A new study conducted under the PM Poshan (formerly Mid-Day Meal) scheme has revealed overwhelming acceptance of UHT (Ultra High Temperature) milk among schoolchildren reinforcing the potential of packaged milk in India’s school nutrition programs. The study surveyed 4,484 children (ages 3-13) and 57 key stakeholders, including parents, school administrators, and program coordinators across Chandigarh.

Verka study: UHT milk widely accepted by Chandigarh schoolkids

“Ensuring access to safe and nutritious milk in schools can be a game-changer for childhood development,” said a Verka spokesperson. “This study confirms the strong acceptance of UHT milk among students and makes a compelling case for expanding school milk programs across India. By scaling up distribution and integrating milk’s nutritional benefits, we can address key public health challenges like malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Stakeholder collaboration remains crucial to ensuring the success of such initiatives.“

Key Findings:

• 80% of students rated the cardamom-flavored UHT milk from Verka as highly satisfactory.

• 69% of children recognized multiple health benefits of milk, with 22% associating it primarily with strong bones.

• 44% of students consumed milk more than four times a week, while 38% had it two to four times weekly.

• 82% of children responsibly disposed of empty milk packets in designated bins, reinforcing positive environmental habits.

The study-conducted by Verka in collaboration with Punjab University, the Department of Education (Chandigarh), Tetra Pak, and NGO Yuvsatta-underscores the effectiveness of aseptic UHT milk packaging. This packaging technology ensures food safety and extends shelf life without refrigeration, making it an ideal solution for large-scale school meal programs.

The study calls for an increase in milk distribution days, enhanced awareness campaigns on milk’s nutritional benefits, and the addition of complementary nutritious foods to improve overall dietary diversity. Regular monitoring and continuous stakeholder engagement are also recommended to strengthen program implementation.

School Milk Program by Verka

Milk Fed Punjabs Verka brand recently piloted a school milk program to support the PM Poshan scheme in schools. Through this initiative, students in Chandigarh received nutritious milk in Tetra Pak cartons. After consumption, these used cartons were collected by a local NGO and collection agencies and recycled into various useful items such as notebooks, planters, school desks and more. To encourage milk consumption among school kids, Verka made milk available in cardamom (elaichi) flavor to begin with, making it more appealing to children.

In addition to providing much needed nutrition to children, this school milk initiative served as an educational opportunity for children, teaching them the importance of responsible consumption and planet-friendly practices like recycling.

Global Context: A Growing Case for School Milk Programs

The International Dairy Federation (IDF) advocates for school milk programs as a solution to nutritional deficiencies and food education-helping millions of children worldwide understand the impact of food on health, society, and the environment. Countries like USA and China have successfully integrated milk into their school meal programs, significantly improving childhood nutrition and academic performance.

India now has an opportunity to scale its school feeding programs by fostering partnerships between government bodies, dairy cooperatives like Verka, and technology providers such as Tetra Pak. With the right ecosystem, the country can create a sustainable and impactful model for school nutrition, ensuring better health outcomes for future generations.

To access the full report, please visit the Verka website

Global consumer electronics leader Toshiba today announced the launch of its cutting-edge QLED Gaming TV, the Z570RP, featuring the groundbreaking REGZA Engine ZRi that intelligently optimizes picture and sound to deliver an unparalleled viewing experience.

Toshiba Z570RP

The Z570RP represents a significant leap forward in home entertainment technology, combining Toshibas renowned Japanese craftsmanship with advanced artificial intelligence to transform how consumers experience television.

“The launch of the Toshiba Z570RP represents our resolve to redefine premium entertainment,” said Mr. Pankaj Rana, CEO, Hisense India. “The Z570RPs Japanese-designed elegance and AI-powered REGZA Engine exemplify our commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology into consumers homes at accessible price points,” he added.

Designed for today’s discerning consumers, the Z570RP is packed with a range of premium features that enhance every aspect of viewing, gaming, and daily living. From revolutionary AI-driven performance to a health-conscious display design, the Z570RP Gaming TV is crafted to deliver an all-around immersive experience.

Revolutionary AI-Powered Performance
At the heart of the Z570RP lies Toshibas revolutionary REGZA Engine ZRi, which harnesses the power of AI to optimize picture quality, audio performance, and gaming capabilities. The sophisticated AI analysis technology intelligently maximizes the televisions potential across all viewing scenarios.

The Z570RP features Direct Full Array backlighting and QLED Color technology, producing vibrant, lifelike images with exceptional contrast and color accuracy. For gaming enthusiasts, the television offers an outstanding 144Hz refresh rate and the intuitive Game Deck interface, making it the perfect choice for next-generation console gaming.

Immersive Viewing Experience
The innovative Pure-View Display technology minimizes screen glare while significantly expanding viewing angles, ensuring every seat in the room offers an optimal visual experience. This visual excellence is complemented by 360 Surround Upscaling, which creates immersive, room-filling audio without requiring additional equipment.

Premium Features for Modern Living
The Z570RP integrates seamlessly into any living space through authentic Japanese design philosophy that balances form and function. The televisions sophisticated far-field voice recognition system enables effortless operation from anywhere in the room, enhancing user convenience. Gaming performance is further elevated through AMD FreeSync Premium technology, which ensures fluid, tear-free gameplay. Meanwhile, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos certification guarantee cinema-quality picture and sound reproduction for an immersive entertainment experience.

Availability and Pricing
The Toshiba Z570RP QLED Gaming TV is available in 55″, 65″, 75″, 85″ and 100″ screen sizes, with prices starting from INR 42,999*. This price includes a host of exciting launch offers including 1-Year JioHotstar Premium Subscription, No Cost EMI Options, and attractive exchange offers. The Z570RP series will be exclusively available on Flipkart starting today. Visit www.flipkart.com/product/p/itmepid=TVSHB3H568YM72WR to purchase now.

About Toshiba
Toshiba, Japan’s No.1 TV brand, is a trusted global name renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and Japanese engineering excellence. With a legacy of over 70 years in consumer electronics, Toshiba continues to push the boundaries of home entertainment. Toshiba TV in India are manufactured, sold and supported by Hisense India Pvt Ltd.

Shop-Cum-Offices (SCOs) are emerging as the new asset class in NCR’s commercial real estate. Blending the functionality of a retail space with the practicality of office space, SCO’s dual purpose serves both business visibility and workspace utility. The model is gaining the attention of investors and entrepreneurs due to its versatility, independence of ownership, and high rental yield potential. As per experts, SCO complexes are emerging as a favourite choice for developers, especially in the Delhi-NCR micro markets.

Modern Shop-Cum-Office (SCO) plots offer lucrative investment opportunities in NCRs booming commercial real estate market

According to a report by Knight Frank, there has been a significant 44% year-on-year (YoY) increase in office space leasing across eight major cities, underscoring the growing appeal of SCOs. Their versatility, coupled with affordable entry costs and high rental yields of roughly 9-10%, makes them a lucrative investment choice for both developers and investors. They house high streets, hypermarkets, offices, retail units, co-working spaces, restaurants and cafes, along with spaces for healthcare centres, banks, fitness centres, and gyms. Besides, the most attractive feature is the complete ownership of both land and built-up area, allowing investors full autonomy over design, construction, leasing, and usage. This level of control, combined with steady income potential, makes SCOs a smart, future-ready investment choice.

Additionally, the growth of SCOs in Delhi-NCR is directly associated with the development of key micro-markets that offer visibility and appreciation in value. Prime areas such as Noida, Gurugram, and chosen pockets in Faridabad are experiencing a boom in SCO developments. These areas are not only highly populated but also strategically linked, and hence, are perfect for office and retail operations. The momentum is also fueled by transformational infrastructure developments such as the Dwarka Expressway, Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, and the soon-to-be-established Noida International Airport that spur investor optimism and long-term capital appreciation.

Siddharth Katyal, CEO, Bhumika Group, says, “While flexible formats offer certain advantages, it’s the long-term performance of retail-led investments-particularly those anchored by strong national and international brands-that continues to lead in both footfall and rental yield. In high-growth corridors like Faridabad and Gurugram, it’s the presence of well-curated, fully leased retail ecosystems that sustains consumer engagement and bolsters investor confidence. Anchor stores in fashion, F&B, and wellness serve as powerful demand drivers, creating a robust consumption environment and supporting a more stable return cycle. As consumer behaviour shifts toward experience-led retail, institutional-grade developments clearly outpace fragmented assets in both value creation and resilience.”

Prakash Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director, Ocus Group, says, “The surge in demand for SCO complexes across NCR is a clear signal that the market is evolving, and Gurugram is leading this shift with conviction. Investors and business owners are gravitating toward the SCO model as it delivers on every front: capital appreciation, rental returns, and operational flexibility. Among the prominent sectors of Gurugram, Sector 99 on the Dwarka Expressway, in particular, is emerging as a commercial hotspot, due to its unbeatable connectivity and infrastructure growth. Hence, we look forward to curating high-potential business hubs that cater to both entrepreneurs and established brands, offering them prime locations with modern infrastructure.”

Further, SCOs have struck a chord with SME and startups, offering them the flexibility and control they seek. As hybrid work becomes the norm, entrepreneurs are gravitating toward self-owned commercial spaces that are not only functional but also close to residential catchments.

Ashwani Kumar, Pyramid Infratech, says, “SCOs are not just another real estate project; they represent a paradigm shift in how commercial spaces are conceived and consumed, especially in a dynamic market like Gurugram. Today, businesses don’t want rigid, one-size-fits-all formats; they want autonomy, scalability, and ownership, and that’s exactly what SCOs offer. As developers, we believe SCOs are the future of urban enterprise-spaces where startups can grow, retailers can thrive, and established firms can expand without compromise.”

Vishal Sabharwal, Head Sales, Orris Group, says, “SCO developments are rewriting the rules of commercial real estate, especially in high-demand markets like Gurugram. Their hybrid format isn’t a convenience; it’s a competitive advantage. The ability they offer to own, brand, and customize a space that functions both as a storefront and a workplace is a game-changer. Besides, the superior rental yields and appreciation potential it offers indicate why investors and business owners are doubling down on this format. In our view, SCOs represent the future of commercial property; flexible, profitable, and built for businesses that want more than just a lease.”

Thus, SCOs are no longer seen as speculative plays; theyre being recognized as strategic, long-term wealth-building assets. Their ability to serve both retail and office functions gives them a unique edge in a rapidly evolving business environment. As high-footfall locations continue to develop across NCR and infrastructure projects mature, the demand for self-owned, flexible-use commercial spaces will only intensify.

It is no secret that market volatility is a part of the investment journey you take as a mutual fund investor. It can be triggered by many factors. It can happen due to global events, policy changes, economic data or even investor sentiment. Feelings of uncertainty are common during volatile times. But it is essential to remember that your investment choice can make a meaningful difference in how your portfolio weathers the storm.

Role of hybrid funds amid market volatility

One such option that balances stability with growth potential is hybrid mutual funds. These funds invest in a mix of asset classes, typically equity and debt, making them well-suited for times when markets are unpredictable.

Let’s break down how hybrid mutual funds work and why they can be a suitable choice amid volatility.

What are hybrid mutual funds

Hybrid mutual funds invest in a combination of equity (stocks), debt (bonds or fixed income instruments), and sometimes even gold or other asset classes. The allocation between these assets can vary depending on the type of hybrid fund-some may be equity-oriented, others may lean more towards debt.

By combining two or more asset classes in one portfolio, hybrid funds aim to capture growth opportunities while also cushioning the impact of market corrections.

There are different types of hybrid mutual funds, including:

• Aggressive hybrid funds

• Conservative hybrid funds

• Balanced advantage funds

Benefits of hybrid mutual funds in volatile markets

Diversification in a single fund

One of the basics of mutual fund investing is diversification. This means that you spread your money across different assets to reduce overall risk. Hybrid mutual fund, by their very nature, are diversified by investing both equity and debt instruments. This means that when one part of the market is underperforming, the other can help balance the impact.

Reduced impact of market swings

As established before, hybrid funds invest in both equity and debt funds. This ensures that in periods of sharp market swings, the debt allocations in hybrid funds can act as a cushion. While equity markets may fluctuate, the relatively stable returns from debt components help mitigate the volatility. This is particularly useful for investors who are risk-averse but still want some exposure to equities.

Dynamic rebalancing

Hybrid funds like balanced advantage funds automatically adjust their equity and debt allocations based on the market trends and valuations. This consistent rebalancing helps investors stay aligned with long-term goals without reacting emotionally to short-term market noise.

Suitable for medium-term goals

When planning for mid-term goals like planning a vacation or buy a car, hybrid mutual funds offer a mix of return potential and relative stability. They can provide better returns than pure debt funds while managing downside risk better than pure equity funds.

Who should consider hybrid mutual funds

Hybrid mutual funds are suitable for:

• First-time mutual fund investors who want exposure to equities without taking on too much risk

• Conservative investors looking to balance capital protection with modest growth

• Those with medium-term investment goals

• Investors looking for a relatively smoother experience during volatile phases

These funds are also useful for retired individuals or those nearing retirement who want a steady income with lower equity exposure.

How to get started with hybrid mutual funds

You can start investing in hybrid mutual funds either through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) or as a one-time lumpsum investment. If you’re considering the latter, a lumpsum calculator can help you estimate potential returns based on the amount you plan to invest, the time horizon, and assumed returns.

For example, if you plan to invest Rs. 5 lakh lumpsum in a hybrid fund for five years, the lumpsum calculator can show you projected growth under various return scenarios. This helps you set realistic expectations and stay invested with confidence.

Conclusion

Market volatility doesn’t mean you have to pause your investment journey, it simply means being more thoughtful about your choices. Hybrid mutual funds offer a practical way to stay invested while managing risk and targeting reasonable returns.

They provide the balance, diversification, and adaptability that can help you stay on track, especially when markets are unpredictable. Whether youre investing for the first time or reshuffling your portfolio, hybrid funds can serve as a valuable addition to your investment strategy.

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

Mana Projects, a leading real estate player based in Bengaluru, today announced the launch of Mana Vista, a premium Park-Centric Residential Community located off Sarjapur Road. Located in one of Bengalurus fastest-growing tech corridors, the venture offers a lifestyle that blends urban vibrancy with the calm of lush green spaces. Spread across 6 acres, the project offers 440 spacious 2.5 and 3 BHK residences, meant for urban families looking for a balanced lifestyle based on wellness, connectivity, and community living.

Mana Vista, by Mana Projects

With only three towers rising to G+14 floors, the project offers a low-density, high-livability environment, enhanced by a spectacular 180 lake view, extensive green spaces, and over 35 thoughtfully curated lifestyle amenities.

Strategically located in Gattahalli, off Sarjapur Road, one of the city’s most promising growth corridors, Mana Vista is well connected to major employment hubs including Wipro SEZ, RGA Tech Park, RMZ Ecoworld, and Microsoft. The location also ensures easy access to Electronic City, Whitefield, and Outer Ring Road. Educational institutions like DPS, NPS, Harvest International, PES University, and top-tier healthcare facilities like Cloudnine and Belenus Hospitals are all within reach.

A key highlight of this project is its excellent long-term connectivity to major hubs. It is well linked to the operational Yellow Line metro. The project is expected to gain further momentum with the proposed Hebbal-Sarjapur Metro Corridor, which, according to Times Now reports, is expected to be operational by 2030, further enhancing long-term accessibility and investment potential.

Mana Vista is designed to elevate everyday living with amenities that foster wellness, leisure, and community bonding, including:

• Wellness & Fitness: Infinity Pool, Indoor & Outdoor Gyms, Yoga Deck

• Recreation: Amphitheatre, Hammock Garden, Reflexology Path

• For Families: Tot Lots, Elder’s Park, Daycare, Pet Park

• Sports: Badminton, Pickleball, Cricket Net, Basketball Court

• Clubhouse: Lounge, Cafeteria, Spa, Multipurpose Hall, Library

• Utilities: Supermarket, Kitchen/Pantry, Guest Parking

Commenting on the launch of Mana Vista, Mr Kishore Reddy, CMD, Mana Projects, commented, “We are pleased to launch Mana Vista, a project crafted for people who aspire to live purposefully, stay connected, and experience the best of Bengaluru. Mana Vista stands as a testament to sustainable architecture and mindful living. We believe Mana Vista will be a space where families thrive, communities flourish, and every sunrise brings new possibilities.”

The project is now in the allocation stage. With its strategic location, forward-thinking design, and curated amenities, Mana Vista is poised to become a benchmark for residential excellence in East Bengaluru’s growth story.

About MANA Projects
Mana is one of the top real estate companies in Bengaluru. Founded in 2000 by Mr D Kishore Reddy, the company has grown into a multi-faceted construction company with expertise in designing, building, and developing standard apartments to luxury apartments and villas in Sarjapur, Bengaluru. MANA creates spaces for lifestyle and living comfort with imagination, cutting-edge engineering, and excellent functional design and aesthetics that reflect the high living standards of its customers. The company has fine-tuned the art of ‘Imagineering’ – a blend of imagination and engineering – to build dream spaces that exceed the expectations of its customers. MANA has evolved as a reputed company, with business verticals spanning property development, construction, and infrastructure projects. With attention to detail, vision, and innovation, MANA has ensured that it can deliver quality that sets it apart from the rest.

For more information, please log on to www.manaprojects.com.

Mumbai’s most beloved luxury hotel in Worli is stepping into a new chapter. After an extensive transformation, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai invites guests with refreshed elegance, reimagined spaces, and a soulfully luxurious experience that pays homage to the city’s rich heritage while meeting the desires of the modern traveller. From revitalized accommodations and a newly envisioned spa to enhancements across the hotel’s public spaces, guests can now expect a more refined, more immersive, and more indulgent Four Seasons experience than ever before. The hotel’s signature warmth remains, but everything else from interiors to amenities has been elevated, whispering quiet luxury in every detail.

General Manager Nitesh Gandhi introduces the new Spa at Four Seasons Mumbai

The New Rooms Reimagine Elegance

Renowned for their generous scale and impeccable comfort, the newly transformed rooms and suites at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai now offer an evocative tribute to the spirit of the city. Echoing Mumbai’s vibrant textures, each space is imbued with intricate saree-inspired patterns, peacock feather motifs, and geometric borders; subtle cues that nod to tradition while feeling entirely of-the-moment. The design language is grounded in contemporary palettes and clean lines, creating a sanctuary that balances culture with calm.

New rooms at Four Seasons Mumbai sparkle with city spirit

Modern conveniences are seamlessly woven into the aesthetic. Smart Lutron systems allow guests to intuitively control lighting and window shades, while the blackout curtains promise uninterrupted rest. At the heart of each room is MyBar by Four Seasons, a thoughtfully stocked private bar replenished daily, whether you’re craving a revitalizing espresso at sunrise or a smooth nightcap to end the day on a golden note.

The Spa Redefines Urban Wellness

In a metropolis known for its pulse and pace, the newly reimagined Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai offers a rare gift: stillness. Unfolding over two sun-drenched floors, The Spa has been meticulously redesigned into a sanctuary that invites you to pause, breathe, and return to yourself. Soft natural hues, airy interiors, and healing energy define the atmosphere, setting the stage for rituals that blend ancient Indian wisdom with modern elegance.

Every treatment begins with a grounding Kansa foot massage: an age-old Indian ritual that calms and centers. From there, a curated menu of therapies unfolds like poetry: the Rejuvenating Serenity Massage uses flowing strokes and bespoke oils to dissolve tension, while the 24K Gold Radiance Facial blends precious metals and potent actives for a luminous, sculpted glow. Signature treatments like Myrrh, Noir, and the meditative Neroli Massage offer tailored experiences to meet individual needs, each using botanical oils from Ras Luxury Oils and cutting-edge formulations from French brand Gemology. Couples can reconnect over a candlelit soak in the Spa Romance ritual or indulge in the immersive Blissful Journey, while little guests are welcomed with the Junior’s Escape menu. With wellness for every generation, private spa suites with Jacuzzis, Ayurveda rooms, and serene vitality pools, every moment is soaked in serenity.

“Fuelling the physical transformation is our continued focus on enhancing the positioning of the hotel as Mumbai’s leading luxury hotel, supported by a team of talented and passionate hoteliers who make each guest feel welcome and special,” says Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, as he helms the hotel’s transformative journey.

From immersive room experiences rooted in local artistry to wellness journeys that feel like quiet revelations, the all-new Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai welcomes guests to experience the city’s energy through a gentle, luxurious lens.

Hisense, a leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, announced the launch of its Smart TV, Hisense E7Q Pro, designed specifically to meet the demands of modern gamers while delivering a cinematic viewing experience.

Hisense E7Q Pro

With cutting-edge 144Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision Atmos and AMD FreeSync Premium certification, coupled with AI Smooth Motion feature, the E7Q Pro allows gamers to enjoy smooth and jitter-free motion graphics in low-latency game mode. Its intuitive Game Bar interface helps effortlessly adjust game parameter settings without the need to exit the interface, making the TV the top-tier choice for gaming enthusiasts.

“The unveiling of the Hisense E7Q Pro is a step ahead in our mission to redefine premium entertainment experiences at affordable price points,” said Mr Pankaj Rana, CEO, Hisense India. “The superior gaming capabilities and 8-year VIDAA OS guarantee demonstrate our dedication to both performance and value, as viewing habits evolve across gaming and entertainment. The E7Q Pro delivers unparalleled convenience, complemented by advanced voice control functionality for effortless navigation through your entertainment ecosystem.”

Taking things a notch higher, the new Smart TV offers stunning QLED technology, delivering unprecedented color accuracy. Furthermore, the flagship 100″ model of the E7Q Pro features integrated subwoofer technology for cinema-quality audio performance.

The Hisense E7Q Pro is available in 55″, 65″, and 100″ screen sizes, starting at INR 42,999*, only on Amazon. The price includes a host of exciting launch offers including 1-Year JioHotstar Premium Subscription, No Cost EMI Options, and attractive exchange offers. This Smart TV also includes an unmatched 8-year guarantee on all app support, bug fixes, and security updates for all VIDAA U8/U9 televisions (2025 models only). Visit www.amazon.in/dp/B0F4WZWKSL to purchase now.

Hisense India is expected to launch another QLED model, the E7Q, next month.

Disclaimer: 8-Year update guarantee is applicable only on Hisense VIDAA U8/U9 series models purchased in 2025. This includes continuous support for apps, security updates, and bug fixes, ensuring a long-lasting and smooth smart TV experience.

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.

• Food & Beverage (F&B) segment is the largest contributor at 42%.

• Targets Rs. 20,000 crore revenue in the next 4-5 years

The Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a leading FMCG conglomerateand multi-business corporation, has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing Rs. 10,000 crore in revenue for FY 2024-25 making it into the list of top 15 FMCG companies in India. This milestone is primarily driven by its F&B segment, which contributes 42% to total revenue, followed by Mouth Freshener segment at 38%, Hospitality at 3%, and the other businesses together contribute to the rest with tobacco being less than 10%. The Group has witnessed consistent upward trajectory with a CAGR of 16% in the last 3 years through organic growth, reinforcing its market leadership and commitment to expansion. The food and beverage (F&B) segment has demonstrated a CAGR of 19 percent over the last three years.

The DS Groups sustained market leadership is a testament to its unwavering commitment to meeting a delightful experience for consumers. This commitment is built upon a foundation of deep expertise in flavours and fragrances, a keen understanding of evolving consumer preferences, and a robust distribution network. Together, all businesses account for more than 150 super stockists, over 5000 distributors reaching out to over 15 lakh retail shops directly and over 35 lakh indirectly, pan India. With the changing consumer buying behaviour, DS Group has thoroughly studied and capitalized on the evolving trends in modern trade, e-commerce including quick commerce to its advantage. Continuing to focus on artificial intelligence, automation and other future-focused technologies has enabled the organization to maintain its relevance within the industry while simultaneously driving value for consumers.

Mr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman, DS Group

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman, DS Group, stated, “Surpassing the Rs. 10,000 crore revenue milestone is more than just a financial achievement; it signifies our integral role as a significant contributor to Indias evolving growth story. The DS Group has been a vital contributor to the FMCG sectors expansion, driven by our diverse portfolio, dedicated focus on quality and innovation and one of the largest distribution networks in the FMCG segment in the country. Food and Beverage segment has been on an accelerated growth in the last three years and this milestone reflects the trust placed on us by Indian consumers, whose evolving needs have constantly pushed us to remain agile and relevant. The dedication of our employees and partners is the foundation of our journey and looking ahead, we aspire to achieve the Rs. 20,000 crore milestone by our centenary year with a commitment to further fuelling Indias FMCG sector. Our robust pipeline of innovative products will continue to generate excitement and drive growth embodying the ‘Create What is Worth Creating’ spirit. We will continue to further expand our distribution network, ensuring our products reach every corner of the nation as well as global markets, thereby strengthening the Indian FMCG sectors overall reach and impact.

I also firmly believe that philanthropy and CSR, when integrated into core business operations, drives triple-bottom-line success: people, profit, planet. In alignment with our dedication to sustainable growth, the DS Group is actively pursuing ambitious green initiatives. These include advancing carbon and water neutrality goals, implementing green manufacturing practices, and strengthening our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, thereby reinforcing our commitment to responsible and ethical business practices,” he added.

Today DS Group is a leading name in the Indian food and beverage industry. It has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation, establishing itself as a pioneer across multiple product categories. The Catch brand offers a comprehensive range of table-top and culinary ingredients, including a variety of salts and sprinklers, spices, cooking pastes, and gravies. It introduced Indias first free-flowing salt and pepper in sprinklers in 1987. Catch further solidified its position as an industry leader in the spice segment by pioneering low-temperature grinding technology in India and later the advanced cryogenic grinding technology, a process designed to preserve the essential oils, aromas, and flavors of spices. The Groups beverage division, under Catch, provides a diverse selection of products, including water, flavored water, carbonated drinks and juices. DS Groups history of pioneering innovations includes being the first to bottle natural spring water at 5000 feet above sea level from the Himalayas in 1999. Beyond these technological advancements, Catch also holds global recognition for its patented technology used in the production of 100% vegetarian pure gold and silver foils (warq). Using advanced technology and mechanized processes, DS Group ensures that the gold and silver leaves are completely free from animal interface and comply with FSSAI guidelines.

In the confectionery sector, DS Group has established itself as the second-largest player in the Indian non-chocolate confectionery market, driven by a series of innovative product launches. Pass Pass, introduced in 1999, holds the distinction of being the first organized Indian ethnic confectionery brand in India. Coupled with Silver Pearls, DS Group is the largest player in the Indian Ethnic confectionery market. The rapid success of Pulse, a market leader in the hard-boiled candy segment since the last 9 years, highlights the Groups ability to create highly successful consumer products. The recent launch of Pulse Golmol, a tangy, tamarind flavoured soft chew , demonstrates DS Groups continued focus on innovation and its ability to connect with consumers through nostalgic flavors. The Groups confectionery portfolio also includes well-known brands such as Chingles, Fru, and Luvit.

DS Groups presence extends to the dairy segment, where it operates the Ksheer brand, offering a range of fresh and ambient products. In addition, Ovino, a premium D2C brand, specializes in high-quality, single-origin milk sourced directly from the Groups farms. In the premium Mouth Fresheners’ category, Rajnigandha is an undisputed leader in the premium mouth fresheners market. The Groups overall strategy is rooted in a deep understanding of Indian consumer preferences, leveraging cultural marketing, and utilizing its expertise in flavors and fragrances to create market-leading brands.

The DS Group has been in the hospitality business since 2000. Presently, its hospitality portfolio encompasses six distinguished properties which include The Namah Nainital in Nainital and Namah in Jim Corbett National Park, which are both members of Radisson Individuals. With a strategic focus on key Indian markets, the projected investment in the hospitality division for the next few years is approximately INR 1000 crores, with a goal of establishing 10-12 hotels within the next three years. The other business also include Agriculture, Luxury Retail which includes food and fashion, and other investments.

The Group aspires to be not just a market leader but also a great workplace, committed to sustainability, water neutrality, and environmental consciousness.

About DS Group

The DS Group (Dharampal Satyapal Group) is a one of the leading FMCG conglomerates and a Multi-Business Corporation with a strong Indian and International presence. Founded in the year 1929, it is an inspiring and successful business story that blends a remarkable history and legacy with visionary growth. It has an extensive and diverse portfolio with presence in Food and Beverage, Confectionery, Mouth Freshener, Hospitality, Agri, Luxury Retail businesses, and other investments. Catch, Pulse, Pass Pass, Silver Pearls, Ksheer, Rajnigandha, Ovino, L’Opera, Le Marche, Society Of Salad, Birthright, LuvIt, Chingles, Golmol, Namah are some of the leading brands, the Group proudly shelters today.

As a corporate, DS Group is guided by a clear set of values that are built on a strong foundation of collective good to give back to society and protect the planet. The DS Headquarters has been awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification, under the USGBC (US Green Building Council) existing building O&M (Operation and Maintenance) program version 4.0. The DS Headquarters has also received LEED Zero Carbon Certification, by the USGBC.

Following the devastating earthquakes that struck Myanmar in April 2024 and the growing awareness of seismic risk across the Indian subcontinent, Turkish engineering firm TIS has announced its strategic interest in entering the Indian market. The company is known globally for designing, manufacturing, and deploying advanced seismic isolation systems that protect critical infrastructure during earthquakes.

TIS targets India with proven earthquake-resilient technologies

“India, like Turkiye, sits on a highly active fault system. We believe the time is right to bring our proven seismic protection technology and project-based engineering approach to this important region,” said Ugurcan Ozcamur, General Manager of TIS.

“Our goal is not just to supply equipment, but to collaborate with local partners to create lasting resilience across India’s infrastructure landscape.”

From Turkiye to the world

TIS began its journey in 2012 with five years of dedicated R&D, rigorous testing, and certification from European bodies. Since launching commercial operations in 2017, the company has completed projects in Italy-home to nearly 30% of its current portfolio-Greece, Azerbaijan, Taiwan, Mexico, and most recently, Chile. TIS gained global recognition after the devastating 6 February 2023 earthquakes in Turkiye, where its seismic isolators kept eight major hospitals and public buildings fully operational during the earthquakes of 7.6 and 7.5 magnitude.

“TIS is one of the few companies worldwide that offers fully integrated earthquake protection solutions, combining engineering design, product innovation, and customized implementation – all under one roof. Our technologies, including friction pendulum seismic isolators, have been successfully deployed in hospitals, data centres, metro lines, historical structures, residential, and bridges across Europe, Latin America, and Asia,” he added.

Tailored solutions for challenging environments

TIS stands out not only for the quality of its products but for its ability to adapt to complex structural conditions. In Chile, the company successfully implemented seismic isolation in lightweight, modular data centres. TIS engineers custom-designed the devices for steel structures and delivered a cost-effective, tailored solution in just three months. This achievement has led to six completed projects in Chile, with more underway across the region.

“In every country we operate, from Taiwan to Chile, we begin by understanding the local challenges – not imposing a one-size-fits-all approach,” said Ozcamur. “This is why we are confident in our ability to work with Indian architects, developers, and government agencies to build a new level of earthquake resilience.”

India is the next frontier

While TIS has not yet launched a project in India, the company is actively seeking local partnerships. Recent seismic events, such as the April 2024 earthquake in Myanmar felt across northeastern India, have increased public and institutional awareness of the region’s seismic vulnerability.

India’s own history of major earthquakes-like the 2001 Gujarat disaster and more recent tremors in Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and Assam-reinforces the urgent need for advanced seismic protection. With rapid urbanization in high-risk areas, TIS sees India as a prime candidate for world-class, tailored earthquake mitigation solutions and aims to become a trusted technical partner in both public and private sectors.

About TIS
TIS is a Turkiye-based engineering and manufacturing company specializing in seismic isolation systems. Containing certified product design, proprietary R&D, and a strong international portfolio, TIS offers earthquake protection technologies that enhance the structural resilience of critical infrastructure.