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  • JLL ranks 1 in India for Real estate investment advisory: MSCI Real Capital Analytics for 2025

    Mumbai, March 18th: JLL, the largest International Property Consulting firm in India, has been ranked #1 for real estate capital markets transaction in MSCI Real Capital Analytics (RCA) for 2025.

    The New York- based MSCI Real Capital Analytics (RCA) rankings identify top commercial real estate investment brokers and advisors globally based on transaction volumes across sectors including office, retail, industrial, data centres, land etc. The annual MSCI RCA rankings are widely regarded as a benchmark for excellence in the real estate industry.

    According to MSCI-RCA, JLL advised on USD 4.3 billion in transaction value (representing the total deal value on which JLL provided advisory services on) during 2025 capturing nearly 48% market share in India. This ranking underscores JLL’s strengthening position in one of Asia Pacific’s most dynamic markets and reinforces its sustained global leadership.

    Market leadership and client trust

    “Achieving the number one position in India’s real estate capital markets for 2025 reflects exceptional market expertise and the unwavering trust clients place in the team to execute high-stakes, complex transactions. This leadership underscores the strength of an integrated platform, extensive relationships with capital providers, and the world-class talent cultivated across India. Particularly noteworthy is the dominance in core asset sales this year, where the team has established itself as the definitive market leader. This achievement demonstrates not only technical excellence but a deep understanding of what creates value in India’s dynamic real estate landscape, and the ability to execute flawlessly for clients,” said Lata Pillai, Senior Managing Director and Head, Capital Markets, India, JLL.

    India’s evolving investment landscape

    “Despite the overall environment globally, India’s real estate investment market has shown tremendous resilience with both global and domestic institutional capital actively pursuing high-quality assets and scalable development platforms. Investors are increasingly deploying hybrid capital strategies combining equity, structured debt, and strategic joint ventures, to capture opportunities across the entire value chain,” said Nishant Kabra, Managing Director, Investment Sales & Debt Advisory, India, JLL.

    Integrated advisory platform.

    JLL’s integrated platform, spanning land and development services, investment sales, and equity and debt advisory, enables the firm to design and execute sophisticated transactions that unite global capital, domestic investors, REITs, and leading developers. The scale of the firm’s 2025 advisory mandates reflects strong investor conviction in India’s long-term growth trajectory. This reinforces JLL’s position as the preferred advisor for transformative deals.

    Looking ahead

    The foundation established in 2024-2025 positions India to emerge as one of the world’s most attractive institutional real estate investment markets over the next investment cycle. The institutional investment outlook in the Indian real estate sector has displayed encouraging trends in recent years and is anticipated to maintain its momentum in the near future.

    In 2025, JLL advised on numerous landmark transactions across India. Notable deals included

    As India emerges as one of Asia Pacific’s most compelling investment destinations, JLL’s integrated advisory platform, deep market expertise, and proven track record of delivering landmark transactions position the firm to continue shaping the future of real estate investment across the country. This achievement underscores not only JLL‘s dominant market position but also the firm’s unwavering commitment to driving value creation and setting new benchmarks for excellence in India’s commercial real estate sector.

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  • Forever Living India Brings Forever Aloe Vera Gel Closer to Consumers, Now Made in India

    Forever Living India Brings Forever Aloe Vera Gel Closer to Consumers, Now Made in India

    For centuries, aloe vera has been revered across cultures as one of nature’s most remarkable plants, often referred to as the “plant of immortality” for its long-standing association with natural wellness traditions. From traditional household remedies to modern lifestyle routines, aloe has remained a trusted botanical ingredient valued for supporting everyday well-being. Continuing this legacy, Forever Living Products has announced that its flagship product, Forever Aloe Vera Gel, is now made in India, bringing the globally trusted formulation closer to Indian consumers.

    For more than 40 years, Forever Living Products has been recognized worldwide for its expertise in aloe-based products and its commitment to maintaining high standards in cultivation, processing, and product quality. The company follows a unique vertically integrated model, managing the entire journey of aloe, from farming and harvesting to processing and final product creation. This approach allows the brand to maintain strict quality control at every stage, ensuring consistency and purity across its product portfolio.

    Forever’s aloe is cultivated across large plantations, including farms in Texas and the Dominican Republic, where millions of aloe plants are grown and carefully harvested using sustainable agricultural practices. By controlling its own aloe fields and production processes, the company ensures that only the finest aloe leaves are selected for processing.

    Crafted with 99.7% pure inner leaf aloe, Forever Aloe Vera Gel reflects the brand’s commitment to preserving the natural goodness of the aloe plant. The product uses only the nutritious inner leaf gel, which is carefully stabilized to maintain the integrity of aloe’s naturally occurring components. This method ensures that consumers receive a refreshing and wholesome addition to their daily wellness routines.

    The formulation is designed to complement everyday lifestyle habits. As part of a balanced routine, Forever Aloe Vera Gel helps support healthy digestion, promote immune health, support nutrient absorption, and help maintain natural energy levels.

    Aloe naturally contains a broad spectrum of plant-based nutrients including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes. With 75+ naturally occurring nutrients, aloe continues to be appreciated as a plant-derived ingredient that aligns with wellness-focused lifestyles.

    Another key element of Forever’s global reputation is its commitment to internationally recognized quality standards. The company’s aloe products are associated with certification by the International Aloe Science Council, which verifies the purity and quality of aloe-based ingredients used in consumer products. This certification reinforces the authenticity and reliability of aloe formulations across markets.

    Speaking about this milestone, Harish Singla, CSM, Forever Living India, said: “India has always had a deep connection with natural wellness traditions and aloe vera has been a part of that heritage for generations. With Forever Aloe Vera Gel now made in India, we are proud to bring a globally trusted product closer to Indian consumers while maintaining the high standards of quality and purity that Forever represents worldwide.”

    He further added, “Our goal is to make nature-inspired wellness solutions more accessible. Local manufacturing strengthens availability and freshness while allowing more people to experience the goodness of aloe as part of their everyday lifestyle.”

    The move to manufacture Forever Aloe Vera Gel in India also strengthens the brand’s supply chain efficiency. Local production enables faster replenishment, improved accessibility for consumers, and greater quality oversight while supporting the brand’s long-term growth in one of the world’s fastest-growing wellness markets.

    Additionally, the product aligns with evolving consumer preferences through its clean-label approach and environmentally responsible packaging, including 100% recyclable PET bottles. It is also available in vegan-friendly, organically grown formulations aligned with modern lifestyle values, reflecting the brand’s commitment to responsible and mindful wellness choices.

    With decades of aloe expertise, global cultivation capabilities, and a commitment to quality, Forever Aloe Vera Gel, now made in India—continues to deliver the purity and power of aloe as nature intended, supporting everyday wellness for consumers across the country.

    Note- These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Forever’s products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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  • PM-KISAN and CM-KISAN Together Empower Over 51 Lakh Farmers in Odisha

    In a major boost to Odisha’s agricultural sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 22nd instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme on March 13, 2026. The disbursement directly benefited over 34 lakh farmer families in Odisha, providing a total financial assistance of approximately ₹684 crore.

    PM-KISAN 22nd Instalment Benefits Over 34 Lakh Farmers in Odisha

    Pic Credit: Pexel

    The PM-KISAN scheme offers financial support of ₹2,000 per farmer per instalment, transferred directly to bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Nationwide, this 22nd instalment reached over 9.32 crore farmers, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting the farming community across India.

    At a state-level function in Bhubaneswar, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and other officials, highlighted the importance of this financial support. The funds help farmers purchase essential agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and equipment, thereby enhancing productivity and income.

    In addition to PM-KISAN, the Odisha government runs the CM-KISAN scheme, which provides an additional ₹4,000 annually to eligible farmers in two instalments. Under the combined initiatives, over 51.54 lakh beneficiaries in the state have received more than ₹2,991 crore to date.

    Chief Minister Majhi also urged farmers to ensure that their e-KYC, Aadhaar linking, and land record updates are completed to avoid any disruption in receiving benefits.

    These initiatives reflect the state and central government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Odisha’s agricultural economy, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and provide financial stability to the farming community.

  • Improved Rail Services Promise Better Connectivity for Odisha Passengers

    Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Tuesday that the newly approved Amrit Bharat Express trains will significantly enhance rail connectivity across Odisha, linking the state more closely with key cities in Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand, and Assam.

    The first train, running between Podanur in Tamil Nadu and Dhanbad in Jharkhand, will make scheduled stops at Rayagada, Muniguda, Kesinga, Titlagarh, Bolangir, Bargarh Road, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Rourkela. This service will directly benefit seven districts in southern and western Odisha, including the historically underserved KBK (Kalahandi-Bolangir-Koraput) region.

    “This train will not only improve convenience for passengers but also strengthen economic and social links between Odisha and industrial hubs like Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem, Ranchi, Bokaro, and Dhanbad,” Majhi said in a social media post, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the approval.

    The second Amrit Bharat Express, operating between Kamakhya in Assam and Charlapalli in Andhra Pradesh, will pass through several districts in Odisha, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack, Khordha, and Ganjam. It will also stop at Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. This route aims to enhance connectivity between Odisha, Northeast India, and the southern states, providing better travel options for students, workers, traders, and tourists. The train departs from Kamakhya every Sunday and from Charlapalli every Wednesday.

    Both trains feature modern LHB coaches designed for long-distance travel with improved comfort and safety. Passengers in general and sleeper classes will benefit from upgraded seating, ample luggage space, and enhanced onboard facilities, making travel more comfortable and affordable.

    Officials from the East Coast Railway (ECoR) highlighted that these new services will boost mobility, promote tourism and pilgrimage, and support local economies by connecting people and regions more efficiently.

    The introduction of the Amrit Bharat Express trains demonstrates a continued effort by the central government to strengthen Odisha’s railway infrastructure and accelerate regional development, bringing convenience, opportunities, and a modern travel experience to residents of the state.

  • Intellect and Fintel Create AI-First Joint Venture to Re-Architect the UK Financial Advice Industry

    Mar 18: Intellect Design Arena Ltd, a global leader in AI-First, enterprise-grade financial technology, architected from first principles and powered by Design Thinking to deliver measurable business impact at scale, today announced a strategic partnership with Fintel PLC (AIM: FNTL), a listed and leading provider of fintech and support services to the UK retail financial services sector, via the formation of a 50:50 joint venture in the United Kingdom.

    The joint venture will deploy and commercialise Intellect’s globally proven enterprise grade Agentic AI platform into the UK Wealth Management market via Fintel’s extensive client portfolio. It aims to be the UK market leader in this sector of Financial Services.

    A structural break from legacy advisory technology

    For decades, advisory firms have operated on fragmented stacks of CRM tools, compliance engines, planning software, workflow systems, and reporting platforms assembled from multiple vendors. While digitisation improved efficiency, it did not eliminate structural complexity.

    The joint venture represents a deliberate architectural break from this legacy model.

    Rather than layering automation on top of disconnected systems, the platform is designed as an AI-first operating foundation where intelligence is embedded into the execution fabric of the firm. Digital Experts orchestrate workflows in real time – supervising compliance, surfacing risk signals, automating operational tasks, and guiding adviser activity.

    This reframes advisory infrastructure from software tooling into intelligent operating architecture.

    The architecture: an AI operating layer for advisory firms

    Built on Intellect’s modular eMACH.ai open finance framework, the platform functions as an intelligent orchestration layer spanning the entire advisory lifecycle – from prospecting and onboarding to suitability, ongoing advice, supervision, and engagement. The base architecture developed by Intellect is modular and composable, allowing rapid integration with core banking, custodians, market infrastructure and third-party ecosystems.

    Core architectural capabilities include:

    • AI-native Digital Experts embedded across advisory workflows
    • Real-time compliance supervision integrated into execution layers
    • Intelligent client lifecycle orchestration
    • Continuous learning models tuned to UK advisory protocols
    • Modular microservices enabling rapid deployment of new capabilities
    • Cloud-native resilience designed for enterprise-grade scalability

    The platform is positioned as an intelligence amplifier, not a replacement for advisers. Digital Experts absorb operational burden, generate contextual insight, and automate high-frequency tasks, allowing human advisers to focus on judgement, relationships, and long-term strategy.

    The result is a system where adviser capacity expands without proportional cost growth, compliance becomes proactive rather than reactive, and client experience becomes a built-in property of the architecture.

    Adapted for the UK ecosystem, built from Global user requirements for continuous evolution

    The joint venture will operate as a dedicated UK entity combining Intellect’s global AI architecture leadership with Fintel’s distribution reach, regulatory insight, and ecosystem intelligence. The platform launches with UK-aligned advisory capabilities and expands continuously as new Digital Experts are introduced.

    Over time, the architecture is designed to evolve into a comprehensive AI operating layer supporting the full lifecycle of advisory relationships from client acquisition to long-term supervision and engagement.

    The partners believe the initiative marks a turning point in advisory infrastructure. In the AI era, platforms will no longer be static software suites; they will be adaptive ecosystems capable of learning, scaling, and evolving alongside the firms they serve.

    Speaking on the partnership, Matt Timmins, CEO of Fintel PLC, said,

    “The financial advice sector is operating under increasing structural pressure from regulatory complexity, fragmented technology stacks, rising costs, and rapidly evolving client expectations, and incremental upgrades are no longer sufficient to address these challenges. Our partnership with Intellect brings AI-first engineering architecture directly into the heart of the UK advisory ecosystem, allowing us to move beyond point solutions toward a fundamental redesign of how firms operate. Combining Fintel’s market intelligence and ecosystem reach with Intellect’s global technology leadership allows us to establish a new foundation for advisory technology in the UK, one that is resilient, adaptive, and built for long-term evolution.”

    Commenting about the Joint Venture, Banesh Prabhu, CEO of IntellectAI,

    “This joint venture is about delivering an AI-first operating architecture for financial advice rather than adding another layer of software to an already complex technology stack. Legacy advisory platforms were designed primarily to record activity and manage workflows, whereas we are designing infrastructure that thinks, supervises, and guides execution in real time. When intelligence is embedded into the operating fabric of a firm, adviser capacity expands without proportional cost growth, compliance becomes proactive rather than reactive, and client outcomes improve as a system property rather than through manual effort. The UK is one of the most sophisticated advisory markets globally, and it demands technology that is native to its regulatory, operational, and product realities. By combining Intellect’s eMACH.ai architecture with Fintel’s deep market reach, we are creating a platform that amplifies human advisers rather than replacing them, enabling firms to scale trust, resilience, and productivity in the Agentic AI era.”

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  • No. 1 Live Seller Kim Gravel Launches Selling with Soul, Her Secret Playbook Behind $1B in Live Sales – and How to Master It

     

    Kim-Red

    Credit: Sylvia Lee

     

    LOS ANGELES, CA — March 18:

    Kim Gravel, a Southern girl-next-door with no degree and no outside funding, cracked the code of live selling, generating over $1.4 billion in real-time sales and selling nearly 29.5 million units across The Kim Gravel Brand (Belle by Kim Gravel and Love Who You Are (LWYA)).

    In a bold move that cemented her as a leading innovator in modern commerce, America’s top live seller, bestselling author, and entrepreneur, Gravel launched Selling With Soul, an eight-module digital course sharing the exact strategies behind her record-breaking success. The course launched on March 17, 2026, in conjunction with International Women’s Month.

    As TikTok Shop, Amazon Live, and social commerce continue to rapidly reshape how consumers discover and buy products, live selling has emerged as one of the fastest-growing drivers of conversion in retail. However, as more creators and brands rush into the space without a clear strategy, audiences are growing increasingly skeptical of inauthentic influencer sales, and brands are struggling to build lasting trust and loyalty. Recognizing this gap, Gravel launched Selling With Soul, providing a roadmap to sell authentically and effectively.

    Gravel’s live-selling achievements speak for themselves. On QVC, her highest-selling day came on March 5, 2023, with nearly $10.5 million in sales and 212,000 units sold, including $8.8 million from her Belle by Kim Gravel fashion line alone. In 2025, she headlined the first-ever KIM-A-THON, generating over $5.7 million in sales across 14 hours of programming. That year also featured back-to-back live audience shows with the highest live audience achievement rate of 2025, highlighting Gravel’s ability to engage viewers in real time across QVC’s platforms.

    “Selling With Soul is built on the belief that live selling is a conversation, not a performance,” said Gravel. “When you focus on genuine connection and create a space where people feel valued, the audience responds, and the business grows in an authentic, sustainable way.”

    Gravel’s story is as unconventional as it is inspiring. She spent a decade as a stay-at-home mom before building her business entirely on her own terms, proving that authenticity, consistency, and connection are the real currency of today’s digital economy. She is also the bestselling author of Collecting Confidence, the author of the children’s book Maribelle and the Manger, and the host of a top-ranked podcast. Selling With Soul is her first-ever course, designed to teach entrepreneurs, creators, and brands how to turn live selling into a human-centered, revenue-driving experience.

    Who the Course is For:

    • Entrepreneurs and creators ready to turn authenticity into profit

    • Brands looking to build loyalty, trust, and community, not just clicks

    • Anyone ready to step on camera with confidence and connect in real time

    • Individuals who want to turn personality, presence, or purpose into impact and income

    What Participants Will Learn:

    • How to build emotional trust that drives long-term loyalty

    • Mindset and presence techniques to show up authentically on camera

    • Storytelling methods that turn real-life experiences into revenue-driving moments

    • Step-by-step guidance on presenting live, engaging audiences, and building a loyal community

    • The exact messaging formula Kim uses on QVC, Amazon Live, and TikTok Shop

    • How to scale ethically, turning individual live moments into movements and superfans

    As live selling continues to define the future of e-commerce, Gravel stands at the forefront, showing that real success is accessible to anyone willing to build trust, show up, and connect. Selling With Soul is more than a course—it is a blueprint for the next generation of entrepreneurs who want to thrive in today’s digital economy.

  • Australia, Odisha Talks Focus on Clean Energy, Agriculture and Skill Development

    In a step toward strengthening international cooperation, Bernard Lynch met Odisha Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo at Lok Seva Bhawan to explore partnerships in renewable energy, agriculture, and technological innovation.

    Australia, Odisha Talks Focus on Clean Energy, Agriculture and Skill Development

    Pic Credit: Pexel

    During the discussion, Lynch appreciated Odisha’s strong performance in both energy and agriculture, noting that the state has surpassed national growth trends in the farming sector. He also highlighted the state’s progress in modernising its power infrastructure, which has enhanced electricity generation and transmission capabilities.

    Responding to this, Singh Deo outlined the government’s recent initiatives to expand renewable energy production and promote clean energy adoption. He emphasised that supportive policies are being implemented to better utilise natural resources and accelerate sustainable development.

    The talks also underlined Odisha’s agricultural achievements, with record production levels contributing to rising farmer incomes. Both sides expressed confidence that closer collaboration between Australia and Odisha would open new opportunities in clean energy, agriculture, and technology.

    In a separate meeting, Lynch held discussions with Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, focusing on boosting industrial investment, skill development, and technical education. The engagement signals growing international interest in Odisha’s development trajectory and its potential as a hub for innovation and skilled workforce growth.

     
     

  • Odisha Govt Sets Fast Timeline to Expand City Gas Network Across State

    Odisha Speeds Up City Gas Expansion to Boost Energy Security

    Pic Credit: Pexel

    Amid growing uncertainty in global fuel markets, the Odisha government has stepped up efforts to build a robust and future-ready energy infrastructure by fast-tracking the expansion of city gas distribution (CGD) networks across the state. The initiative is aimed at improving energy security while promoting cleaner fuel alternatives for households, industries, and transportation.

    The strategy was reviewed at a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg at Lok Seva Bhawan. Senior officials, including Hemant Sharma and Usha Padhee, participated in the discussions alongside representatives from leading energy companies such as GAIL, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Adani Total Gas.

    A key focus of the meeting was identifying and eliminating bottlenecks that have slowed the rollout of gas infrastructure projects. Delays in approvals for pipeline installation, coordination challenges among departments, and procedural inefficiencies were highlighted as major hurdles. In response, the government has introduced a time-bound clearance mechanism, directing municipal corporations and relevant departments to approve all pending pipeline-laying permissions within 24 hours. This step is expected to significantly accelerate project execution on the ground.

    The expansion of CGD networks is central to Odisha’s broader push toward sustainable and diversified energy use. By promoting Piped Natural Gas (PNG) for domestic and commercial use, the government aims to provide a safer, more convenient alternative to traditional cooking fuels like LPG. At the same time, increased availability of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is expected to support cleaner mobility solutions, particularly in urban transport systems.

    Officials believe that strengthening last-mile connectivity will play a crucial role in ensuring widespread adoption of these alternatives. Efforts are being made to extend the gas pipeline network deeper into cities and emerging urban clusters, making clean energy accessible to a larger population. This expansion is also expected to benefit small and medium enterprises by providing a reliable and cost-effective fuel source.

    The government has set an ambitious deadline of June 30 to achieve key milestones in infrastructure development. This sense of urgency reflects a proactive approach to reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels and insulating the state from external supply shocks. It also aligns with national goals of increasing the share of natural gas in the overall energy mix.

    Beyond environmental benefits, the initiative is likely to generate economic opportunities. Infrastructure development, network maintenance, and increased industrial activity linked to gas availability are expected to create jobs and stimulate local economies. Moreover, improved energy access can enhance the ease of doing business, making Odisha a more attractive destination for investment.

    Overall, the accelerated rollout of city gas infrastructure marks a significant step in Odisha’s transition toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future. By combining policy support, administrative efficiency, and industry collaboration, the state is positioning itself to meet rising energy demands while prioritizing sustainability and long-term growth.

     
     

  • Nita M. Ambani Awarded KISS Humanitarian Honour for Transforming Lives Across India

    In a moment that celebrated compassion, leadership, and social commitment, Nita M. Ambani was honoured with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 at the campus of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences in Bhubaneswar.

    The award recognises her extensive contribution to social development through the Reliance Foundation, where her initiatives have touched millions of lives across India. Her work spans critical sectors such as education, healthcare, rural transformation, women’s empowerment, and sports development—areas that directly impact communities at the grassroots level.

    The honour was presented by Mohan Munasinghe in the presence of Achyuta Samanta, whose institutions have long been associated with inclusive education and tribal empowerment.

    More than just an award ceremony, the event reflected a shared vision of building a more equitable society. Speaking on the occasion, Ambani’s recognition symbolised not only her leadership but also the collective efforts of countless individuals working under her foundation to bring meaningful change.

    Over the years, her initiatives have focused on uplifting underserved communities—providing access to quality education, improving healthcare delivery in rural areas, supporting women to become self-reliant, and nurturing young sporting talent across the country. Her approach combines scale with empathy, ensuring that development is both impactful and inclusive.

    The KISS Humanitarian Award is regarded as a tribute to individuals who dedicate their lives to social progress, and this year’s recognition of Nita Ambani underscores the growing importance of corporate-led philanthropy in shaping India’s development journey.

    As the ceremony concluded, the message was clear: meaningful change is possible when vision meets action, and when influence is used to uplift those who need it most.

  •  Jay Shah, Kumar Manglam Birla, Gautam Gambhir, and Suryakumar Yadav Among Leaders Honored at 21st India Business Leader Awards

    Mumbai, Mar 18: CNBC-TV18, India’s leading English business news channel, hosted the 21st edition of the India Business Leader Awards (IBLA), one of the country’s most prestigious platforms recognising leadership across sectors. The evening brought together some of India’s most influential voices from government, business, sports and public policy to celebrate individuals and institutions whose contributions continue to shape India’s economic progress and growing global stature.

    Jay Shah, Kumar Manglam Birla, Gautam Gambhir, and Suryakumar Yadav Among Leaders Honored at 21st India Business Leader Awards

     The ceremony was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry; Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC),former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir, currently Head Coach of the India Men’s Cricket Team; and Indian cricket star Suryakumar Yadav. The event also saw the presence of Benedetto Vigna, CEO of Ferrari, alongside leading entrepreneurs, policymakers and industry stalwarts, including Kumar Mangalam Birla Chairperson, Aditya Birla Group, Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited and Tech Mahindra Limited and Anand Deshpande, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, Persistent Systems.

    Over the past two decades, the India Business Leader Awards have evolved into a benchmark for recognizing individuals whose leadership, innovation and resilience have helped propel India’s growth story. 21st edition of the India Business Leader Awards (IBLA) continued this legacy by honoring pioneers redefining excellence across sectors including technology, manufacturing, finance, entrepreneurship and social impact.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, said: Platforms like CNBC-TV18 and initiatives such as the India Business Leader Awards play a crucial role in recognizing excellence across sectors including technology, manufacturing, finance, entrepreneurship and social impact.

    He also highlighted India’s efforts to diversify its energy sourcing in recent years by expanding imports of crude oil, LPG and LNG through multiple international partners.

    “Our requirements of LPG, LNG and crude oil are being met through diversified imports. India has significantly expanded sourcing from countries including the United States, Russia and Canada, ensuring that shipping routes and supplies remain secure,” he said.

    Goyal added that diversification of energy sources has been a consistent policy priority of the government and has accelerated in recent years.

    The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dr. Anand Deshpande, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, Persistent Systems, recognizing his pioneering contribution to India’s technology and IT services sector over more than three decades.

    Reflecting on the journey of building a technology-driven enterprise, Dr. Deshpande said:

    “This recognition reflects a journey of more than 35 years built on teamwork and perseverance. Businesses like ours are never built by one individual; they are shaped by dedicated colleagues who share a long-term vision and remain committed to pushing the boundaries of technology. I have been fortunate to work with an incredible team that has contributed immensely to our growth.”

    Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairperson, Aditya Birla Group, honored as Entrepreneur of the Decade, said,

    “Platforms like the CNBC-TV18 India Business Leader Awards reinforce that enduring success is rooted in values that stand the test of time. Aditya Birla’s journey has always been anchored in principles that transcend generations’ legacy, trusteeship, integrity, and a deep commitment to giving back to society. These values continue to guide every decision we make. Even amid global geopolitical uncertainties, India remains a resilient economy, supported by strong domestic fundamentals and an enduring spirit of enterprise.”

    Among the winners, the Entertainment Leader of the Year award went to acclaimed Actor and Director Rishab Shetty, recognizing his contribution to Indian cinema through powerful regional storytelling and distinctive filmmaking. Sharing his thoughts on storytelling and cinema, Rishab Shetty said: “We started with a vision of ₹14 crore, and today that journey has grown into a ₹1000 crore story. From the very beginning, our focus has been on telling strong regional stories that truly connect with audiences. I am deeply grateful to viewers and the film industry for their continued support. At present, I am focusing on Jai Hanuman, my upcoming mythological film as an actor.”

    Jay Shah Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) was recognized for his Outstanding Contribution to Sports. Speaking about Indian cricket’s success in recent years, he said:

    “Congratulations to the entire team. Between 2019 and 2026, Indian cricket has had an incredible run, winning the T20 title twice, including back-to-back victories, which reflects the team’s consistency and strength. I have followed cricket since 1998, and today, when we say India, it almost feels synonymous with winning. The ICC World Cup triumph was a turning point that gave the team immense confidence. At the BCCI, we had planned a roadmap through 2028, and today, confidence in Indian cricket is strong enough to look even further ahead to 2036 and beyond.”

    Indian cricketer Suryakumar Yadav was honoured as Sports Leader of the Year, recognising his remarkable contribution to Indian cricket and his fearless, innovative approach to the modern game.

    Speaking about India’s recent ICC T20 World Cup victory, he said:

     “Inside the dressing room, it is always a democratic environment where everyone is encouraged to share ideas and perspectives. There are always different plans and opinions, but ultimately, the goal is the same. Listening to everyone is important, even though sometimes not everyone will be happy with the final decision. But that is part of team sport. Looking ahead, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are definitely on the horizon, especially since cricket will be part of the Games for the first time. It will be very special. We will take some time to relax now, but soon we will begin preparing again with the dream of achieving something extraordinary and winning an Olympic gold for India.”

    With a legacy spanning 21 years, the India Business Leader Awards continue to serve as a benchmark for excellence, recognising leaders who are not only shaping businesses but also contributing meaningfully to India’s journey toward becoming a global economic powerhouse.

    Winner List 

    NAME                                                                                    

    WINNERS

    Most Promising Company of the Year

    Torrent Power

    Outstanding Company of the Year

    Mahindra & Mahindra

    Outstanding Business Leader of the Year

    Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder & Chairman, Bharti Enterprises

    Young Turk Startup of the Year

    Zepto

    Hall of Fame

    Piyush Pandey

    Hall of Fame

    T.T. Jagannathan, Chairman Emeritus, T.T.K. Prestige

    In Memoriam

    Sunjay Kapur

    In Memoriam

    Anupam ‘Tino’ Puri, McKinsey & Company’s Senior Partner Emeritus

    Outstanding Contribution to Climate Consciousness

    Smart Joules

    Outstanding Contribution to Brand India

    Vivek Chaand Sehgal, Chairman, Motherson Group

    Breakout Brand of the Year

    Rare Rabbit

    Entertainment Leader of the Year

    Rishab Shetty, Actor & Director

    Special & Para-Sports Leader of the Year

    Simran Sharma, Paralympic Athlete

    Lifetime Achievement

    Dr Anand Deshpande, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, Persistent Systems

    Outstanding Contribution to Public Service

    Team DRDO

    Entrepreneur of the Decade

    Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairperson, Aditya Birla Group

    Outstanding Contribution to Sports

    Jay Shah, Chairman, International Cricket Council

    Excellence in Sports

    Gautam Gambhir, Head Coach, India Cricket Team (Senior Men)

    Sports Leader of the Year

    Suryakumar Yadav, Captain, Indian Cricket Team (T20)

    Honored With ‘Excellence In Sports’

    Gautam Gambhir, Head Coach of the India Men’s Cricket Team

     

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