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From Barriers to Architecture: How Security Design Is Reshaping India's Urban Homes

India’s residential real estate market is currently navigating a structural transformation that is as much about psychology as it is about engineering. As cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, and Mumbai continue to expand, the definition of a “secure home” is being rewritten. Whether in high-density multi-storey apartments or sprawling independent villas, security is no longer an afterthought. It is being integrated at the initial drawing board, a shift that is fundamentally changing how the industry perceives doors, windows, balconies, and facades. This evolution marks the convergence of two previously competing forces: uncompromising safety and Biophilic Design.

 

TENTUFF Security Door

 

The Voices of Change: National Summits and Professional Discourse
This is not a quiet shift; it is a loud conversation occurring at the highest levels of the profession. Over the last 24 months, national platforms such as the Indian Housing Summits and the 2025 CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) Conference, as well as various institutional webinars hosted by architectural bodies, have featured leading designers and urban planners advocating for a “New Urban Envelope.”


At these forums, the consensus has been clear: the “Iron Cage” era of Indian architecture is over. Speakers have highlighted that traditional MS (Mild Steel) grills are no longer just an aesthetic eyesore; they are an architectural failure that severs the connection between the resident and the natural environment. These thought leaders are advocating for a transition toward “Passive Security,” which involves solutions that protect the home without compromising the biophilic benefits of light and air.


The Economic and Biological Value of “Breathable” Homes
Biophilic design, the deliberate integration of natural light, fresh air, and outdoor connectivity, has moved from a luxury “ask” to a mainstream requirement. According to the JLL Residential Dynamics Report (Q4 2025), apartments and independent homes priced above ₹1 Crore now command a dominant 63% share of total annual sales in India’s top seven cities.


This premium segment is driven by a quest for wellness. Research consistently demonstrates that sustained access to natural light and fresh air can reduce urban stress levels by up to 20%. For residents who spend the majority of their time indoors, these elements are essential to the quality of life. Projects that successfully prioritize “breathability” now command a 10–15% price premium, as buyers reject the visual heaviness of traditional bars in favour of seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity.


Universal Security: From High-Rises to Independent Villas
While the architectural form may vary, the need for advanced security is universal. In high-rise complexes, residents face the challenge of shared corridors and proximity to strangers. Conversely, independent houses and villas deal with “perimeter isolation,” where entry points are often hidden from public view.


The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2024/25 report highlights a 7.2% rise in property-related crimes in metropolitan hubs, with a startling 34% of burglars entering through the front door. This is often due to the physical vulnerability of standard wooden doors or basic locks to “forced entry” techniques like prying. Today’s security must be proactive rather than reactive. This has created a critical need for active security barriers, which are engineered systems like high-tensile mesh that protect entry points in both villas and apartments without turning the home into a windowless bunker.

 

Today’s security must be proactive rather than reactive. This has created a critical need for active security barriers -engineered systems like high-tensile mesh that protect entry points in both villas and apartments without turning the home into a windowless bunker.

 

Engineering an Absolute Sanctuary: The TENTUFF™ Innovation

Introduced to the Indian market in 2016 by SSA INDIA, a subsidiary of Security Solutions Australia, TENTUFF™ provides a new concept in home security. Central to this is the proprietary Poly Tensile® mesh, a high-tensile woven stainless-steel wire designed for strength with a “seamless view” appearance.

 

This mesh is combined with an engineered aluminium frame using a one-of-a-kind mechanical fastening system. This construction allows for 24/7 natural ventilation and uninterrupted views while ensuring the mesh cannot be kicked or pulled out of its frame.

 

The Mechanics of 3-Point Security

The TENTUFF™ range is engineered specifically for India’s tropical climate, offering protection against intrusion, insects, The core of this protection is the 3-point locking system:

  • Simultaneous Activation: Turning the internal snib activates three super-strong locking tongues at the top, center, and bottom of the door.

  • Crowbar Resistance: This creates a fail-proof, uniform grip across the frame to withstand prying and attack.

  • Integrated Safety: The design includes a crowbar striker plate, a high-quality lock body, and concealed tamper-proof fixings for absolute security.

 

Solving the “Security-Ventilation Paradox”
The rising tension between safety and wellness has birthed a thriving market for high-tensile stainless-steel mesh. Architects are now specifying these systems across various configurations, from bi-fold and French security doors to patio and window systems. Unlike traditional bars, this mesh preserves uninterrupted views of the sky and greenery while being anchored in corrosion-resistant aluminium frames.


The “biophilic dividend” of these systems extends into public health. In a tropical country where vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria are persistent challenges, security mesh allows residents to keep windows and doors safely ajar. This enables genuine cross-ventilation and the “Passive Cooling” required by IGBC 2026 Green Building standards, which can lower indoor temperatures by 3°C to 5°C naturally, significantly reducing the energy loads of air conditioning.


The Shift toward Standardized Performance (AS 5039)
To distinguish genuine protection from simple insect screening, architects at national seminars have emphasized the need for standardized mechanical proof. The industry is moving away from subjective “sturdiness” toward the Australian Standard (AS 5039), the global benchmark for security screens.


Under this rigorous standard, a security screen must be tested as a single, integrated system comprising the mesh, frame, and locks to demonstrate measurable resistance against three specific intrusion methods: the Knife Shear Test, where the mesh must withstand a heavy-duty blade drawn across its surface three times to prevent “stealth slicing”; the Dynamic Impact Test, which requires the system to remain intact after five consecutive strikes from a 40kg lead-filled bag to ensure the mesh does not “pop” out under the force of a human kick; and the Jemmy Test, where the frame and multi-point locks must resist standardized prying forces from tools like crowbars to ensure the perimeter cannot be bypassed at its edges.


A Collaborative Future for Indian Housing
This evolution requires a new level of collaboration between security hardware manufacturers, architects, and developers at the planning stage. As project specifications move from “optional upgrades” to “inevitable considerations,” consumer education remains key. Whether securing a luxury penthouse or a private villa, homebuyers must learn to evaluate security not on price alone, but on its contribution to certified performance, health outcomes, and long-term asset value.


As Indian cities grow, the homes being built today will define the liveability standards for the next generation. With regulatory bodies like the Bureau of Indian Standards tightening safety norms and green certifications like IGBC rewarding passive design, the industry is proving that security and biophilic living are no longer competing priorities. We are entering an era where our homes can finally be as open as they are secure.

Saya Gold Avenue Emerges Among NCR's Fastest Growing Premium Residential Addresses

Luxury housing demand in Indirapuram is witnessing a visible transformation, with premium residential valuations in the micro-market steadily approaching ₹15,000 per sq ft as affluent NCR buyers increasingly gravitate toward established urban destinations. Unlike speculative corridors that are still evolving, Indirapuram offers a mature residential ecosystem backed by strong connectivity, developed social infrastructure, and everyday urban convenience. This shift in buyer preference has brought renewed attention to residential property in Indirapuram, particularly among families seeking long-term lifestyle value rather than short-term market speculation. As expectations around urban living continue to evolve, flats in Indirapuram are increasingly being viewed as part of a more complete and well-connected residential experience.
 

Saya Gold Avenue Emerges Among NCR’s Fastest Growing Premium Residential Addresses

 

The Growing Appeal of Premium Living in Indirapuram
Against this backdrop, Saya Gold Avenue, the flagship development by Saya Homes, has emerged as one of the most aspirational residential addresses within Indirapuram’s evolving premium housing landscape. Among notable projects in Indirapuram, this development has increasingly drawn attention for creating a lifestyle experience that goes beyond conventional apartment living. The project has also emerged as a preferred choice among entrepreneurs, doctors, startup founders, and Delhi-based business families looking for upgraded lifestyle residences close to the capital while remaining within a more established and accessible urban setting. The project’s high-rise architecture lends it a distinct skyline presence, while its emphasis on openness, elevated views, and thoughtfully planned living spaces resonates strongly with buyers seeking a more refined urban lifestyle. Over time, Saya Gold Avenue is not just becoming recognised as a residential development, but as an address that reflects exclusivity, modern living aspirations, and the growing preference for vertically integrated urban communities.


Why Indirapuram Continues to Hold Strong Residential Appeal
What further strengthens Indirapuram’s appeal is the fact that it has evolved into a self-sustained urban neighbourhood rather than remaining just a residential cluster. From reputed schools and healthcare institutions to shopping centres, entertainment hubs, and office connectivity, the micro-market offers the kind of everyday convenience that modern homebuyers increasingly prioritise. Its strategic proximity to NH-9 has also added to its growing desirability, especially among professionals and affluent families seeking faster access to Delhi, Noida, and other parts of NCR. In many ways, the preference for a luxury apartment near NH-9 today reflects a larger shift in buyer behaviour, where connectivity is no longer viewed only through the lens of commute time, but as an important contributor to overall lifestyle quality and urban ease.

 

Redefining High-Rise Living in Urban NCR 
In increasingly dense urban environments, high-rise living is no longer viewed merely as an architectural choice. It has become closely associated with privacy, openness, and a more elevated way of living. This is where Saya Gold Avenue creates a distinct residential experience. The vertical design of the development allows for expansive city views, better natural ventilation, and a greater sense of spatial freedom that is often difficult to achieve in conventional residential layouts. For many premium buyers, especially those upgrading within NCR, the appeal lies in the feeling of living above the noise and congestion of the city while still remaining deeply connected to it. That balance between urban accessibility and a more open, breathable lifestyle is increasingly shaping buyer preference in established micro-markets like Indirapuram.


Mr. Vikas Bhasin, Founder & Chairman, Saya Group, says, “At Saya Gold Avenue, we have seen strong resonance from buyers who value openness, connectivity, wellness-driven amenities, and the comfort of living within a mature urban ecosystem like Indirapuram. The project’s high-rise design and community-focused planning reflect the evolving aspirations of modern families who want elevated living experiences without compromising on convenience, accessibility, or the everyday ease that established locations naturally offer.


Lifestyle-Led Communities Are Driving Premium Buyers’ Interest 
Moreover, this shift is becoming increasingly visible in the preferences of affluent homebuyers, who are now evaluating residences through a far more lifestyle-oriented lens than before. For many HNIs, the decision to invest in a home today is shaped not just by location or apartment size, but by the overall quality of the living ecosystem surrounding it. Residential property in Indirapuram that offers wellness-focused amenities, curated community spaces, seamless convenience, and a certain prestige of address is witnessing stronger traction among this segment. In established urban locations like Indirapuram, buyers are particularly drawn to developments that combine luxury with practicality—allowing them to enjoy premium lifestyle experiences without moving away from the connectivity and familiarity of the city’s core residential fabric.


A major part of this appeal also lies in the way the project approaches everyday living. Rather than treating amenities as standalone additions, Saya Gold Avenue creates a more integrated lifestyle ecosystem centred around wellness, leisure, and community interaction. Landscaped greens, jogging tracks, and fitness spaces encourage a healthier daily routine, while the clubhouse, recreational zones, and pool create opportunities for relaxation and social engagement within the community itself. Increasingly, buyers are gravitating toward homes that simplify daily life and bring comfort, recreation, and convenience together within one residential environment.


Demand for Larger Homes Continues to Rise 
Another trend shaping demand in premium housing markets is the growing preference for larger, more adaptable homes. The demand for 4 BHK flats in Indirapuram has seen a noticeable rise as affluent families increasingly seek residences that can accommodate evolving lifestyle expectations, hybrid work routines, and more flexible living arrangements. Buyers today are prioritising space not only for comfort, but also for functionality—whether it is dedicated work areas, private family zones, or lifestyle-driven interiors. 


Thus, the growing preference for developments like Saya Gold Avenue reflects a broader shift taking place across NCR’s premium housing market. As buyers become more discerning, established micro-markets like Indirapuram are regaining stronger relevance because they offer a balance of familiarity, accessibility, and lifestyle depth that newer locations often take years to build. 

Ganesh Real Estate Management Institute (GREMI) Secures AICTE Approval as Standalone Business School, a First for Real Estate Education in India

Ganesh Real Estate Management Institute (GREMI), specialist institution for real estate education, supported Ganesh Housing Limited, has received approval from the All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), marking a significant milestone towards further institutionalising real estate education in India. With this, GREMI becomes Gujarat’s first AICTE-approved institute exclusively focused on the real estate sector and will commence its first academic batch from August 2026.

 

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GREMI becomes Gujarat’s first AICTE-approved institute exclusively dedicated to real estate education and leadership development


At a time when India’s urban landscape is expanding at an unprecedented pace, the real estate sector is undergoing a shift towards greater scale, complexity, and accountability. Yet, the availability of structured, industry-aligned education in real estate development and management has remained limited. GREMI has been conceptualised to bridge this gap by building a formal, multidisciplinary talent pipeline equipped to navigate the evolving demands of urban development.


Envisioned as part of the company’s broader commitment to contribute to the sector beyond development through education and long-term capability building, GREMI is associated by Mahamati Skill and Education Foundation (MSEF), a not-for-profit organisation established under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013, envisioned by Mr. Shekhar Patel, Director of Ganesh Housing Limited, National President of CREDAI. MSEF operates independently and undertakes its initiatives through funding support received from associated entities and family trusts.


The institute will operate from the GREMI City Campus, at Million Minds Tech City, enabling a strong integration between academic learning and industry exposure. The institute’s academic framework is designed to integrate key facets of the built environment, including development, finance, urban planning, governance, and technology. This approach reflects the increasingly interconnected nature of real estate, where decision-making requires cross-functional expertise and strategic thinking.


Commenting on the development, Mr. Shekhar Patel, Director of Ganesh Housing Limited, National President of CREDAI, said, “India’s real estate sector is entering a phase where the expectations from urban development are far more nuanced and future-focused. GREMI has been envisioned as a platform that nurtures professionals who can respond to this shift with both technical depth and a broader understanding of the ecosystem. Receiving AICTE approval is a significant milestone as we work towards building an institution that is relevant, rigorous, and globally aligned.”


Adding perspective on the institute’s vision, Dr. Anil Kashyap, Former Chancellor of NICMAR University and now Director General and CEO, GREMI, said, “Real estate education in India has largely remained unstructured despite the sector’s scale and importance. With GREMI, we aim to mainstream real estate education and position it as a credible and aspirational career choice for the younger generation, while also creating a strong foundation for research, innovation and policy engagement in the built environment. Our goal is not just to create industry-ready talent, but also to contribute to research, policy dialogue, and innovation in the built environment.”


GREMI’s flagship Postgraduate Certificate (PGCM) in Real Estate Development and Management will be introduced with its Founding Cohort of 2026, comprising approximately 70 students. In parallel, GREMI has applied to UGC to grant a Deemed University status and establish a 100-acre integrated teaching, research and residential leadership campus that will serve as a long-term centre of excellence for real estate education, research and innovation.


With its focus on building capability, encouraging responsible leadership and supporting the future of urban development, GREMI represents a meaningful step towards strengthening the academic foundation of India’s real estate sector.


About Ganesh Real Estate Management Institute (GREMI)
Ganesh Real Estate Management Institute (GREMI) has been established to build a structured education ecosystem for India’s real estate and built environment sector. Focused on real estate education, leadership development, and industry-oriented research, GREMI seeks to bridge the gap between academic understanding and the evolving needs of urban development. The institution has received approval from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), becoming Gujarat’s first AICTE-approved institution exclusively dedicated to the real estate sector. Established as part of the broader vision of Ganesh Housing Limited, GREMI is designed to create future-ready professionals with multidisciplinary capabilities across planning, finance, execution, governance and technology. 


About Mahamati Skill and Education Foundation (MSEF) 
Mahamati Skill and Education Foundation is a not-for-profit organization headquartered in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Under the leadership of Director Shekhar Patel and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anil Kashyap, the Foundation is steadfastly committed to advancing holistic educational development and delivering professional skill-building programs tailored to bridge the employment gap. Ganesh Real Estate Management Institute (GREMI) is an initiative of Mahamati Skill and Education Foundation for imparting specialist real estate management education programs approved by AICTE. The Institute campus is based in Million Minds Tech Park to run the programs initially. As a long-term vision, GREMI will have its own sprawling campus of 100 Acres in Ahmedabad to transform it into a specialist hub of Real Estate Management lifecycle. Through its philanthropic initiatives, Mahamati Skill and Education Foundation endeavours to foster career readiness, enhance socioeconomic mobility, and create meaningful, lasting impact in the communities it serves.


About Ganesh Housing Corporation Limited
Ganesh Housing Corporation Limited, headquartered in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, stands as a pioneering force in India’s real estate sector with over six decades of excellence. The company made history as one of the first real estate developers to be listed on both the NSE and BSE, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and financial governance.


The company has demonstrated remarkable growth, having completed over 22 million square feet of development while maintaining an impressive 35 million square feet of ongoing projects. Their diverse portfolio encompasses Grade A+ commercial spaces, luxury residential properties, villas, industrial hubs, and data centres. Their commitment to quality is validated by their ISO 9001:2015 certification. Ganesh Housing’s diverse portfolio also features signature developments such as Ganesh Genesis and Maple Tree Garden Homes, reflecting the company’s commitment to quality, comfort, and value. Beyond real estate, Ganesh Housing is committed to social responsibility through initiatives in education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, ensuring a positive community impact alongside business growth.

Skyscanner's Smarter Summer Report: 77% of Indians are Confident to Travel this Summer

  • Nearly 9 in 10 Indians Are Planning or Have Booked Their Summer 2026 Holiday with Hidden Gems Topping Their Travel Wishlists

  • Indian Travellers Are Choosing Smarter Summer Holidays from offbeat destinations to flexible travel dates and last-minute bookings

 

Despite a backdrop of uncertainty, summer travel is still on for many, with 77% of Indians confident about travelling in the next 3 months. In fact, nearly 9 in 10 Indians are planning or have already booked their Summer 2026 holiday. With only about 38% yet to book their summer holidays, but are actively looking, showing sustained desire for travel despite ongoing uncertainty.

 

Neel Ghose, Travel and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India

 

However, planning is becoming increasingly complex. This evolving approach is being shaped by a few key considerations:

  • Airfare trends, with nearly half of travellers (48%) factoring in fluctuating flight prices

  • Overall trip value, as 45% weigh total travel costs more carefully

  • Travel advisories, influencing decisions for 34% of travellers

  • Operational disruptions, such as airport closures, are impacting 32% of plans

 

However, there are early signs of more informed planning, with 58% believing July offers cheaper flights compared to August, highlighting a growing awareness of when to travel for better value.

 

As travellers navigate these trade-offs, planning is becoming more dynamic than ever. Rather than locking in early, many are keeping an eye on price movements and exploring alternative destinations before committing

 

Neel Ghose, Travel and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India, said, “Summer 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most intent-driven travel seasons we’ve seen in India, but what’s changing is how that intent is translating into action. Travellers are not stepping back; they are adapting within constraints. Instead of cancelling, they are staying flexible on where they go, with many willing to switch destinations in response to changing costs and conditions.

 

We’re also seeing a clear shift in mindset from ‘where everyone is going’ to ‘where else can I go’. This growing openness to alternative and lesser-known destinations signals a more confident and value-aware traveller, one who is more open to switching plans if it improves the overall experience. With these pressures shaping decisions, travellers are looking for smarter ways to unlock value without compromising on the trip. Tools like Skyscanner’s ‘Whole Month’ search are helping travellers make smarter decisions by making it easier to compare options, track fares, and identify better-value travel windows.”

 

Outsmart Travel Planning Hurdles

As travel intent remains strong, planning is becoming more dynamic. Rather than cancelling trips, travellers are increasingly adapting, switching destinations, adjusting timing, or rethinking how to get the most out of their travel budgets.

 

Features like Skyscanner’s Price Alerts are helping simplify these decisions by allowing travellers to track fare changes and book when prices are right.

 

Outsmart Destination Choices and Summer Crowds

This shift is already visible in destination choices and travel pattern:

  • 81% are open to lesser-known destinations

  • 60% are actively seeking quieter, less crowded places

  • 9 in 10 say it is important that their holiday spend benefits local communities and small businesses

 

A significant behavioural shift is underway, as travellers move away from crowded hotspots towards more meaningful, offbeat and community-driven experiences.

 

(See the top most popular and cheapest destinations for Summer 2026 below in the appendix.)

 

Zostel, a hostel network available on Skyscanner, is already seeing this shift in action.

 

Aviral Gupta, CEO of Zostel and Zo World, said, “At Zostel, we’ve been watching this shift happen in real time. Offbeat destinations across our network grew 88% year-on-year, and a significant 60% of those guests were first-time travellers, many of them from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Smaller-town India is no longer just a backdrop for travel stories; it’s where the story begins. Partnering with Skyscanner on this report only reinforces what we see on the ground every day. The Indian traveller is smarter, bolder, and more curious than ever.

 

(See top 10 most popular and cheapest destinations for Summer 2026 below in the appendix.)

 

Outsmart Flexible Travel Planning

While travel intent remains strong, flexibility is also reshaping how plans are executed. Although 58% of travellers have fixed travel dates due to work or school commitments, 30% are choosing to switch destinations rather than cancel trips, showing how adaptability is becoming central to travel planning.

 

As travellers balance fixed schedules with evolving preferences, the findings point to a clear shift towards more flexible, value-led decision-making, where being open to alternatives is becoming the defining factor in making summer travel plans work.

 

Outsmart Group Travel Planning Hurdles

Planning group summer holidays is known to be effortful. On average, Indians spend over 15 hours coordinating a group trip, with nearly half saying it is more stressful than major life events such as moving house or planning a wedding.

 

The biggest challenge often lies in aligning preferences, budgets and schedules, making group travel one of the most time-consuming parts of the journey. As a result, travellers are increasingly looking for ways to simplify decision-making and reduce friction when planning together. The Skyscanner app has multiple travel planning tools to help travellers compare options and find the best deals available.

 

Beyond Planning: The Emotional Side of Travel

But beyond the planning, travel remains an emotional experience shaped by the moments, sounds, and memories that stay with us long after the trip ends. Complementing these insights from the Smarter Summer Report, Skyscanner has also curated a summer soundtrack, in collaboration with musician and artist Mayur Jumani, created from familiar sounds of travel, from planes taking off to security check in, luggage trollies, and airport announcements, bringing the rhythm of the journey itself to life.

 

The campaign will be launched on Skyscanner India’s official Instagram on 1st May.

 

To explore the full Smarter Summer report and start planning with more options, visit here: Smarter Summer Report

 

As always, travellers are encouraged to stay informed and keep up to date with local government travel advice before booking and compare live prices as they plan.

 

About Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a global leader in travel that helps travellers plan and book their trips with ease and confidence. Every month, Skyscanner connects millions of travellers, in 180 countries and 37 languages, to more than 1200 trusted travel partners so they can find flight, hotel or car hire options. Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has offices worldwide, in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America, where traveller-first innovations are developed and powered by data and insights. Making use of the latest technology, Skyscanner simplifies the complexity of travel and provides honest and transparent solutions, searching around 100 billion prices every day so travellers can be sure they’ve seen the best possible options, all in one place. 

 

Notes to the Editor:

To create our list of the cheapest destinations, we analysed millions of flight bookings to calculate the median return economy fare for all departure cities within each market. The data covers July–August 2026 and excludes promotional fares.

 

*OnePoll research conducted among 2,000 respondents in India, March 2026.

**Flights data based on returned economy flights.

***All illustrative prices in this release are based on Skyscanner data for the specified period and are subject to change. Live prices for travel on the day of publication may vary. 

 

Appendix

The Top Cheapest Destinations for Summer 2026:   

Destination City

Country

Avg. Seat Price in INR

Kozhikode

India

4984.80

Diu

India

6808.84

Puducherry

India

11,435.28

George Town

Malaysia

12,029.24

Jammu

India

13,126.64

Shillong

India

13,751.60

Krabi

Thailand

18,355.72

Phnom Penh

Cambodia

24,599.12

Victoria

Seychelles

46,836.04

 

Most Popular Destinations for Summer 2026:   

Ranking

Destination City

Destination Country

1

Bangkok

Thailand

2

Denpasar

Indonesia

3

Singapore

Singapore

4

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia

5

Tokyo

Japan

6

Phuket

Thailand

7

Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam

8

Colombo

Sri Lanka

9

Seoul

South Korea

10

Kathmandu

Nepal

Mrs Neerja Birla Leads Mpower Initiative with BTECH to Expand Evidence-Based Suicide Prevention Programme in India

In a significant step towards strengthening India’s mental health ecosystem, Mpower, an initiative of the Aditya Birla Education Trust (ABET) founded by Mrs Neerja Birla, has partnered with the globally renowned Behavioral Tech Institute (BTECH) to introduce a structured, evidence-based Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) programme in India.
 

This programme represents an important step in addressing high-risk mental health conditions, with Mpower being among the early mental healthcare providers in India to introduce a structured and evidence-based DBT programme at scale, particularly for individuals at risk of suicide and self-harm.
 

Representatives from Mpower, Behavioral Tech Institute, Marsh India, and participating clinicians during the ongoing DBT Intensive Training Programme in Mumbai
 

The initiative, which is also supported by Marsh India as part of its CSR commitment to enabling mental health initiatives in India, is being implemented through an ongoing DBT Intensive Programme in Mumbai for the first cohort, marking the beginning of a year-long structured capability-building journey aligned with global standards followed by the Behavioral Tech Institute. It goes beyond one-time training and includes foundational and advanced modules, ongoing case-based consultation, team-based learning, and real-world clinical application, ensuring sustained capability building.
 

India continues to face a significant mental health burden, with over 170,000 suicide deaths reported annually. Nearly 35-40 percent of these cases are among young people aged 15 to 29, with notable variations across gender. Despite this, access to structured and evidence-based interventions for high-risk individuals remains limited, particularly within public healthcare systems.
 

The programme has brought together leading clinicians and institutions, including NIMHANS, Punjab Health Ministry, Sion Hospital, Nair Hospital, KEM Hospital, Thane Regional Mental Hospital, Mindset Wellness, and Masina Hospital, as part of its first cohort aimed at strengthening the public healthcare system, reflecting a growing and multi-institutional commitment to building frontline clinical capacity.
 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), developed by Dr. Marsha M. Linehan, is globally recognised for its effectiveness in reducing suicide attempts, self-harm behaviours, and psychiatric hospitalisations. Its structured and skills-based approach makes it particularly relevant for individuals experiencing severe emotional distress and those at high risk of suicide. Over the next five years, Mpower aims to build a robust network of DBT-trained clinicians and enable the adoption of structured DBT protocols across leading public and private healthcare institutions, helping to bridge the gap between clinical need and access to specialised care in India.
 

Speaking on the initiative, Mrs Neerja Birla, Founder and Chairperson, Mpower and Aditya Birla Education Trust, said, “India is at a critical inflection point in its mental health journey. While awareness is increasing, there remains a significant gap between need and access, particularly for those at high risk of suicide and self-harm. DBT represents one of the most rigorously validated therapies globally for individuals in severe emotional distress. Through this collaboration, we aim to build clinical capability, equip practitioners with structured tools, and contribute to building more responsive and resilient mental healthcare communities in India by 2030.”
 

Mr Sanjay Kedia, CEO, Marsh India and President and CEO, Marsh India Insurance Brokers Private Limited, added, “Mental health is integral to societal and economic resilience. Supporting structured and evidence-based approaches such as DBT aligns with our commitment to enabling stronger and more prepared communities.”
 

Dean Lester, CEO, Behavioral Tech Institute said, “India’s need for high-quality and evidence-based mental health interventions is both urgent and significant. Through this collaboration, we are supporting the development of clinical capabilities aligned with global standards.”
 

This programme represents an important step towards strengthening India’s mental healthcare ecosystem by building clinical capacity, enabling structured interventions, and improving outcomes for individuals at high risk.
 

About Mpower

Backed by Aditya Birla Education Trust, Mpower is a pioneering holistic mental health initiative, now marking a pioneering holistic mental health initiative marking a decade of impact in transforming mental health awareness and care in India.Since its inception in 2016, under the leadership of Mrs. Neerja Birla, Mpower has been committed to building an inclusive ecosystem where individuals and their caregivers receive professional support, compassionate care, and acceptance—free from stigma or discrimination.
 

Through a multidisciplinary and integrated approach, Mpower delivers impact across a diverse ecosystem—including clinical services, outreach and awareness programs, institutional partnerships, helplines, educational initiatives such as Minds Matter, and sports-focused interventions like AMP.
 

Over the past 10 years, Mpower has played a pivotal role in normalizing conversations around mental well-being, reaching millions through its care delivery, prevention programs, and large-scale partnerships—continuing to enable individuals to seek support with dignity, confidence, and hope.
 

For more information, please visit mpowerminds.com.

Ai+ Smartphone Launches New Nova 2 Ultra TVC with Ishan Kishan, Redefining Smartphone Storytelling

Ai+ Smartphone has unveiled its latest campaign for the Nova 2 Ultra, fronted by Indian cricket star Ishan Kishan. With a distinctively quirky and narrative-led TVC, the brand takes a refreshing departure from conventional smartphone advertising bringing its flagship device to life through storytelling that is as engaging as it is memorable. This campaign is a continuation of Ai+ Smartphone’s broader vision to redefine the category through trust-led, design-forward innovation. 

 

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Ai+ Smartphone Launches New Nova 2 Ultra TVC with Ishan Kishan, Redefining Smartphone Storytelling


At the heart of the campaign lies a clear strategic intent to shift how smartphones are communicated and experienced. Moving beyond spec-heavy demonstrations, the film places the Nova 2 Ultra within relatable, everyday moments infused with humour, personality, and a strong sense of identity. The result is a campaign that not only highlights the device’s performance, design, and user experience, but does so in a way that feels intuitive, human, and culturally relevant.  Ishan Kishan’s natural screen presence adds authenticity and recall, reinforcing the brand’s positioning and reflects a shared mindset of pushing boundaries while staying grounded in real, everyday experiences.


Link to the TVC: drive.google.com/file/d/1fcM6jnKXAY7QpC6eglb0ils4RgCMtgeH/view .


Commenting on the launch, Archi Gogoi, Head of Brand, Marketing & Growth, Ai+ Smartphone, and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “At Ai+, we believe the real evolution in this category lies not just in what smartphones can do, but in how they are experienced by consumers. With this campaign, we wanted to move away from predictable formats and create something that feels instinctive, relatable, and true to how people engage with technology today. Ishan brings a natural confidence and relatability that aligns seamlessly with our vision of building a brand that is both accessible and distinct.”


Launched in April 2026, the Nova 2 Ultra represents the most complete expression of the Nova Series bringing together advanced capabilities with a bold, design-led approach. The device will be available for sale starting May 8th at 14999/- exclusively on Flipkart and select retail stores near you.


About Ai+ Smartphone
Ai+ Smartphone is a next-generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.


From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.


About NxtQuantum Shift Technologies
NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is authored in India and globally competitive.

Sport Stands Strong Against AI Disruption, Opening New Avenues for India

As artificial intelligence transforms industries from finance to media, one sector is proving unusually resilient. Sport.

 

While AI is already reshaping how content is produced, distributed and consumed, the core of sport remains fundamentally human. Live competition, physical performance and unscripted outcomes are not easily replicated or automated.

 

Nicole Junkermann – the magic of sport can’t be replaced by an algorithm

 

According to Nicole Junkermann, founder of Gameday by NJF Holdings, this gives sport a unique position in the emerging AI economy.

 

AI can enhance sport, analyse it and distribute it,” she says. “But it can’t replace it. The unpredictability of human competition is exactly what makes it valuable.

 

This dynamic is becoming increasingly relevant in India, where sport is undergoing rapid commercial and cultural expansion.

 

Cricket remains dominant, with the Indian Premier League now one of the most valuable sports properties in the world. But growth is no longer limited to a single discipline. Football, kabaddi, badminton and women’s sport are all attracting rising audiences, investment and media attention.

 

At the same time, India is one of the most digitally connected markets globally. Hundreds of millions of fans consume sport through mobile devices, social platforms and streaming services. This creates a powerful intersection between technology and live content.

 

AI is accelerating that shift.

From personalised highlights and real-time analytics to fan engagement tools and data-driven sponsorship models, AI is transforming the way sport is experienced and monetised. But crucially, it is doing so without displacing the underlying product. Instead, it is amplifying it.

 

Sport is becoming a kind of anchor asset in a digital world,Junkermann says. “As more content becomes synthetic or automated, authentic live experiences become more valuable, not less.”

 

India is particularly well positioned to capitalise on this trend.

 

The country combines scale, passion and a young, mobile-first audience. Leagues such as the IPL and Pro Kabaddi League have already demonstrated how sport can be packaged, distributed and monetised in new ways. The next phase will involve deeper integration of technology to expand reach and engagement further.

 

This includes direct-to-consumer platforms, athlete-led content, creator partnerships and new commercial models built around data and personalisation.

 

It also includes the rise of women’s sport, which remains underpenetrated but is growing rapidly, both in India and globally. As investment increases, these leagues have the potential to scale quickly in a digital-first environment.

 

The broader implication is that sport is not being disrupted by AI in the same way as other sectors. It is being revalued.

 

In a world where algorithms can generate text, images and even video, the scarcity of genuine, unscripted human performance becomes more pronounced. That scarcity underpins long-term economic value.

 

AI will change almost every industry,” Nicole Junkermann, who was born in 1980, adds. “But sport isn’t just content. It’s competition, identity and emotion. Those are much harder to automate.”

 

For India’s investors, media companies and policymakers, the opportunity is clear. By combining technological innovation with strong underlying sports assets, the country can build a more resilient and globally competitive sports ecosystem.

 

In the age of AI, that may prove to be a decisive advantage.

 

About Gameday by NJF Holdings

Gameday by NJF Holdings is a sports investment and strategic platform founded by Nicole Junkermann, born in 1980. Focused on building long-term value across leagues, media and sports technology, Gameday’s approach centres on structural growth, digital transformation and scalable fan ecosystems.

 

The platform is the largest shareholder in Italy’s professional women’s volleyball league, Lega Volley Femminile (LVF), where it is supporting league-level commercial and digital development. Gameday by NJF Holdings is also behind Cayo TV, a next-generation sports media platform designed to expand access, engagement and modern distribution for live sport audiences.

 

For more information visit: gameday.team

All India Russian Education Fair 2026 Opens in Chennai; 10,000 MBBS Seats are on Offer for Indian Students

Russia is the only foreign country in the world that fully complies with the National Medical Commission – India’s latest norms set for medical education overseas. The All-India Russian Education Fair for the academic year 2026-2027 will take place on 9th and 10th May at the Russian Centre of Science and Culture in Chennai, 10 am to 5 pm. Featuring the direct participation of as many as seven leading higher educational institutions, all belonging to the Russian government, the fair offers as many as 10,000 MBBS seats for the Indian students. The rise in the number of seats reflects the growing demand for medical education in Russia, the only foreign country at present to fully comply with the National Medical Commission of India’s latest norms set for medical education overseas.

 

(L-R): Mr. Ravi Chandran. C, Mr. Valerii Khodzhaev, Mr. Alexander Dodonov, Dr. Berezhanskiy Pavel Viacheslavovich

 

Spot admissions for MBBS and other programs can be made at the fair, which is scheduled to take place also in many locations in Tamil Nadu. It will be held between 10 am and 5 pm in Madurai on May 12 at Hotel Royal Court; Trichy on May 13 at Hotel Femina; Salem on May 14 at GRT Hotel Zibe; and Coimbatore on May 15 at The Grand Regent Hotel. There is no entry fee for the fair. For details about the programs and fair, students can call: 9282 221 221.

 

The MBBS courses in Russia are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. As the courses are highly-subsidised by the government, they are also the most affordable, with the total fee, starting from as low as Rs. 3.5 lakh per annum.

 

Indian students who have cleared National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and who have a minimum of 50% marks in the relevant core subjects/degrees (in the case of SC/ST and OBC students, the minimum marks is only 40%), can apply for MBBS courses in Russia. Tamil medium students can also apply. There are no pre-qualifying exams like CET, IELTS, etc. for admissions to universities in Russia.

 

The education fair 2026 also features the participation of science, technology, and engineering education institutions that offer programs in emerging and cutting-edge domains such as bio-technology, artificial intelligence, and data science. The universities participating in the Education Fair include: Volgograd State Medical University, Volgograd;

 

National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, Moscow; Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad; Kazan State Medical University, Kazan; North Caucasus Federal University, Stavropol; Moscow Aviation Institute, Moscow; and Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow.

 

The press meet, organised to announce the launch of the fair, was addressed by Mr. Valerii Khodzhaev, Consul General, Consulate General the Russian Federation in Chennai, South India, Mr. Alexander Dodonov, Vice Consul & Director, Russian House, Chennai, Dr. Berezhanskiy Pavel Viacheslavovich, Professor, N.F.Filatov Of The Sechenov’s University and Mr. Ravi Chandran. C, Managing Director, Study Abroad Educational Consultants, the authorised Indian representative for Russian Universities.

 

In his address, Mr. Valerii Khodzhaev said, “Russian universities have a long-standing reputation of providing high-quality medical education in the world. Students from India have been admitted to Russian universities for the last 60 years. Russia continues to be the top choice for Indian students seeking medical education abroad, as Russian universities proactively adhere to the changing norms and guidelines of India’s National Medical Commission (NMC) to ensure that their MBBS programs are well recognised in India. Every year thousands of Indian students step into Russia to get prestigious, globally recognised and affordable education. With a comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and advanced facilities, Russian universities offer a robust learning environment for Indian students pursuing medical education in the country.”

 

Talking about scholarship programs, Mr. Alexander Dodonov said, “As in the past, the Russian Government’s annual 100% scholarship programs will award grants to more than 200 Indian students this year as well. This will enable them to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, Specialist, and Postgraduate Programs in Russia’s leading universities free of cost. The cost of higher education is relatively cheaper because it is highly subsidised by the Government of the Russian Federation. Our universities also provide assistance as many have special adaptation programs and support systems for Indian students.

 

Mr. Ravi Chandran commented that, “There are more than 300,000 international students from 200 different countries enrolled in the 600-odd government universities across Russia. By and large, medicine is the most popular area of study among Indian students who choose to pursue their higher education in Russia. Currently, there are about 25,000 Indian students studying medicine in about 30 Russian universities that offer M.D, a degree equivalent to MBBS in India. All the Russian universities adhere to NMC guidelines – including the latest one issued by it in November, 2021 relating to the duration of the MBB program and internship, curriculum, medium of instruction (English), among others. The institutions have made sure that the safety of Indian students and their education are not impacted by the external geopolitical situations.”

 

Moreover eight weeks of intense training offered every year by Academy for Foreign Medical Graduates, Delhi, from second year of study to final year is a promising feature that guarantees increase in pass percentage of students,” he added.

 

For more details and spot admissions students can attend All India Russian Education Fair 2026. They can furnish valid credentials supporting their eligibility to pursue Bachelor’s / Post-graduate degree programs for 2026-27 academic year, scheduled to start from September, 2026.

Global Energy Alliance Appoints Renewable Energy Entrepreneur Tanya Singhal to Lead India Operations

The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (Global Energy Alliance) has appointed Tanya Singhal as Vice President, India. A renewable energy entrepreneur and climate tech leader, Singhal joins at a pivotal moment as the Global Energy Alliance scales its work to strengthen India’s energy systems and expand reliable, affordable clean power. Her appointment comes as the Global Energy Alliance marks three years of work in India, advancing efforts to build more modern, resilient power systems through battery storage, grid digitalization, and distributed energy, while expanding jobs and economic opportunity.
 

Tanya Singhal, VP – India, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet

 

Tanya Singhal is the co-founder of SolarArise, a large-scale, grid-connected solar platform she built and led for eight years. During her tenure, she raised and deployed over ₹2,000 crores in capital, backed by the European Investment Bank’s GEEREF fund and Kotak Mahindra’s Singapore-based infrastructure fund, to develop a 500 MWp portfolio of utility-scale solar assets across multiple states. She later led a landmark exit through a sale to an Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) listed on the London Stock Exchange, making SolarArise one of the first Indian renewable platforms to achieve an LSE listing. She is an alumna of IIT Delhi and a former strategy consultant at BCG.
 

Commenting on the appointment, Woochong Um, CEO of Global Energy Alliance said, “Tanya has built and scaled clean energy platforms in one of the world’s most important and fastest-moving energy markets. India will play a defining role in how the energy transition unfolds, and it is already showing what modern, resilient power systems can look like. Her leadership will help us accelerate solutions that strengthen the grid, expand opportunity, and unlock investment at scale.”
 

Singhal has worked closely with India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. A recognized voice on climate and energy policy, she is a frequent speaker at leading global and national forums.
 

Tanya Singhal said, “The energy transition today is fundamentally about energy sovereignty: ensuring 24-hour, reliable clean power for every Indian. That requires modernized grids, battery storage, and the integration of distributed renewable energy. That’s precisely where Global Energy Alliance is focused, and what drew me to this role. Global Energy Alliance’s ability to bring together governments, private capital, and communities is key to unlocking solutions at scale. I’m excited to bring my experience building and scaling SolarArise to help accelerate that progress at a moment of real momentum.”
 

In India, Global Energy Alliance has supported a portfolio of 26 projects deployed and in development, on track to unlock approximately $1 billion in finance. These efforts are expected to improve access for 49 million people, support 2.2 million jobs and livelihoods, and reduce 166 million tons of emissions. In February 2026, the Global Energy Alliance launched the India Grids of the Future Accelerator with an initial $25 million to support grid modernization and integration of renewable energy.

Farmley Turns Healthy Snacking into a 30-Day Habit Through Gamified 'Daily Fuel Challenge'

Healthy snacking brand Farmley has announced the winners of its 30-day ‘Daily Fuel Challenge’, a gamified healthy eating initiative conducted through April 2026. The campaign encouraged consumers and creators across the country to create and share one recipe reel a day using products from the brand’s limited-edition Daily Fuel Box.

 

Farmley gamifies healthy snacking with new ‘Daily Fuel’ campaign

 

More than 50 creators and consumers participated in the initiative, with several completing all 30 days of recipe-based content creation. Farmley also sold over 500 Daily Fuel Boxes during the campaign window.

 

Participants ranged from everyday home cooks to creators with audiences exceeding 200,000 followers. As the challenge progressed, participants began interacting with each other, exchanging recipes, and amplifying fellow creators’ content, eventually forming an online community referred to as the ‘Intentional Food Club’.

 

The challenge concluded with 27 winners across multiple participation tiers receiving rewards including a PS5, Dyson Airwrap, and Decathlon vouchers worth INR 14 lakh in total. The campaign generated over 1,000 user-created recipe reels, 4.5 million+ views, and 7,000+ follower growth during the campaign period.

 

Aman Gupta, Head of Marketing, Farmley, said, “The idea behind the Daily Fuel Challenge was to create stronger behavioural engagement around healthy snacking. We wanted to move beyond one-time product trials and encourage consumers to actually build everyday habits around the products. The challenge format made healthy eating more interactive, consistent, and community-driven.”

 

He added, “What stood out for us was the level of organic participation the campaign created. Participants were not just posting content for rewards, they were building routines, exchanging ideas, and motivating each other throughout the 30 days. That kind of genuine advocacy is extremely valuable for a brand.”

 

Designed to encourage repeat consumption and daily engagement, the Daily Fuel Box comprised Farmley’s Chia Seeds, Original Trail Mix, and Power Up Seed Mix along with recipe cards, a ceramic bowl, wooden scoop, fridge magnets, star stickers, and a bingo-style tracker. The challenge aimed to make healthy eating more interactive while helping consumers incorporate seeds and mixes into their everyday routines.