MNRE Secretary Sets Tone For IREDA’s 2026 Growth Journey

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) organised a New Year 2026 get-together for its employees at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, marking the beginning of the year with a spirit of unity and renewed commitment. The event was graced by Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE); Shri J.V.N. Subramanyam, Joint Secretary, MNRE; Shri Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman & Managing Director, IREDA; Dr. Bijay Kumar Mohanty, Director (Finance), IREDA; Shri Sanjay Kulshrestha, CMD, HUDCO; and other senior officials.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi emphasised the importance of team building and nurturing young professionals to prepare them as future leaders. Highlighting IREDA’s expanding role, he underscored the need to enhance financial support to MSMEs and under flagship initiatives such as PM Surya Ghar scheme and assured continued support from MNRE to IREDA in its growth journey.

Welcoming the Secretary and Joint Secretary, MNRE, Shri Pradip Kumar Das, CMD, IREDA, extended warm New Year greetings to all employees. In his address, he noted that IREDA’s workforce has grown from 168 employees on January 1, 2025 to 227 employees in 2026, with women constituting around 23% of the total strength, significantly higher than the CPSEs average of 9.5%. The aforementioned growth has been achieved through qualitative corporate governance and financial discipline, and the same approach will be continued to ensure sustainable growth.

Shri Das also highlighted IREDA’s strong financial performance, with cumulative loan sanctions of ₹2,78,016 crore, cumulative disbursements of ₹1,80,988 crore and a loan book of ₹87,975 crore as on December 31, 2025 (provisional). He recalled key milestones including IREDA’s highest-ever annual Profit After Tax of ₹1,699 crore in FY 2024–25 and the international credit rating upgrade by S&P Global Ratings.

In his vote of thanks, Director (Finance), appreciated the employees for their spirit of teamwork and encouraged them to continue upholding high standards of governance and efficiency.

MSDE Concludes Week-long Kaushal Manthan To Shape Skilling Roadmap For 2026

Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, Government of India, chaired the concluding session of the week-long (23rd December 2025-31st December 2025) Kaushal Manthan, bringing together senior officials across divisions, institutions, and key stakeholders from MSDE.

The objective of the discussions held over a period of one week was to identify priority reforms and initiatives, aligned with national priorities. Deliberations focused on building a robust, responsive, and outcome-oriented skilling ecosystem. The session culminated in the firming up of Skill Resolutions for 2026, which will guide policy action and programme implementation in the coming year.

Emphasis was placed on the next phase of reforms, with a sharper focus on outcomes, stronger convergence with State Governments and industry, and improved monitoring of training quality, assessments, and certifications.

A key theme of the discussions was the need to strengthen institutional mechanisms while simplifying systems. Proposed directions include outcome-based grading mechanisms for ITIs to drive quality improvement, delegation of powers to regional and institutional levels to enable ease of doing business. The reorganization and strengthening of Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) was also discussed, alongwith regular review of SSCs and assignment of KPIs. The deliberations highlighted the need for continuous curriculum upgradation in line with technological change and industry demand.

Modernising curriculum and, strengthening industry co-creation, and ensuring flexibility and adaptability in training design were identified as key enablers for building a resilient skilling ecosystem.

Creation of clear and seamless pathways across skill levels was emphasized upon; from school to post-school, for dropouts, working professionals, and lifelong learners supported by credit frameworks and mobility across programmes.

During the recently held CS Conference MSDE had committed to establishing a National Federated Skill and Workforce Registry, operationalising a National Trainer Framework, repositioning apprenticeships as the primary school-to-work pathway, and integrating MSMEs into national skilling and apprenticeship frameworks in a time-bound manner.

The Kaushal Manthan reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to regular and structured consultations with State Governments, deeper and continuous industry engagement, strengthened inter-ministerial and institutional convergence

These common levers are expected to underpin the implementation of reforms and ensure alignment across stakeholders

Godrej Jersey Makes Badam Milk Accessible To Every Indian Household With New ₹20 SKU

Godrej Jersey has launched its Badam Milk in a 110 ml pack priced at ₹20, marking a significant development in the flavoured milk category. This is India’s first Badam Milk offering at this price point, bringing down the category entry price by ₹10, which has historically stood at ₹30 and above across leading brands. The new SKU expands access to a much-loved household beverage, making nutritious flavoured milk more attainable for a wider consumer base, particularly school-going children.

Badam Milk has long been an integral part of Indian households—a nourishing drink associated with care, comfort, and everyday wellness. Passed down through generations, it holds a strong cultural and emotional connection across families. Recognising this legacy and the evolving consumption habits of Indian consumers, Godrej Jersey entered the Badam Milk category with a focus on delivering sustained energy through affordable, convenient, and every day-relevant nutrition.

According to the Godrej Jersey India Lactograph FY25–26, 53% of households prefer consuming milk in the form of flavoured milk, highlighting a growing shift towards taste-led and convenient nutrition formats. This insight reflects increasing demand for products that combine familiarity with modern consumption needs. The ₹20 Badam Milk pack addresses this shift by offering a balanced proposition of taste, nutrition, and accessibility.

Strategically priced, the new SKU is designed to appeal to younger consumers, enabling children to purchase Badam Milk independently using their pocket money. By lowering the cost barrier, the product encourages early adoption and habitual consumption, helping integrate flavoured milk into everyday routines for a new generation.

Commenting on the launch, Shantanu Raj, Head of Marketing, Godrej Jersey, said, "Badam Milk is more than just a beverage—it's a trusted source of sustained energy for growing children. Our ₹20 pack delivers the sustained energy, vitamins, natural protein, and calcium that every household deserves, without the premium price tag. We believe that nutrition should never be a luxury, and this launch embodies our commitment to making wholesome, convenient nutrition accessible to every Indian family."

Launched exclusively in General Trade, Godrej Jersey’s ₹20 Badam Milk has already reached approximately 15,000 outlets within the first 75 days. With a strong presence in retail stores, the brand aims to ensure ease of access and consistent availability at the point of purchase most frequented by Indian families.

About Creamline Dairy Products Limited:

Godrej Jersey, a leading private dairy player in Southern India, has been a trusted name in the dairy industry since 1986. With a presence across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Nagpur in Maharashtra, the company has consistently grown, offering high-quality dairy products under the name Jersey. With 8 composite dairy plants and a state-of-the-art milk powder plant in Ongole, Godrej Jersey has expanded its product portfolio from its roots as a milk business to a diverse range of innovative dairy products.

Over the years, Jersey became a household name, earning the trust of millions for its consistent quality. Following its recent association with the iconic Godrej brand, Jersey embarked on a journey to redefine its identity. The new visual design retains the legacy of the recognizable cow pattern, modified for a cleaner, modern, and more consumer-friendly presentation. This updated look reflects both Jersey’s rich heritage and the promise of quality and trust long associated with the Godrej brand. Godrej Jersey continues to uphold its legacy while embracing a fresh, contemporary identity, offering products that remain synonymous with purity, quality, and innovation.

IREDA Posts Strong Provisional 9-Month Performance With 44% Growth In Disbursements, Loan Book Up 28%

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has reported strong business performance for the nine months ended December 31, 2025, registering healthy growth across key operational parameters, based on provisional data.

Loan sanctions during the period stood at ₹40,100 crore, reflecting a growth of 29% over ₹31,087 crore recorded during the corresponding period last year. Loan disbursements increased significantly by 44% to ₹24,903 crore, compared to ₹17,236 crore as on December 31, 2024.

The outstanding loan book of the company reached ₹87,975 crore as on December 31, 2025, marking a growth of 28% over ₹68,960 crore in the same period of the previous year, reaffirming IREDA’s expanding role as a largest pure-play green financing NBFC.

Shri Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman & Managing Director, IREDA said, “The strong performance up to December 2025 underscores increasing confidence in IREDA’s financing capabilities and the continued momentum in the renewable energy sector. Our expanding loan book reflects IREDA’s critical role in enabling India’s green energy growth.”

Shri Das expressed his sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy; Hon’ble Minister of State for New & Renewable Energy; Secretary, MNRE; Board of Directors and all stakeholders for their continued guidance and support. He also appreciated Team IREDA for their dedication and contribution towards sustained growth.

Figures are provisional and subject to audit.

Bengaluru, Get Set For Pet Fed’s 11th Edition Of Paws, Play & Love

Celebrate the bond of love, paws, and play at Pet Fed Bengaluru 2026!

Pet Fed India’s most loved pet festival is back to make your new year even more pawsome! Now celebrating its 11th year, the festival continues to honour the beautiful bond between pets and their families. Recognised by the Limca Book of Records as India’s Biggest Pet Carnival, Pet Fed has grown into a nationwide celebration of furry friendships and unconditional pet love.

What started as Akshay Gupta’s vision to create a joyful, inclusive space for pets and pet parents has today transformed into a grand two-day carnival spread across 3 acres, featuring:
• 100+ shopping and experience stalls
• Exciting games and fun contests
• Interactive workshops and expert-led training sessions
Event Details

Date: 17th & 18th January 2026
Venue: KTPO, Whitefield, Bengaluru
Time: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

The complete schedule is available on our official website: https://petfed.org/

So, Bengaluru, it’s time to wag, purr, and play your hearts out at India’s biggest celebration of pet love! We look forward to seeing you there and would be delighted if you could feature Pet Fed Bengaluru 2026 on your platform

Tata Motors Delivers Strong Sales With 1,15,577 Units In Q3FY26; Sustains Robust 21% Year-On-Year Growth

Q3FY25 sales in the domestic & international markets stood at 1,15,577 units, compared to 95,770 units during Q3FY25. December 2025 sales in the domestic & international markets stood at 42,508 units, compared to 33,875 units during December 2024.

 

Category	December ’25	December ’24	% Change	Q3 FY26	Q3 FY25	% Change
HCV Trucks	12,483	9,520	31%	33,401	27,130	23%
ILMCV Trucks	7,959	5,687	40%	20,033	15,897	26%
Passenger Carriers	4,167	4,144	1%	10,691	10,001	7%
SCV Cargo and Pickup	15,448	13,018	19%	43,793	38,232	15%
Total CV Domestic	40,057	32,369	24%	1,07,918	91,260	18%
CV IB	2,451	1,506	63%	7,659	4,510	70%
Total CV	42,508	33,875	25%	1,15,577	95,770	21%

 

Domestic sales of MH&ICV in December 2025 was 20,363 units vs 15,968 units in December 2024; In Q3FY26 it was 53,105 units, compared to 44,023 units in Q3FY25

Domestic & International sales for MH&ICV in December 2025 was 21,646 units vs 16,604 units in December 2024; In Q3FY26 it was 57,080 units, compared to 46,108 units in Q3FY25.

Mr. Girish Wagh, MD & CEO, Tata Motors Ltd., said, “The sales momentum ignited by GST 2.0 and the festive surge in Q2FY26 continued into Q3FY26, driving growth and lifting overall sentiment of the commercial vehicles industry.

Tata Motors registered double-digit sales growth in Q3FY26, powered by a strong rebound in construction and mining activity post the extended monsoon, along with sustained demand from core sectors and auto logistics. Continued strength in SCVs and Pickups further amplified performance, resulting in wholesales of 1,15,577 units, with 21% year-on-year growth over Q3FY25 and 22% sequential growth over Q2FY26.

Going forward, we expect demand to strengthen in Q4FY26 across most commercial vehicle segments. Key drivers in 2026 will include the government’s sustained infrastructure push and expansion in end-use sectors, both of which are expected to fuel positive momentum for the industry. With an optimised portfolio ensuring superior product availability, a decisive pricing strategy, and deeper customer engagement through intensified market activations, Tata Motors is well-poised to unlock demand across segments, paving the way for continued success.”

Madhya Pradesh Tourism Scales New Heights through Investment, PM SHRI Tourism and Helicopter Services

Year 2025 Emerges as a Golden Chapter of Innovation, Record Investment and Tourism Expansion

In alignment with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi towards cultural resurgence across the country, and under the guidance of Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Madhya Pradesh has achieved significant milestones in tourism, culture and investment during the year 2025. Under the able leadership of Minister of State (Independent Charge), Tourism, Culture, Religious Trusts & Endowments Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, and Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture, Home, and Religious Trusts & Endowments, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, the year 2025 proved to be a defining phase of innovation, expansion and investment-led growth for Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board.

With the objective of positioning Madhya Pradesh prominently on the national and global tourism map, innovative initiatives such as PM SHRI Tourism Air Service and PM SHRI Tourism Helicopter Service were launched in 2025, significantly strengthening connectivity to major tourist destinations across the state. These initiatives not only enhanced ease of travel for tourists but also generated new avenues for investment and employment.

Strengthening rural tourism, more than 400 homestays have been operationalised over the last two years, playing a vital role in empowering rural livelihoods. The state aims to develop 1,000 homestays in the coming period. Through platforms such as Regional Tourism Conclaves and the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart, investment proposals worth nearly ₹10,000 crore were received, giving fresh momentum to private sector participation in tourism.

In the domain of religious and cultural tourism, substantial progress has been made towards developing Omkareshwar as ‘Advait Lok’. Following the installation of the 108-feet statue of Adi Shankaracharya, approval exceeding ₹2,424 crore has been granted for Phase-II of Advait Lok. As a result of these sustained efforts, Madhya Pradesh recorded the arrival of over 14 crore tourists in 2024, marking an approximate 25 percent growth in tourist footfall. In the direction of conservation and promotion of culture, a new chain of museums is being developed across the state. Construction of specialised museums is underway in cities including Ujjain, Bhopal, Gwalior, Sagar, Panna, Jabalpur and Maheshwar. Initiatives such as Shri Ramchandra Van Gaman Path and Shri Krishna Pathey have further provided a new direction to religious tourism.

In 2025, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department received several prestigious national and international awards. Concrete steps have also been taken to promote inclusive and safe tourism by training 50,000 women and girls. With the objective of increasing tourism’s contribution to the state GDP to 10 percent in the coming years, plans have been laid to develop 500 new hotels, 20,000 rooms and 500 wayside amenity centres. For Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, the year 2025 stood out as a landmark year of achievements, investments and innovations, further strengthening the state’s position among India’s leading tourism destinations.

Achievements of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board – Year 2025

New Tourism Policy – 2025 and New Film Tourism Policy – 2025

A new Tourism Policy 2025 has been formulated to promote tourism and attract investment in the sector, simplifying and enhancing transparency in investment-related provisions.
To promote film tourism and attract investment, a new Film Tourism Policy 2025 has been introduced, ensuring greater transparency in permissions and subsidies for film production, along with additional incentives for films based on local themes, culture and heritage of Madhya Pradesh.

Innovation in Air Tourism

PM SHRI Tourism Air Service
• Contract executed with M/s Jet Serve Aviation Pvt. Ltd. under Public Private Partnership (PPP).
• Air services commenced between eight major cities – Indore, Bhopal, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Rewa, Singrauli, Khajuraho and Ujjain.
• Offers, schedules, fares and ticket booking available on www.flyola.in / https://www.air.irctc.co.in/.

PM SHRI Tourism Helicopter Service
• Operated on a PPP basis.
• Contract executed for three years – Sector-1 with M/s Trans Bharat Aviation, Sector-2 and Sector-3 with M/s Jet Serve Aviation Pvt. Ltd.
• Service launched on 01 November 2025.
• Helicopter operations across three sectors:

Sector-1: Indore, Ujjain, Omkareshwar

Sector-2: Bhopal, Madhai, Pachmarhi

Sector-3: Jabalpur, Maihar, Chitrakoot, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Amarkantak

World Heritage Expansion

In 2025, 15 additional sites from Madhya Pradesh were included in UNESCO’s Tentative List, reflecting the state’s cultural and natural diversity.

Of India’s total 69 UNESCO heritage sites, 18 heritage properties are located in Madhya Pradesh.

Sangeet Natak Akademi recognised Bhagoria tribal dance, Gond tribal painting (Patangarh) and Narmada Parikrama as ‘National Intangible Cultural Heritage’.

New proposals for Maihar Band, Agaria Loh, and tribal cuisines of Nimar region submitted to Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Infrastructure Development

• Work commenced to develop Kushabhau Convention Centre, Bhopal as an International Convention Centre (₹99.38 crore).
• Development works initiated at Phoolbagh (Gwalior), Chitrakoot Ghats, Pitambara Peeth Datia, Amarkantak and Durgadas Chhatri at a cost of ₹300 crore.
• Establishment of Craft Villages at Maheshwar and Kukshi initiated.

Events & Marketing

• Participation in tourism exhibitions across 10 cities at national level.
• National roadshows organised in Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Lucknow, Varanasi and Jaipur.
• Training programmes for travel agents and tour operators organised in Prayagraj and New Delhi.
• International participation in ATM Dubai, IFTM Top RESA Paris, Fukuyama (Japan), JATA Tokyo, ITB Asia Singapore, WTM London.
• Proposed participation in FITUR Madrid and ITB Berlin.
• Participation in Madhya Pradesh Mahotsav (Bengaluru), Surajkund Mela, Vikramotsav (New Delhi), Mahakumbh (Prayagraj) and Global Investors Summit (Bhopal).

Investment Promotion

• Allocation of 85 land parcels and 12 heritage properties – ₹1,323 crore investment across 511 hectares, generating employment for over 12 lakh people.
• Two ultra mega projects allocated with proposed investment of ₹385 crore.
• Allocation of 97 wayside amenity centres.
• During GIS 2025, investment intent proposals worth ₹64,635 crore received from 305 entities.
• RTC Rewa: ₹3,430 crore from 14 investors.
• RTC Gwalior: ₹3,500 crore from 19 investors.
• MPTM Bhopal: ₹3,665 crore from 21 investors.
• Capital subsidy of ₹24.58 crore approved for 19 tourism projects (764 rooms, ₹308 crore investment).
• Total 124 projects approved so far with ₹228.31 crore subsidy, 5,026 rooms and ₹1,788.66 crore investment.

Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart

• Organised in Bhopal with participation from stakeholders across India and representatives from 28 countries.
• Over 7,000 successful B2B meetings conducted.
• Investment proposals exceeding ₹3,665 crore.
• Earlier Regional Tourism Conclaves held in Rewa and Gwalior.

Simhastha – 2028

• Construction and expansion proposed for Samrat Vikramaditya Hotel, Ujjain.
• Capacity expansion of other MPSTDC hotels.
• Rural tourism projects in villages around Ujjain.
• Proposal to develop 18 tourism villages.
• 180 homestays proposed.
• ₹100 crore plan approved for Devi Ahilyabai Lok, Maheshwar.
• ₹200 crore proposed for Omkareshwar Parikrama Path and Mamleshwar Lok.
• Proposal for 500 tourist guides.

Skill Development Leadership

Rural Tourism

• 400+ homestays developed.
• 37,517 tourist arrivals, including 287 foreign tourists.
• Income exceeding ₹7.02 crore for rural communities.
• Under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, DPR for 14 tribal villages approved under DAJGUA.

Safe Tourism Destinations for Women

• Implemented at 50 tourism sites under Nirbhaya Fund.
• 30,089 women sensitised through 421 workshops.
• 37,599 girls trained in self-defence.
• 9,502 women trained in 48 tourism and hospitality skills.
• Handloom Café Pranpur and Hotel Amaltas Pachmarhi fully women-operated.
• 20 Tourist Facilitation Centres to be operated by women.
• MoU with Coca-Cola India for Gender Corridor in Ujjain for Simhastha 2028.

Project Clean Destination

• Implemented in Panna and Bandhavgarh with CSR support of Coca-Cola.
• Waste management in 53 villages.
• Door-to-door waste collection reaching 10,000 families.
• 40 tonnes of dry waste managed.
• 30 green jobs created.
• MRF Centre established in Panna; Bandhavgarh under process.

Responsible Souvenir Project

• Two centres operational at Madla (Panna) and Dhamna (Chhatarpur), 192 women artisans trained.
• 10 new centres under process across districts.
• Training and livelihood linkage proposed for 1,000 artisans.

Adventure Activities

• Major events: Gandhi Sagar, Kuno Forest Retreats, Chanderi Eco Retreat, Hanuwantiya Jal Mahotsav.
• Continuous sky-diving for four years.
• NATRAX Indore – TSD Car Rally and motorsports.
• Biking initiatives – “Riders in the Wild” and “Queens on the Wheel”.
• Marathons at Pench, Khajuraho, Pachmarhi, Jabalpur, Bhopal.
• New multi-day trekking trails with India Hikes.
• Rock climbing at Jatashankar, Pachmarhi.
• Bird tourism MoU with Ataavi Bird Foundation.
• Cycling trails in buffer zones of national parks.
• Pachmarhi under GSTC Green Destination certification.
• Addition of safari vehicles, canter buses and boating facilities.

Adventure Tourism Safety

• Collaboration with State Disaster Management Institute.
• Stakeholder workshops in national parks.

Water Tourism

• Cruise operations proposed on 120 km Meghnath Ghat–Statue of Unity waterway.
• Terminal construction at Meghnath Ghat and Sakarja under process.
• 5 LOAs issued for cruise operations.
• 40 traditional boats upgraded in Maheshwar.
• Collaboration with Indian Port Association for Gandhi Sagar and Rajghat.
• Licences issued for 41 activities in notified water bodies.

Film Tourism

• 400+ projects completed; ₹700 crore revenue, 1.5 lakh temporary jobs.
• Film Tourism Policy 2025 implemented.
• 52 projects issued LOA with ₹102 crore proposed investment.
• Film Cell Portal integrated with Ministry of I&B.
• Participation in IFFI Goa and WAVES Mumbai.
• MoU with Spain Film Commission.
• Major films shot: Stree, Maharani, Gullak, Panchayat, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Laapataa Ladies, Homebound.
• Homebound nominated for Oscars 2026; Vimukt awarded at TIFF 2025.

Major Honours & Awards

• 8th Travel & Hospitality Awards – Best State Tourism Board.
• VETA – Leading Heritage Tourism Destination.
• SATTE – Best State Tourism Award.
• DDP India Travel Awards – Best State Tourism Board.
• The Week Golden Banyan Award – Best Heritage Tourism State.
• India MICE Awards – Most Focused MICE Destination of India.
• National Award for Excellence 2025 – Responsible Tourism Project.
• MP Excellence Awards 2025.
• ATOAI – Best State of Adventure Tourism Award.
• TOF Tigers Wildlife Tourism Award – 2025.

Art & Handicrafts

• ₹5.1171 crore approved for Craft Handloom Village, Maheshwar.
• ₹20.60 crore approved for Craft Tourism Village, Kukshi.
• ₹8 crore proposal prepared for Bhairugarh Craft Village, Ujjain.

New Series of Museums

• Veer Bharat Nyas Museum, Ujjain – work commenced.
• City Museum, Bhopal – final stage.
• Museum of Music, Gwalior – proposed.
• Atal Museum, Gwalior – nearing completion.
• Sant Ravidas Museum, Sagar – under construction.
• Diamond Museum, Panna – approved.
• Geological Museum, Bhedaghat – approved.
• Devi Ahilyabai Museum, Maheshwar – approved.
• Rani Durgavati Museum, Jabalpur – approved.

Development of Cultural & Religious Loks

• Construction of 20 Loks at a cost of ₹900 crore.
• Shri Ram Raja Lok, Orchha – final stage (Phase I).
• Devi Lok, Salkanpur – civil works complete.
• Maa Narmada Mahalok, Amarkantak – Phase I nearing completion.
• Jageshwari Mata Lok, Chanderi – under progress.
• Kamadgiri Parikrama Path, Chitrakoot – under progress.
• Parshuram Lok, Janapav – completed.
• Hanuman Lok, Jamsawali – completed.
• Pitambara Mai Lok, Datia – approved.
• Devi Ahilya Lok, Maheshwar – approved.
• Sharda Lok, Maihar – DPR and concept prepared, approval in process.

Warren Buffett Officially Steps Down As The CEO Of Berkshire Hathaway From December 31, 2025

After a historic 60-year tenure, Warren Buffett is officially stepping down as the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway today, December 31, 2025.

Succession Details

New CEO: Greg Abel, who has overseen Berkshire’s non-insurance operations since 2018, will formally take over as CEO on January 1, 2026.

Buffett's Future Role: Buffett, now 95, will remain Chairman of the Board. He has indicated he plans to continue visiting the office and contributing investment ideas.

Leadership Team: To manage his increased responsibilities, Abel has promoted NetJets CEO Adam Johnson to oversee all consumer, service, and retail businesses, while Abel continues to supervise the energy, industrial, and manufacturing units.

Legacy and State of the Company

Performance: Under Buffett’s leadership since 1965, Berkshire’s Class A shares saw a cumulative return of approximately 6,060,000% (as of late December 2025).

Financial Position: Buffett leaves the company with a record cash reserve of $382 billion, providing significant capital for future acquisitions under Abel’s leadership.

Recent Shifts: Ahead of the transition, the firm significantly trimmed its core positions in Apple and Bank of America throughout 2025.

Key Executive Departures

As part of the broader leadership transition:

Todd Combs, a top investment lieutenant and CEO of Geico, is leaving to join JPMorgan.

Marc Hamburg, the longtime Chief Financial Officer, will retire in June 2027 and be succeeded by Charles Chang.

Nancy Pierce has been named the new CEO of Geico, effective immediately.

CapitaLAnd India Trust To Divest 20.2% Stake In Three Data Centres Under Development

Strategic divestment is in line with the Trustee-Manager’s continued portfolio reconstitution strategy to drive growth and performance

Divestment unlocks value of CLINT’s data centre developments and enhances financial agility

CapitaLand India Trust has entered into definitive agreements for the divestment of 20.2% stakes in three data centre assets under development to CapitaLand India Data Centre Fund (CIDCF) for an estimated total purchase consideration of INR 7.02 billion (S$99.73 million).

The total purchase consideration of the three data centres is based on 20.2% of the total enterprise value of INR 51.97 billion (S$738.2 million) as of 31 December 2025 which will be adjusted for liabilities, working capital, capital expenditure, and is subject to post-completion adjustments. The enterprise value, negotiated on a willing-buyer and willing-seller basis, is at a premium to the independent valuation of INR 45.70 billion (S$649 million) as at 31 December 2025.

In September 2025, CLINT had divested CyberVale in Chennai and CyberPearl in Hyderabad, the Trust’s first divestment since its listing in 2007. The divestment of the partial stake in CLINT’s data centre portfolio further reinforces the Trust’s commitment to unlock value by monetising and realising the value of its developments to strengthen its balance sheet.

Mr Gauri Shankar Nagabhushanam, Chief Executive Officer of CapitaLand India Trust Management Pte. Ltd. (the Trustee-Manager of CLINT), said: “The partial divestment reflects continued execution of our portfolio reconstitution strategy. By unlocking value earlier in the development cycle, while retaining a significant stake in the assets, we are able to support our development pipeline and enhance financial flexibility.”

“We are pleased to be partnering with CIDCF and remain invested in the future growth of India’s data centre sector through our remaining stake in the portfolio. The partnership with CIDCF also provides CLINT the right to participate in a partial stake in future data centre developments by our sponsor and potentially buy back the assets or explore exit options such as an initial public offering of the assets. Post-transaction, CLINT remains well-positioned to pursue accretive and higher yielding investment growth opportunities in key India cities to create value for our Unitholders.”

About CapitaLand India Trust (www.clint.com.sg)

CapitaLand India Trust (CLINT) was listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (SGX-ST) in August 2007 as the first Indian property trust in Asia. Its principal objective is to own income-producing real estate used primarily as business space in India. CLINT may also develop and acquire land or uncompleted developments primarily to be used as business space, with the objective of holding the properties upon completion. As at 30 June 2025, CLINT’s assets under management stood at S$3.7 billion.

CLINT’s portfolio includes eight world-class IT business parks, three industrial facilities, one logistics park and four data centre developments in India, with total completed floor area of 21.7 million square feet spread across Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune and Mumbai. CLINT is focused on capitalising on the fast-growing IT industry and logistics/industrial asset classes in India, as well as proactively diversifying into other asset classes such as data centres.

CLINT is structured as a business trust, offering stable income distributions similar to a real estate investment trust. CLINT focuses on enhancing shareholder value by actively managing existing properties, developing vacant land in its portfolio, and acquiring new properties. CLINT is managed by CapitaLand India Trust Management Pte. Ltd. The Trustee-Manager is a wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore-listed CapitaLand Investment Limited, a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold.

About CapitaLand Investment Limited (www.capitalandinvest.com)

Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 5 November 2025, CLI had S$120 billion of funds under management held via stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and private credit.

CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group’s development arm.

CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.

Sunburn Festival 2025 Reinforced Its Legacy As India’s Ultimate Year-End Cultural Pilgrimage With 40% Fans Journey From Outside Mumbai

Widely regarded as India’s final cultural crescendo to the calendar year, Sunburn Festival made its much-anticipated shift to Mumbai reinforcing its position as the country’s year-end cultural magnet. What began as a space for music lovers to celebrate the closing of the year has now evolved into a national pilgrimage for fans across genres, cities and age groups. The move to Mumbai marked more than a change in venue; it signifies a surge in cultural travel, city-wide economic energy and a shared desire for collective celebration.

Over the years, Sunburn Festival has expanded from being a hub for electronic music lovers into something far larger - a cultural emotion. Fans come for the acts, the artists and the music, but they stay for what only Sunburn Festival has managed to build at this scale: the energy, the people, the collective pulsing of thousands under one sky and the indescribable warmth of a community that returns year after year. That is the legacy of Sunburn Festival - not just a lineup, but a cultural homecoming.

The shift to Mumbai in 2025 reflects what Sunburn Festival has always represented - an influx of music travellers bringing incredible energy and economic movement wherever it goes. According to Sunburn Festival 2025 data, this edition witnessed strong interest from audiences beyond Mumbai, with close to 40% fans traveling from outside Mumbai alone, with leading contribution from cities such as Pune, Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and Kolkata, followed by a remarkable rise in audiences from Tier-2 and emerging cultural centres including Indore, Goa, Nagpur, Vadodara and Nashik, further signalling how deep and wide the Sunburn community now runs.

For 18 years, Sunburn Festival has been the pioneer of large-scale electronic music culture in India, the one that built a scene before one existed and turned it into a movement. The Mumbai edition proved to be a reaffirmation of the cultural gravity that Sunburn Festival holds. As the city welcomed fans from across India and beyond, one truth stands unchanged - December is Sunburn Festival and the festival is how India says goodbye to the year.

Nethradhama In Collaboration With Karnataka And Bangalore Ophthalmology Societies To Conduct Phaco Festival 2026

* India’s Premier International Ophthalmology Conference

* The 10th edition of the immersive three-day conference will take place from January 16 to 18, 2026, in Bengaluru, featuring global faculty, 3D deferred live surgeries, masterclasses, and hands-on labs

Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Bengaluru, a pioneering institution in eye care, in collaboration with the Karnataka Ophthalmology Society (KOS) and the Bangalore Ophthalmology Society (BOS), will conduct one of India’s most prominent and highly regarded ophthalmology conferences, Phaco Festival 2026. The three-day conference, scheduled from January 16 to 18, 2026, at Nethradhama Hospitals and Conrad Bengaluru, will be conducted on the theme “Ophthalmic Innovation and Surgical Excellence.” Since its inception in 2001, the Phaco Festival has emerged as a benchmark forum for advanced surgical training and continuing ophthalmic education in India, providing ophthalmologists across the globe with structured opportunities for upskilling and exposure to emerging technologies.

The 10th edition of its flagship biennial conference will serve as a leading platform for ophthalmic innovation, surgical skill enhancement, and global clinical collaboration, bringing together national and international experts for high-impact scientific engagement.

Phaco Festival 2026 will feature a comprehensive and immersive academic experience, including 3D deferred live surgeries, wetlabs, drylabs, masterclasses, upskilling courses, clinical debates, and case-based learning sessions led by nationally and internationally acclaimed faculty. Designed as an intensive surgical learning platform, the conference integrates hospital-based hands-on training with conference-led scientific sessions to support capacity building in ophthalmic care.

A dedicated technology showcase will bring together leading ophthalmic device manufacturers, IOL innovators, digital workflow solution providers, and laser technology companies, serving as a launch platform where global partners will debut innovations expected to influence future surgical practice.

Speaking about the upcoming edition, Prof. Dr. Sri Ganesh, Founder and CMD of Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital and Organizing Chairman of Phaco Festival, said, “As we conduct the 10th edition of the Phaco Festival, our focus remains on strengthening ophthalmic education through practical surgical training. This year’s programme offers structured exposure to new techniques, and hands-on learning that will help clinicians improve surgical precision and efficiency. I am confident that delegates, especially young ophthalmologists, will benefit from the 3D deferred live surgeries, the diverse faculty, and the opportunity to learn directly from experts redefining the future of eye care.”

Dr. Supriya Sri Ganesh, Executive Director of Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, added, “Phaco Festival has always been designed as a platform where learning, collaboration, and innovation converge. The 2026 edition builds on this vision with a comprehensive curriculum that brings together hands-on training, masterclasses, clinical debates, and technology showcases. Our focus remains rooted in fostering patient-centric excellence by equipping clinicians with practical skills and evidence-based insights that strengthen surgical outcomes. We look forward to hosting a dynamic exchange of ideas as national and international experts come together to elevate the standards of ophthalmic practice.”

The conference will feature;
Day 1: Wetlabs, Drylabs & Skill Development, Skill Transfer Courses, and Decode by Ophthalpreneurs (a curated learning module for young ophthalmic innovators)
Day 2: Core Scientific Programme, Masterclasses, Live Podcast, Clinical Debates, Dissecting Complex Cases, YOSI Sessions, Panel Discussions, and Gala Dinner (cultural networking evening)
Day 3: Surgical Excellence, 3D deferred live surgeries by national and international faculty, Inauguration Ceremony and Ophthalmology PG Quiz

Registrations for Phaco Festival 2026 are now open, and interested delegates may register by visiting Phaco Festival official website for further details and enrollment.

Whistling Woods International – IIM Mumbai Set Up High-Impact Advisory Board For Their MBA In Media & Entertainment

Whistling Woods International (WWI) & Indian Institute of Management Mumbai (IIM Mumbai), proudly announces the formation of a prestigious Advisory Board for its upcoming MBA in Media & Entertainment.

Comprising distinguished industry leaders, the Advisory Board represents a wide spectrum of stalwarts from India’s M&E industry covering all areas from Cinema, Sports, TV, OTT, Animation, Games, Music, Events, Media & Communication. This powerhouse collective will guide the programme’s curriculum development, industry integration, and strategic direction - ensuring it stays at the cutting edge of industry trends and global best practices.

Meghna Ghai Puri, President, Whistling Woods International, delightfully commented on the formation of the advisory board, “We are honoured to have assembled an Advisory Board of such exceptional calibre and diversity. These industry titans represent the very best of Indian media and entertainment. Their collective insights will be instrumental in shaping a world-class MBA programme that prepares the next generation of leaders for this dynamic sector.”

Prof Manoj Tiwari, Director of IIM Mumbai added, “The Advisory Board’s composition reflects the comprehensive nature of the MBA in Media & Entertainment programme. With leaders from every major vertical, students will gain unparalleled exposure to real-world challenges, emerging opportunities, and best practices across the media and entertainment landscape.”

Advisory Board Members

Shashikanth Someshwar, CEO, Weber Shandwick

Ashish Saksena, COO, BookMyShow

Apoorva Mehta, CEO, Dharma Productions

Ajit Andhare, COO, Producer, Viacom18 Studios

Ashish Pherwani, Partner – Media & Entertainment, Ernst & Young

Ashish Kulkarni, Founder, Punnaryug Artvision

Atul Churamani, MD, Turnkey Music and Publishing Private Limited

Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder, Nodwin Gaming

Dinesh Vijan, Founder, Maddock Films

Devraj Sanyal, Chairman & CEO India SA, SVP Strategy, Africa, M. East & Asia, Universal Music Group

Gaurav Gandhi, VP, Amazon Prime Video – APAC & ANZ

Keitan Yadav, COO, Red Chillies VFX

Manvendra Shukul, CEO, Lakshya Digital, India Head - Keywords Studios

Nitish Mittersain, CEO & MD, Nazara Technologies

Prashant Khanna, Head - Sports & Live Experiences Production Technology & Services, JioStar

Rajiv Chilaka, Founder & MD, Green Gold Animation PVT LTD

Rajan Navani, Chairman & MD, Jetline Group of Companies & CEO, Jetsynthesys

Roshan Abbas, Founder, Kommune India

Sameer Nair, MD, Applause Entertainment

Samit Garg, Co- Founder & MD, E Factor Experiences

Vinit Karnik, MD, WPP Media

The newly formed Advisory Board will meet regularly to provide strategic guidance, facilitate industry collaborations, mentor students, and ensure that the programme remains responsive to the rapidly evolving media and entertainment industry.

To know more, visit:https://www.whistlingwoods.net/programmes/mba-in-media-entertainment/

Samsung Innovation Campus Certifies 450 Youth In AI And Coding At NSIC Hyderabad

Programme strengthens future-tech talent pipeline as Samsung advances India’s digital skilling mission

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, certified 450 students in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Coding & Programming under its flagship skilling initiative, Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC), at the NSIC Technical Service Centre, Hyderabad, reinforcing its commitment to building a future-ready digital workforce in India.

Samsung Innovation Campus is Samsung’s global skilling programme aimed at equipping youth with advanced, industry-relevant technology skills through structured training, hands-on learning and project-based outcomes, enhancing employability in the digital economy.

Hyderabad emerges as a future-tech skilling hub

The certificate felicitation ceremony was graced by Mr. Rajivnath, Centre Head, NSIC Hyderabad, who congratulated the students and highlighted the importance of sustained investments in youth skilling to support India’s digital transformation.

Of the 450 students certified at NSIC Hyderabad this year, 100 completed advanced training in Artificial Intelligence, while 350 were trained in Coding & Programming, following a structured curriculum focused on practical application and industry relevance.

Strengthening India’s future-ready workforce

The Hyderabad programme is part of Samsung’s broader commitment to skill 20,000 youth across India in 2025 under Samsung Innovation Campus. Aligned with the Government of India’s Skill India and Digital India initiatives, SIC aims to bridge critical skill gaps and foster a culture of technology-led innovation across the country.

The programme places strong emphasis on inclusivity, with 42% women participation nationally, and active outreach to tier-2, tier-3 and semi-urban regions, ensuring equitable access to high-quality technology education.

By expanding access to in-demand digital skills and nurturing job-ready talent, Samsung Innovation Campus continues to strengthen India’s future-tech talent pipeline and support the country’s journey towards a digitally empowered economy.

Samsung Newsroom India: https://news.samsung.com/in/samsung-innovation-campus-certifies-450-youth-in-ai-and-coding-at-nsic-hyderabad

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com/in/

ABD Maestro Launches AODH IRISH Whiskey, Entering One Of The Fastest Growing Segments In India

 

ABD Maestro Pvt. Ltd., the super-premium and luxury spirits subsidiary of Allied Blenders & Distillers (ABD), today launched AODH IRISH Whiskey in India, making a strong entry into the one of the fastest growing segments in the country. ABD Maestro, co-founded by Superstar Ranveer Singh, who also serves as its creative partner is focused on creating world-class brands for both Indian and global audiences.

 

Defined by taste. Crafted for stories.

 

AODH is ‘flame’ in Irish, symbolising warmth, brotherhood, continuity, and enduring stories. Crafted using a signature triple distillation, the whiskey brings to you a bright gold hue with subtle coppery glints and exceptional clarity. On the nose, it reveals notes of vanilla cream, light honey, and toffee from ex-bourbon cask maturation, leading to a smooth and silky palate with an elegant, lasting finish.

 

Bikram Basu, Managing Director, ABD Maestro, said “A truly authentic Irish expression, AODH Irish Whiskey carries centuries of distilling heritage, while resonating with contemporary palates. AODH is a strategic step forward as we shape the super-premium spirit’s portfolio. Irish whiskey has seen strong growth in recent years and a super-premium, quality product, indexed justifiably higher than the current market players should attract the knowledgeable and discerning”.

 

India has quickly emerged as a key growth market for Irish Whiskey, with exports to the country growing by 57% and India now ranking as the world’s fifth-largest market for the category according to the Drinks Ireland ‘Spirits 2024 Annual Report’. This growth signals the trend for Indian consumers towards premium, authentic products and create an alternate global provenance other than Scotch. The addition of AODH Irish Whiskey underscores ABD Maestro’s agile thinking and future-ready portfolio strategy, reinforcing its commitment to bringing world-class, premium spirits.

 

Launched in Haryana, and to be followed immediately in Maharashtra at a MRP of ₹3,950 (750ml), AODH Irish Whiskey will subsequently expand to Goa, West Bengal, Karnataka, Delhi and key markets of North India.

 

About ABD Maestro Private Limited

ABD Maestro Private Limited is a new super-premium and luxury spirits brand company and a subsidiary of ABD. The ABD Maestro portfolio include Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Zoya Special Batch Gin and its flavours, Rangeela Contemporary Indian Vodka, Yello Designer Whisky, Woodburns Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, Pumori Small Batch Gin and Pink Gin, Segredo Aldeia Café and White Rums. Through its partnership with Roust Corporation, the company has introduced Russian Standard Vodka to India in three distinct segments: Original, Gold, and Platinum.