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Federal Bank Appoints Virat Sunil Diwanji as National Head – Consumer Banking

Federal Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Virat Sunil Diwanji as the National Head – Consumer Banking and a Senior Management Personnel of the Bank, effective April 10, 2025.

Virat Sunil Diwanji, National Head – Consumer Banking, Federal Bank

Mr. Diwanji brings over 30 years of extensive experience in Consumer Banking to Federal Bank. Prior to joining Federal Bank, he served as Group President and Head of Consumer Bank at Kotak Mahindra Bank. His illustrious career also includes significant roles at Ford Credit and A F Fergusion & Co. Additionally, Mr. Diwanji serves on the Board of several companies as a Non-Executive Director/Independent Director. He holds a Masters degree in Business Administration and a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Mr. Diwanjis vast experience and proven track record in the banking sector is expected to bolster Federal Bank’s scale and growth ambitions into new markets – geographies and segments, and businesses.

About Federal Bank
Federal Bank (NSE: FEDERALBNK) is a leading Indian private sector bank with a network of around 1550 banking outlets and 2054 ATMs/Recyclers spread across the country and the Bank’s total business mix (deposits + advances) stood at ₹ 4.96 Lakh Crore as on 31st December 2024. Capital Adequacy Ratio (CRAR) of the Bank, computed as per Basel III guidelines, stood at 15.20 % as on 31st December 2024. Federal Bank has Representative Offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that serve as a nerve center for Non-Resident Indian customers in the UAE. The Bank also has an IFSC Banking Unit (IBU) in Gujarat International Finance TecCity (GIFT City). Federal Bank is transforming itself, keeping its principles intact, into an organization that offers services beyond par. It has a well-defined vision for the future as a guidepost to its progress.

Yum! Brands Appoints Manish Jain to Lead Digital & Technology Global Capability Center in India

Yum!Brands, the parent company of KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and Habit Burger & Grill, announced that it has appointed Manish Jain as the leader of its Digital and Technology (D&T) India Global Capability Centre (GCC).

Manish Jain – Leader, Digital & Technology Global Capability Center, Yum! Brands, India

Jain will spearhead the Company’s GCC strategy and shared services operations in India while championing Yum!’s world-class culture, reporting directly to James Watts, Chief People Officer, Yum! Digital & Technology.

The Yum! D&T India unit and GCC develop technology solutions and deliver shared service functions for all Yum! brands globally.

Jain brings over two decades of diverse global experience, with significant expertise in the Global Business Services and Global Capability Centre space. He has worked across consulting, fast-moving consumer goods and financial service industries in the U.S., Malaysia and India.

Most recently, Jain was the Asia-Pacific region service director and country leader for India at Getronics International, where he managed the India shared services hub and customer success function for the entire region. He was also the founding director of BT Group’s Global Business Services unit in India, and he spent over 10 years scaling up the unit.

“I am honored to take on this role and excited to help build the India Global Capability Centre in support of Yum! Brands’ strategy for good growth and its goal to be an employer of choice in the region,”Jain said.

About Yum! Brands

Yum! Brands, Inc., based in Louisville, Kentucky, and its subsidiaries franchise or operate a system of over 61,000 restaurants in more than 155 countries and territories under the Company’s concepts – KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and Habit Burger & Grill. The Companys Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut brands are global leaders of the Mexican-inspired food, chicken and pizza categories, respectively. Habit Burger & Grill is a fast casual restaurant concept specializing in made-to-order chargrilled burgers, sandwiches and more. In 2024, Yum! was named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index North America, Newsweek’s list of America’s Most Responsible Companies, USA Today’s America’s Climate Leaders and 3BL’s list of 100 Best Corporate Citizens. In 2025, the Company was recognized among TIME magazine’s list of Best Companies for Future Leaders. In addition, Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut brands were ranked in the top 25 of Entrepreneur’s Top Global Franchises Ranking for 2025, with Taco Bell securing the No. 1 spot for the fifth consecutive year.

M&A Seminar for Tech Executives in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Gurugram

Global economic events have made this the most critical time for Tech CEOs to calibrate the market in years. Corum is the worlds leading educator on tech trends, valuations, growth strategies and Tech M&A. Corum President Rob Griggs and Vice President Elie Youssef will host three Merge Briefing seminars in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Gurugram in April.

The Merge Briefing is a 90-minute executive seminar providing an update on current Tech M&A market trends – plus insights into running a successful M&A process. To register, visit corumgroup.com/events.

Presentation Highlights:

  • Tech M&A Overview: Market Perspective

  • 10 Disruptive Technology Trends Driving Deals

  • Achieving an Optimal Outcome: 8 Required Stages of the M&A Process

  • Avoiding Deal Disasters

  • Q&A with senior M&A advisors

April 15 – Mumbai – JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar

April 17 – Bengaluru – Hyatt Centric MG Road

April 29 – Gurugram – Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre

*Doors open at 9:30 AM. The presentation starts at 10:00 AM. Pre-registration is required.

About Corum Group
Corum Group is the global leader in merger and acquisition services, specializing in serving sellers of software and related technology companies worldwide. With offices globally, Corum has completed over 500 software M&A transactions in nearly 40 years. Corums M&A advisors are highly experienced former tech CEOs, supported by industry-leading researchers, writers and valuators.

For more information, visit corumgroup.com.

Xperia Group Executes MakeMyTrip’s Iconic 25 Year Anniversary Billboard Campaign

Xperia Group, a well-known player in outdoor, event and promotion industry executed a mega outdoor campaign, conceptualized by MagicCircle, for MakeMyTrip on the occasion of its Silver Jubilee celebrations.

Xperia Group Executes MakeMyTrips Iconic 25 Year Anniversary Billboard Campaign

MakeMyTrip is known to provide an impeccable, customised and seamless online booking experience for its customers, since 2000! After 25 years, the company takes a trip down memory lane when mobile usage was less and screen time was restricted to playing games. Today, the company is celebrating its Silver Jubilee by thanking its valued customers for the support and admiration.

Xperia Group Executes MakeMyTrips Iconic 25 Year Anniversary Billboard Campaign

The rationale of the campaign is to convey the message that MakeMyTrip has proudly completed 25 successful and eventful years of serving its valued customers with a plethora of offers, deals, discounts for a cross-section of people viz. individuals, groups and large corporates etc. Importantly, last two decades has seen a paradigm shift in the usage of mobile phones with new technology. With the telecom sector boom, we all are witnessing a huge surge in the mobile use with customers experiencing and asking for more! Hence customers are extremely delighted to see innovation, and select best options and best prices suiting their multiple needs offered by MakeMyTrip.

Xperia Group Executes MakeMyTrips Iconic 25 Year Anniversary Billboard Campaign

MakeMyTrips large and strategic billboards across several cities speak about the time span and the way the company has evolved, developed and steered its business for last 25 years. Many social media influencers are raving about these eye-catching hoardings of MakeMyTrips which are on strategic key locations.

Secure Funds up to Rs. 2 Crore at Competitive Interest Rates with Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan

Gold has long been regarded as a trusted asset, serving as a financial cushion for both investors and borrowers. In recent times, gold loans have gained popularity as a go-to solution for those seeking quick liquidity. By pledging gold jewellery, individuals can unlock immediate funds without undergoing extensive paperwork or relying on their credit score. If an individual is planning to take a gold loan in India, one of the key factors to consider is the interest rate. A lower gold loan interest rate ensures reduced overall repayment, making the loan more manageable and cost-effective over time.

Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan

Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan makes this process even more seamless by offering loan amounts starting from Rs. 5,000 up to Rs. 2 crore, backed by minimal documentation and fast disbursal. With competitive gold loan interest rates, flexible repayment options, and complimentary insurance of pledged gold, Bajaj Finance ensures a convenient and secure borrowing experience for every customer. Understanding these benefits can greatly enhance one’s financial planning when opting for a gold loan.

Understanding the factors affecting gold loan interest rates in India

Here are five key factors that influence gold loan interest rates, presented in a third-person narrative suitable for a press release:

  1. Loan amount and tenure
    Lenders often offer different interest rates based on the loan amount and repayment duration. Typically, shorter tenures and higher loan amounts may attract slightly lower gold loan interest rates, as the risk to the lender is perceived to be lower.

  2. Quality and value of gold pledged
    The purity and current market value of the pledged gold directly impact the interest rate. Higher quality gold (typically 22 karat) fetches a better loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, which can lead to more favourable interest rates from lenders.

  3. Lender’s internal policies
    Each financial institution has its own risk assessment model and pricing strategy. Bajaj Finance, for instance, offers competitive gold loan interest rates to borrowers based on transparent criteria, ensuring affordability and clarity throughout the loan tenure.

  4. Market conditions and RBI guidelines
    Fluctuations in repo rates, inflation, and policy updates from the Reserve Bank of India also influence lending rates. As market conditions shift, gold loan interest rates may be adjusted accordingly by the lender to remain competitive.

What makes Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan a smart financial instrument

When considering an instant gold loan, the interest rate is one of the most important factors. Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan stands out for offering competitive gold loan interest rates, making it a preferred choice for many individuals across India.

With Bajaj Finance, borrowers can unlock quick funds by pledging their 18-22 karat gold jewellery, while enjoying affordable and transparent interest rates. The focus on customer convenience and cost-effectiveness makes this offering particularly attractive.

Here is why Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan is a wise choice in terms of interest rates:

  • Attractive and competitive interest rates that reduce the overall cost of borrowing.

  • Multiple repayment options, allowing borrowers to manage their repayment according to their financial comfort.

  • Zero part-prepayment charges, helping borrowers save on interest by closing their loan early.

  • Complimentary gold insurance ensures security of the pledged jewellery during the loan tenure.

  • No hidden charges, with full transparency on how interest is calculated.

In addition, the simple documentation process and quick disbursal ensure that funds are accessible without delays. For those seeking a low-cost, secure borrowing solution, Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan is an ideal choice.

How to apply for a gold loan with Bajaj Finance

Applying for a gold loan with Bajaj Finance is pretty simple. Here’s how one can apply:

  1. Visit the Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan website and click on ‘Apply’ to access the application form.

  2. Enter the 10-digit mobile number and select ‘Get OTP.’

  3. Enter the OTP to verify identity.

  4. Choose the state and city to locate the nearest Bajaj Finance branch.

  5. Provide personal details like name and date of birth as per the PAN.

  6. Schedule an appointment at the Bajaj Finance branch.

  7. After completing these steps, a Bajaj Finance representative will call to confirm the appointment and guide the borrower through the next steps.

Conclusion
Gold loans offer a reliable way to access quick funds, and the interest rate plays a vital role in determining affordability. Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan stands out by offering competitive gold loan interest rates, ensuring lower overall repayment. With a wide range of loan amount, minimal paperwork, multiple repayment options, and complimentary gold insurance, it offers a secure and cost-effective borrowing experience. Zero part-prepayment charges further help in saving on interest. For individuals seeking a gold loan with attractive interest rates and a hassle-free process, Bajaj Finance is a smart and trustworthy choice.

T&C Apply.

About Bajaj Finance Limited

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 80.41 million customers. Bajaj Finance has a credit rating of AAA/Stable for its Fixed Deposit program from CRISIL and ICRA, AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing from CRISIL, India Ratings, CARE and ICRA, and A1+ for short-term borrowing from CRISIL, India Ratings and ICRA. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BBB-/Stable and a short-term rating of A-3 by S&P Global ratings.

To know more, visit www.bajajfinserv.in.

RBI’s Second Consecutive Repo Rate Cut to 6 Percent Spurs Optimism Across Real Estate Sector

India’s real estate sector has welcomed the Reserve Bank of India’s latest monetary policy move, which saw the repo rate reduced by 25 basis points to 6%. Industry leaders believe the decision-aimed at boosting economic momentum amid global uncertainties-will improve housing affordability, stimulate investor confidence, and accelerate development, especially in commercial and affordable housing segments.

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RBI’s Second Consecutive Rate Cut to 6% Fuels Optimism in Real Estate

The rate cut comes at a time when the sector is navigating rising input costs and shifting buyer sentiments. By lowering borrowing costs, the RBI has provided a timely cushion for developers and homebuyers alike, with stakeholders expecting a boost in residential demand, fresh investments, and faster execution of ongoing projects.

Stakeholders believe that the cut, coupled with the RBI’s shift in stance from “neutral” to “accommodative,” will improve housing affordability, uplift investor sentiment, and fast-track development across residential, commercial, and affordable housing segments.

Deepak Kapoor, Director, Gulshan Group, says, “Amidst tariff wars, instability and volatility in the world, the second consecutive rate cut of 25 bps by RBI will push liquidity in the market, increase consumption and provide a boost to the economy ultimately benefitting the real estate sector. With home loans expected to come down, it will lead to a decrease in EMIs and help buyers who are sitting at the fences to go ahead and make new purchases. Most importantly, with two consecutive reductions in the last two months, RBI has shed its cautious stance and provides a glimpse of the things to come.”

Pankaj Jain, Chairman and CMD, SPJ Group, said, “At a time of global economic uncertainties and recent tariff hikes, the RBI’s decision to cut the repo rate by 25 bps for the second consecutive time and bring it to 6% will stimulate the country’s economic activity. In the backdrop of rising demand for luxury housing, it will also add to the momentum in the real estate sector, making home loans more accessible and renewing interest from potential buyers. The move offers a stronger case for developers to expand in untapped micro-markets. Thus, the ripple effect is likely to support both industry recovery and macroeconomic growth.”

Manit Sethi, Director of Excentia Infra, stated thatthe repo rate cut is a positive sign for the luxury real estate segment. Lower interest rates will benefit customers looking to buy high-end properties and make it easier for them to make investment decisions. This will make homeownership more feasible and encourage developers to expand their footprints in these high-potential regions.

Mr. Viineet Chellani, Founder and CEO, Asset Deals, says, “The RBI’s decision to cut the repo rate to 6% is a much-needed step in the right direction,” said a real estate consultant. “It’s likely to bring relief to homebuyers, especially in the affordable and mid-income segments, as lower EMIs will make homeownership more accessible. Reduced interest rates not only ease the financial burden but also boost confidence among prospective buyers who were waiting for the right time. We expect this move to spark renewed interest in the housing market and positively impact demand in the coming months.”

Surender Kaushik, Founder & Director of Aryan Realty Infratech Pvt. Ltd., says, “The RBI’s decision to reduce the repo rate by 25 bps, bringing it to 6%, comes at the right time. Amid the recent tariff hikes, this move is a welcome step toward economic stability and growth. For the real estate sector, a reduction in home loan rates will appeal to buyers, while developers may seize this opportunity to scale up projects in new growth corridors. Thus, we foresee an increase in property transactions across the various segments.”

Dr. Vishesh Rawat, VP and Head of Sales, Marketing & CRM, M2K Group, says, “The RBI’s 25 bps repo rate cut, bringing it down to 6%, was widely anticipated. In a climate of recently rising global tariffs, this move offers timely economic relief. For the real estate sector, particularly housing, lower home loan rates can further boost demand, especially among first-time buyers. It also creates the right environment for developers to initiate new projects and tap into emerging micro-markets, fostering long-term sectoral growth.”

Dimple Bhardwaj, Head Channel Sales & Marketing, Better Choice Realtors Pvt. Ltd., said, “RBI’s move to cut the repo rate by 25bps and reduce it to 6% has brought a greater relief to the real estate sector. Following the previous cut in February, this step strengthens confidence among buyers and developers, especially amid the swift shift in global sentiments. A lower policy rate will encourage borrowing, prompting more individuals to invest in property purchases and driving demand in the housing sector. Thus, we look forward to a surge in activity in the sector following this announcement.”

Ajendra Singh, Vice President (Sales & Marketing) of Spectrum@Metro Mall, said, “The RBI’s decision to cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6% is a timely move that offers much-needed support to the commercial real estate sector. With financing now becoming more affordable, developers and businesses can move forward with expansion plans more confidently, even as they deal with rising operational costs. This step also boosts investor confidence and sets the tone for steady, long-term growth.”

With two successive rate cuts and a clear pro-growth stance, the RBI has reignited market optimism in positioning real estate as a key engine of India’s economic recovery.

Personal Loans Made Simple and Quick with Bajaj Markets

Bajaj Markets has simplified the process of securing personal loans, offering access to a reliable financial solution for a variety of needs. Be it planning a major event or facing an unexpected expense, the personal loans available through the financial marketplace can be a valuable resource. These loans can help cover costs with speed, convenience, and customisation for borrowers across India.

Get Instant Personal Loans on Bajaj Markets

With personal finance needs becoming increasingly diverse, Bajaj Markets now enables customers to access instant personal loans through a fully digital process, eliminating paperwork and long waiting times. Whether it’s for medical emergencies, weddings, travel, or home renovation, users can apply for a personal loan that is tailored to suit their unique requirements.

Key Features of Personal Loan on Bajaj Markets

  • Loan Amount: Up to Rs. 50 Lakhs

  • Tenure: Flexible repayment options ranging from 12 to 96 months

  • Interest Rates: Starting from as low as 9.99% p.a.*

  • Processing: Completely digital, with approvals in minutes and quick disbursal

In addition to personal loans, Bajaj Markets provides access to a wide range of financial products such as credit cards, investment plans, insurance solutions, and CIBIL score checks. Explore these products on the Bajaj Markets website or app today.

About Bajaj Finserv Direct

Bajaj Finserv Direct, a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv, is one of the fastest-growing fintech companies in India. It has two primary arms, Bajaj Markets, a financial marketplace, and Bajaj Technology Services, a techfin service provider.

Bajaj Markets is a marketplace that offers multiple financial products across all categories – Loans, Cards, Insurance, Investments, Pocket Insurance, and VAS. Bajaj Markets has partnered with trusted financial brands to offer ‘India ka Financial Supermarket’. A one-stop destination where its customers can explore a host of products that can help them achieve their financial life goals.

Having started its journey as a fintech, Bajaj Finserv Direct has also built a very strong business as a techfin. Through Bajaj Technology Services it offers a wide gamut of digital technology services which span Custom Applications, Enterprise Applications, Data & Analytics, Gen AI, Cloud Services and Digital Agency.

Visit the Bajaj Markets website or download the Bajaj Markets’ app from the Play Store or App Store to experience ‘India ka Financial Supermarket’.

Homeland Group Performs Bhumi Pujan for Homeland Global Park, Plans to Deliver a 5 million sq. ft. Mixed-use Development in Mohali in 15 Acres

Homeland Group, Punjab’s most revered real estate developer, continues to achieve new heights of success, as they conduct the Bhumi Pujan ceremony for Homeland Global Park, an upcoming mixed-use development located in Sector 75, International Airport Road, Mohali.

Mrinaal Mittal (Left), Abhay Jindal (Right)

Building on the success of CP67, this mixed-use development spans across approx 15 acres of prime land, featuring an uber premium mall, a high-end mall with India’s largest indoor arena for live performances and entertainment events, luxurious serviced apartments, high-end retail and boutique offices with large IT floor plates with a built up area of approx 5 million sq. ft.

“Chandigarh is an emerging hub, and many Corporates want to set up offices here, but there is a lack of grade A spaces. After successfully running CP67 and looking at the encouraging numbers, our latest acquisition is in line with the growth of the region as a Corporate and Luxury retail destination,” said Mr Umang Jindal, CEO of Homeland Group.

Newton School of Technology Launches India’s first Coding UG Entrance Exam

Newton School of Technology has announced India’s first UG entrance exam centred on coding and fundamental programming skills – the Coding Newton Scholastic Aptitude Test (Coding NSAT). Unlike traditional exams that require deep knowledge in Physics, Chemistry and Math, the Coding NSAT evaluates practical coding abilities, offering a unique alternative pathway to admission at the Newton School of Technology. Focusing on solving real-world problems and programming proficiency, the coding entrance ensures assessment based on skills and potential rather than conventional academic scores, offering students an opportunity to further enhance their skills.

Aspiring technologists and students can apply for admissions at Newton School of Technology across campuses in Sonipat, Pune and Bangalore. The first-of-its-kind entrance exam for UG admission offers an innovative pathway for students passionate about hands-on programming, emphasising practical skills over rote memorisation of concepts. Designed for those who have dedicated more time to coding than traditional subjects, it offers an alternative to the conventional JEE pathway, empowering students to showcase their talent and pursue their aspirations in a more inclusive and skill-oriented manner.

The exam syllabus will include topics like Arithmetics, Input & Output, Language Basics, Coding Syntax, Basic Functions, If-Else Statements, Loops, Arrays and Strings. With a total of 26 questions divided into 2 sections, i.e. coding and MCQ, the total weightage of questions is 150 marks, which includes learnability, pseudocoding and a coding section. The MCQ questions total 80 marks, inclusive of negative marking, and the coding format carries a total of 70 marks. Structured to offer an equal opportunity for all career paths in technology and related fields, the coding NSAT aligns with Newton’s larger mission of fostering tech talent.

Speaking on the announcement, Siddharth Maheshwari, Co-founder of Newton School of Technology, said, “At NST, we recognise coding enthusiasts, offering them a structured path to professional education and careers with industry-relevant coding curriculum that aligns with real-world applications. The Coding NSAT is a reflection of our commitment towards an outcome-driven education. By testing skills that matter in the tech industry like building algorithms and debugging code. The Coding NSAT serves as a proof of concept for Newton School’s long-standing belief- education should mirror the challenges of the real world, not outdated academic formulas.”

Coding NSAT is a bold step in Newton School of Technology’s mission to redefine tech education through real-world relevance. Emphasising and rewarding self-taught programmers with opportunities, they have remained at the forefront of a strong coding and technology-focused environment for building the next generation of tech leaders.

At a time when conventional tests still prioritise rote-based math, Coding NSAT opens up a future-ready, inclusive pathway for those who think in code, not equations. Revolutionising higher education in tech, Coding NSAT signals a paradigm shift in the Indian education system around how tech talent is being discovered and nurtured. Interested students can register at Newton School of Technology starting on the 10th of April, 2024.

About Newton School of Technology
Newton School of Technology is a revolutionary new educational institution that is changing the way people learn technology. Founded by Siddharth and Nishant, two young dreamers with a passion for technology, Newton School is committed to empowering the next generation of tech leaders and entrepreneurs. Newton Schools unique approach to education combines industry connections, mentorship, and real-world insights to give students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the tech industry. Students at Newton School have access to exclusive clubs, where they can collaborate with like-minded peers and challenge the norm. They also have the opportunity to participate in immersive programs in global tech hubs, which expands their horizons and nurtures a global mindset.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Celebrates 25 Years of Gold Hallmarking at GJS, Announces – Hackathon in Collaboration with BIS and GJC

The Indian gems and jewellery industry witnessed a momentous occasion as Shri Pralhad Joshi, Hon’ble Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and Minister of New & Renewable Energy, graced the prestigious India Gem & Jewellery Show (GJS) at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. The event also marked the 25th anniversary of hallmarking of gold in India, a significant milestone in ensuring quality, transparency, and consumer trust in the industry. The show is organised by the apex industry All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) and scheduled from 4th to 7th April 2025.

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Pralhad Joshi at GJS announces National Hackathon

Addressing the gathering, Shri Pralhad Joshi applauded the efforts of jewellers in adopting hallmarking, which has played a crucial role in protecting consumer interests while strengthening India’s position as a trusted market for gold jewellery. He highlighted the government’s commitment to further streamlining hallmarking regulations to make compliance easier for jewellers and beneficial for consumers. Prominent jewellers and trade representatives took the stage to celebrate the success of hallmarking, reflecting on how the initiative has safeguarded buyers and boosted India’s exports in the global jewellery market.

The event saw participation from leading jewellers, industry stakeholders, and international visitors, making it a highly successful gathering.

At the GJS event, Shri Pralhad Joshi remarked, “Indian Gems & Jewellery industry has been a cornerstone of our nation’s heritage and will continue to drive the economic progress. There are 650 + owned and accredited Laboratories of BIS, and it has reached every corner of the nation to focus in ensuring quality products are given to the consumers. It is imperative that we develop the system to ensure there are no misuses of HUID and collectively with joint efforts from all stakeholders, we also focus on increasing the Assaying Hallmarking Centres (AHC) across India. Currently 361 districts are covered in the mandatory regime and let us jointly target to reach 500 districts this year. We firmly believe in Honourable Prime Minister’s vision of ease of business and the Ministry is willing to provide its full support to the industry and I am happy to announce that BIS in collaboration with GJC is launching National Hackathon to invite innovative and practical solutions to develop scalable, cost-effective & non-destructive testing for the gold jewellery.”

Mr. Rajesh Rokde, Chairman, GJC, remarked, “It is with immense pride and gratitude that we welcome Shri Pralhad Joshi, to this grand occasion. Your presence reflects the governments continued support for our industry, and we deeply thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to join us. We, as an industry, take immense pride in our transparency and the legacy of trust that our gold, vouched for by generations, represents. Today, we look forward to the government recognizing us with a fresh perspective-as a trading community with a positive attitude and a vision to make hallmarking mandatory across the nation. Honourable Minister’s announcement of Hackathon today marks a new chapter in our journey, and we are extremely positive about the future. Together, we will continue to uphold purity, trust, and innovation for a brighter tomorrow.”

Mr. Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman, GJC, commented, “On behalf of the GJC and the entire G&J Industry, we express our heartfelt gratitude to Shri Pralhad Joshi for celebrating 25 years of gold hallmarking in India with his esteemed presence at our exhibition GJS. His presence highlights the transformation of the Gem & Jewellery industry into a trusted and well-structured sector. We deeply appreciate his announcement of the groundbreaking hackathon with GJC and BIS, aimed at developing non-destructive testing for hallmarking jewellery. This initiative will revolutionize the industry, enhancing efficiency and consumer confidence. His support inspires us to make India a global leader in the Gems & Jewellery sector. Thank you for your invaluable contributions toward a brighter future.”

Mr. Saiyam Mehra, Convenor, GJS, said, “It is my distinct honour to welcome Shri Pralhad Joshi, Hon’ble Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and Minister of New & Renewable Energy, to the grand occasion of GJS 2025. This is truly a special moment for the 7th edition of GJS as we celebrate the 25 years of hallmarking in India with the Honourable Minister. As we move forward, this milestone reminds us of our collective responsibility to uphold the values of purity and trust, ensuring continued prosperity for both jewellers and consumers.”

About GJC
All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council is a national trade council established with the objective to address the industry, its functioning, and its cause with a 360 approach to promote and progress its growth, while protecting the industry’s interests. As a self-regulated trade body, GJC, since the last 19 years, has been serving as a bridge between the Government and the trade as well as undertaking various initiatives on behalf of and for the industry.

For further information, please feel free to contact All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC): Pratik Joshi:8433989682