For years, luxury housing in NCR was largely defined by scale, specifications and exclusivity. That definition is now changing as affluent homebuyers increasingly look beyond the four walls of a residence, placing greater value on wellness, convenience, connectivity, design and community.

The changing definition comes amid strong momentum in NCR’s residential market, where expanding supply and rising values are reshaping the luxury housing segment. According to JLL’s Residential Dynamics Report for Q1 2026, Delhi-NCR recorded 13,631 new residential launches, registering a 64% year-on-year increase. The region was also among the markets that recorded annual price growth of more than 12% during the quarter.

Behind this momentum is a buyer whose expectations are becoming more sophisticated. Greater exposure to international standards of living, higher purchasing power and increasing attention to personal well-being are influencing purchase decisions. The emphasis is consequently moving towards elements that shape everyday routines, including landscaped surroundings, wellness and fitness facilities, recreational spaces, smart-home features and carefully planned common areas. Access to retail, healthcare, education, workplaces and entertainment is also becoming increasingly relevant as convenience forms part of the value proposition.

This shift in expectations is prompting a corresponding change in residential planning. Developers are moving towards communities where architecture, open spaces, amenities and social infrastructure are considered together rather than treated as individual features. According to Cushman & Wakefield, 8,793 residential launches were recorded across NCR in Q2 2026, taking H1 2026 launches to approximately 18,470 units. Gurugram accounted for 73% of Q2 supply, while Noida and Greater Noida contributed 20% and 6%, respectively. Noida Extension alone accounted for 15%.

Within this expanding landscape, Gurugram continues to represent NCR’s established high-end residential market, while Noida is developing a distinct position as newer luxury residential corridors emerge. The city’s improving connectivity, growing commercial ecosystem and expanding social infrastructure are supporting this evolution. Noida’s progressing appeal as a luxury residential destination is increasingly evident, with the city drawing demand on the strength of its expanding infrastructure, connectivity and lifestyle ecosystem.

The wider Noida-Ghaziabad belt is also gaining relevance as emerging micro-markets mature. As infrastructure improves and residential clusters become more established, the surrounding ecosystem is becoming an important part of the purchase proposition. Proximity to employment hubs, retail, education, healthcare, leisure and transportation can influence residential choices alongside the characteristics of the home itself. As these micro-markets develop, their growing connectivity to employment centres and expanding social and commercial infrastructure could further strengthen their appeal to affluent homebuyers seeking a more integrated lifestyle. This is creating greater scope for developments that bring multiple aspects of urban living together within a well-planned community.

As expectations change, the way residential communities are being conceived is changing as well. Developers such as Prateek Group, County Group, Gulshan Group and Gaurs Group are responding with projects that place greater emphasis on design, open spaces, lifestyle amenities and community-oriented planning.

Prateek Group’s growing portfolio, including Prateek Grand Begonia and Prateek Canary located in Siddharth Vihar and Sector 150, Noida, respectively, indicates this broader industry movement towards more integrated residential environments. Prateek Grand Begonia combines distinctive architectural character with contemporary comforts, while Prateek Canary in Noida’s Sector 150 places greater emphasis on greenery, wellness and thoughtfully planned spaces.

Together, these developments illustrate how the focus is extending beyond the individual residence to the everyday needs and aspirations of residents, with the quality of the overall living experience becoming an increasingly important dimension of luxury. Market insiders anticipate something exciting coming up soon in Noida’s residential segment, raising luxury living standards and setting the bar high.

NCR’s luxury housing story is moving beyond the traditional equation of space, specifications and status. The market is increasingly rewarding developments that bring together design, wellness, convenience, connectivity and community in a more cohesive manner. For Noida and its surrounding growth corridors, this evolution could create a new standard for quality of life and further diversify the meaning of luxury across NCR.

CoinDCX, India’s largest crypto exchange, has announced a strategic collaboration with Tether Gold (XAUT), the world’s largest tokenized gold product by market capitalization, to make tokenized gold more accessible to Indian investors. Under the collaboration, XAUT is now available for trading on CoinDCX, alongside the launch of XAUT SIP, enabling users to start investing in tokenized gold with as little as INR 100.

The launch marks another step in CoinDCX’s mission to democratize access to innovative digital assets by bringing globally recognized tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) to Indian users through a simple and secure investment experience.

Tokenized gold is emerging as one of the fastest-growing categories within the real-world asset (RWA) ecosystem. Unlike traditional gold investment options, tokenized gold combines the intrinsic value of physical gold with blockchain technology, enabling investors to own fractional exposure, trade seamlessly and access their holdings digitally.

XAUT, issued by Tether Gold, represents ownership of physical gold and is backed by allocated gold reserves held in secure vaults. Each XAUT token corresponds to ownership of one troy ounce of physical gold, offering investors a digital representation of one of the world’s most trusted stores of value.

With the introduction of XAUT SIP, Indian investors can build disciplined, long-term exposure to gold through systematic investments, mirroring the familiarity of mutual fund SIPs while leveraging blockchain-based infrastructure.

“Indian investors have consistently demonstrated a strong affinity for gold as a long-term store of value. Through our partnership with Tether Gold, we’re bringing that familiarity into the digital era by making tokenized gold accessible, affordable, and easy to invest in. With XAUT and the introduction of SIPs starting at just INR 100, we’re lowering the barriers to investing in blockchain-based real-world assets while giving users access to a globally recognized digital representation of physical gold,” said Mridul Gupta, Founding Partner - CoinDCX.

As investor interest expands beyond crypto into tokenized real-world assets, CoinDCX believes products such as XAUT will play an increasingly important role in diversified digital portfolios. The convergence of traditional assets and blockchain technology is creating new investment opportunities that combine the transparency, accessibility and efficiency of digital assets with the stability of established asset classes.

The launch also reinforces CoinDCX’s broader strategy of expanding beyond traditional crypto assets by introducing globally relevant investment products that cater to evolving investor preferences. By offering innovative digital assets alongside intuitive investment features such as SIPs, CoinDCX continues to simplify access to the next generation of financial products for Indian users.

With growing global momentum around tokenized real-world assets, including gold, treasuries and other traditional financial instruments, CoinDCX remains committed to bringing trusted, high-quality digital assets to India while maintaining a secure, compliant and user-centric investment experience.

Founded in 2018, CoinDCX was established with a mission to make crypto accessible to Indians in a simple and compliant manner. CoinDCX is today India’s largest exchange, trusted by over 2 crore users. The company has evolved into DCX Group, a multi-entity ecosystem with touchpoints across India and international markets. In 2024, the company took its first step towards international expansion with the acquisition of Dubai-based BitOasis, MENA’s leading virtual assets broker-dealer. In 2025, BitOasis expanded into Bahrain, further strengthening the Group’s presence in the region.

Beyond exchanges, the Group powers the Web3 economy through CoinDCX Ventures, which has backed more than 15 pioneering projects, and Okto, its Web3 wallet with global presence. The Group is backed by global investors including Pantera, Steadview Capital, Kingsway, Polychain Capital, B Capital Group, Bain Capital Ventures, Cadenza, Draper Dragon, Republic, Kindred and Coinbase Ventures.

Tether Gold (XAUT) is a digital asset offered by TG Commodities, S.A. de C.V. One full XAUT token represents one troy fine ounce of gold on a London Good Delivery bar. The token can be traded or moved easily at any time, anywhere in the world, and can be transferred to any on-chain address. The allocated gold is identifiable with a unique serial number, purity and weight, and is redeemable in the form of physical gold.

The press announcement is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy Tether Gold (XAUT). TG Commodities, S.A de C.V. will only sell or redeem XAUT pursuant to its gold token terms of sale and service available as of the date of the press release at the stated legal terms of sale and service page.

Dilmah, the globally acclaimed pioneer of Single Origin Ceylon Tea, has launched its Thambapanni Luxury Collection, an ultra-premium range crafted exclusively for India and presented by Dilhan C. Fernando and his son Amrit through a series of invite-only events across Bangalore, Delhi and Mumbai.

Created for luxury hospitality in India, the collection brings Dilmah’s distinctiveness as growers, with an uncompromising commitment to purity, provenance, taste and goodness, alongside its philosophy of ethical business for discerning consumers in the country.

The launch marks a significant milestone in Dilmah’s renewed focus on India, with Thambapanni being introduced through a curated, hospitality-led distribution model. The collection will be available through select luxury hotels, speciality cafes and fine dining restaurants. Fresh & Honest is Dilmah’s distribution partner in India.

With a presence across more than 105 countries globally, Dilmah has built its reputation on offering fine teas and creating tea-inspired hospitality experiences while remaining deeply connected to its values as a family business. Founded by the late Merrill J. Fernando in 1985, the company pioneered the concept of Single Origin Tea and became the world’s first producer-owned tea brand. From growing and handpicking to manufacturing and packing at source, Dilmah crafts tea and, since 2001, has also grown Ceylon Cinnamon, upholding its commitment to quality, authenticity and freshness.

The Thambapanni Luxury Collection draws on the ancient connection between India and Sri Lanka. The teas are named Thambapanni, the name Prince Vijaya and his followers gave Sri Lanka when he arrived on the island in 543 BC. Touching the earth near Mannar, their hands were covered with ochre-coloured soil, leading to the name Thambapanni, meaning copper-coloured palms.

The collection was developed over 12 months of rigorous tasting and refinement. The teas and infusions are designed to offer a distinctively Dilmah experience rooted in provenance and respect for each tea, spice and herb ingredient.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Dilhan C. Fernando, Chairman of Dilmah, said, “There is a revolution happening in India – the food culture is transformed by a new generation that demands purity, sustainability, authenticity, wellness, heritage and indulgence. Tea has all that and more. Our proposition for India is conditioned by my family’s uncompromising commitment to the culture, art and science of teamaking, and our emphasis on tea inspired innovation and wellness. These are all framed in Thambapanni, the ancient connection between India and Sri Lanka,. We created these teas exclusively for India. Each ingredient is perfected by us and made in India; it is an invitation to Indian consumers to experience tea differently and to appreciate the provenance, indulgence and kindness in every cup.”

The company’s vision begins, “Every cup of Dilmah is an act of kindness — and defiance. Merrill J. Fernando built our company on a refusal to accept commoditisation, compromise, or indifference to the people who grow the world’s food. That is our inheritance and our promise.”

The launch of Thambapanni represents the expression of that philosophy in a country whose tea industry struggles with the same challenges as Sri Lanka, while also presenting the passion of a family of tea makers.

At the heart of Dilmah is its Founder’s philosophy of business serving humanity, expressed through kindness to people and nature. Now stewarded by Merrill J. Fernando’s second and third generations, Dilmah dedicates 15% of pre-tax profits to directly impacting people and nature through the work of the MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation.

Thambapanni is central to the brand’s ambition to elevate appreciation of fine teas, their sensory and functional attributes, and their interaction with fine food and drink. Framed in family values, Dilmah brings four decades of experience in luxury hospitality around the world to India. The company aims to build a deeper connection with India’s evolving tea culture while remaining true to the philosophy, integrity and purpose that have shaped the brand.

Dilmah, the Sri Lankan family tea company founded by Merrill J. Fernando, the world’s most experienced teamaker, has championed quality, authenticity and variety in tea. Dilmah pioneered the concept of Single Origin Tea in 1985 when the family company went against industry trends to declare its commitment to authenticity. Garden-fresh, unblended tea is a hallmark of Dilmah and offers a unique taste of unblended Ceylon tea packed at source, where it is grown.

Dilmah also leads innovation in a global tea category that has suffered decline as a result of commoditisation. Signature events such as Chefs & the Teamaker and Real High Tea seek to educate and inspire hospitality professionals to offer guests a completely new tea experience. The events foster greater respect for tea as a healthy, natural and versatile beverage.

The Dilmah School of Tea seeks to inspire passion for tea through knowledge of its artisanal aspects among hospitality professionals, tea aficionados and consumers. Its emphasis is on the importance of Real Tea and the versatility of this natural herb in Tea Gastronomy, food pairing and Tea Mixology.

Dilmah is an Ethical Tea company, with all packaging profits retained in Sri Lanka to fund the MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation. The launch of the Thambapanni Luxury Collection extends that family-led philosophy into India’s luxury hospitality sector, bringing the brand’s focus on provenance, craftsmanship, tea-inspired experiences and ethical business to a new collection created exclusively for the Indian market.

Ai+ Smartphone has announced the rollout of Nova_2_Ultra_SW_V10, build Nova_2_Ultra_SW_V10_20260823, for the Ai+ Nova 2 Ultra, bringing enhancements to camera stability, connectivity and the overall system experience. The update is part of Ai+ Smartphone’s ongoing effort to refine the user experience through continuous software optimisation and feedback-led improvements.

A key focus of the update is the Nova 2 Ultra’s camera experience. Ai+ Smartphone has optimised the device’s bokeh algorithm to produce smoother and more natural background blur, supporting a more refined portrait photography experience. The update also addresses an intermittent connectivity-loss issue that could occur when triggering the bokeh blur algorithm, making the camera experience more consistent.

The software update also introduces optimisations across the user interface. Improvements to scrolling, app animations, app switching and system navigation are designed to deliver smoother and more responsive interactions across the device.

Alongside performance refinements, the update includes the latest August security patch and fixes for app crashes, unresponsiveness and other stability issues. These changes are aimed at supporting a more reliable overall experience for Nova 2 Ultra users.

With the latest software release, Ai+ Smartphone continues its focus on improving the software experience of its flagship device through ongoing updates targeting camera performance, system fluidity and reliability.

The update is rolling out to Nova 2 Ultra users starting today and can be downloaded through Settings > System > Software Update > Check for Updates.

Ai+ Smartphone is an Indian technology brand delivering high-performance, accessible mobile experiences powered by NxtQuantum OS — India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. By combining clean design, long battery life and privacy-first software across its smartphone and Connected AIoT ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is establishing a new standard for trust, performance and user-owned technology.

SVC Co-operative Bank Ltd., formerly known as The Shamrao Vithal Co-operative Bank Ltd., has conducted a large-scale Cyber Awareness Drive across its network of 203 branches spanning 10 states and one Union Territory, taking its cyber fraud prevention campaign directly into residential communities.

As part of the initiative, bank employees visited housing societies within their respective branch catchment areas and conducted interactive awareness sessions to educate citizens on identifying and preventing digital financial frauds.

The campaign covered 213 housing societies and reached more than 19,061 residents, making it one of SVC Bank’s largest community-led financial literacy initiatives in its 120th year of operations.

The awareness sessions featured presentations on the latest cyber fraud trends, educational videos and practical guidance on safe digital banking practices. Participants were sensitised to prevalent frauds including phishing, fake investment schemes, impersonation scams, OTP and UPI frauds, QR code scams, digital arrest frauds and fraudulent customer care calls.

Customers were also educated on identifying genuine banking communications, understanding official banking and promotional sender IDs, and recognising suspicious messages more effectively.

The initiative was organised as cyber-enabled financial frauds continue to rise across the country. According to recent government data, more than 12.7 lakh cyber fraud complaints involving over Rs 10,178 crore in suspected fraudulent transactions were reported during the first six months of 2026 alone, underscoring the growing need for greater public awareness alongside technological safeguards.

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Ravinder Singh, Managing Director, SVC Co-operative Bank Ltd., said, “As banking becomes increasingly digital, awareness has become the strongest first line of defence against cyber fraud. While banks continue to strengthen their security infrastructure, customers also need to stay vigilant and informed. Through this nationwide outreach, we are taking cyber safety beyond our branches and directly into communities, empowering citizens with practical knowledge that can help them recognise fraud attempts before they become victims. At SVC Bank, protecting our customers' interests remains at the heart of everything we do.”

Mr. Durgesh Chandavarkar, Chairman, SVC Co-operative Bank Ltd., added, “Cyber security is a shared responsibility. As a customer-centric cooperative bank with deep roots, we believe financial literacy must go hand in hand with digital adoption. This initiative reflects our commitment to creating greater awareness among customers and the wider public, enabling them to use digital banking services with confidence while remaining alert to evolving cyber threats.”

During the sessions, SVC Bank officials encouraged participants to adopt basic cyber hygiene practices, including never sharing confidential banking credentials, verifying the authenticity of callers and links before acting, promptly reporting suspicious transactions, and contacting the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in in the event of suspected fraud.

With this initiative, SVC Bank reinforced its commitment to safeguarding customers against emerging cyber threats while continuing to strengthen its role as a trusted financial institution that actively contributes to building a cyber-aware and digitally resilient society.

About SVC Bank

Set up in 1906, SVC Bank is a 119-year-rich institution that has contributed significantly to the development of the co-operative movement in India for over a century. Today, the Bank is one of the oldest and most recognised names in the country’s co-operative banking space.

SVC is a Multi-State Scheduled Co-operative Bank with its presence across 10 States and 1 Union Territory – Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Tamil Nadu. Total Business of the Bank is at Rs 43,693 Crores as on March 31, 2026 and Net Profit stands at Rs 205 Crores. Gross NPA stood at 2.69% while Net NPA stood at 0.96% and the CRAR at 15.48%, reflecting the Bank's strong financial fundamentals.

Headquartered in Mumbai, the Bank has a vast network of 203 branches, 220 ATMs and an employee strength of over 2,500. The Bank offers the entire gamut of services across Retail, Corporate and International Banking.

The Bank’s performance and innovation have been recognised through several recent industry awards.

SVC Bank was honoured with the Excellence in Customer Experience Award at the UBS Forums - 3rd Edition of India Fintech Summit & Awards 2026, held in Mumbai. The award, presented by Shri. Loghman Tavasoli, COO, UBS forums, was received by Shri. Saket Maheshwari, Chief Financial Officer, on behalf of SVC Bank.

SVC Bank was honoured with three prestigious awards — Best Urban Co-operative Bank, Best Multi-State Urban Co-operative Bank and Best CTO/IT Head Of The Year — at the Bharat Ratna Sahakarita Samman Ceremony 2026, conducted at the Bharat Cooperative Banking Summit 2026, on June 6th, 2026, in Lucknow.

The Bank was also honoured with the 'Leading Bank Award' in Category Tier IV at the 10th All India Co-operative Banking Summit & Awards 2026, conducted on May 8th and 9th, 2026, in Pune.

The Bank was awarded Best Urban Co-operative Bank, Best Cyber Security Initiative and Digital Banking Innovation of the Year at the 3rd Rashtriya Urban Cooperative Banking Summit & Awards 2026.

SVC Bank received three distinguished recognitions at IBA's Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations 2024-25, conducted on January 9th, 2026 in Mumbai: Best Fintech & DPI Adoption (Winner) in the Co-operative Sector Banks category, Best Tech Talent (Winner) in the Co-operative Sector Banks category and Best Technology Bank (Special Mention) in the Co-operative Sector Banks category.

The Bank was awarded the Leader Award at the 9th All India UCB Summit & Awards, 2025, the Best HR Transformation and Best Audit Transformation Awards at the FCBA Awards 2025, and the Gold Award for the Bank's Wall Calendar for the Year 2025 & Consolation Award for the Bank's Annual Report F.Y. 2024-25, at the 15th PRCI Excellence Awards 2025. In addition, earlier honours include the Banco Blue Ribbon 2024 Award for excellence in the Urban Co-operative Bank category.

The Bank was also felicitated at the Rashtriya Coop Samman Samaroh 2025 with the titles of Best Urban Co-operative Bank, Best Multi-State Urban Co-operative Bank and Best Chairperson of the Year awarded to Shri. Durgesh S. Chandavarkar.

SVC Bank was recently awarded the prestigious 'Most Innovative CFO' Award at the Silver Feather Awards 2025 - 6th Edition and ET Now’s “Best Organisations to Work 2025”. These accolades reflect the Bank’s leadership in co-operative banking, commitment to technology and people, and its role in advancing financial inclusion.

As electric vehicles become increasingly defined by software, batteries and intelligent technologies, automakers are facing a new competitive challenge: developing the skilled workforce needed to build the next generation of vehicles.

Modern cars have evolved beyond traditional manufacturing, increasingly combining software, artificial intelligence, automation, battery technologies and connectivity. This transformation has intensified competition for talent, with automakers competing not only among themselves but also with Silicon Valley giants and technology startups for software engineers, AI specialists, battery experts and highly skilled technicians.

Germany’s automotive sector faced a shortfall of approximately 80,000 skilled professionals in 2024, while the United Kingdom reported more than 14,000 vacancies in the automotive sector, with only 27% of its workforce currently qualified to work safely on electric vehicles.

Industry experts have argued that recruitment alone cannot address the challenge and that talent development must begin well before the hiring process. One industry analysis stated that companies that succeed will be those that “start early, think creatively about recruitment, and treat talent development as a core strategic priority, not a secondary HR task.” It added that “in an industry as competitive and fast moving as automotive, the true horsepower remains human.”

Automakers are responding by retooling their workforces and developing talent pipelines. One company is investing EUR 400 million annually in workforce training, while another has committed £20 million each year to skills development programmes focused on EV technologies and advanced manufacturing. Other companies are expanding their technology capabilities while developing digital talent pipelines.

For global automaker VinFast, the strategy begins long before prospective employees submit their first job applications.

As a member company of Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest private conglomerate, VinFast benefits from an ecosystem spanning education, research and technology. In 2025, VinFast and VinUniversity, Vingroup’s non-profit university, established a strategic partnership focused on battery technologies and advanced materials. The partnership created opportunities for students and researchers to participate in joint research projects, technical training and internships alongside VinFast experts.

Beyond the Vingroup ecosystem, VinFast has collaborated with 19 universities and higher education institutions nationwide to standardise training programmes across automotive engineering, mechatronics, electrical and electronics engineering, automation and information technology.

The company provides hands-on training equipment and genuine technical repair materials while integrating EV repair modules covering battery systems, powertrains and diagnostic software into academic curricula.

Students can also undertake internships at VinFast’s manufacturing complexes and service workshops nationwide, with outstanding candidates prioritised for recruitment after graduation.

The approach extends to markets where VinFast is developing its overseas manufacturing footprint, with local talent development incorporated alongside factory expansion.

In India, VinFast has set a target of creating 3,000 to 3,500 direct jobs at its Tamil Nadu plant, with 80% of the workforce planned to come from local fresh graduates and trainees. Its first recruitment drive brought in 200 local professionals, while 344 diploma students participated in the selection process through Tamil Nadu’s Naan Mudhalvan skilling initiative.

In Indonesia, VinFast’s Subang plant initially absorbed around 1,700 workers. The company trained managerial staff in Vietnam for three to four months and brought Vietnamese experts to Indonesia to train local technicians. The facility is expected to expand as production scales, with its workforce and training pipeline growing alongside its planned capacity expansion.

Industry observer Phạm Minh said such collaborations extend beyond workforce development for an individual company.

For an EV brand to develop sustainably, human resources must serve as a seamless “lifeblood” across the entire value chain, from research and development, manufacturing and quality control to aftersales services, he noted.

He said standardising EV education can create a generation of engineers with a common “technical DNA”, enabling them to master emerging technologies from the moment they enter the workforce.

Nguyen Van Viet, who has spent years researching transportation, said VinFast’s approach can also help narrow the gap between classroom education and the practical requirements of industry.

“This model creates value for all three stakeholders: companies gain talent that meets their requirements, educational institutions are able to update their curricula based on real-world needs, and students gain access to more high-quality career opportunities,” he said. “More broadly, this approach will help establish a strong human capital foundation for Vietnam’s EV industry to develop sustainably for years to come.”

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. Its current product lineup includes electric SUVs, e-scooters and e-buses.

VinFast is embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities, with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

The company’s workforce strategy places education, technical training and local talent development alongside its manufacturing expansion, reflecting the growing importance of skilled human capital to the EV industry.

boltt, the homegrown smartphone brand from the house of Fire-Boltt, is reinforcing its customer support infrastructure ahead of the sale of its first smartphones, with more than 250 service centres across India from Day One. The initiative is aimed at giving consumers greater confidence in their purchase through accessible repair and warranty support backed by Fire-Boltt’s established service infrastructure.

The service network spans key markets across the country, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Lucknow, Patna and Guwahati, along with several other cities. Customers can visit their nearest service centre with their device and purchase invoice for repair and warranty assistance, including component-level repairs, replacements and software diagnosis and resolution, in accordance with applicable warranty terms.

As boltt scales its smartphone business, the brand is also working towards expanding its service network to 350–400 centres across India within the next 6–8 months. The expansion is intended to provide customers with greater choice and convenience when seeking support. The brand is also working towards introducing doorstep service in the future to further enhance convenience throughout the ownership journey.

Complementing the physical service network is Boltt Care, a dedicated support platform built directly into every boltt smartphone. Customers can raise service requests through the device and connect with boltt’s backend support team and live agents, providing a direct channel for assistance. Dedicated support is also available through email, WhatsApp and phone, giving customers multiple ways to reach the brand when they need help.

Commenting on the company’s approach to customer support, Arnav Kishore, Founder & CEO, boltt, said, “At boltt, we believe our relationship with customers begins with the purchase and continues throughout the ownership journey. As we enter the smartphone category with the Evo and Ace 5G, our focus is on building trust through accessible, responsive and accountable support. We are building boltt for the long term, and we are committed to standing firmly behind every device we sell.”

The service infrastructure forms an important part of boltt’s consumer-first approach as the brand establishes itself in India’s smartphone market. By leveraging Fire-Boltt’s existing network and expanding its service footprint, boltt aims to ensure that customers have access to reliable support as its smartphone user base grows, reinforcing trust beyond the point of purchase.

Customers can locate nearby service centres through boltt’s service centre document. Support and warranty guidelines are available through the brand’s warranty policy document.

boltt is a homegrown smartphone brand from the house of Fire-Boltt, built on the trust of over 4 crore users. Created for India’s evolving digital lifestyle, the brand brings together deep consumer insight and a consumer-first approach to design and innovation. boltt is focused on delivering dependable, relevant smartphone experiences tailored for modern India.

Fire-Boltt is India’s No. 1 smartwatch brand and one of the country’s leading homegrown consumer technology companies. With a growing ecosystem of connected devices and more than 4 crore users, Fire-Boltt is committed to creating innovative technology products that are accessible, relevant and designed for Indian consumers.

Krisala Developers, one of the leading real estate developers in Pune and PCMC, is set to welcome a significant cultural and spiritual landmark next to its flagship Land of Dreams township, with a Swaminarayan Temple proposed across approximately 1.5 acres. The proposed temple is expected to be the first Swaminarayan temple in Pune to be situated in such close proximity to a large residential development.

Located in the Vadgaon-Lonavala Growth Corridor, one of Pune's fastest-emerging residential and infrastructure belts, Krisala Land of Dreams is part of a rapidly evolving micro-market witnessing increasing residential activity and infrastructure development.

The proposed temple is expected to add a distinctive spiritual and cultural dimension to the corridor, complementing its growing residential ecosystem and contributing to the emergence of a more integrated community destination.

Mr. Aakash Agarwal, Managing Director, Krisala Developers, said, "For families living at Land of Dreams, having a Swaminarayan Temple within the township adds something that cannot be created through residential amenities alone. It gives residents a place of faith that is close to home, where they can attend prayers, celebrate festivals and take part in community and cultural activities without having to travel far. We see this as an important addition to the everyday experience of living at Krisala Land of Dreams, particularly for families who value having these traditions and community spaces within easy reach."

The temple is currently in its planning and development phase, with construction timelines to be confirmed by the temple trust in due course. Once complete, it is expected to host regular religious observances, cultural programmes and community events, adding to the corridor's evolving social infrastructure.

With Pune's western and southwestern growth corridors witnessing sustained residential demand, the addition of institutions such as this temple is expected to further validate the long-term destination value of the Vadgaon-Lonavala belt, reinforcing its shift from a peripheral location to a self-sufficient, well-rounded micro-market.

Krisala Developers is a Pune-based real estate developer with over 14 years of experience across residential, commercial, plotted and integrated developments. Driven by its philosophy of "Innovating Lifespaces," Krisala combines customer insight, thoughtful design, technology and execution to create spaces that respond to evolving lifestyles and aspirations.

The company has delivered 20+ projects and homes to 9,000+ families, with over 2.5 million sq. ft. developed and 10.5 million sq. ft. under development. From pioneering formats such as the +0.25 BHK to developing large-scale, lifestyle-led communities, Krisala continues to focus on innovation, quality, transparency and customer-centric development.

The company is expanding its presence across emerging growth corridors, with a growing portfolio spanning residential, commercial and integrated developments.

India’s commercial property market is entering the second half of 2026 with quality, connectivity, flexibility and value emerging as key demand drivers, as GCC development, infrastructure improvement and changing occupier requirements reshape how office and retail properties are assessed.

According to the latest industry report, GCCs contributed 43% of total office space leasing across India’s major cities in the first half of 2026. The country’s total office inventory also surpassed 1 billion square feet in 2026.

Sanchit Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, said, “The commercial real estate sector is gradually shifting towards a demand-based phase where the occupants and investors are assessing the opportunities in terms of connectivity, quality, and sustainability. In locations like Noida and Greater Noida, the development in the infrastructure coupled with new business and job openings is supporting the increasing demand for modern office spaces. This trend will also push the developers to build commercial assets in sync with the changing requirements of the businesses and investors.”

Connectivity and infrastructure are also emerging as critical factors influencing occupier and investor decisions across key NCR markets as commercial growth becomes increasingly demand-led.

Harinder Singh Hora, Founder Chairman, Reach Group, said, “The current momentum in retail leasing reflects a fundamental shift in how commercial destinations are being conceived and consumed. Retail performs best when it is anchored by a strong and evolving catchment, supported by residential, workplaces, hospitality, entertainment and dining that together create sustained footfall throughout the day. Gurugram is a strong example of this transition, with emerging growth corridors giving rise to new consumer catchments and expanding the addressable market for organised retail.”

Mitul Jain, Managing Director, SPJ Group, added, “The commercial real estate industry, especially the retail segment, is increasingly adopting an experiential approach, wherein the objective of providing an experience is going beyond transactions to destinations which encourage the consumers to spend time, engage themselves, and keep coming back. In Gurugram, the new demand scenario of the consumers is leading to increased relevance of the retail settings that offer shopping, dining, entertainment, and convenience all under one roof and in a well-connected location. High visibility, accessibility, good catchments, and steady footfalls are increasingly becoming key factors that help the occupiers and investors gauge the future prospects of a commercial real estate property.”

The stronger focus on fundamentals and consumer-led demand is also shaping the broader investment outlook, with investors increasingly assessing commercial assets on the basis of long-term resilience and real demand.

Ashwani Kumar, Pyramid Infratech, said, “Real estate investment in H2 2026 would be driven more by fundamentals than by sentiment, and will look towards the basic demand and the potential of the real estate asset. Aspects like connectivity, catchment areas, good development and the capability of an area to facilitate economic activities will continue to play an important part in real estate investments. In regions like Gurugram, the growing infrastructure and residential population create opportunities for commercial and retail spaces that can meet the needs of consumers and businesses. Such assets, which are supported by demand, proper location, good infrastructure and future-proof planning, would be able to create sustainable value and stay resilient in different market cycles.”

Beyond Gurugram, these fundamentals are gaining traction across emerging NCR markets, where infrastructure expansion and growing catchments are creating opportunities for integrated commercial developments.

Azad Ahmad Lone, President, Biigtech, said, “In Greater Noida, improving infrastructure, expanding residential catchments and the region’s growing economic relevance are creating a stronger foundation for organised retail and commercial developments. Occupiers are increasingly seeking spaces that offer visibility, accessibility and a strong consumer ecosystem, while investors are looking for assets with sustainable demand drivers rather than short-term speculation. We expect mixed-use developments, experiential retail and well-planned commercial destinations to gain traction. The focus will increasingly be on creating integrated ecosystems that combine retail, dining, entertainment and business uses, thereby supporting both occupier demand and long-term investment value.”

As experience becomes a central component of retail performance, developers and retailers are placing greater emphasis on factors that support sustained footfall and repeat consumer engagement.

Ajendra Singh, Vice President (Sales and Marketing), Spectrum Metro, said, “Clearly, there is a trend emerging within the retail real estate industry, whereby retailers and consumers are not satisfied by mere retail opportunities but rather want an experience that adds value to their visit. In the second half of 2026, having a good catchment area, ease of access, good tenant mix, entertainment, and food and beverage options will still be important factors for creating consistent footfall and good retail performance.”

Overall, H2 2026 is expected to favour commercial assets that combine strategic location, quality infrastructure, sustainability and strong demand fundamentals, while GCC growth and evolving consumer and occupier preferences continue to shape India’s commercial property market.

Ai+ Smartphone has announced the Nova 2 Power 5G, the newest addition to its Nova 2 Series, through Project Open Review 2.0, revealing the smartphone’s design, colourways and chipset ahead of its market debut. The programme invites reviewers, creators, journalists, technology enthusiasts and ethical hackers to independently test the Nova 2 Power before it reaches consumers.

Building on the first edition of Project Open Review, which drew more than 700 registrations, Open Review 2.0 expands participation to include ethical hackers for the first time. The initiative reflects Ai+ Smartphone’s commitment to building Trust through Transparency before the product reaches the end consumer.

With the Nova 2 Power, Ai+ Smartphone is introducing a smartphone built around two defining ideas: “Design that inspires and Power that outlasts.” The design is available in two dual Colour Fusion finishes: Golden Blue Fusion and Blue Fusion.

Golden Blue Fusion combines muted gold and deep navy blue in a fluid gradient that shifts from understated warmth to a deeper, bolder tone. Blue Fusion transitions from cool ocean blue to vivid sunset orange, creating a younger, more expressive visual identity.

Rather than treating colour as a surface-level addition, the design language brings contrasting tones together in a dual flowing finish, giving the Nova 2 Power a distinctive and recognisable identity. The approach is designed for consumers who increasingly see their smartphone not just as a technology device, but as an extension of their personal style.

Under the hood, the Nova 2 Power runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 7100, built on a 6nm process designed to deliver a balance of sustained performance and power efficiency.

Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone and Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “Nova 2 Power represents the next evolution of the Nova Series bringing together performance and a design identity that is distinctly its own. The Dimensity 7100 gives it the performance foundation, while our new Colour Fusion finishes allow the device to stand out beyond specifications. But we also believe a product should earn confidence before it asks consumers for it. With Project Open Review 2.0, we are putting the Nova 2 Power to test before it reaches the end consumer.”

Under Project Open Review 2.0, participants will receive early, independent access to evaluate the Nova 2 Power across all its specifications and overall user experience. The process is entirely unscripted, with no expectation of a favourable verdict.

The Nova 2 Power runs on NxtQuantum OS, Ai+ Smartphone’s mobile operating system, and extends the Nova Series into a more performance and design-led territory.

Further details on the Nova 2 Power, including additional specifications, pricing and availability, will be announced closer to its consumer launch.

Ai+ Smartphone is an Indian technology brand delivering high-performance, accessible mobile experiences powered by NxtQuantum OS — India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. By combining clean design, long battery life and privacy-first software across its smartphone and Connected AIoT ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is establishing a new standard for trust, performance and user-owned technology.

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.

Rakhi celebrations can get a fresh citrus twist this year with South African Citrus Orange Sandesh, a refreshing take on the classic Bengali sweet conceptualised by Chef Neha Deepak Shah. The festive treat combines soft, melt-in-the-mouth chhena with milk powder, a zero-calorie sweetener and fragrant South African Citrus zest, with a juicy mandarin segment tucked inside for a citrus surprise in every bite.

The Orange Sandesh is light and flavourful and is made without sugar or cream, offering a fresh addition to the festive platter for Rakhi celebrations.

To prepare the sweet, 500 ml of milk is heated until hot. Two teaspoons of vinegar are added gradually and stirred gently until the milk curdles and the chhena separates. The chhena is then strained using a muslin cloth, washed well, squeezed to remove excess water and transferred to a mixer.

A quarter cup of milk powder and a quarter cup of a low sweetener of choice are added before the mixture is blended until smooth. It is then transferred to a pan and cooked on low heat, with continuous stirring, until it becomes slightly dry and starts leaving the sides of the pan.

A pinch of saffron or orange food colour can be added optionally before finely grated South African mandarin zest is stirred into the mixture for a fresh citrusy aroma.

After the mixture cools slightly, a small portion is taken and flattened gently. A juicy South African mandarin segment is placed in the centre, after which the mixture is carefully shaped into a ball, sealing the fruit inside. The process is repeated with the remaining mixture and mandarin segments.

The citrus-filled sandesh can then be served as a special mithai for Rakhi, bringing a burst of freshness to every bite. Cloves, pistachios and mint leaves can be used for garnish.

The recipe uses one South African mandarin for stuffing and zest, along with milk, vinegar, milk powder, a low sweetener of choice and optional saffron or orange food colour.

The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) represents citrus growers across Southern Africa. For over 120 years, growers have produced premium citrus fruits with a strong focus on quality, sustainability, innovation, nutrition, and preventive health.

Grown under ideal climatic conditions and carefully harvested, these fruits deliver scientifically supported health benefits with every serving. Behind this success are passionate individuals who take pride in agriculture and understand the dedication required to produce world-class fruit - a commitment that truly sets Southern African citrus apart.

Bajaj Finance has launched Loan Utsav 2026, a limited-period campaign offering a reward bundle to eligible customers whose Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is successfully disbursed during the campaign period. The campaign combines access to personal financing with entertainment, dining and lifestyle benefits.

Loan Utsav 2026 is available until September 10, 2026, subject to applicable terms and conditions. Eligible customers can explore the reward bundle while considering a personal loan for planned or urgent expenses.

The campaign introduces a reward bundle covering entertainment, music, dining and shopping categories. Eligible customers can receive six months of free membership covering Zee 5, Sony Liv and 14 other OTTs, a three-month JioHotstar membership, a three-month Zomato Gold Membership, a three-month JioSaavn Pro membership, a 45-day Gaana membership and more than 40 free vouchers.

The rewards are applicable after successful loan disbursal within the campaign period. Eligibility and reward fulfilment are subject to the applicable campaign terms and conditions.

Loan Utsav 2026 is relevant to eligible customers who are already considering a personal loan for a planned or urgent financial requirement. A Bajaj Finance Personal Loan can help manage various personal expenses, with customers able to choose a loan amount and repayment tenure based on their financial needs and applicable eligibility.

The campaign rewards are linked to successful loan disbursal during the specified campaign period. Customers are required to review the applicable terms before applying.

A Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers a loan amount ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, subject to applicable eligibility criteria. The repayment tenure ranges from 12 months to 108 months.

The personal loan interest rate ranges from 10% to 30.5% per annum, depending on applicable terms and the customer's profile. The loan is collateral-free, meaning eligible customers do not need to pledge an asset as security. Funds can be disbursed within 24 hours*, subject to fulfilment of applicable conditions and documentation.

The available loan amounts and repayment periods allow customers to consider different borrowing options based on their financial requirements. A repayment tenure of up to 108 months also provides eligible customers with flexibility when planning monthly repayments.

A longer tenure can reduce the monthly EMI for a given loan amount and may help customers manage their monthly cash flow. However, extending the tenure can also increase the total interest payable over the loan period. Customers should compare different tenure options and consider their income, existing financial commitments and repayment capacity before selecting a repayment schedule.

The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan interest rate ranges from 10% to 30.5% per annum, subject to applicable terms and the customer's profile. Customers should review the applicable rate, EMI, processing charges and other relevant terms when assessing the overall cost of a personal loan.

An EMI calculator can also help customers understand how the loan amount, interest rate and tenure can affect their monthly repayment.

Customers can begin the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan application process online by checking their eligibility and providing the required information. The process includes submitting relevant details and documents for assessment.

Eligible customers can select a suitable loan amount and repayment tenure based on their requirements and applicable terms. Once the required checks and documentation are completed, the loan can be disbursed within 24 hours*, subject to applicable conditions.

Customers applying during Loan Utsav 2026 should ensure that the loan is successfully disbursed within the campaign period to qualify for the applicable reward benefits, subject to the campaign terms.

Loan Utsav 2026 brings together personal financing and a limited-period reward bundle for eligible customers. For customers who already have a planned borrowing requirement, the campaign provides an opportunity to explore the applicable rewards alongside the features of a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan.

The loan offers amounts from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, repayment tenures from 12 months to 108 months, and interest rates from 10% to 30.5% per annum. It is also a collateral-free loan, with disbursal within 24 hours*, subject to applicable conditions.

Customers should borrow based on their actual financial requirements and repayment capacity rather than choosing a loan solely for the campaign rewards.

Bajaj Finance provides a structured process for customers exploring personal finance options. The combination of online application, flexible repayment tenures and collateral-free borrowing can help eligible customers manage different financial needs.

Loan Utsav 2026 adds a limited-period reward bundle for eligible customers whose loan is successfully disbursed during the campaign period. Customers should check the campaign terms, loan costs and applicable eligibility criteria before proceeding.

Customers can check their eligibility online and review the applicable terms for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan.

*Terms and conditions apply.

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (BFL), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit-taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL serves over 124.43 million customers through a diversified portfolio comprising consumer loans, SME finance, commercial lending, rural lending, fixed deposits and payments, offered through Web, App and at 4,000+ locations. As a FinAI company, BFL is focused on continuous innovation through smart use of technology, data and analytics to drive seamless, simplified and personalized experiences for its customers.

BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BBB/Stable and a short-term rating of A-2 by S&P Global ratings. It has been assigned a ‘Baa3 Corporate Family Rating’ with Stable outlook from Moody’s Rating.