The MICE India & Luxury Travel Congress (MILT), India’s premier, most trusted and high-impact platform for MICE and luxury travel, is set to return for its 12th Annual on July 24-25, 2025, at Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon, Goa. Regarded as the only event of its kind in the country, MILT brings together India’s most powerful corporate buyers with the world’s leading travel and hospitality suppliers in an exclusive, business-driven environment.

The MICE India & Luxury Travel Congress (MILT) India’s premier platform for MICE & luxury travel , returns for its 12th edition on July 24-25, 2025, at Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon

Sidh NC, Director of QnA International, said, “India is one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets, with 50 million travelers expected by 2030. As the global luxury travel market heads towards $1.2 trillion by 2028, India is playing a key role in driving this growth. Spending on luxury and business travel in India is growing by 12-15% each year, with more demand for unique experiences, incentive trips, and executive retreats. 65% of Indian luxury travelers want more than just a trip-they want experiences that wow them, with 70% also looking for personalized, sustainable, and digital-first solutions. These exciting trends match the success we’ve seen at the MICE India & Luxury Travel Congress (MILT), which has grown stronger every year through successful collaborations and a packed agenda of expert-led education sessions. With Indian outbound travel up 50% year-on-year and the outbound MICE market set to reach US$9 billion by 2025, MILT 2025 is set to build on these achievements and bring even more valuable connections and learning to the table.”

This invitation-only gathering is purpose-built to deliver pre-arranged one-to-one business meetings, enabling key decision-makers to forge meaningful partnerships, explore future-forward strategies, and drive purchasing decisions in a highly focused setting.

India’s Most Influential Buyers. Global Power Brands. One Platform.

MILT 2025 will bring together senior executives and decision-makers from India’s most dynamic industries, including Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology, Banking & Financial Services, FMCG, IT, Manufacturing, Cement, Energy, and Automotive. Attendees will include Heads of Travel, Administration, Procurement, Marketing, HR, CXOs and many more influential leaders responsible for MICE and luxury travel decisions within their organisations. The event will also feature an elite lineup of premium global travel and hospitality brands, ranging from international tourism boards, luxury hotels and resorts, private jet and charter companies, cruise liners, travel tech innovators, to experience-driven travel firms-offering a unique opportunity for meaningful connections and business growth.

Key Themes at MILT Congress 2025

The 12th annual of MILT will spotlight the latest trends shaping the future of MICE and luxury travel, with a focus on:

• Experiential Luxury: The Art of Elevated Living

• Emerging Destinations: The Road Less Travelled

• Luxury Shopping & Retail Therapy: The Art of Indulgence

• Destination Weddings: Tradition Meets Innovation

• Multi-Generational & Family Travel: All Ages, One Journey

• Culinary & Cultural Journeys: Savour the World

• Tech-Driven Convenience: Smart, Seamless, Connected

• Cinematic Travel: Where Blockbusters Meet Scenic Backdrops

• Hyper-Personalisation: Luxury, Your Way

• Sustainable MICE & Luxury: Travel with Purpose

• Luxury Adventure & Wellness Escapes: Thrill, Chill & Rejuvenate

• Digital Transformation: The Future of MICE & Luxury Travel

These themes reflect the evolving demands of India’s luxury travelers, who seek immersive experiences, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology in their journeys.

Attendees are eagerly anticipating the event and support it wholeheartedly. Stephanie Tanpure, Vice President of Sales, Sands China Ltd., who are Platinum Sponsor of MILT for the 6th time says, “India’s luxury outbound travel and MICE market continues to evolve with increasing sophistication, and Macau is uniquely positioned to meet that demand with world-class experiences, exceptional hospitality, and seamless accessibility. At Sands Resorts Macao, we are committed to creating transformative, large-scale events and bespoke luxury journeys tailored for discerning Indian travelers and corporates.”

In conclusion, Sidh NC, Director of QnA International, highlights, “MILT 2025 is more than just an event-it’s a dynamic bridge connecting the past, present, and future of MICE and luxury travel. Our sponsors gain unfiltered access to power networking, leveraging the congress for high-impact branding, strategic PR, and marketing, while our industry-leading speakers deliver exclusive insights that keep participants ahead in this evolving landscape. Building on longstanding global partnerships and fostering new collaborations, MILT continues to drive innovation and success. The unmatched benefits for attendees and overwhelmingly positive feedback reflect the deep trust and recognition from our partners, making this platform where vision transforms into action.”

As the premier gathering for India’s luxury and business travel market, MILT remains committed to excellence, fostering meaningful connections, and shaping the future of travel-one partnership at a time.

Axis Max Life Insurance Ltd. formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd (“Axis Max Life”/ “Company”), in collaboration with Kantar, the world’s leading marketing data and analytics company, has announced findings from the seventh edition of its India Protection Quotient (IPQ 7.0) survey, spotlighting a significant protection gap among gig workers compared to urban India.

Only 3 in 10 Gig Workers Own Term Insurance, Despite 9 in 10 Prioritizing Family Financial Goals – Axis Max Life IPQ 7.0

Unveiling a stark contrast, the findings highlight that while urban India’s Protection Quotient has reached an all-time high of 48, gig workers continue to trail with a score of 41. This reflects significant gaps in knowledge, security levels, and insurance ownership of the working community. As per IPQ 7.0, only 69% of gig workers own life insurance, considerably lower than the national urban average of 78%. This is despite 89% of them having strong family-oriented financial goals, surpassing the 81% urban India average, and a higher likelihood of adhering to healthy lifestyle practices.

Prashant Tripathy, CEO & Managing Director, Axis Max Life Insurance, commented on the findings, stating, “The findings from IPQ 7.0 uncover a critical insight: while nearly 90% of gig workers place high importance on securing their family’s financial future, only 3 in 10 currently own term insurance. This highlights a significant protection gap within a rapidly expanding segment of India’s workforce.

As an industry, we must move beyond traditional distribution models and reimagine how protection is delivered – through deeper collaboration with digital platforms, policymakers, and ecosystem enablers. At Axis Max Life, we remain committed to shaping an inclusive insurance landscape that reflects the realities of modern work and ensures no segment is left behind.”

Lower Financial Preparedness and Reactiveness in Planning

The findings reveal that while gig workers are marginally more inclined to save upon receiving income, they are notably less proactive in financial planning, with nearly 40% admitting to not taking active steps towards securing their financial future. In comparison, less than 30% of urban Indians report such financial inertia. This limited reactiveness, coupled with relatively low life insurance ownership, leaves a large section of the gig workforce financially vulnerable.

High Family Focus, Yet Inadequate Protection

Despite their lower financial protection, gig workers exhibit a strong intent to provide for their families. However, one in three gig workers believe their family would have no financial support in the event of their untimely demise, 10 percentage points higher than the urban average. Though two in three gig workers acknowledge the importance of term insurance, only a third currently own one, and even among term insurance owners, less than half feel adequately protected.

Call for Inclusive Protection Solutions

These insights reflect a need for more inclusive and accessible protection solutions tailored to the gig economy, a sector that continues to expand rapidly yet remains outside the fold of traditional financial safety nets. As the nature of work evolves, so must the industry’s approach to financial inclusion and long-term protection.

About India Protection Quotient

Instituted in 2019, India Protection Quotient is an annual Survey by Axis Max Life Insurance in association with Kantar aimed to understand the pulse of the Indian consumers in the financial protection space. Launched with the underlying objective to increase penetration of Term insurance as the most fundamental and economical form of life insurance, the survey aims to reveal the state of Urban Indians with regards to current financial security levels, changing savings & investment patterns, key anxieties & triggers of financial protection in a contemporary world. India Protection Quotient is a proprietary tool developed by Axis Max Life in partnership with Kantar to gauges the degree to which Indians feel protected from future uncertainties on a scale of 0 to 100. It is based on the attitudes, mental preparedness around future uncertainties, awareness, and ownership of life insurance product categories (Term, endowment and ULIP).

Read more at – www.axismaxlife.com/maxlife-ipq

Disclaimer:

The study is conducted in top 25 Urban metro, Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities; hence, its findings are representative of metro, Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities of Urban India only.

• Metro – Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai

• Tier 1 – Ludhiana, Jaipur, Lucknow, Patna, Bhubaneshwar, Vizag, Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Pune

• Tier 2 – Dehradun, Moradabad, Guwahati, Bokaro, Kolhapur, Jamnagar, Raipur, Ujjain, Hubli-Dharwad, Tiruchirappalli

• IPQ 7.0 vs IPQ 6.0 data comparison is amongst 25 markets only [6 metros, 9 Tier 1 and 10 Tier]

• The minimum sample to conclude any findings of the study is 270 with an error margin of +-5.964

The information collected through this survey and the results published are intended for general guidance and informational purposes only. Axis Max Life disclaims any liability for any loss, damage, or decisions arising from the use of this survey or the results provided.

About Axis Max Life Insurance Limited

Axis Max Life Insurance Limited, formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., is a Joint Venture between Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL”) and Axis Bank Limited. Axis Max Life Insurance offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party distribution partners. It has built its operations over two decades through a need-based sales process, a customer-centric approach to engagement and service delivery and trained human capital. As per annual audited financials for FY2024-25, Axis Max Life has achieved a gross written premium of INR 33,223 Cr.

For more information, please visit www.axismaxlife.com

About Kantar

Kantar is the world’s leading marketing data and analytics business and an indispensable brand partner to the world’s top companies. We combine the most meaningful attitudinal and behavioural data with deep expertise and advanced analytics to uncover how people think and act. We help clients understand what has happened and why and how to shape the marketing strategies that shape their future.

There’s a unique harmony between the rev of an engine and the tick of a fine timepiece both defined by precision, passion, and timeless craftsmanship. Celebrating this synergy, Helios Luxe by Titan, India’s leading premium watch destination, hosted an exclusive motorcycling experience titled Minutes & Machines. The event took place on the morning of Saturday, 31st May, uniting two worlds bound by craftsmanship and character. It marked the launch of U-BOAT’s latest collection, Capsoil and Dark Moon, capturing the spirit of luxury riding and reflecting the brand’s bold, uncompromising character.

Minutes & Machines from Helios Luxe by Titan: A celebration of machines, moments, and movement

A curated group of 60+ Harley-Davidson and other superbike riders participated in this invitation-only experience. The ride was led by renowned automotive journalist and biking enthusiast Sagar Sheldekar, starting from Titan’s Integrity Campus in Electronic City and concluding at the Helios Luxe store in Koramangala, Bengaluru.

As engines ignited and tires hit the road, a surge of energy swept through the morning. Adrenaline surged as the convoy powered ahead, creating a striking spectacle of motion and unity. Riding as one, the group carved through the city streets, culminating their journey at the Helios Luxe store in Kormangala. Each machine, distinct in its craftsmanship and precision, stood as a testament to both power and beauty.

Speaking on the initiative, Javed K M – Retail Head, Watches & Wearables. Titan Company Ltd. said, “With Minutes & Machines, Helios Luxe set out to craft an experience fueled by adrenaline, and a shared passion for exceptional design. The ride brought together individuals who find connection through their love for powerful machines, whether on the wrist or on the road. It wasn’t merely an exhibition of watches, but a reflection of a dynamic lifestyle rooted in precision, speed, and character. This rally is about more than the ride, it’s about cultivating a community that appreciates bold aesthetics, meaningful engineering, and the stories behind each timepiece.”

Minutes & Machines was conceived as a community-driven moment to amplify the bold craftsmanship and design philosophy of U-BOAT watches, offering participants a deeper, hands-on appreciation of the brand. At the Helios Luxe store, guests were treated to a premium in-store session featuring a walkthrough of U-BOAT’s signature timepieces, known for their robust design language, Italian heritage, and unapologetic character. The experience also included exclusive guest interactions and photo opportunities creating a seamless blend of high-performance motorcycling and horological storytelling.

About Helios

Helios, The Premium Watch Store, owned and operated by Titan Company Limited, is Indias largest premium multi-brand watch retail chain with 275 stores across 101 cities. With an extensive portfolio of over 45 international brands, Helios offers the widest collection of affordable luxury watches, ranging from INR 5000 to 1 Lac. From Tissot to Swarovski, Fossil to Frederique Constant, and many more, Helios caters to the discerning taste of watch enthusiasts. Embracing an omni-channel model, Helios pioneers the integration of brick-and-mortar stores with assisted e-commerce, prioritizing consumer-centric policies such as same-day delivery, a 30-day exchange policy, and free battery replacement.

AYS Developers, one of the region’s fastest-rising names in luxury real estate, has officially made history. AYS Developers, in partnership with Dr. Nour ElSerougy, widely known as the Eagle of Real Estate, the Innovation Experts Real Estate Institute, and Al Safi Bank, successfully hosted the world’s largest real estate training session, setting a new Guinness World Record at the Grand Hyatt Conference & Exhibition Centre in Dubai.

AYS Developers breaks a Guinness World Record for the World’s Largest Real Estate Training Session in Dubai

The event welcomed over 2500 attendees, each registered with individual QR codes and monitored on-site by official Guinness World Records adjudicators. Taking place from 11:45 am to 12:45 pm, the session focused on mastering off-plan sales strategies – particularly in high-growth areas such as Dubai Islands, where AYS Developers is actively expanding its footprint.

The historic session was led by Dr. Nour ElSerougy, widely recognised as the Eagle of Real Estate, and hosted by renowned broadcaster and entrepreneur Kris Fade, the event was a high-energy convergence of knowledge, community spirit, and investment insight. Attended by senior government authorities and prominent real estate stakeholders from across the region, the session concluded with a dynamic panel discussion on the future of Dubai real estate, featuring industry leaders including Ms. Sonia Waters – Head of Sales at AYS Developers; Mr. Ismael Al Hammadi – Founder and CEO of Al Ruwad Real Estate and Biznet Consulting; Mr. Nazish Khan – Chief Operating Officer of FIDU Properties; Mr. Loai Al Fakir – Chief Executive Officer – Provident, Mr. Denis Donovan – President Reelly AI, Mr. Spencer Lodge – Award-winning podcast host & business strategist and Dr. Nour ElSerougy.

AYS Developers has quickly earned a reputation for delivering premium lifestyle developments that combine smart living, sustainable design, and long-term value. Known for using top-tier European brands, smart home technology, and world-class amenities, AYS sets itself apart through a commitment to timeless quality-and a client-first approach that extends well beyond handover. The developer is all set to launch its series of ultra-luxury projects worth a Billion Dirhams under its prestigious Heritage Collection in the city’s most coveted location – Dubai Islands.

These upcoming projects by AYS in Dubai Islands are a prime example of its vision in action. These developments will be part of Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which focuses on sustainable urban expansion, quality of life, and dynamic tourism growth. With over 80 hotels, world-class wellness hubs, and a strong infrastructure pipeline, Dubai Islands represents a next-generation opportunity, and AYS Developers is poised to lead it.

The event took place in collaboration with Al Safi Bank, first Islamic bank established within the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), offering Sharia-compliant financial services to international clients. The bank specialises in cross-border transactions, foreign exchange operations, ethical banking solutions, and innovative money services tailored for a global audience.

Yulia Loshchukhina, CEO of AYS Developers, said, “We don’t just build homes; we build legacies. Breaking a world record is symbolic of how we think: bold, forward-looking, and grounded in real impact. It’s a surreal feeling to have achieved something so monumental, we’re proud to champion education, innovation, and investment in Dubai through this landmark event.”

Sonia Waters, Head of Sales at AYS Developers, added, “This achievement is a testament to what happens when vision meets action. Seeing thousands of industry professionals united by a shared commitment to excellence was truly powerful. At AYS, we’re not just selling properties: we’re shaping the future of real estate in Dubai, one bold step at a time.”

Dr. Nour ElSerougy, Real Estate Mentor and Host of the Training Session commented, “Hosting this session was about more than setting a record; it was about creating a legacy of education. We brought together a community of professionals passionate about growth, and I believe this moment will mark a turning point for the industry in the region.”

Mr. Mohammed Mousa, CEO of Innovation Experts Real Estate Institute added, “What began as a bold vision has now become a historic milestone. Breaking the record was never just about numbers – it was about igniting a global movement in real estate education. From the heart of Dubai, we’ve shown what’s possible when passion, purpose, and people come together. This achievement is a testament to what our industry can accomplish when we dare to aim higher.”

WHISKAS Cat Food,¹ Indias preferred cat food brand in the country has launched its new campaign “No Fuss Just WHISKAS Cat Food” with acclaimed actor and devoted cat parent Sanya Malhotra. With equal parts humour and heart, the campaign brings to life the mealtime struggles of pet parents across the country and offers a simple, satisfying solution – the WHISKAS Wet Cat Food range, a hit even with the fussiest cats¹.

WHISKAS Brand Teams Up with Sanya Malhotra to Spotlight WHISKAS Wet Cat Food

The WHISKAS Wet Cat Food campaign works to resolve mealtime dilemmas, ensuring both pets and owners can enjoy pleasant mealtime experiences. Set in a lively kitchen filled with culinary ambition, the digital film follows Sanya Malhotra as she auditions a hopeful chef trying to impress her and more importantly, her discerning cat. From Nawabi Fish Rice to classic Khichdi, dish after dish is met with a firm “Rejected!” from Sanya. It’s only when the chef realizes who the real boss is that he presents a game-changing option – WHISKAS Wet Cat Food. As the cat eagerly tucks in, the film humorously drives home a simple truth: even fussy cats prefer WHISKAS Wet Cat Food¹. With a playful tone and relatable pet-parent moments, the film reinforces the brand’s promise of taste, nutrition, and satisfaction in every bite.

WHISKAS | Sanya’s Recipe Hunt for Her Fussy Cat

Ad link: You don’t need a chef to find a meal your fussy cat prefers. All it takes is WHISKAS️

Kannada & Malayalam

Sanya Malhotra isn’t just the face of the campaign; shes also a passionate and experienced cat parent. Known for sharing candid moments with her beloved cat on social media, Sanya brings authenticity and warmth to the campaign. Her real-life experience as a pet parent, dealing with mealtime fussiness, makes her the perfect voice for the WHISKAS Brand message of taste, trust, and nutrition.

Sanya Malhotra shares her thoughts on the campaign, “As a cat parent, I understand how challenging mealtimes can be. The cat in the film is expressive and very particular, just like my cat at home. WHISKAS Wet Cat Foodhas been a game-changer when it comes to mealtimes. She clearly loves it, and I love that it’s nutritious and easy. This campaign is personal because it mirrors our real-life experience.“

Ayesha Huda, Chief Marketing Officer, Mars Pet Nutrition India, added, “India remains one of the worlds lowest pet food adoption markets, with less than 10% of cat parents opting for scientifically formulated pet food². This is concerning because cats have specific dietary requirements that typically cannot be met by homemade food or generic diets. Through our latest digital film featuring Sanya Malhotra, we’ve taken a relatable yet impactful route to highlight just how discerning cats can be when it comes to food and underscoring the importance of healthy, wholesome and delicious meals for our beloved pets.”

Backed by science and loved for its taste, WHISKAS Wet Cat Food is tailored to meet the specific dietary needs of cats, who require nutrition that typical homemade or generic diets often fails to provide. Each pouch offers 100% complete and balanced nutrition, made with real meat, supports hydration through the moisture in gravy, and is available in a variety of flavours like Chicken and Tuna.

India is experiencing a significant surge in cat ownership,² with over 70% of kitten owners being first-time pet parents. However, despite this increase, India remains one of the lowest markets globally when it comes to meeting the nutritional requirements of their pets. Crafted to satisfy the selective appetites of cats, WHISKAS Wet Cat Food offers a winning combination of delicious flavours and perfectly portioned, scientifically designed meals for optimal nutrition.

¹ Disclaimer: Study conducted by Mars Petcare India, Oct ’23

² Disclaimer: Study conducted by Mars, Global Pet Parent Survey, Oct 2024.

Truecaller’s paid consumer offerings have recently reached two new milestones. Truecaller surpassed three million paying subscribers on the 17th of May and has also hit the milestone of surpassing one million subscribers on iOS on the 27th of May. As of 31st of March 2025, the corresponding numbers were 2.86 million overall subscribers of which 0.86 million subscribers were on iOS. On 31st of December 2024 the subscriber numbers were 2.72 million of which 0.82 million were on iOS. The growth rate for iOS subscribers since 31 March 2025 is roughly 16%.

Truecaller reaches two new milestones for consumer subscriptions

This surge in user growth and subscriptions is closely tied to Truecaller’s latest iOS updates and introduction of more advanced AI-led features, adding more value to the overall user experience. With this, Truecaller is steadily transforming from a utility app into a premium identity layer for mobile communication.

Rishit Jhunjhunwala, Truecaller’s CEO, said, “I am pleased to see that more and more users see the value of becoming premium users. In the last couple of years we have improved and simplified our premium offering significantly. Our premium users today get many valuable products like our AI-Assistant, advanced spam blocking opportunities and fraud insurance, to mention a few. From January, our premium users on iOS now also get the Live Caller ID solution. Our strategy on iOS and optimization of the product and conversion, has shown a promising trend. Our family package, where you can include up to four more family members in the premium package and get a discounted price, has also seen encouraging growth.”

Fredrik Kjell, Truecaller’s COO, said “We will continue to elevate the subscription offering by adding even better services and providing more tools to improve our users communication experience. The achieved milestones are definitely a step in the right direction but our ambitions go well beyond having 3 million subscribers. The upside to our revenues from growing the number of subscribers is substantial as premium users generate substantially higher revenue per user.”

About Truecaller
Truecaller (TRUE B) is the leading global platform for verifying contacts and blocking unwanted communication. We enable safe and relevant conversations between people and make it efficient for businesses to connect with consumers. Fraud and unwanted communication are endemic to digital economies. especially in emerging markets. We are on a mission to build trust in communication. Truecaller is an essential part of everyday communication for more than 450 million active users. Truecaller has been listed on Nasdaq Stockholm since 8 October 2021. For more information please visit corporate.truecaller.com.

Mahina, a purpose-driven period care brand, announced the release of a groundbreaking comprehensive report on the World Menstrual Day titled “Beyond Blood: The Unseen Burden of Every Cycle.” With this report, the brand shifts focus to a new frontier – the invisible labour menstruators face every cycle.

Drawn from the lived experiences of over 1,000 menstruators across eight major cities, aged between 18-45 years, the report unveils a rarely measured truth known to women: Every cycle brings not just blood but an unspoken mental load carried in silence. The emotional strain, disrupted routines, and the pressure to “push through” without complaint- a critical yet long-ignored dimension of menstrual health has been finally acknowledged through the findings of this report.

Beyond Blood: Mahina Launches India’s First Report on the Invisible Mental Load of Menstruation

While conversations around menstruation have long focused on rural access, hygiene, and age-old taboos, Mahina’s new report shifts the spotlight to an often-ignored reality: the urban menstruator. It uncovers critical gaps in awareness, product design, and support-bringing to light the invisible mental load that comes with managing a period every month, for 30 to 40 years of a woman’s life.

Speaking about the report Natasha Jamal, Founder of Mahina said,“For too long, the mental load of menstruation has been normalised and ignored. This report is Mahina’s way of saying: we see it, we measure it, and we’re done accepting silence as the standard. We’ve always talked about periods in terms of blood. But what no one talks about is everything else, the planning, the pretending, the emotional weight. With this report, we wanted to name that invisible labour and finally give it the recognition it deserves.”

To view the full report, click here; Summary of the report given below:

Report Summary

What Every Period Truly Demands

Menstruation is more than a biological function-it’s a recurring experience that demands ongoing adjustments. Yet, much of this burden remains unseen, unheard, and unacknowledged.

• 62% of menstruators reported masking their period symptoms to appear ‘normal’ in professional and social settings.

• 73% said they are impacted by hormonal and emotional changes during their period but feel compelled to underplay

• Only 3% of menstruators report making no changes during their cycle. The remaining 97% adjust and adapt their lives every month to accommodate menstrual symptoms-physically, emotionally, or logistically. Nearly 3 in 4 women experience a week of routine disruption and hidden labor every month.
  ​

The First Period Comes with No Manual

A generational influence often shapes how young women navigate their menstrual cycles, yet remains largely unspoken – despite more open conversations today, the first period is still marked by anxiety, confusion, and frustration.

• 76% of menstruators felt the emotional weight of their periods at 8-14, on the onset of their 1st cycle

• While 73% were introduced to menstruation by their mothers, 4 in 5 still felt unprepared for their first period.

• Half of menstruators say they felt excluded by family during their periods, and 2 in 3 say men expect them to manage it quietly.

The Physical and Mental Load
The mental load shapes how menstruators speak, sit, sleep, and move.

• Leak anxiety is a major contributor to menstrual stress: 72% use extra protection during their period, yet 67% still experience leaks.

• 38% wake up in the middle of the night to check or change menstrual products.

• Many resort to layering or using multiple products simultaneously.

• Emotionally, 64% feel “unlike themselves“during PMS, and 58% dread their periods due to unpredictability.

• Among women aged 25-30, 2 in 3 experience heightened daytime anxiety about leaks

• Amongst this 3 in 5 sit or move cautiously in public during their periods.

• Remarkably, 1 in 4 respondents said they would prefer to skip their period entirely, highlighting how burdensome and disruptive the experience can be.

How Modern Menstruators Have Adapted
What menstruators want isn’t more-it’s getting the basics right.

• 56% prioritize comfort and flexibility as their most urgent needs, followed by leak-proof protection and skin-friendly materials.

• In the absence of institutional support, menstruators are creating their own systems of care: 74% carry period products not only for themselves but also for friends, colleagues, and even strangers-a quiet but powerful culture of mutual support.

• Additionally, 1 in 3 use digital tools like cycle trackers and mental wellness apps to better manage their periods.
  ​

Additionally, an interesting insight from the report also revealed a complex duality in society today: while 1 in 2 respondents believe period pain is real, yet underestimated and 53% support open conversations, deep-rooted biases continue to persist. More than half still view period blood as impure; 55% think periods should last exactly five days; and 71% believe delaying a period with medication is harmful. These conflicting attitudes-often held by the same individuals-show there is no singular narrative, only recurring patterns of silence and stigma. It is in this quiet tension between progress and taboo that the real story of menstruation unfolds.

In summary, the report highlights key gaps that must be addressed to raise awareness and drive a period revolution – one that challenges taboos, demands safer and more inclusive products, and reclaims the narrative around menstruation. The goal isn’t just to create products that do the job, but to innovate with purpose and ease the mental and emotional burden that menstruators carry every month

Mahina is deeply committed to leading this change, not just by innovating smarter, more supportive period care but by actively working to reduce the mental load menstruators face. Through this report, Mahina hopes to ignite a much-needed conversation around dignity, design, and the future of rural well-being.

About Mahina
Made in India and rigorously tested, Mahina is the country’s first brand offering bonded, leak-proof, absorbent period underwear, setting a new standard in menstrual care with a focus on comfort, performance, and sustainability. Aimed at transforming the period experience, Mahina provides meticulously engineered, reusable, and planet-friendly products personalized for every flow. Crafted with real Indian bodies and lifestyles in mind, Mahina blends form and function: a sleek, stitch-free gusset, four absorbency levels, and reusability for 100 washes. More than just a product, Mahina is a movement that champions body positivity, empowers informed choices, and advocates for menstrual equity.

Driven by the deep belief in education as a powerful force for change, Dr. Roy C.J., the visionary behind the leading builder, Confident Group, awarded Rs. 1 crore in educational scholarships to 201 deserving school students across Kerala and Karnataka. The initiative, a cornerstone of his philanthropic vision, was celebrated at a ceremony where Dr. Roy C.J emphasized that education is not just a tool for individual growth but the foundation of a stronger nation.

Dr. Roy C.J. Founder and Chairman, Confident Group with the scholarship recipients

“This scholarship isn’t a corporate gesture, it’s deeply personal. I strongly believe that no child with potential should ever be limited by their circumstances. This conviction is why we have chosen to allocate our family funds to a cause like this,” said Dr. Roy C.J., Founder and Chairman of Confident Group while handing over the cheque to students. “It reflects my family’s belief that when we invest in a child’s potential, we invest in the future of our society,” he added. His dedication extends beyond education, with impactful interventions in healthcare, women’s empowerment, and support for the differently-abled.

A firm advocate for equitable opportunities, Dr. Roy C. J. has long championed education as a catalyst for change. The scholarship program aimed to support students studying in 8th to 10th standard at government-recognized schools. Each selected student received a scholarship of up to Rs. 50,000, or their actual school fees. Eligibility for the scholarship was determined by a combined annual parental income below Rs. 5 lakhs, coupled with the student achieving over 80% in their previous academic years final examination. Furthermore, to extend support to multiple deserving individuals within a single household, a maximum of two children per family were eligible, contingent upon all specified conditions being met.

Looking ahead, Dr. Roy C.J. announced an ambitious expansion of the program, aiming to support 300 students in 2026.

About Confident Group

Confident Group is a thriving conglomerate with highly sought-after services across various sectors such as infrastructure, hospitality, entertainment, education, golf, retail, and international trading. With a 20-year legacy, it has established a formidable presence across India and the UAE. The zero-debt conglomerate, boasts over 205 projects delivered or currently under execution. Additionally, it owns Zion Hills, an 18-hole golf course near Bangalore.

Bisleri International, India’s leading premium beverage business has formed a landmark strategic partnership with the Apparel Group, the global retail and fashion lifestyle conglomerate headquartered in Dubai to manufacture, market and distribute Bisleri’s iconic portfolio in the Middle East & Africa region, beginning with the UAE launch in 2025.

Bisleri International and Apparel Group Announce Strategic Partnership to Expand Beverage Footprint Across the Middle East & Africa

Bisleri International, with a legacy of over 50 years, has a diverse product portfolio including Bisleri, the leading packaged drinking water brand in India; Bisleri Vedica, it’s premium Himalayan Spring water offering and a dynamic range of aerated beverages including Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri POP, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Rev and Bisleri Soda. The company’s operations span across 128 manufacturing centers with a robust distribution network catering to more than 500,000 outlets, alongside an established retail presence in the UAE Market with marquee sports sponsorships like the Dubai Marathon.

The Apparel Group, founded in 1996 in Dubai, is a leading player in the apparel retail and food and beverage sectors. With over 25,000 employees, the conglomerate manages a portfolio of 85+ brands and operates over 2,300 stores across 14 countries spread across the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia & Africa.

Commenting on the collaboration, Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International said, “The Middle East and Africa markets represent significant opportunity for value creation in the beverage sector. There is a large Indian diaspora in the region which is already familiar with our brands. We have had sustained success in the UAE market in the past and I am delighted to announce the next chapter of our journey in the region with our strategic partnership with the Apparel Group. With Bisleri’s commitment to product quality and brand building and Apparel Group’s well-established presence and consumer understanding in the region, I am sure the partnership will be a perfect blend for success.”

Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO of Apparel Group, commented, “Our partnership with Bisleri International marks a strategic milestone in Apparel Group’s journey to diversify and scale new verticals across high-growth markets. Bisleri’s strong heritage, combined with our operational expertise and deep market understanding, presents a powerful opportunity to deliver exceptional beverage experiences to consumers in the Middle East and Africa. We look forward to building a long-term, value-driven collaboration that redefines beverage retail in the region.”

This partnership reiterates both organizations commitment to innovation, regional expansion, and elevating consumer experiences through strategic collaboration.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd
With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the countrys largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability. For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.