“I’ve tried everything — diets, gym memberships, early morning walks. Nothing works.”

Dr. Saravana Kumar, Lead Consultant – Department of Obesity & Diabetes Surgery Centre, GEM Hospital, Coimbatore

This is a sentence doctors hear almost every day. It reflects not failure, but deep frustration. On the occasion of World Obesity Day, it is important to recognise that obesity is not merely a lifestyle issue – it is a chronic, progressive disease that often requires structured medical care.

A 54-year-old woman recently walked into our clinic weighing 109.5 kilograms, with a body mass index (BMI) of 50.7 – categorising her condition as severe obesity. For years, she had been battling uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension. Despite taking four oral anti-diabetic medications and a staggering 115 units of insulin daily, her blood sugar levels remained poorly controlled, with an HbA1c of 11.8%.

Further medical evaluation revealed additional complications, including severe fatty liver disease, gallstones and symptoms strongly suggestive of obstructive sleep apnea – a condition often linked with obesity and associated with increased cardiovascular risk.

After careful medical evaluation and preparation, she underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery along with laparoscopic gallbladder removal. The procedure was performed using minimally invasive techniques, allowing for faster recovery and reduced surgical trauma. Within two days of surgery, her medications were reassessed and significantly reduced, and she was safely discharged on the third postoperative day.

The results over the next six months were remarkable. She lost 25 kilograms, and her insulin requirement dropped dramatically from 115 units per day to just 16 units, along with only one oral diabetes medication. Her HbA1c improved from 11.8% to 7%, indicating much better diabetes control. Her liver enzymes normalised, reflecting recovery from fatty liver disease, while her blood pressure medications were reduced and cholesterol medication was discontinued.

Commenting on the case, Dr. Saravana Kumar, Lead Consultant – Department of Obesity & Diabetes Surgery Centre, GEM Hospital, Coimbatore, says, “World Obesity Day reminds us that obesity is not simply about weight — it is a complex metabolic disease. Patients often struggle for years with diets and medications before seeking medical help. Metabolic surgery offers a scientifically proven option for individuals with severe obesity and uncontrolled diabetes. In many cases, it not only helps patients lose weight but also significantly improves or even reverses diabetes and other metabolic conditions, helping them regain health and quality of life.”

This case highlights the powerful role of bariatric surgery, not merely as a weight-loss intervention but as a treatment for metabolic disorders. For many patients struggling with severe obesity and uncontrolled diabetes, timely medical intervention can reduce medication dependence and dramatically improve overall wellbeing.

“I’ve tried everything — diets, gym memberships, early morning walks. Nothing works.”

Dr. Saravana Kumar, Lead Consultant – Department of Obesity & Diabetes Surgery Centre, GEM Hospital, Coimbatore

This is a sentence doctors hear almost every day. It reflects not failure, but deep frustration. On the occasion of World Obesity Day, it is important to recognise that obesity is not merely a lifestyle issue – it is a chronic, progressive disease that often requires structured medical care.

A 54-year-old woman recently walked into our clinic weighing 109.5 kilograms, with a body mass index (BMI) of 50.7 – categorising her condition as severe obesity. For years, she had been battling uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension. Despite taking four oral anti-diabetic medications and a staggering 115 units of insulin daily, her blood sugar levels remained poorly controlled, with an HbA1c of 11.8%.

Further medical evaluation revealed additional complications, including severe fatty liver disease, gallstones and symptoms strongly suggestive of obstructive sleep apnea – a condition often linked with obesity and associated with increased cardiovascular risk.

After careful medical evaluation and preparation, she underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery along with laparoscopic gallbladder removal. The procedure was performed using minimally invasive techniques, allowing for faster recovery and reduced surgical trauma. Within two days of surgery, her medications were reassessed and significantly reduced, and she was safely discharged on the third postoperative day.

The results over the next six months were remarkable. She lost 25 kilograms, and her insulin requirement dropped dramatically from 115 units per day to just 16 units, along with only one oral diabetes medication. Her HbA1c improved from 11.8% to 7%, indicating much better diabetes control. Her liver enzymes normalised, reflecting recovery from fatty liver disease, while her blood pressure medications were reduced and cholesterol medication was discontinued.

Commenting on the case, Dr. Saravana Kumar, Lead Consultant – Department of Obesity & Diabetes Surgery Centre, GEM Hospital, Coimbatore, says, “World Obesity Day reminds us that obesity is not simply about weight — it is a complex metabolic disease. Patients often struggle for years with diets and medications before seeking medical help. Metabolic surgery offers a scientifically proven option for individuals with severe obesity and uncontrolled diabetes. In many cases, it not only helps patients lose weight but also significantly improves or even reverses diabetes and other metabolic conditions, helping them regain health and quality of life.”

This case highlights the powerful role of bariatric surgery, not merely as a weight-loss intervention but as a treatment for metabolic disorders. For many patients struggling with severe obesity and uncontrolled diabetes, timely medical intervention can reduce medication dependence and dramatically improve overall wellbeing.

In the educational sphere, the idea of award and recognition transcends merely titles and operational landmarks and extends to the profound effect of leadership roles in the background, crafting the future of institutions and human lives worldwide. Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal, Hon’ble Trustee of Mumbai Educational Trust (MET), was conferred with the ‘Distinguished Academic Leadership Award’ at the Valedictory Ceremony of the 5th CiiA Innovation Awards 2026, held on 07 February 2026.

MET Trustee Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal being honoured with the Distinguished Academic Leadership Award at the Valedictory Ceremony of the 5th CiiA Innovation Awards

This accolade recognises individuals who have exhibited exemplary and remarkable performance in strengthening educational ecosystems and developing and enhancing innovations to ensure institutions sufficiently meet the needs arising in society over time. The honour was presented to Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal by the event’s Chief Guest, Prof. V. N. Rajasekharan, Advisor & Professor of Eminence, Reliance Jio University, Mumbai, during the Innovation Award Ceremony.
 

As a Member of the Legislative Council of Maharashtra and a prominent figure in public life, Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal, has been instrumental in activities that foster excellence in all walks of life in the domains of education, society, and culture. Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal remains focused on inculcating his philosophy of leading institutions towards becoming places of the future with academic rigour and applicability to the real world at large. He brings together public service and educational leadership, ensuring that institutions under his stewardship remain socially oriented and globally aligned.

At MET, Mumbai, his leadership has been instrumental in strengthening institutional governance mechanisms, driving academic innovation and facilitate a greater intersection of learning and industries. His vision of experiential learning, real-world relevance, and strong academic values continues to shape MET’s approach to curriculum, faculty engagement, and student preparedness.

Under his guidance, MET has expanded programmes across diverse fields such as Management, Media, Pharmacy, Information Technology, International Studies, and K–12 education through MET Rishikul Vidyalaya – continuing the legacy established by Founder Chairman Mr. Chaggan Bhujbal in 1989.
 

Reflecting on the recognition, Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal said, “Innovation has been central to MET since its inception. We have always focused on research, industry engagement, and building future-ready leaders. I am honoured to receive this award and grateful for the collective efforts of everyone who shares this vision.”

The Distinguished Academic Leadership Award stands as a testament to leadership that goes beyond administration—one that builds systems, empowers people, and shapes institutions to serve society with purpose and impact.

In the educational sphere, the idea of award and recognition transcends merely titles and operational landmarks and extends to the profound effect of leadership roles in the background, crafting the future of institutions and human lives worldwide. Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal, Hon’ble Trustee of Mumbai Educational Trust (MET), was conferred with the ‘Distinguished Academic Leadership Award’ at the Valedictory Ceremony of the 5th CiiA Innovation Awards 2026, held on 07 February 2026.

MET Trustee Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal being honoured with the Distinguished Academic Leadership Award at the Valedictory Ceremony of the 5th CiiA Innovation Awards

This accolade recognises individuals who have exhibited exemplary and remarkable performance in strengthening educational ecosystems and developing and enhancing innovations to ensure institutions sufficiently meet the needs arising in society over time. The honour was presented to Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal by the event’s Chief Guest, Prof. V. N. Rajasekharan, Advisor & Professor of Eminence, Reliance Jio University, Mumbai, during the Innovation Award Ceremony.
 

As a Member of the Legislative Council of Maharashtra and a prominent figure in public life, Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal, has been instrumental in activities that foster excellence in all walks of life in the domains of education, society, and culture. Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal remains focused on inculcating his philosophy of leading institutions towards becoming places of the future with academic rigour and applicability to the real world at large. He brings together public service and educational leadership, ensuring that institutions under his stewardship remain socially oriented and globally aligned.

At MET, Mumbai, his leadership has been instrumental in strengthening institutional governance mechanisms, driving academic innovation and facilitate a greater intersection of learning and industries. His vision of experiential learning, real-world relevance, and strong academic values continues to shape MET’s approach to curriculum, faculty engagement, and student preparedness.

Under his guidance, MET has expanded programmes across diverse fields such as Management, Media, Pharmacy, Information Technology, International Studies, and K–12 education through MET Rishikul Vidyalaya – continuing the legacy established by Founder Chairman Mr. Chaggan Bhujbal in 1989.
 

Reflecting on the recognition, Mr. Pankaj Bhujbal said, “Innovation has been central to MET since its inception. We have always focused on research, industry engagement, and building future-ready leaders. I am honoured to receive this award and grateful for the collective efforts of everyone who shares this vision.”

The Distinguished Academic Leadership Award stands as a testament to leadership that goes beyond administration—one that builds systems, empowers people, and shapes institutions to serve society with purpose and impact.

PlayboxTV, India’s leading OTT aggregation and digital entertainment platform, today announced a landmark addition to its executive leadership team with the appointment of Tariq Malik as Chief Business Officer (CBO). The move signals a bold new chapter for PlayboxTV as it continues to disrupt the streaming landscape through aggressive expansion and high-level strategic innovation.

A Visionary Leader for a Growing Giant

Tariq Malik joins PlayboxTV with a distinguished career spanning over two decades in the media, telecom, and digital entertainment sectors. An alumnus of the prestigious IIM Ahmedabad with an MBA in Marketing from Kashmir University, Malik is widely recognised as a powerhouse in driving P&L management and business development.

Tariq Malik, CBO PlayboxTV

Prior to joining PlayboxTV, Malik served as the Vice President, Business at OTTplay (HT Media), where he was instrumental in scaling the platform’s subscriber base and refining its content aggregation strategy. His career also includes a high-impact tenure as Vice President at DEN Cable, where he managed massive portfolios across OTT, Broadband, and Value-Added Services.

Samson Jesudas, Director PlayboxTV

“Tariq’s arrival is a definitive moment for PlayboxTV,” said Samson Jesudas, Director of PlayboxTV. “His deep-rooted expertise in the cable and OTT ecosystem, combined with his visionary approach to business scaling, aligns perfectly with our mission. We are not just building an app; we are building the future of digital consumption, and Tariq is the right leader to drive that growth.”

Strategic Expansion and C-Suite Strength

The appointment of Malik comes at a time of unprecedented momentum for PlayboxTV. As the platform transitions from a startup to an industry titan, its leadership bench has been fortified with seasoned experts to ensure sustainable and exponential growth. Malik joins a C-suite focused on:

• Nationwide Market Penetration: Leveraging last-mile cable operators to bring premium OTT content to every corner of India.

• Strategic Partnerships: Strengthening ties with global content providers and ISPs to offer unparalleled value to the end consumer.

Why the Industry is Watching

PlayboxTV has already carved out a significant niche as a “Super Aggregator,” offering access to over 30+ OTT platforms and 500+ Live TV channels through a single sign-on. By hiring a CBO of Malik’s caliber, the company is sending a clear message to the industry: PlayboxTV is ready to lead the global shift toward unified entertainment.

“I am thrilled to join PlayboxTV at such a pivotal juncture,” said Tariq Malik, CBO. “The company has already laid a phenomenal foundation. My focus will be on accelerating our revenue streams, enhancing our partner ecosystem, and ensuring that PlayboxTV remains the most trusted and sought-after name in the digital entertainment space.”

About PlayboxTV

Founded in 2017 by Aamir Mulani, PlayboxTV is a Mumbai-based OTT video aggregation platform. Through PlayboxTV (content aggregation) and PlayShots (content production), the company provides a seamless, cost-effective entertainment experience for millions of users, bridging the gap between content creators and consumers through a robust network of ISPs and local cable operators.

PlayboxTV Email: support@playboxtv.in 

Website: www.playboxtv.in

PlayboxTV, India’s leading OTT aggregation and digital entertainment platform, today announced a landmark addition to its executive leadership team with the appointment of Tariq Malik as Chief Business Officer (CBO). The move signals a bold new chapter for PlayboxTV as it continues to disrupt the streaming landscape through aggressive expansion and high-level strategic innovation.

A Visionary Leader for a Growing Giant

Tariq Malik joins PlayboxTV with a distinguished career spanning over two decades in the media, telecom, and digital entertainment sectors. An alumnus of the prestigious IIM Ahmedabad with an MBA in Marketing from Kashmir University, Malik is widely recognised as a powerhouse in driving P&L management and business development.

Tariq Malik, CBO PlayboxTV

Prior to joining PlayboxTV, Malik served as the Vice President, Business at OTTplay (HT Media), where he was instrumental in scaling the platform’s subscriber base and refining its content aggregation strategy. His career also includes a high-impact tenure as Vice President at DEN Cable, where he managed massive portfolios across OTT, Broadband, and Value-Added Services.

Samson Jesudas, Director PlayboxTV

“Tariq’s arrival is a definitive moment for PlayboxTV,” said Samson Jesudas, Director of PlayboxTV. “His deep-rooted expertise in the cable and OTT ecosystem, combined with his visionary approach to business scaling, aligns perfectly with our mission. We are not just building an app; we are building the future of digital consumption, and Tariq is the right leader to drive that growth.”

Strategic Expansion and C-Suite Strength

The appointment of Malik comes at a time of unprecedented momentum for PlayboxTV. As the platform transitions from a startup to an industry titan, its leadership bench has been fortified with seasoned experts to ensure sustainable and exponential growth. Malik joins a C-suite focused on:

• Nationwide Market Penetration: Leveraging last-mile cable operators to bring premium OTT content to every corner of India.

• Strategic Partnerships: Strengthening ties with global content providers and ISPs to offer unparalleled value to the end consumer.

Why the Industry is Watching

PlayboxTV has already carved out a significant niche as a “Super Aggregator,” offering access to over 30+ OTT platforms and 500+ Live TV channels through a single sign-on. By hiring a CBO of Malik’s caliber, the company is sending a clear message to the industry: PlayboxTV is ready to lead the global shift toward unified entertainment.

“I am thrilled to join PlayboxTV at such a pivotal juncture,” said Tariq Malik, CBO. “The company has already laid a phenomenal foundation. My focus will be on accelerating our revenue streams, enhancing our partner ecosystem, and ensuring that PlayboxTV remains the most trusted and sought-after name in the digital entertainment space.”

About PlayboxTV

Founded in 2017 by Aamir Mulani, PlayboxTV is a Mumbai-based OTT video aggregation platform. Through PlayboxTV (content aggregation) and PlayShots (content production), the company provides a seamless, cost-effective entertainment experience for millions of users, bridging the gap between content creators and consumers through a robust network of ISPs and local cable operators.

PlayboxTV Email: support@playboxtv.in 

Website: www.playboxtv.in

MnM Talkies, one of India’s leading podcast studios, has officially revived its award-winning audio detective series Bhaskar Bose, marking the return of one of the country’s most beloved fictional investigators. After a three-year hiatus, the new season titled ‘Bhaskar Bose: He’s Here – Part 1’ premiered on Spotify recently, ushering in a new chapter for the iconic show and introducing a first-of-its-kind innovation in Indian audio entertainment.

Bhaskar Bose by MnM Talkies

For the first time, select episodes of the series will feature AI-generated visuals, created using OpenArt AI technology, transforming the listening experience into an immersive graphic-novel-style journey. The format allows audiences to experience the story in two ways — by closing their eyes and imagining the world through sound, or by watching it unfold through cinematic visuals designed to complement the audio storytelling.

MnM Talkies launches new season of Bhaskar Bose

The creative force behind Bhaskar Bose is Mantra Mugdh who serves as the co-writer, director, producer and the voice of the titular detective. Mantra’s vision has helped establish the series as a benchmark in India’s evolving audio storytelling landscape.

Founder of MnM Talkies, Mantra Mugdh says, “With the new season of Bhaskar Bose, we are not replacing the theatre of the mind—we’re giving it a visual companion. This is about seeing the sound.” Reflecting on the journey of the show, Mantra added that Bhaskar Bose has been one of his most successful collaborations with Spotify, describing the series as an ongoing exploration of what audio storytelling can achieve when approached with the same scale, ambition, and cinematic vision as film.”

The show follows Bhaskar Bose, a brilliant detective known for his sharp intellect and instinctive problem-solving, played by Mantra. He is joined by his loyal friend and investigative partner ACP Bikesh Das, portrayed by actor Shadaab Hashmi. Together, the duo solves complex cases in a world inspired by classic detective comics, blending suspense, wit, and richly layered characters.

Since its debut in 2019, Bhaskar Bose has evolved into one of India’s longest-running and most celebrated audio fiction series. The show was among the first three podcasts—and notably the only fiction series—launched during the entry of Spotify into India’s podcast ecosystem. Over the years, the series has grown into a cultural phenomenon, amassing more than 250+ episodes, featuring over 100 investigative cases, and delivering 5000+ minutes of immersive storytelling. With millions of listens worldwide, Bhaskar Bose has established a powerful presence in the podcast landscape and continues to attract a loyal global audience.

Bhaskar Bose has received widespread industry recognition and several prestigious accolades over the years. The series won Gold at the New York Festivals Radio Awards and has also been honored at the Exchange4Media Golden Mikes for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023). In addition, the show has been recognized at the E4M Play Streaming Media Awards and received the Impact Digital Influencer Award. Together, these accolades highlight the show’s significant impact on the audio entertainment industry and its pioneering role in popularizing audio fiction in India.

Over time, the show has cultivated a vibrant global fan community, complete with dedicated fan clubs, online discussion groups, and pages analyzing conspiracy theories and hidden clues from the series’ most memorable episodes. Its return has already generated a powerful response from audiences. Within hours of the new season’s release, the show began trending on Spotify India, with longtime fans flooding social media with reactions, theories, and nostalgic tributes to the detective they had missed for three years.

The new season of Bhaskar Bose is streaming now on Spotify and new episodes will be released every 15 days. Watch the trailer – www.instagram.com/p/DVdHnbGjrNS.

About MnM Talkies
MnM Talkies is a story-first audio-visual content studio that builds multi-format storytelling platforms across fiction, documentary, and branded content. From podcasts and cinematic web series to documentary narratives, MnM creates stories that connect audiences with real people, real journeys, and the cultural pulse of modern India. Besides Bhaskar Bose, MnM Talkies has produced several chart-topping and award-winning shows, including Batman Ek Chakravyuh, Marvels Wastelanders, Kaali Awaazein, Commander Karan Saxena, Aakhri Sawaal, Virus 2062, I Hear You, Shanaya Ek Teenage Dayan Ki Kahani and many more.

For more information about MnM Talkies, please visit – www.mnmtalkies.com.

MnM Talkies, one of India’s leading podcast studios, has officially revived its award-winning audio detective series Bhaskar Bose, marking the return of one of the country’s most beloved fictional investigators. After a three-year hiatus, the new season titled ‘Bhaskar Bose: He’s Here – Part 1’ premiered on Spotify recently, ushering in a new chapter for the iconic show and introducing a first-of-its-kind innovation in Indian audio entertainment.

Bhaskar Bose by MnM Talkies

For the first time, select episodes of the series will feature AI-generated visuals, created using OpenArt AI technology, transforming the listening experience into an immersive graphic-novel-style journey. The format allows audiences to experience the story in two ways — by closing their eyes and imagining the world through sound, or by watching it unfold through cinematic visuals designed to complement the audio storytelling.

MnM Talkies launches new season of Bhaskar Bose

The creative force behind Bhaskar Bose is Mantra Mugdh who serves as the co-writer, director, producer and the voice of the titular detective. Mantra’s vision has helped establish the series as a benchmark in India’s evolving audio storytelling landscape.

Founder of MnM Talkies, Mantra Mugdh says, “With the new season of Bhaskar Bose, we are not replacing the theatre of the mind—we’re giving it a visual companion. This is about seeing the sound.” Reflecting on the journey of the show, Mantra added that Bhaskar Bose has been one of his most successful collaborations with Spotify, describing the series as an ongoing exploration of what audio storytelling can achieve when approached with the same scale, ambition, and cinematic vision as film.”

The show follows Bhaskar Bose, a brilliant detective known for his sharp intellect and instinctive problem-solving, played by Mantra. He is joined by his loyal friend and investigative partner ACP Bikesh Das, portrayed by actor Shadaab Hashmi. Together, the duo solves complex cases in a world inspired by classic detective comics, blending suspense, wit, and richly layered characters.

Since its debut in 2019, Bhaskar Bose has evolved into one of India’s longest-running and most celebrated audio fiction series. The show was among the first three podcasts—and notably the only fiction series—launched during the entry of Spotify into India’s podcast ecosystem. Over the years, the series has grown into a cultural phenomenon, amassing more than 250+ episodes, featuring over 100 investigative cases, and delivering 5000+ minutes of immersive storytelling. With millions of listens worldwide, Bhaskar Bose has established a powerful presence in the podcast landscape and continues to attract a loyal global audience.

Bhaskar Bose has received widespread industry recognition and several prestigious accolades over the years. The series won Gold at the New York Festivals Radio Awards and has also been honored at the Exchange4Media Golden Mikes for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023). In addition, the show has been recognized at the E4M Play Streaming Media Awards and received the Impact Digital Influencer Award. Together, these accolades highlight the show’s significant impact on the audio entertainment industry and its pioneering role in popularizing audio fiction in India.

Over time, the show has cultivated a vibrant global fan community, complete with dedicated fan clubs, online discussion groups, and pages analyzing conspiracy theories and hidden clues from the series’ most memorable episodes. Its return has already generated a powerful response from audiences. Within hours of the new season’s release, the show began trending on Spotify India, with longtime fans flooding social media with reactions, theories, and nostalgic tributes to the detective they had missed for three years.

The new season of Bhaskar Bose is streaming now on Spotify and new episodes will be released every 15 days. Watch the trailer – www.instagram.com/p/DVdHnbGjrNS.

About MnM Talkies
MnM Talkies is a story-first audio-visual content studio that builds multi-format storytelling platforms across fiction, documentary, and branded content. From podcasts and cinematic web series to documentary narratives, MnM creates stories that connect audiences with real people, real journeys, and the cultural pulse of modern India. Besides Bhaskar Bose, MnM Talkies has produced several chart-topping and award-winning shows, including Batman Ek Chakravyuh, Marvels Wastelanders, Kaali Awaazein, Commander Karan Saxena, Aakhri Sawaal, Virus 2062, I Hear You, Shanaya Ek Teenage Dayan Ki Kahani and many more.

For more information about MnM Talkies, please visit – www.mnmtalkies.com.

Baker Tilly ASA India today marked 35 years of operations in India with the launch of its flagship publication, Doing Business in India – A Comprehensive Guide for Foreign Investors 2026. The 2026 edition comes at a pivotal moment as India consolidates its position as one of the world’s most dynamic long-term capital destinations.
 

(L-R): Ajay Sethi, MP, Baker Tilly ASA India, Francesca Lagerberg, CEO, Baker Tilly International & Andrew Heng, Group MP, Baker Tilly Malaysia & Chair of Baker Tilly APAC
 

Backed by sustained economic expansion, demographic strength and steady policy reform, India continues to reinforce its position as one of the world’s most compelling long-term capital destinations. Economic indicators have shown steady growth with cumulative foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows from April 2000 crossing USD 1 trillion. Real GDP growth is expected to be 7.6% for FY26 with manufacturing and services expected to be a key driver of growth. With a large young aspirational population and a multitude of trade Agreements, India offers a unique opportunity as both a growing market and manufacturing and export base for multinational companies.
 

It is against this backdrop that Doing Business in India 2026 has been developed. With an aim to convert MoUs signed into results on the ground, this guide is designed as a practical, strategic guide for foreign corporations, private equity investors and multinational enterprises assessing India entry, expansion, joint ventures, acquisitions or long-term operational structuring. It brings clarity to India’s regulatory architecture, tax environment, corporate governance requirements and compliance frameworks — areas where early planning and structural discipline often determine long-term success.
 

The event convened Baker Tilly’s global and APAC leadership under the theme Building Bridges: Baker Tilly’s Vision for Asia-Pacific Growth and Global Collaboration. Also spotlighted Baker Tilly ASA’s journey in advising multinational investors on India entry and expansion, its strong positioning in the mid-market segment, and its alignment with Baker Tilly International as well as the Asia-Pacific growth strategy.
 

Speaking on the milestone, Francesca Lagerberg, CEO, Baker Tilly International, said, “India represents one of the most significant long-term growth markets for global investors, and our network is uniquely positioned to support that ambition. As we mark 35 years of Baker Tilly ASA in India, we see this milestone not only as a celebration of legacy, but as a platform for deeper global integration, stronger APAC collaboration and a sharper focus on high-growth mid-market enterprises seeking cross-border clarity and confidence. The advisory profession is evolving rapidly driven by regulation, technology and rising investor expectations. Our approach globally is to combine local expertise with seamless international coordination. India is central to that strategy, both as an investment destination and as a talent and capability hub for the network.”
 

During the briefing, the leadership outlined the Baker Tilly ASA India’s 35-year journey and role in advising multinational corporations across Japan, the US, UK, Europe, Australia and other markets on India market entry, joint ventures, M&A, factory set-ups, tax structuring, regulatory compliance and risk advisory. Over the years, Baker Tilly ASA has built a strong presence in the mid-market segment, delivering partner-led, integrated advisory services across complex cross-border transactions and India entry strategies.
 

Ajay Sethi, Managing Partner, Baker Tilly ASA India said, “Thirty-five years in India has taught us that opportunity here rewards preparation and perspective. The market offers scale and momentum, but it also demands structural clarity, tax discipline and regulatory foresight from day one. Our experience across cycles has reinforced a simple belief that sustainable growth in India is built on sound governance and informed decision-making. As global capital deepens its engagement with India, our commitment remains to provide steady, strategic counsel that converts ambition into durable outcomes.”
 

The event highlighted Baker Tilly’s continued global expansion and growing focus on the Asia-Pacific region, in step with increasing cross-border investment into India. As India advances its manufacturing ambitions, strengthens its foreign investment regime and expands its role in global supply chains, the differentiator for investors will be clarity of structure and quality of execution. With the launch of its Doing Business in India Guide, Baker Tilly ASA India reinforces its commitment to supporting investors across every stage of their India journey, backed by 35 years of practical, on-ground experience.

Baker Tilly ASA India today marked 35 years of operations in India with the launch of its flagship publication, Doing Business in India – A Comprehensive Guide for Foreign Investors 2026. The 2026 edition comes at a pivotal moment as India consolidates its position as one of the world’s most dynamic long-term capital destinations.
 

(L-R): Ajay Sethi, MP, Baker Tilly ASA India, Francesca Lagerberg, CEO, Baker Tilly International & Andrew Heng, Group MP, Baker Tilly Malaysia & Chair of Baker Tilly APAC
 

Backed by sustained economic expansion, demographic strength and steady policy reform, India continues to reinforce its position as one of the world’s most compelling long-term capital destinations. Economic indicators have shown steady growth with cumulative foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows from April 2000 crossing USD 1 trillion. Real GDP growth is expected to be 7.6% for FY26 with manufacturing and services expected to be a key driver of growth. With a large young aspirational population and a multitude of trade Agreements, India offers a unique opportunity as both a growing market and manufacturing and export base for multinational companies.
 

It is against this backdrop that Doing Business in India 2026 has been developed. With an aim to convert MoUs signed into results on the ground, this guide is designed as a practical, strategic guide for foreign corporations, private equity investors and multinational enterprises assessing India entry, expansion, joint ventures, acquisitions or long-term operational structuring. It brings clarity to India’s regulatory architecture, tax environment, corporate governance requirements and compliance frameworks — areas where early planning and structural discipline often determine long-term success.
 

The event convened Baker Tilly’s global and APAC leadership under the theme Building Bridges: Baker Tilly’s Vision for Asia-Pacific Growth and Global Collaboration. Also spotlighted Baker Tilly ASA’s journey in advising multinational investors on India entry and expansion, its strong positioning in the mid-market segment, and its alignment with Baker Tilly International as well as the Asia-Pacific growth strategy.
 

Speaking on the milestone, Francesca Lagerberg, CEO, Baker Tilly International, said, “India represents one of the most significant long-term growth markets for global investors, and our network is uniquely positioned to support that ambition. As we mark 35 years of Baker Tilly ASA in India, we see this milestone not only as a celebration of legacy, but as a platform for deeper global integration, stronger APAC collaboration and a sharper focus on high-growth mid-market enterprises seeking cross-border clarity and confidence. The advisory profession is evolving rapidly driven by regulation, technology and rising investor expectations. Our approach globally is to combine local expertise with seamless international coordination. India is central to that strategy, both as an investment destination and as a talent and capability hub for the network.”
 

During the briefing, the leadership outlined the Baker Tilly ASA India’s 35-year journey and role in advising multinational corporations across Japan, the US, UK, Europe, Australia and other markets on India market entry, joint ventures, M&A, factory set-ups, tax structuring, regulatory compliance and risk advisory. Over the years, Baker Tilly ASA has built a strong presence in the mid-market segment, delivering partner-led, integrated advisory services across complex cross-border transactions and India entry strategies.
 

Ajay Sethi, Managing Partner, Baker Tilly ASA India said, “Thirty-five years in India has taught us that opportunity here rewards preparation and perspective. The market offers scale and momentum, but it also demands structural clarity, tax discipline and regulatory foresight from day one. Our experience across cycles has reinforced a simple belief that sustainable growth in India is built on sound governance and informed decision-making. As global capital deepens its engagement with India, our commitment remains to provide steady, strategic counsel that converts ambition into durable outcomes.”
 

The event highlighted Baker Tilly’s continued global expansion and growing focus on the Asia-Pacific region, in step with increasing cross-border investment into India. As India advances its manufacturing ambitions, strengthens its foreign investment regime and expands its role in global supply chains, the differentiator for investors will be clarity of structure and quality of execution. With the launch of its Doing Business in India Guide, Baker Tilly ASA India reinforces its commitment to supporting investors across every stage of their India journey, backed by 35 years of practical, on-ground experience.