Tuesday, March 24, 2026

India’s M&E sector likely to grow to INR 3.3 trillion by 2028; Sector grew 9% to INR2.78 trillion in 2025, driven by digital and live experiences: FICCI-EY M&E report







 

Govt committed to building future-ready ecosystem to integrate creativity with cutting-edge technology, ensuring sustainable and globally competitive growth: Ashish Shelar, Minister, IT & Cultural Affairs, Govt of Maharashtra

 

Digital media became the largest segment, crossing INR1 trillion in revenues for the first time
The growing dynamism of large screens clearly demonstrates India as an ‘AND’ market, shaping a more integrated consumption ecosystem
Live events grew 44% in 2025, supported by ticketed concerts, large public events and religious gatherings
Advertising rose by 13% to INR1.5 trillion, contributing 0.41% to India’s GDP
The M&E sector is expected to reach INR3.3 trillion by 2028, growing at over 7% CAGR
 

MUMBAI, 24 March 2026: India’s Media and Entertainment (M&E) sector continued its expansion in 2025, growing 9% year‑on‑year to INR2.78 trillion, according to the report ‘Stories, scale and impact: Unlocking India’s media and entertainment economy’ released by FICCI and EY India, today. This growth was driven primarily by digital media, advertising and live experiences, even as select segments faced regulatory and cost pressures.

 

According to the FICCI-EY report, digital media emerged as the single largest segment of the M&E industry in 2025, crossing the INR 1 trillion mark for the first time. Digital advertising recorded a 26% increase to INR 947 billion, accounting for nearly two‑thirds of total advertising revenues, as brands continued to shift spends toward performance‑led, measurable and commerce‑linked formats.

 

The sector continues to evolve, with a notable rise in consumption on large screens. Linear Television is transitioning from a regulated utility to a dynamic, lifestyle-integrated ecosystem that complements digital growth, further reinforcing the “AND” nature of screen consumption in the country.

 

The FICCI-EY report notes that advertising overall grew 13.5% in 2025, outpacing India’s nominal GDP per‑capita growth. Growth was led by digital platforms, including e‑commerce and point‑of‑sale advertising.

 

While releasing the report, Mr Ashish Shelar, Minister of Information Technology & Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra said, “The FICCI–EY Media & Entertainment Report has, over the years, evolved into a definitive benchmark for the sector—guiding both industry and policymakers with credible insights and a forward-looking vision. Today, India’s media and entertainment industry stands at an impressive Rs 2.78 lakh crore in 2025, reflecting not just scale, but the sector’s growing strategic importance to the nation’s economy.”

 

“Mumbai continues to be the creative capital of India and the epicentre of our media and entertainment ecosystem. From films and television to music, advertising, and digital content, Maharashtra has consistently led from the front, driving innovation, investment, and talent development. Our government is committed to building a future-ready ecosystem that seamlessly integrates creativity with cutting-edge technology, ensuring sustainable and globally competitive growth, noted Mr Shelar.

 

The Minister further stated that the global opportunity before India is unprecedented. The world is increasingly recognising India not just as a large market, but as a creative powerhouse and a trusted partner in content creation. The rising demand for Indian stories, talent, and production capabilities presents a defining moment for us to position India as a leading global hub for media and entertainment, he added.

 

Mr Anant Goenka, President FICCI & Vice Chairman, RPG Group said “India’s media and entertainment economy is increasingly defined by the interplay of stories, scale and impact. As compelling stories scale seamlessly across platforms and screens, their value is amplified not just in terms of reach, but in economic contribution, job creation and cultural influence. Unlocking this potential will depend on how effectively the industry aligns storytelling, distribution and sustainable monetization across the ecosystem.”

 

Mr Kevin Vaz, Chairman, FICCI, Media and Entertainment Committee said, “2025 emerged as a defining year for India’s Media & Entertainment industry, marking a new phase of scale, innovation and transformation. The industry not only surpassed last year’s estimates, reinforcing confidence in its long-term trajectory, but also reflected a fundamental shift in audience engagement, driven by the convergence of technology and storytelling. The digital segment crossing the INR 1 trillion mark is a highly encouraging milestone, underscoring the sector’s strong growth momentum. Television continues to remain a powerful and resilient medium, with Connected TV complementing it by enhancing large-screen experiences through more immersive, high-quality and shared viewing. As the industry evolves, measured regulatory forbearance, coupled with innovation, will be critical in sustaining long-term growth.”

 

Mr Ashish Pherwani, Partner and Leader, Media & Entertainment Sector, EY India, said, “India’s media and entertainment sector crossed a critical inflection point in 2025, with digital media, advertising and live experiences emerging as the primary growth engines. While consumption continues to scale rapidly across screens and formats, the next phase of growth will be defined by sustainable monetization models, disciplined investment and the ability of stakeholders to adapt to shifting consumer behaviour and regulatory realities.”

 

Segmental performance 2025:

Live events: The organized segment experienced a 44% increase, fuelled by higher spending on ticketed events, personal functions such as weddings, government events and religious gatherings.
Digital advertising: Rising 26% to INR947 billion, the segment made up 63% of total ad revenues. E-commerce and point-of-sale ads surged 50% to INR220 billion, which is equivalent to 85% of Linear TV ad revenues. Digital advertising also includes INR363 billion from over a million Small and Medium Enterprises and long-tail advertisers.
Digital subscriptions: Digital subscription revenues increased by 60%, reaching INR163 billion. Paid video subscriptions rose to 216 million, spanning 143 million households in India, driven by the introduction of premium sports and films behind paywalls. Paid music subscriptions expanded by 37% to 14.4 million, following measures by music streaming platforms to encourage paid usage.
OOH: Out-of-Home (OOH) media grew 13% in 2025. Premium properties and locations led the growth. Digital OOH contributed 18% of total segment revenues, up from 7% in 2023.
Music: The Indian music sector experienced a 10% increase in revenue. Digital licensing expanded by only 2%, while revenues from other OTT platforms and social media channels demonstrated growth.
Film: Segment revenues reached a record INR205 billion. In 2025, over 1,900 films were released, with theatrical revenues rising 16%, mainly from higher ticket prices. Thirty-seven films earned INR1 billion or more at the box office
Animation and VFX: The Hollywood writers’ strike impacted global supply chains, and international studios, struggling with profitability in 2025, focused on fewer films and series. Overall, the segment grew just 2% in 2025.
Print: Despite global declines, print remained resilient in India. Advertising revenues rose 2% in 2025, especially in premium formats for affluent metro and non-metro readers. Digital ads revenue was minimal, around 5% to 6% on average of the total print revenue.
Television: Television continues to be the predominant medium in India, reaching around 745 million individuals each week. Linear TV advertising revenue declined by 10%, reflecting a corresponding decrease in advertising volumes as some sectors shifted spend to digital media, and a 3% reduction in the number of advertisers utilizing this platform. However, when combined with Connected TVs, whose reach increased to approximately 40 million units from 30 million in 2024, total TV ad revenues were stable at INR362 million
Radio: Radio segment revenues declined by 7% in 2025, reaching INR23 billion, primarily due to reduced ad rates. Non-ad revenues now comprise 25% of segment revenues.
Video games: The segment saw a 17% decrease following the ban on money gaming that took effect from August 2025. In-app purchases in video games rose by 15% as the industry focussed on the format.
 

Looking ahead, FICCI-EY report estimates that India’s M&E sector will grow to INR3.3 trillion by 2028, with digital media, live events, filmed entertainment and animation and VFX expected to be the primary growth drivers. New media is projected to account for over 50% of total industry revenues by 2028, reflecting ongoing shifts in consumer behaviour, content formats and monetization models. The FICCI-EY report further notes that increasing smartphone penetration, the rapid adoption of Connected TVs, growth in regional‑language content, and the rise of experiential consumption will continue to reshape India’s media and entertainment landscape over the medium term.

 

We sincerely thank our partners for their invaluable support in making the FICCI–EY Media & Entertainment Report Launch 2026 a success. We extend special appreciation to Meta, our Title Partner, and EY, our Knowledge Partner, for their leadership in shaping industry insights. We also thank Prime Video, Hungama, Lakshya Digital Pvt. Ltd, PVR INOX, and the Producers Guild of India for their valued association, as well as Kuku TV, our Microdrama Partner, for highlighting emerging content formats.

 

 

Link to the report: https://frames.ficci.in/qr.html

*JITO Premier League 2026 Franchise Auction Sets New Benchmark for Community Cricket in India*



*Mumbai:* The JITO Premier League (JPL) 2026 has successfully concluded its landmark Franchise Owners Auction, marking a defining moment in the evolution of community-driven cricket in India.

*Addressing the occasion, Mr. Vicky Oswal, Chairman JPL, said:* “This auction is not just about owning teams, it is about building a vision for the future of community cricket. The overwhelming response and the scale at which franchises were acquired reflect the belief our community has in this platform. JPL is here to create real opportunities, nurture talent, and take our players to the next level.”

The evening witnessed exceptional energy, strategic bidding, and strong participation from Jain business leaders and entrepreneurs across the country. What stood out was not just the competitive spirit, but the shared commitment to be part of a larger movement that blends sport, community, and opportunity.

In a historic first for India, a community-led league conducted a full-scale franchise auction where teams were acquired at remarkable and unprecedented valuations, setting a new benchmark for similar initiatives nationwide.

A total of 12 franchises were successfully taken up, each representing key cities and regions across India. Each team now carries the responsibility of developing talent and strengthening the sporting ecosystem within the community.

Franchises & Team Owners:

Chennai Tuskars – Mr. Rajesh Chandan

Maharashtra Peshwas – Mr. Ujjwal Pagaria, Pagaria Group

Indore Eklavyas – Mr. Prateek Surya & Mr. Mayank Doshi

Gujarat Warriors – Mr. Nitin Jain (Surat)

Mumbai Falcons – Mr. Jayent Jain, Mr. Jayesh Bhansali & Team

Bengaluru Eagles – Mr. Mahendra Bafna, Mr. Vishal C. Jain & Team

Kolkata Thunders – RDB Group – Mr. Vinod Dugar

Pune Tigers – Mr. Vijay Bhandari, Mr. Vishal Chordia & Team

Rajasthan Rakshaks – JYF Infinity & Team

Delhi Imperials – Pavna Sports & Entertainment – Mr. Swapnil Jain

Hyderabadi Marfa – Mr. Gautam Sehlot

 Mumbai SOBO Stars – JYF Friends & Team

The auction featured several high-intensity bidding moments, showcasing the strong confidence stakeholders have in the league’s long-term vision and impact.

The initiative stands guided by the visionary leadership of Mr. Prithviraj Kothari, Chairman JITO Apex and is driven by the bold vision and powerful execution of Mr. Vicky Oswal, Chairman JITO Sports & JPL, whose efforts have been instrumental in transforming this long-standing dream into reality.

The event was graced by esteemed JITO leaders including:

Mr. Vijay Bhandari (President Apex, Mr. Kamlesh Sajotia (Vice President Apex), Mr. Lalit Dangi (Secretary General Apex), Mr. Sampat Chaplot (Treasurer – Apex), Mr. Jinendra Kumar Munot (Director In-Charge – Sports), and Mr. Bhavik Sakaria (Chief Secretary – Sports), along with members of the Apex body and JITO Sports Committee.

Adding further inspiration to the evening, the event was attended by Sahil Parakh, a promising young Indian cricketer associated with the Delhi Daredevils (IPL 2026), who is also a product of the JITO Sports Professional Program — highlighting the league’s commitment to nurturing real talent.

At its core, the JITO Premier League is built to provide a structured, professional platform for youth from the community to showcase their cricketing abilities and progress to higher levels of the sport.

With the successful completion of the franchise auction, JPL 2026 now moves into its next phase — team building, player auctions, and season preparations, leading up to what promises to be a highly competitive and impactful tournament. JITO Premier League 2026 is not just a cricket league, it is a movement to create opportunities, build connections, and elevate community talent onto bigger platforms. ЁЯПП✨

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Indian Missions Working in ‘Mission Mode’ to Evacuate Citizens from War-Affected Regions




18th March, New Delhi– Amid ongoing tensions in West Asia, the Government of India and Indian missions abroad are actively engaged in efforts to safely evacuate Indian citizens. Multiple alternative routes are being used to facilitate their return.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, around 244,000 Indians have returned safely to the country since the conflict began on February 28. To bring back those stranded in war-affected areas, the Indian government is maintaining close contact with top leadership across West Asia and the Middle East, while Indian missions overseas are operating fully in “mission mode.”

Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing on March 17, said that approximately 700 Indian nationals have reached Armenia and Azerbaijan via land routes from Iran, from where they are returning to India. He added, “All 284 pilgrims who had gone to Iran have also safely reached Armenia. Out of these, 130 pilgrims will arrive in Delhi today.” Spokesperson Jaiswal noted that the MEA’s control room is fully operational and assisting citizens, and that the volume of incoming calls and emails has significantly decreased.

The Indian Embassy in Doha has facilitated the evacuation of more than 1,600 Indians through Qatar Airways flights. It also informed that temporary transit visa facilities for Saudi Arabia are being provided, helping those who wish to return to India via land through the Salwa border. The embassy stated that its office will remain open throughout the week to offer consular services, including passport issuance.

Additionally, in a post on X, the embassy said that as part of ongoing relief efforts supported by the mission, dry ration is being distributed to members of the Indian fishing community residing in Qatar.

Further, Additional Secretary (Gulf) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Aseem R. Mahajan, stated in a press briefing, “Indian missions in the region are working round the clock. On March 16, around 65 flights operated from the UAE to India, and about 70 flights are expected on Tuesday. Flights from Oman to various destinations in India are also continuing.”

Powerica Limited’s Initial Public Offering to open on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, price band set at Rs 375 to Rs 395 per Equity Share



Price band of Rs 375 – Rs 395 per Equity Share bearing face value of Rs 5 each (“Equity Shares”)
Bid/Offer Opening Date – Tuesday, March 24, 2026 and Bid/Offer Closing Date – Friday, March 27, 2026.
Minimum Bid Lot is 37 Equity Shares and in multiples of 37 Equity Shares thereafter 
Mumbai, March 18, 2026: Powerica Limited (the “Company”) has fixed the price band of Rs 375 to Rs 395 per Equity Share of face value Rs 5/- each for its maiden initial public offer.

The Initial Public Offering (“IPO” or “Offer”) of the Company will open on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, for subscription and close on Friday, March 27 2026.
 
Investors can bid for a minimum of 37 Equity Shares and in multiples of 37 Equity Shares thereafter.
  
The IPO is a fresh issue up to Rs 700 crore and an offer-for-sale for up to Rs 400 crore by promoters - Naresh Oberoi Family Trust and Kabir and Kimaya Family Private Trust. 

The Company is an integrated power solutions provider specializing in diesel generator sets (“DG sets”), for both primary and standby applications. As one of the original equipment manufacturers for Cummins India Limited (“Cummins India”, along with its affiliates, “Cummins”), the Company has maintained a relationship with them for over four decades. 
The Company commenced its DG sets business in 1984, and subsequently expanded its generator set portfolio to include medium speed large generators (“MSLG”) in 1996. The Company continues to develop this segment through a collaboration with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Limited (“Hyundai”) on a non-exclusive basis. By integrating its DG set and MSLG offerings, the Company provides a comprehensive range of generator sets with capacities ranging from 7.5 kVA to 10,000 kVA, designed to meet the distinctive requirements of diverse industries and applications. 

As of the date of the Red Herring Prospectus, its generator set business comprises of DG sets powered by Cummins engines, MSLG offerings in collaboration with Hyundai, and certain allied business activities (“Generator Set Business”). 

Building on its experience in the Generator Set Business, the Company entered the wind power sector in 2008 as an independent power producer (“IPP”). Subsequently, the Company developed capabilities as an engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) contractor as well as an operation and maintenance (“O&M”) service provider for balance of plant (“BoP”).

 As of the date of the Red Herring Prospectus, its operations in the wind power sector includes developing and operating IPP projects as well as undertaking EPC and O&M activities for BoP primarily within the wind power industry.

As of the date of the Red Herring Prospectus, the Company owns and operates 12 wind power projects in Gujarat, with a total installed capacity of 330.85 MW (“Operational Wind Power Projects”). In addition to its Operational Wind Power Projects, the Company is constructing a wind power project of 52.70 MW in Gujarat that will take its IPP portfolio to a total installed capacity of 383.55 MW.

The Company manufactures DG sets along with auxiliary items, including acoustic enclosures, fuel and exhaust systems, and customised control panel systems. Its offering comprises of comprehensive high speed generator solutions, powered by Cummins engines, covering the design, marketing, manufacturing, testing, supply, installing, and commissioning of DG sets ranging from 7.5 kVA to 3,750 kVA. 

As of the date of the Red Herring Prospectus, the Company operates three manufacturing facilities located in Bengaluru, Karnataka; Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli; and Khopoli, Maharashtra. 
Its extensive sales network supports effective customer engagement and market penetration. As on September 30, 2025, its network comprised 19 sales/marketing offices in addition to its registered and corporate offices, supported by a sales and marketing team of 123 personnel. As on September 30, 2025, the Company also engages with 43 authorised dealers, by issuing joint authorization certificates with Cummins and itself, for providing prompt service across a wide range of market segments.

The Company’s revenue from operations for the six-months ended September 30, 2025 was Rs 1,447.44 crore and its net profit was Rs 134.55 crore.
Its revenue from operations was Rs 2,653.27 crore during FY25 as against Rs 2,378.26 crore during FY23.

Its net profit was Rs 175.83 crore during FY25 as against Rs 106.45 crore during FY23.
 
ICICI Securities Limited, IIFL Capital Services Limited (formerly known as IIFL Securities Limited) and Nuvama Wealth Management Limited are the book-running lead managers, and MUFG Intime India Private Limited (Formerly Link Intime India Private Limited) is the registrar of the offer.
 
The Offer is being made through the book-building process, wherein not more than 50% of the net offer is allocated to qualified institutional buyers, and not less than 15% and 35% of the net offer is assigned to non-institutional bidders and retail individual bidders respectively. 
 
Powerica Limited is proposing, subject to receipt of requisite approvals, market conditions and other considerations, an initial public offer of its Equity Shares and has filed a red herring prospectus dated March 17, 2026 (“RHP”), with the Registrar of Companies, Mumbai-I, at Mumbai. The RHP is made available on the website of the SEBI at www.sebi.gov.in as well as on the website of the ICICI Securities Limited at i.e., https://www.icicisecurities.com/, IIFL Capital Services Limited at https://www.iiflcapital.com/ and Nuvama Wealth Management Limited at https://www.nuvamawealth.com,  the website of the NSE at www.nseindia.com and the website of the BSE at www.bseindia.com and the website of the Company at https://www.powericaltd.com/. Any potential investor should note that investment in equity shares involves a high degree of risk and refer to the RHP, including the section titled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 31 of the RHP, for details.
 
The Equity Shares offered in the Issue have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act and may not be offered or sold within the United States, except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. The Equity Shares offered in the issue are being offered and sold only outside the United States in “offshore transactions” as defined in and in reliance on Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act (“Regulation S”).
 
Disclaimer Clause of Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”):  SEBI only gives its observations on the offer documents and this does not constitute approval of either the Issue or the specified securities stated in the Offer Documents. The investors are advised to refer to page 426 of the RHP for the full text of the disclaimer clause of SEBI.
 
Disclaimer Clause of BSE: It is to be distinctly understood that the permission given by BSE Limited should not in any way be deemed or construed that the Red Herring Prospectus has been cleared or approved by BSE Limited nor does it certify the correctness or completeness of any of the contents of the Red Herring Prospectus. The investors are advised to refer to the Red Herring Prospectus for the full text of the Disclaimer clause of the BSE Limited.
 
Disclaimer Clause of NSE: It is to be distinctly understood that the permission given by NSE should not in any way be deemed or construed that the Offer Document has been cleared or approved by NSE nor does it certify the correctness or completeness of any of the contents of the Offer Document. The investors are advised to refer to the Offer Document for the full text of the ‘Disclaimer Clause of NSE’.

Monday, March 16, 2026

Central Mine Planning & Design Institute Limited’s Initial Public Offering to open on March 20, 2026, price band set at Rs 163 - Rs 172 per Equity Share





Price band of Rs 163 – Rs 172 per Equity Share bearing face value of Rs 2 each (“Equity Shares”)
Bid/Offer Opening Date – March 20, 2026 and Bid/Offer Closing Date – March 24, 2026. The Anchor Investor Bid/Offer Period is one Working Day prior to the Bid/Offer Opening Date i.e. Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
Minimum Bid Lot is 80 Equity Shares of face value of Rs. 2 each and in multiples of 80 Equity Shares of face value of Rs. 2 each thereafter.
Mumbai, March 16, 2026: Central Mine Planning & Design Institute Limited has fixed the price band of Rs 163/- to Rs 172/- per Equity Share of face value Rs 2/- each for its maiden initial public offer.
The Initial Public Offering (“IPO” or “Issue”) of the Company will open on Friday, March 20, 2026, for subscription and close on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The Anchor Investor Bid/Offer Period is one Working Day prior to the Bid/Offer Opening Date i.e. Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
Investors can bid for a minimum of 80 Equity Shares and in multiples of 80 Equity Shares thereafter.
Equity shares outstanding as on date 714,000,000 Equity Shares of Rs 2 each.
The IPO is an offer for sale for up to 107,100,000 equity shares by promoter Coal India Limited. 
The offer is being made through the book building process in accordance with regulation 6(1) of the SEBI ICDR regulations 2018. the equity shares of the company will get listed on the main boards of BSE limited and national stock exchange of India limited.
NSE shall be the designated stock exchange.
QIB Portion: Not more than 50% of the Net Offer.
Non-Institutional Portion: Not less than 15% of the Net Offer.
Retail Portion: Not less than 35% of the Net Offer.
Employee Reservation Portion: Up to 5,355,000 equity shares of face value of ₹2 each. The Company, in consultation with the BRLMs, is offering a discount of ₹8 on the Offer Price to eligible employees bidding in the Employee Reservation Portion (“Employee Discount”).
Shareholders Reservation Portion: Up to 10,710,000 equity shares of face value of ₹2 each. The offer less the Employee Reservation Portion and the Shareholders Reservation Portion, is referred to as the “Net Offer.”
The company was incorporated on November 1, 1975 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Coal India Limited, and it offers consultancy and support services for the entire spectrum of coal and mineral exploration and mine planning and design services. Its services also include infrastructure engineering, environmental management, geomatics, specialized technology services, and management systems, primarily for the coal industry as well as for other minerals. 
The company is one of the largest coal and mineral consultancy companies in India in terms 61.0% of market share in Fiscal 2025 and is the preferred consultant for Coal India Limited. (Source: CRISIL Report). Its services span the entire lifecycle of mining operations, ranging from initial exploration to closure of mines.
The company was conferred the status of Mini Ratna (Category II) company in 2009 and was further upgraded to the status of Mini Ratna (Category I) company in 2019. With almost five decades of experience and having published over 320 project reports in the last decade, the company has continuously adapted to the changing landscape of the industry, integrating advanced technologies and practices that enhance operational efficiency and safety. 
The company has evolved as a pioneer in introducing new and suitable technology in the exploration and mining sectors. (Source: CRISIL Report). 
It assists the ministry of coal in strategic decisions and initiatives relating to coal-sector at the national level, for instance, through maintaining inventories of coal deposits, coal mining potentials and operations. The company also assists ministry of petroleum and natural gas (MoP&NG) for matters related to coalbed methane (CBM). It functions as the nodal agency on behalf of government of India (GoI) for schemes funded by the ministry of coal including science and technology projects, exploration work in non-Coal India Limited blocks and for projects funded by Coal India Limited Research and Development (R&D) Board. 
The company acts as the implementing agency for coal based non-conventional energy resources, including CBM. It serves as the liaison between ministry of coal, Coal India Limited, and coal producing companies on technical and operational matters. The company also acts as the in-house consultant and advisor for other coal-producing companies within the Coal India Limited group. 

The company has business verticals viz Geological Exploration and Resource Evaluation, mine planning and design, Environmental Planning and Monitoring Services and Geomatics, Remote Sensing and Survey Services.

The company is also equipped with advanced infrastructure to support their diverse range of activities, including one of the largest fleets of exploratory drills for coal and minerals in India, as of March 31, 2025. (Source: CRISIL Report) 
As of December 31, 2025, the company operates seven regional institutes in key coal-producing states such as Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal, facilitating on-ground project management and collaboration with local mining operations. The company’s facilities and capabilities are designed to ensure that the company can deliver high-quality services and solutions across all its verticals. The company operated a network of eight well-equipped laboratories located across various coalfields, which are also staffed by a dedicated team with technical experience in coal testing. Its laboratories are dedicated to monitoring air, soil, water, and noise parameters, ensuring that our operations meet the highest environmental standards.
The company is recognized as an in-house R&D unit by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. As the nodal agency for coordinating R&D programs in the coal sector, it assists the Technical Sub-committee of the Standing Scientific Research Committee of the Ministry of Coal, the R&D Board of Coal India Limited and the Apex Committee of the R&D Board of Coal India Limited. Its R&D activities cover a wide range of areas, including methodologies for improvement of the production and productivity of both underground and open-cast mining.
The company has planned open-cast mines with an annual production capacity of up to 85 million tonnes and depths of up to 420 meters. For underground mines, they have planned for capacities up to 7.5 million tonnes per annum. 
The company’s revenue from operations was Rs 1,489.6 crore for the nine-months period ended December 31, 2025 and its net profit was Rs 425.3 crore.
Its revenue from operations was Rs 2,102.7 crore during FY25 as against Rs 1,386 crore during FY23.
Its net profit was Rs 666.9 crore during FY25 as against Rs 296.6 crore during FY23.
IDBI Capital Markets & Securities Limited and SBI Capital Markets Limited are the book-running lead managers, and KFin Technologies Limited is the registrar of the offer.
The Offer is being made through the book-building process, wherein not more than 50% of the net offer is allocated to qualified institutional buyers, and not less than 15% and 35% of the net offer is assigned to non-institutional bidders and retail individual bidders respectively. 
Central Mine Planning & Design Institute Limited is proposing, subject to receipt of requisite approvals, market conditions and other considerations, to make an initial public offer of its Equity Shares and has filed a red herring prospectus dated March 12, 2026, with the Registrar of Companies, Jharkhand at Ranchi. The RHP is made available on the website of the SEBI at www.sebi.gov.in as well as on the website of the BRLM i.e., https://idbicapital.com/index.asp, and https://www.sbicaps.com/ the website of the NSE at www.nseindia.com and the website of the BSE at www.bseindia.com and the website of the Company at https://www.cmpdi.co.in/en. Any potential investor should note that investment in equity shares involves a high degree of risk and for details relating to such risks, please see the section “Risk Factors” beginning on page 38 of the RHP. Potential investors should not rely on the DRHP for making any investment decision but should only rely on the information included in the RHP filed by the Company with the RoC.
The Equity Shares have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws in the United States, and unless so registered, may not be offered or sold within the United States, except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. Accordingly, the Equity Shares are being offered and sold (i) within the United States to persons reasonably believed to be “qualified institutional buyers” (as defined in Rule 144A of the U.S. Securities Act) pursuant to Section 4(a) of the U.S. Securities Act, and (ii) outside the United States in "offshore transactions" as defined and in reliance on Regulation S and the applicable laws of each jurisdiction where such offers and sales are made. There will be no public offering of the Equity Shares in the United States.
Disclaimer Clause of Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”):  SEBI only gives its observations on the offer documents and this does not constitute approval of either the Issue or the specified securities stated in the Offer Documents. The investors are advised to refer to page 451 of the RHP for the full text of the disclaimer clause of SEBI.
Disclaimer Clause of BSE: It is to be distinctly understood that the permission given by BSE Limited should not in any way be deemed or construed that the RHP has been cleared or approved by BSE Limited nor does it certify the correctness or completeness of any of the contents of the RHP. The investors are advised to refer to the page 454 of the RHP for the full text of the disclaimer clause of BSE.
Disclaimer Clause of NSE: It is to be distinctly understood that the permission given by NSE should not in any way be deemed or construed that the Offer Document has been cleared or approved by NSE nor does it certify the correctness or completeness of any of the contents of the Issue Document. The investors are advised to refer to page 454 of the RHP for the full text of the disclaimer clause of NSE.

Aza Fashions Hosts an Exclusive Showcase of designer Rocky S’s Summer Festive Collection



16 March 2026, Mumbai: Luxury multi-designer destination Aza Fashions recently hosted an exclusive in-store showcase celebrating the launch of celebrated designer Rocky S’s Rocky Star Summer Festive Collection 2026 at its flagship store in Bandra, Mumbai. The intimate evening brought together fashion enthusiasts, loyal patrons, and members of the designer’s close circle for a special unveiling that celebrated craftsmanship, couture and the renewed creative partnership between the designer and the luxury retailer.
The showcase marked a significant moment for both the designer and the brand, as Rocky Star returned to Aza in what he described as a meaningful “homecoming.” With deep roots in Mumbai and a long-standing association with the city’s fashion community, presenting his latest collection in Aza— added a special emotional resonance to the evening. The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the collection, a soft, feminine and elegant festive edit designed specifically for modern celebrations. It blends delicate craftsmanship with contemporary glamour, offering styles that are both celebratory and versatile for the summer festive season.
Commenting on his collection launch, designer Rocky S said, “Returning to Aza feels incredibly special to me. It’s where part of my journey began, and coming back with a new collection feels like completing a beautiful circle. I am excited to share this moment and this collection with everyone who has supported my journey. This collection is soft, feminine and elegant. featuring beautiful prints and delicate embroidery. It's designed especially for the festive and wedding season. perfect for resort and destination celebrations
Devangi Nishar Parekh, Managing Director of Aza Fashions added, “Rocky S has always brought a distinct perspective on glamour to Indian fashion. His work has shaped celebratory dressing for decades, while continuing to evolve with changing times. Aza was one of the first platforms to showcase Rocky’s work, and we’ve shared a long association over the years. We’re excited to present his Summer Festive collection at our Aza Bandra store; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, glamour, and modern Indian celebration fashion, which both our brands champion.”
Aza Fashions has historically played an important role in championing India’s most iconic designers and curating their creations for discerning clients. Rocky S was among the designers who began his retail journey with Aza in the early years of his label. The designer’s return to the platform marks the revival of a creative partnership built on trust, legacy and a shared vision for contemporary Indian couture.
The collection features statement sarees, glamorous gowns and sculpted draped silhouettes crafted for festive occasions, summer weddings and evening celebrations. Crafted with lightweight fabrics suited to warmer climates, the designs combine intricate embellishments with fluid cuts that allow for effortless movement and elegance.
True to Rocky S’s signature aesthetic, the pieces reflect intricate embellishments, dramatic silhouettes, and modern glamour. It seamlessly merges traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary couture sensibilities. The colour palette transitions gracefully between soft pastels, metallic tones and classic festive hues, creating pieces that feel both timeless and modern.
Beyond the collection launch, the event was designed to create an immersive retail experience for customers. Guests had the opportunity to interact directly with the designer, understand the inspirations behind the collection and explore the festive edit in a personalized luxury retail setting. The evening reinforced the growing role of experiential retail in luxury fashion — where storytelling, designer interaction and curated environments enhance the overall shopping experience.
Seen attending the event were Ameesha Patel, Raveena Tandon, Manushi Chillar, Shama Sikander, Sussanne Khan, Sophie Choudry, Sunny Leone and Daniel Weber, Giorgia Andriani, Reshma Bombaywala, Avni Gupta, Abel Biju, Monica D'souza, Parul Yadav, Pooja Chopra, Rahul Jhangiani, Ruhi Singh, Samita Bangargi, Shevam Singh, Shubham Sharma, Arslan Goni and several others. 
For Aza Fashions, the showcase reflects its continued commitment to creating meaningful fashion moments that connect designers with their audiences. By hosting exclusive launches and in-store experiences, Aza continues to strengthen its position as one of India’s leading luxury multi-designer destinations, known for its carefully curated portfolio of celebrated designers and couture labels. Over the years, Aza has played a pivotal role in presenting iconic designers to fashion-forward clients, while offering customers access to some of the most sought-after creations in Indian couture.
For more details on the collection from Devangi Nishar Parekh, Click Here https://drive.google.com/file/d/139BMaGlDmTvPkCZiJCjKuPVwQJZuX-Ks/view?usp=sharing 
With the unveiling of the Rocky Star Summer Festive Collection 2026, Aza Fashions once again reaffirmed its reputation as a curator for luxury fashion, where craftsmanship, glamour and contemporary design come together to create memorable fashion moments.
About Aza Fashions
Aza is India’s premier destination for luxury fashion, curating the finest in bridal, couture, and ready-to-wear collections for men and women. Founded by Dr. Alka Nishar and helmed by Devangi Nishar Parekh, Aza showcases leading designers like Anamika Khanna, Tarun Tahiliani, and Rimple & Harpreet Narula, Amit Aggarwal, and Seema Gujral, as well as trending labels and emerging talent discovered by Aza. With 13 boutiques across Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ahmedabad and Surat, as well as a global e-commerce website and App, Aza offers personalized styling, seamless service, and worldwide shipping to over 75 countries—bringing Indian craftsmanship to a global stage. In 2025, Aza expanded into fine lab-grown diamond jewellery, with the launch of the brand Araiya by Aza.
For more information, visit: www.azafashions.com 

Friday, March 13, 2026

India–Canada Trade Ties Poised for Reset as WTC Mumbai Hosts Canadian Business Delegation



 
Mumbai, March 13, 2026: Signalling a renewed push to revive economic engagement between India and Canada, the World Trade Center Mumbai, in association with the All India Association of Industries (AIAI), hosted a Business Roundtable with a Canadian Trade Delegation led by the Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) at Centrum Hall.
 

In the picture (L to R): Mr. Prashant Srivastava, President, Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce (ICCC), Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman, World Trade Center Mumbai and President, All India Association of Industries and Mr. Andrew Maharaj, Senior Trade Commissioner and Consul, Consulate General of Canada
 
Mr. Andrew Maharaj, Senior Trade Commissioner and Consul, Consulate General of Canada, said India–Canada relations are entering what he described as a “phase of reconstruction and acceleration.” He noted that both countries are now looking to rebuild momentum in economic engagement and aim to scale bilateral trade to nearly USD 70 billion by 2030.
 
Referring to recent discussions between Canadian Prime Minister Mr. Mark Carney and Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi, Mr. Maharaj said the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) could serve as an important framework for expanding trade and investment between the two countries.
 
Highlighting priority sectors, he said Canada is keen to deepen cooperation with India in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, MSMEs, mining, technical education and innovation-driven industries. He also referred to the USD 2.6 billion uranium and nuclear cooperation agreement between the two countries, noting that as India expands its clean energy capacity from 200 GW to 500 GW, collaboration in critical minerals such as lithium and nickel will become increasingly important.
 
Mr. Maharaj added that Canadian investment funds are closely watching India’s growth trajectory, with potential investments estimated to reach USD 100 billion by 2030 across infrastructure and strategic sectors.
Addressing concerns raised by industry representatives on visa issues, he said Canada is working towards streamlining visa processes to better facilitate business travel, industry collaboration and student mobility.
 
Mr. Prashant Srivastava, President, Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) said the current trade mission comes at a pivotal moment for rebuilding economic engagement between the two countries after nearly five years of limited interaction.
“This mission focuses on emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, technology and startups, while also strengthening collaboration in traditional areas including agriculture and agri-food, education and skill development, hospitality and tourism,” he said.
On the sidelines of the roundtable, World Trade Center Mumbai and the Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in trade facilitation, business delegations, knowledge exchange and industry engagement between India and Canada.
 
Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman, World Trade Center Mumbai and President, All India Association of Industries, said bilateral trade between India and Canada currently stands at around USD 13 billion, with significant potential for expansion.
“As India continues its strong economic momentum and is expected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2026, new opportunities are emerging in sectors such as energy, education, skilled workforce mobility, technology and tourism,” he said.
Dr. Kalantri added that Canada continues to attract Indian businesses and investors, while several Canadian pension funds are exploring investment opportunities in India’s infrastructure and growth sectors.
 
“Education and talent mobility remain important pillars of bilateral engagement, with more than 700,000 Indian students pursuing higher education in Canada,” he noted.

Capt. Somesh Batra, Chairman, World Trade Center Mumbai, delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing appreciation to the Canadian delegation and industry participants for contributing to a constructive dialogue aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

Thursday, March 12, 2026

Iraq Oil Tanker Attack: Indian Embassy Saves 15 Indian Crew Members




Mumbai, The Indian Embassy in Iraq successfully rescued 15 Indian crew members after an attack on an oil tanker near the Basra coast on 11 March. The embassy is in constant contact with its citizens and the local administration, and the rescued Indians have been moved to a safe location.

The situation in West Asia remains fragile due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. Amid these tensions, the crude oil tanker “Seaface Vishnu”, flying the flag of the Marshall Islands and reportedly owned by a U.S. company, was attacked near Basra in Iraq. According to media reports, the attack was carried out by an Iranian suicide boat. Unfortunately, one Indian crew member lost his life in the incident.

Due to the heightened tensions in the region, officials at the Indian Embassy in Baghdad were already on alert and closely monitoring developments in the area. As soon as the incident was reported, the embassy immediately arranged for the remaining 15 Indian crew members to be moved to a safe location.

In a post on the social media platform X, the Indian Embassy said, “On March 11, 2026, a US-owned crude oil tanker Safesea Vishnu, sailing under the Marshall Islands flag, was attacked near Basra, Iraq, in which one Indian crew member unfortunately lost his life. The remaining 15 Indian crew have since been evacuated to a safe place. Embassy of India Baghdad is in regular contact with Iraqi authorities and rescued Indian sailors and is offering all possible assistance. Embassy extends its deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased crew member.”

Meanwhile, India’s Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has, as a precautionary measure, declared the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Gulf of Oman as high-risk areas. As part of security protocols, all Indian-flagged vessels have been instructed to maintain round-the-clock surveillance, increase position reporting, and test their Ship Security Alert Systems.

In a separate statement, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “Nearly 10 million Indians live across GCC countries. The welfare of our diaspora is our highest priority. The Prime Minister has spoken with leaders of several countries in the region, including the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, and Israel. The External Affairs Minister is also in regular contact with his counterparts in these countries as well as Iran.”

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

TATA STARBUCKS INTRODUCES THE VALENCIA ORANGE PEACH REFRESHER™, EXPANDING ITS STARBUCKS REFRESHER™ LINEUP





~ Crafted with green coffee extract, the range introduces bright fruit forward beverages that are naturally lighter and perfect for moments of refreshment
National, 10th March 2026: TATA Starbucks expands its Starbucks Refreshers™ lineup in India with the introduction of the Valencia Orange Peach Refresher™. Crafted with green coffee extract and layered with vibrant flavours, the new beverage is part of a lineup that also features Strawberry A├зa├н Lemonade Refresher™, Mango Dragonfruit Lemonade Refresher™, and Lychee Raspberry Refresher™.
As India’s coffee culture evolves, younger consumers are gravitating toward beverages that feel expressive, lighter, and suited to fast paced, on the go lifestyles. Starbucks Refreshers™ are crafted from green coffee extract sourced from premium unroasted Arabica beans, delivering a smooth, lightly caffeinated experience. The result is a bright, balanced, fruit forward beverage with a crisp finish, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional coffee for warm days, afternoon breaks, and everyday social moments.
The range includes:
Valencia Orange Peach Refresher™ - The newest addition combines Valencia orange flavour with freeze-dried peach inclusions, shaken with ice for a bright, zesty flavor and a clean finish. Light, citrus-forward and refreshing, it is crafted for easy summer moments
Strawberry A├зa├н Refresher™ - Crafted with strawberry and a├зa├н berry flavours, balanced with lemonade and freeze-dried strawberry inclusions. The drink offers a vibrant blend of gentle sweetness and subtle tartness
Mango Dragonfruit Refresher™ - A tropical combination of mango and dragon fruit flavours with lemonade, finished with freeze-dried mango and dragon fruit inclusions for a lively, fruit-forward taste
Lychee Raspberry Refresher™ - A harmonious blend of delicate lychee sweetness and tangy raspberry notes, with freeze-dried lychee pieces shaken in for a vibrant sip. This beverage offers a refreshing and elegant flavor experience

Speaking on the launch, Mitali Maheshwari, Head of Product & Marketing, TATA Starbucks, said, “TATA Starbucks continues to bring new ways for customers to enjoy moments of refreshment throughout the day. Onset of the summer season, customers seek beverages that are light, refreshing, and full of flavour. Refreshers™ continue to be a focused area of beverage innovation for us. Crafted with green coffee extract, the range allows us to keep evolving with new fruit forward flavour combinations that feel both contemporary and indulgent for the season. From Strawberry A├зai to Mango Dragonfruit to our latest Valencia Orange Peach, each addition reflects our commitment to expanding the range in line with changing consumer tastes, offering a vibrant and refreshing addition to our summer beverage portfolio.”
Starbucks Refreshers™ is now available nationwide at a TATA Starbucks store near you. 
***



About Tata Starbucks Private Limited
Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 390 stores in India across 54 cities, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Pune, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Vapi, Lucknow, Amritsar, Kochi, Ludhiana, Bhopal, Indore, Kanpur, Jaipur, Siliguri, Thiruvananthapuram, Nashik, Guwahati, Bhubaneshwar, Goa, Nagpur, Jalandhar, Anand, Patiala, Raipur, Kolhapur, Bhatinda, Dehradun, Udaipur, Vijayawada, Lonavala, Mysore, Agra, Aurangabad, Calicut, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Guwahati, Meerut, Nagpur, and Vishakhapatnam through a network of over 4,200 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks P

Saturday, March 7, 2026

Tata Power Collaborates with Salesforce to Accelerate India’s Clean Energy Transition




 

- Strategic collaboration to digitally power nationwide rooftop solar, EV charging, and intelligent energy management businesses

- Enabling seamless partner and customer journeys while empowering teams to scale green energy capacity with speed and precision

 

 Mumbai, India, March 6, 2025: Tata Power, one of India’s largest vertically integrated power companies, today announced its collaboration with Salesforce, the world’s #1 AI CRM*, to digitally transform its rapidly expanding rooftop solar (RTS), EV charging, and smart home solutions businesses. The collaboration reinforces Tata Power’s long-term clean energy roadmap aligned with India’s net-zero ambitions by establishing a secure, intelligent, and fully integrated clean energy ecosystem powered by AI, automation, and data-driven insights. The platform will enable scalable growth, deeper partner and customer engagement, and operational excellence across the renewable energy value chain.

 

As part of this transformation, Tata Power has deployed Agentforce Sales, Agentforce Service, and Agentforce Marketing across its renewable energy subsidiary, Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL). The Salesforce platform powers intelligent, AI-enabled workflows that enhance visibility, accelerate decision-making, and create seamless omnichannel experiences—driving efficiency, agility, and service leadership at scale.

 

Agentforce Sales and Agentforce Service form the foundation of Tata Power’s best-in-class omnichannel engagement model. Salesforce serves as a strategic digital backbone for Tata Power’s high-growth renewable energy businesses. The platform enables end-to-end digitisation of partners and customer journeys, delivering streamlined lead management, inventory visibility, process automation, and real-time performance tracking. This ensures enhanced transparency, operational efficiency, and a superior customer experience across touchpoints.

 

Additionally, Tata Power has developed a proprietary deep learning and agentic intelligence layer built on top of Salesforce to enable a zero-touch quality and safety validation process. This digital capability facilitates instant on-site verification and automated warranty generation, reinforcing Tata Power’s commitment to quality assurance and delivery excellence under its Solaroof offerings.

 

Driven by strong policy momentum under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Yojana, Tata Power’s residential rooftop solar segment has delivered over 200% growth across the past two financial years. Overall, the Company’s solar portfolio has achieved a fivefold increase in revenues between FY2020 and FY2025, reflecting accelerated market adoption, digital-led execution excellence, and expanding customer trust across segments.

 

Looking ahead, Tata Power and Salesforce will collaborate to co-innovate high-impact, agentic AI-led workflows designed to transform omnichannel customer and partner contact centre operations - driving faster resolution, proactive service, and predictive engagement.

 

Comments on the news:

Dr Praveer Sinha, CEO and MD Tata Power said, “Tata Power is leading India’s green energy transition by scaling rooftop solar nationwide, expanding EV charging infrastructure, and advancing intelligent energy management solutions. As we accelerate this growth, digital capability is a critical enabler of scale, speed, and customer trust. Leveraging Salesforce’s AI-powered platform, we are transforming customer and partner journeys with greater transparency and agility, while strengthening operational excellence. Together, we are building a future-ready clean energy ecosystem that advances India’s net-zero ambitions.”

 

Arundhati Bhattacharya, President & CEO at Salesforce - South Asia, said, "The path to a sustainable future is being paved by visionary enterprises that are embedding intelligence, agility, and customer-centricity into the core of their operations. Tata Power’s digital-first approach to accelerating India’s green energy mission exemplifies how technology can be a powerful catalyst for national transformation. At Salesforce, we are proud to partner with Tata Power in building a future-ready energy ecosystem—one that harnesses the power of data, AI, and automation to drive scalable impact, inclusive growth, and long-term climate resilience.”

 

About Salesforce

Salesforce helps organizations of any size become agentic enterprises - integrating humans, agents, apps, and data on a trusted, unified platform to unlock unprecedented growth and innovation.

 

Visit https://www.salesforce.com/in/ for more information.