Category: Business

New Delhim July 14: India’s Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation increased to 9.87 per cent in June 2026, compared to 9.68 per cent in the previous month, reflecting continued pressure on wholesale prices across key sectors.

The rise in inflation was mainly driven by higher prices of food items, fuel and petroleum products, basic metals, and chemicals. Food inflation recorded a notable increase during the month, while fuel and power prices remained elevated.

Prices in the manufacturing sector also contributed to the overall rise, as businesses continued to face higher input costs. The increase in wholesale prices highlights the impact of rising expenses across various segments of the economy.

The latest inflation figures will be closely monitored by policymakers to evaluate price trends, economic conditions, and future policy measures.

Despite inflationary pressures, steady demand and economic activity are expected to support India’s overall growth momentum.

New Delhi, July 14: India’s office space market witnessed steady growth during the first half of the year, with leasing activity reaching 37.9 million square feet between January and June.

The strong performance reflects continued demand from businesses looking to expand operations, set up new offices, and adopt modern workplace solutions. Major sectors, including technology, financial services, consulting, and startups, contributed to the rise in office space demand.

Real estate experts said the growth highlights the resilience of India’s commercial property market and growing confidence among domestic and global companies.

The increasing preference for quality office spaces, flexible work environments, and strategic business locations is expected to support further expansion of the office leasing sector in the coming months.

New Delhi: The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to come into force from July 15, marking a major step towards strengthening trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The agreement is expected to make several UK products more affordable for Indian consumers while providing wider market access for Indian exporters.

The trade pact is likely to benefit key sectors, boost business opportunities, and encourage greater investment between India and the United Kingdom.

Industry experts believe the agreement will help increase bilateral trade and create new avenues for growth in the years ahead.

New Delhi, July 14: The 212th National–Level Bhanu Jayanti was celebrated at Jautar Stadium, Soreng, yesterday, with the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, gracing the occasion as the chief guest, accompanied by Madam Sarda Tamang.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the State Government’s vision of organising national–level events across different districts, rather than confining them to the State capital, is aimed at identifying, encouraging, and uplifting talented individuals from rural areas by providing them with opportunities to showcase their potential on national platforms. He remarked that such initiatives not only promote inclusive development but also ensure that the rich cultural and literary heritage of every district receives the recognition it deserves.

Paying rich tributes to Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya, the Chief Minister highlighted his unparalleled contributions to the development and enrichment of the Nepali language and his enduring influence on the Nepali-speaking community. He noted that Acharya’s literary works continue to inspire generations and remain an integral part of Nepali literature. As a mark of respect, the Chief Minister recited the celebrated poem Ghasi, emphasising its timeless message of dignity of labour, humility, and social responsibility.

The Chief Minister further observed that the people of Sikkim have consistently excelled in the fields of Nepali language, literature, art, and culture, making significant contributions at both the national and international levels. He reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to preserving and promoting the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Sikkim through sustained support for writers, artists, scholars, and cultural institutions.

Acknowledging the historic efforts towards the constitutional recognition of the Nepali language, the Chief Minister paid tribute to former Chief Minister, Mr Nar Bahadur Bhandari and former Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Mrs Dil Kumari Bhandari, for their significant role in advocating for the inclusion of the Nepali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced the institution of the ‘Anubad Setu Award’, to be introduced from next year to promote translation, literary excellence, and the preservation of the Nepali language and literature. The annual award will carry a cash prize of ₹3 lakh and will honour one distinguished literary personality for outstanding contributions to literature.

Concluding his address, the Chief Minister announced that the Bhanu Jayanti celebrations next year will be hosted in Pakyong district and urged the local administration and public representatives to begin preparations well in advance.

Earlier, the programme commenced with a welcome address by the organising committee, while a descendant of Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya highlighted the life, literary contributions, and enduring legacy of the revered poet.

The celebration featured a series of literary and cultural programmes, including Ramayan Path, folk dance performances, poetry recitation, debate, painting, and folk song competitions. Books were released on the occasion, literary personalities and organisations were felicitated for their contributions to Nepali language and literature, and a documentary showcasing the cultural heritage and developmental progress of Soreng district was screened.

Prior to the main programme, the Chief Minister offered khada, lit the ceremonial lamp, and paid floral tributes at the Bhanu Salik before participating in the traditional Shobha Yatra along with dignitaries and members of the public.

The programme was attended by ministers, legislators, senior government officials, literary personalities, representatives of various organisations, students, and members of the public.

 RAKEZ team welcomes the Indian delegation led by the Ambassador of India to the UAE Dr. Deepak Mittal

Ras Al Khaimah, July 14: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) continues to expand its international outreach, hosting over a dozen delegation engagements so far this year as interest in Ras Al Khaimah’s business environment continues to rise. The latest visits brought diplomatic, government and business representatives closer to the emirate’s investment landscape, sector opportunities and wider support ecosystem.

The most recent engagements included diplomatic, government and business representatives from Belarus, Ghana, India, Belgium, Latin American and Caribbean countries, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and Italy. Through these visits, RAKEZ provided a platform for focused dialogue, market introductions and direct engagement with Ras Al Khaimah’s business community.

The delegations explored Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a competitive base for companies looking to enter or expand in the UAE and the wider region. Discussions touched on the emirate’s business-friendly environment, sector potential, ease of setting up, access to regional markets, and the support available through RAKEZ for companies across commercial, industrial and service-led activities. Several engagements also introduced first-time visitors to RAKEZ, offering them a closer understanding of the economic zone’s role in supporting business set-up, growth and market access.

The engagements also created opportunities to introduce visiting representatives to Ras Al Khaimah’s wider economic ecosystem, including the entities and partners that support investment, business growth and long-term market entry. For many international stakeholders, the visits served as a closer look at how the emirate is positioning itself as an accessible and cost-effective destination for investors, entrepreneurs and expanding companies. The visits reflected a range of interests, from exploring bilateral cooperation and future business delegations to understanding companies from their respective markets already operating in the UAE. Other discussions looked at resilience, adaptability and long-term development priorities, giving visiting representatives a clearer view of Ras Al Khaimah’s approach to sustainable economic growth.

The Italy-focused engagement also built on RAKEZ’s existing cooperation with B-CAD, supporting ongoing efforts to encourage Italian companies and investors to explore opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah.

RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, “The number and diversity of delegations engaging with RAKEZ this year reflect the growing international interest in Ras Al Khaimah’s value proposition as a competitive, connected and supportive base for companies looking to grow. These visits are important because they create space for practical conversations around market access, sector opportunities and long-term cooperation. Through RAKEZ, delegations can engage directly with the wider ecosystem, understand the opportunities available, and build relationships that support future investment and collaboration.”

RAKEZ continues to play an active role in converting international dialogue into stronger business relationships. These engagements support the emirate’s efforts to attract companies, investors and institutions looking for a competitive base in the UAE with access to regional and global markets, while strengthening Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a destination for international companies seeking better global connectivity and sustainable growth opportunities.

New Delhi, July 14: India and Spain have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening industrial cooperation and developing more resilient and sustainable supply chains. The renewed partnership aims to expand collaboration across key sectors, promote innovation, and support long-term economic growth in both countries.

As part of this initiative, both nations will work together to enhance industrial partnerships, encourage investment, and create new opportunities for businesses. The collaboration will focus on improving supply chain resilience, increasing trade, and reducing disruptions caused by global economic and geopolitical challenges.

Officials from India and Spain emphasized the importance of closer cooperation in manufacturing, technology, clean energy, and advanced industries. By sharing expertise and encouraging innovation, both countries aim to improve competitiveness and support sustainable industrial development.

The strengthened partnership is expected to benefit businesses by improving market access, promoting knowledge exchange, and creating a more reliable and diversified supply chain network. It also reflects the shared commitment of India and Spain to fostering economic resilience and supporting global trade.

Both countries will continue to explore new areas of cooperation and work closely to strengthen bilateral economic relations, ensuring a stable and future-ready industrial ecosystem.

Mumbai, July 14: India’s benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, opened lower on Tuesday as investors reacted to a sharp rise in global crude oil prices and weak international market performance driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The BSE Sensex fell 344.06 points, or 0.44%, to open at 77,272.34, while the NSE Nifty declined by more than 100 points, or 0.59%, opening at 24,068.00. The cautious start to the trading session reflected growing concerns over rising energy costs and uncertainty in global financial markets.

Financial and automobile stocks led the market decline during early trading. The Nifty Financial Services Ex-Bank index dropped 1.12%, followed by the Nifty Auto index, which fell 1%. Other sectors, including private banking, real estate, and media, also recorded losses as investors remained risk-averse.

Despite the broader market weakness, metal and healthcare stocks showed resilience. The Nifty Metal index gained 0.38%, while the Nifty Healthcare index edged up 0.14%, indicating selective buying in defensive and commodity-linked sectors.

Among the major stocks, Shriram Finance, InterGlobe Aviation (IndiGo), Bajaj Finance, Larsen & Toubro, HCLTech, Mahindra & Mahindra, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Bajaj Finserv were among the biggest decliners in early trade.

Market analysts noted that the recent surge in crude oil prices, driven by increasing geopolitical tensions, is likely to keep investors cautious in the near term. Although India’s domestic economic fundamentals remain stable, sustained increases in oil prices could raise inflationary pressures and increase operating costs for fuel-dependent industries.

Experts identified 24,300 as an important resistance level for the Nifty and 24,000 as a key support level. A move above 24,300 could strengthen market momentum toward 24,530, while a fall below 24,000 may result in further downside toward the 23,800 support zone.

Global market sentiment also remained weak after continued military action involving the United States and Iran heightened geopolitical uncertainty. These developments pushed international crude oil prices higher, with Brent crude rising to $85.65 per barrel and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude climbing to $80.42 per barrel.

Asian markets also traded lower, with Japan’s Nikkei, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng, and South Korea’s Kospi posting losses. In the United States, Wall Street ended the previous trading session on a negative note, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite closing lower.

Investors are expected to closely monitor global developments, crude oil prices, and upcoming economic indicators for further direction in the markets. Market participants remain focused on balancing near-term risks with the long-term strength of the Indian economy.

Bengaluru, July 14: At a time when schools are grappling with the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, evolving skill requirements, and the need to prepare students for an: increasingly unpredictable future, Deeksha Vedantu will host EduVision 2026 on 16th July, a leadership conclave bringing together some of the city’s leading educators and academic visionaries.

Centered around the theme, ‘Shaping Tomorrow’s Schools, Today,’ the conclave will bring together over 100 school leaders and academic visionaries and feature 15 distinguished speakers to discuss the future of K-12 education in India.

The event will host keynote sessions, panel discussions, leadership roundtables, and collaborative conversations on some of the most pressing issues facing education today, including AI-ready schools, reimagining teaching and assessments, and preparing students for careers and challenges that don’t yet exist.

EduVision 2026 aims to create a platform for educators and policymakers to exchange best practices, share actionable insights, and collectively shape the future of education in India.

The founder of the Deeksha Group of Institutions, Dr. Sridhar G said, “We are at an inflection point in education. Artificial intelligence is reshaping how knowledge is created, accessed, and applied, and schools cannot navigate this transformation in isolation. EduVision 2026 brings together some of the brightest minds in school leadership to think out loud together, challenge assumptions, and collectively define what tomorrow’s education must look like. That is the conversation India’s schools need right now.”

The conclave will conclude with the launch of a Conclave Resolution, capturing key recommendations and insights from the discussions, and will see names such as 

1. Mr. Abhinav Shrivastava – VP, Vedantu

2. Mr. Praveen Subramanyam – Co-founder and CEO – Scikraft/Xperimentor

3. Ms. Pinki Singh, Principal – Royal Concorde International School 

4. Dr Ritu Chauhan – Director, Mega International School

With the education landscape undergoing rapid transformation, EduVision 2026 seeks to foster meaningful dialogue and inspire future-ready leadership that can drive lasting impact for students, schools, and the broader education ecosystem.

India, July 13 : Global cybersecurity and digital privacy company Kaspersky has strengthened its B2B customer engagement through WebEngage’s data-driven engagement platform. The collaboration has already helped Kaspersky engage more than 500,000 users during the initial phase of the partnership, as the company builds a more structured marketing automation framework across its B2B operations.

As Kaspersky’s customer engagement expanded across newsletters, webinar invitations, product updates, and partner outreach, the company sought a more structured and scalable approach to centralise its marketing efforts. The objective was to move beyond fragmented campaign execution and build a system capable of supporting customer segmentation and lead generation, while also providing performance analytics at scale.

WebEngage has enabled Kaspersky to gain deeper visibility into customer behaviour and engagement patterns across markets. The implementation leverages WebEngage’s custom entities, derived attributes, journeys, and advanced data management capabilities to create a more contextual understanding of customer interactions.

“Customer engagement today is about more than delivering campaigns. It requires a deeper understanding of customer behaviour, intent, and context,” said Anatoly Incherevsky, IT Service Manager at Kaspersky. “Our goal has been to build a stronger marketing automation foundation that supports more relevant communication, better lead management, and a more scalable approach to engagement. WebEngage has helped us bring greater structure and visibility to that process.”

The rollout is being carried out in phases, with the current stage focused on establishing the core infrastructure required to support marketing automation across Kaspersky’s B2B operations. This includes the deployment of WebEngage’s core engagement capabilities, alongside PII management and shield-based secure access, creating a framework that supports retention programmes across multiple markets and customer segments.

“Enterprise organisations today need engagement systems that can adapt to diverse customer journeys across regions, products, and business functions,” said Hetarth Patel, Vice President – MEA, Americas & Asia Pacific at WebEngage “With Kaspersky, the focus has been on building a strong marketing automation foundation that brings together data, workflows, and analytics to execute campaigns at scale while maintaining relevance and operational efficiency.”

Additional enhancements and change requests continue to be incorporated as the system evolves. The next phase of the project will include integration with Bitrix24 to further optimise lead management workflows while expanding WebEngage’s role within Kaspersky’s broader marketing ecosystem.