About The Nature Conservancy in India

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is committed to creating a world where both people and nature can thrive, ensuring the conservation of our lands and waters for future generations. Established in 1951 in the United States, TNC has expanded to become one of the foremost global environmental organizations, actively operating across 79 countries.

We work across sectors and borders to tackle the dual challenges of accelerated climate change and unprecedented biodiversity loss. Our science-based approach guides both the focus of our efforts and the strategies we employ to achieve sustainable, long-term outcomes. Grounded by decades of on-ground experience, we maximize our ability to affect change by integrating nature-based solutions, scientific research, technical advisory, evidence-based practices, sustainable financing, and collaborative partnerships.

Nature Conservancy India Solutions Pvt Ltd. operates at the unique intersection of India’s natural heritage and rapidly growing population. Recognizing the importance of the country’s natural resources, we align our mission with the national vision of “developing without destruction.” We seek science-based solutions to the challenges that emerge at the nexus of conservation and development, offering nature-based approaches with an unwavering commitment to protecting the natural world, focusing on India’s diverse ecosystems.