Category: Business

India, Mar 30:  Haier has officially been recognized as the world’s No. 1 smart home enterprise, according to the latest 2025 data from Euromonitor International, a global leader in market research. This prestigious ranking is based on global smart home revenue and covers a comprehensive range of categories, including smart appliances, security, lighting, and energy management. 

This achievement underscores Haier’s established leadership in the “smart living” sector, marking a monumental milestone that extends far beyond its traditional dominance in home appliances. For India, this recognition further reinforces Haier’s growing presence and commitment to delivering future-ready smart home solutions tailored to evolving consumer needs. 

A Comprehensive Smart Ecosystem

Setting the benchmark for industry standards, Haier has successfully evolved from a hardware manufacturer into a holistic provider of smart solutions. By seamlessly integrating AI across its entire appliance lineup, Haier delivers over 70 distinct smart lifestyle solutions tailored to 11 living spaces, including the kitchen, bedroom, and living room. Powered by a unified software platform, these devices communicate effortlessly to provide intuitive, scenario-based services for everyday life. 

Currently, Haier serves over 130 million registered users globally, with millions actively relying on the Haier smart home platform to manage their daily routines. In India, this ecosystem continues to expand, aligning with the country’s rapidly growing demand for connected and intelligent home solutions. 

Innovation That Understands You

To stay ahead of the curve, Haier is pushing the boundaries of home autonomy. Its newly upgraded AI Vision 2.0 empowers the premium Seeker Series appliances to intuitively “see” and “understand” specific user needs—such as a washer that automatically determines when to sterilize garments, or a refrigerator that recognizes and tracks every ingredient inside. 

By pairing these intelligent appliances with next-generation home robots, Haier is pioneering a seamless “zero-labor” environment where technology intuitively manages daily chores, from sorting groceries to cleaning and caregiving. This vision strongly resonates with India’s next generation of consumers who are increasingly embracing smart, convenient, and tech-enabled lifestyles. 

Looking Ahead

Haier remains deeply committed to defining the future of smart living. By fusing hardware, software, and robotics into a single, highly responsive system, Haier is crafting homes that can listen, see, and think, ultimately making life simpler, smarter, and more intuitive for families around the globe.

Foreign investors have withdrawn a record ₹1.14 lakh crore (around USD 12.3 billion) from Indian equities in March, marking the largest monthly outflow in the country’s history. Rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia, a weakening rupee, and concerns over high crude oil prices affecting economic growth have driven the sell-off.

With one trading session left in the month, analysts expect outflows could climb even higher, breaking the previous record of ₹94,017 crore set in October 2024. So far in 2026, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have pulled out ₹1.27 lakh crore, showing sustained caution amid global and domestic uncertainties.

Market experts say the withdrawals reflect how sensitive foreign capital remains to both international developments and domestic macroeconomic signals. “While India’s fundamentals are strong, investors are closely monitoring currency volatility and external risks before committing more funds,” noted a senior market strategist.

The coming months will be crucial to see whether foreign inflows stabilize or continue, potentially influencing market sentiment and liquidity.

Net financial debt was approximately €2.70 million as of year-end 2025. However, a €6.22 million payment received on January 8, 2026, corresponding to a receivable on the balance sheet, enabled the company to repay debt and move to a pro forma net cash position.

This post-closing event normalizes working capital and strengthens financial flexibility for selective growth. It does not affect the 2025 income statement.

In June 2025, Virtualware uplisted to Euronext Growth Paris under the ticker ALVIR, broadening its market access and investor visibility.

The company enters the final year of its 2024-2026 Strategic Plan supported by a record backlog, expanding gross margin, operational discipline, and a post-collection cash position that enables selective investment and prudent capital allocation.

Founded in 2004, Virtualware is one of the leading companies in enterprise software based on immersive and 3D technologies for industry and education.

Virtualware serves global organizations and institutions including GE Vernova, Volvo, Gestamp, Alstom, ADIF, Bosch, Biogen, Kessler Foundation, Invest Windsor Essex, McMaster University, the University of El Salvador, Ohio University, the Spanish Ministry of Defense or the Basque Government.

The company’s headquarters are in Bilbao, Spain, with offices in Orlando, US, Toronto, Canada, and Skövde, Sweden.

Investors can consult the company’s Equity Story by clicking on the following link.

An investor conference will take place on April 14th online. Investors can join the following link:

https://virtualwareco.com/investors/call/

New Delhi, Mar 30: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is signed between Dalmia Bharat Foundation (DBF), the CSR arm of Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited and Lal PathLabs Foundation, the CSR arm of Dr Lal PathLabs Ltdto establish skill training centres under the programme “DIKSHa – LPL Academy for Laboratory Medicine.” The initiative will set up centres in Belgaum, Karnataka and Ranchi, Jharkhand, offering specialized training in Phlebotomy to equip youth with industry-relevant skills. The centres will have a combined annual capacity of 350, creating pathways for sustainable livelihoods.

 The MoU was formally signed in the presence of senior representatives from both organizations. From Lal Pathlabs Foundation, the event was attended by Mr. Rajesh Singh, Head – CSR; and Mr. Ashish Dangar, Deputy Manager – CSR. Representing DBF, the signing was led by Mr. Ashok Kumar Gupta, CEO, Dalmia Bharat Foundation.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ashok Kumar Gupta, CEO, Dalmia Bharat Foundation, said,

“Healthcare skilling plays a critical role in building a future-ready workforce while strengthening access to quality healthcare services. Our partnership with Lal PathLabs Foundation reflects a shared commitment to strengthening skill development and creating sustainable opportunities for youth in the healthcare sector.”

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Rajesh Singh, Head – CSR, Lal PathLabs Foundation, said,

“We value this strategic partnership and together, we aim to strengthen the healthcare talent pipeline by equipping youth with industry-relevant skills and enabling access to sustainable and rewarding career opportunities in the diagnostic sector”.

The demand for trained phlebotomists in India is witnessing significant growth across hospitals and diagnostic labs, driven by the expansion of the diagnostics sector and the rising incidence of chronic diseases. With increasing reliance on diagnostic testing and home collection services, phlebotomy is emerging as a high-demand and stable career option across healthcare sector.

The collaboration advances DBF’s and LPLF’s focus on strengthening healthcare skilling initiatives that translate into meaningful livelihood opportunities for youth. The Foundation continues to drive impactful initiatives focused on skill development and community empowerment, enabling youth to access sustainable livelihood opportunities.

New Delhir, Mar 30 Noida International Airport is set to become one of the most modern airports in the country due to its advanced and environmentally friendly infrastructure. The Terminal 1 being built here is not only large in terms of size and capacity, but will also set a new benchmark in terms of technological innovation and passenger facilities.

The airport has been constructed using LC3 limestone  technology on a large scale for the first time in the country. This low-carbon construction material has a lower environmental impact compared to traditional cement, making the project an excellent example of eco-friendly infrastructure.

Spread over about 1.37 lakh square meters, Terminal 1 is being equipped with advanced arrangements keeping passenger convenience in mind. It will have 48 check-in counters, 20 self baggage drop facilities and 9 security check lanes, ensuring a fast and smooth experience for passengers.

For international passengers, 9 immigration counters each will be available along with fast-track facilities, ensuring time efficiency and seamless movement.
For domestic flights, 10 aerobridges and 2 bus boarding gates have been arranged, while for international flights, 2 aerobridges and 1 bus boarding gate will be available. This division will ensure organized and efficient operations, preventing any inconvenience in passenger movement.

Noida International Airport has been designed with the capacity to handle about 30 aircraft take-offs and landings per hour. In addition, the airport’s annual cargo handling capacity has been set at 2.5 lakh metric tonnes, which will establish it as a strong logistics hub.

Mumbai, Mar 30: Irasva Fine Jewellery marked a defining moment in its design journey with the grand unveiling of its first-ever lab-grown diamond collection, ISSHO, in collaboration with actor, singer and style icon Shibani Akhtar. Hosted at the elegant GIGI in Bandra, the evening brought together an eclectic mix of the city’s most influential names across film, fashion and entertainment, making it one of the most talked-about soirées of the season.

The evening saw an impressive turnout of celebrities and tastemakers including Farhan Akhtar, Karisma Tanna, Zoya Akhtar, Kritika Kamra, Anusha Dandekar, Gaurav Kapoor and Rasika Dugal, Kim Sharma among others, all of whom added to the electric energy of the night. The red carpet shimmered with statement diamonds from the ISSHO collection, with guests celebrating the fusion of innovation and artistry.

The launch event unfolded as a glamorous celebration of conscious luxury and contemporary design, with ISSHO – meaning “together” -embodying a philosophy of connection, individuality and modern elegance.At the heart of the evening was Shibani Akhtar, who played an integral role in shaping the collection. Speaking about the collaboration, she shared her vision of creating pieces that resonate with modern sensibilities- jewellery that is versatile, expressive, and deeply personal. Her association with Irasva brings a fresh perspective to the brand’s narrative, blending her distinctive style with the label’s refined aesthetic.

The ISSHO collection stands as a testament to Irasva’s commitment to evolving with the times while staying rooted in its design ethos. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted, celebrating everyday luxury while embracing the growing shift towards conscious consumption.

With this landmark launch, Irasva Fine Jewellery not only expands its portfolio but also positions itself at the forefront of a new era in fine jewellery—where innovation, responsibility, and design excellence coexist seamlessly.

Mumbai, Mar 30: Agritech startup Cropcoin (Pehle Jaisa) has raised Rs 12 Crore in Pre-Series A round led by Unicorn India Ventures. The round also saw participation from Climate angels Funds raised will be strategically deployed for geographical expansion for scaling operations from 10 districts to the entire 66 districts of Bihar and Jharkhand. They will also be directed towards product development to enhance R&D for bio-category products to improve soil health and reduce chemical usage along with building infrastructure to reach a ₹100 Crore ARR in the next 24 months.

 Founded in 2022 by serial entrepreneurs Pankaj Pandey and Ehtesham Farooqui, alongside a team of industry veterans, Cropcoin (Pehle Jaisa) is an agritech startup dedicated to solving agricultural waste management and soil health degradation. The company transforms animal waste into organic fertiliser and bio stimulants at the source. Cropcoin’s onsite solutions help poultry and daily farms turn waste into value, boosting their profits while keeping farms cleaner.

Commenting on the fund raise Uttam Kumar, Co-founder, Cropcoin, says,

“Our mission at Pehle Jaisa is to redefine the rural economy by turning agricultural waste into a high-value resource. This investment from Unicorn India Ventures validates our decentralized approach, which not only improves soil health but also makes farming more profitable for the smallholder. We aren’t just building a supply chain; we are building a self-reliant agricultural ecosystem that restores the land to its original, healthy state—exactly as the name ‘Pehle Jaisa’ suggests.”

The company is helping to alleviate the adverse impact of chemical fertilizers by encouraging use of more sustainable and farming methods. By promoting organic practices and traditional techniques, it helps improve soil content and optimise soil health. This not only helps reduce the usage of chemical fertilizers but also in greenhouse gas emission, making the environment cleaner. Additionally, the company also supports the production of chemical-free food which helps in lower health risks related to hazardous residues and ensures safer and more nutritious produce for consumers.

Cropcoin has introduced a new line of bio-category products designed to restore soil health and biodiversity, significantly reducing farmer input costs and reliance on chemical inputs. The company is growing at 3x year-on-year in active districts and is set to close the year at a ₹10 Crore ARR while maintaining minimal burn.

Pulkit Mehrotra, Vice President, Unicorn India Ventures, says,

 “Indian Agritech market is experiencing rapid growth, moreover the rising awareness of sustainability and environmental fluctuations are influencing agritech trends in India. Farmers are increasingly turning to precision agriculture and moving towards bio-fertilizers to improve soil health and cut down on chemicals. This not only helps in lowering the costs for farmers but also protects the environment and soil in the long run. Cropcoin uses a hyperlocal and decentralised model which has helped them to expand faster. We believe the company will build a bigger farmer community going forward and with such innovation coming out of India this will definitely promote sustainable and highly organic farming inputs and help lower the agriculture cost in India.”

Cropcoin in the last 12 months has grown its revenues 3X and expanded its farmer network to 70,000 from 20,000 across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Manipur. With an aim to build a decentralized supply chain model, the company will focus on capturing the entire 66 districts in Bihar and Jharkhand from the current 10 district presence and will further strengthen its presence in the North East over the next 3 years. In the next 12 – 18 months, CropCoin aims to complete the 66-district rollout in Bihar and Jharkhand, doubling its farmer reach to 1.5 Lakh+ and solidifying decentralized processing units.

Bengaluru,  Mar 29 : India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. hosted the Mega Mileage Challenge in Bangalore for the FZ-S Fi Hybrid motorcycle and 125cc Fi Hybrid Scooters  Fascino & RayZR. The event aimed to educate customers about the impressive fuel efficiency delivered by the Hybrid Technology featuring Smart Motor Generator (SMG) system and its benefits. Organized in collaboration with authorized dealerships – Eye Automobiles, Whitefield Yamaha, Garuda Motorcycles, Vinayak Motors, and Panache Enterprises – the challenge witnessed enthusiastic participation from Yamaha customers, and their family members.

 The Smart Motor Generator (SMG) and Stop & Start System (SSS), optimizes fuel economy and as a result, also reduces emissions. These systems ensure quieter starts, electric-assisted torque for exhilarating acceleration, and engine shutdown during idle, ultimately conserving fuel. This hybrid innovation allows riders to enjoy longer journeys with cost savings and a reduced environmental footprint, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious riders seeking high performance and efficiency.

Kicking off the challenge, Yamaha motorcycles and scooters were fueled up and set off on a dedicated route – 60 kms for motorcycles and 35 kms for scooters – starting from Samruddhi Convention Center in Bangalore and back to the same point. The route covered varied riding conditions, including city roads, urban traffic, and open stretches. This gave participants a first-hand opportunity to evaluate the bike’s suspension, manoeuvrability, braking, acceleration, and initial pick-up. After completing the ride and returning to the venue, the bikes were refuelled to their original level, and fuel consumption was recorded to calculate mileage. As part of the engagement, Yamaha experts also shared insights on effective riding techniques and maintenance practices to ensure better mileage.

As a gesture of appreciation, each participant received exclusive souvenirs along with a complimentary bike wash. Additionally, Yamaha’s commitment to customer satisfaction was exemplified through a comprehensive 10-point inspection, ensuring optimal performance and safety for all the motorcycles during the challenge

 Kolkata, Mar 30: Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department marked a significant presence at the India International Travel Mart (IITM), held from 27–29 March 2026 at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Kolkata. The participation highlighted the region’s diverse tourism offerings and reinforced its position as one of India’s most captivating travel destinations.

Representing the department were Rashmi Deepika Razdan, Director – Finance, Tourism Department, and Peer Zahid Ahmad, Deputy Director, Tourism Kashmir. Their presence underscored the department’s commitment to strengthening trade partnerships and expanding outreach in key domestic markets such as West Bengal. Jammu & Kashmir Tourism is the Partner State at this year’s edition of ‘India International Travel Mart’ at Kolkata.

The Jammu & Kashmir pavilion drew considerable attention from travel trade professionals, tour operators, and visitors, offering insights into the region’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and experiential tourism. From the serene landscapes of the Kashmir Valley to the spiritual circuits of Jammu and emerging adventure tourism opportunities, the showcase emphasized the region’s versatility for leisure, pilgrimage, and experiential travel.

Speaking on the occasion, officials highlighted Jammu & Kashmir’s renewed focus on sustainable tourism, infrastructure development, and enhanced connectivity. The participation at IITM provided an ideal platform to engage with stakeholders, promote curated travel experiences, and encourage increased tourist inflow from eastern India.

The delegation also held productive B2B interactions with travel agents, tour operators, and hospitality partners, exploring collaborations to design customized itineraries and promote year-round tourism. Special emphasis was placed on promoting lesser-explored destinations, winter tourism, and experiential offerings such as houseboat stays, trekking, and cultural tours.

Visitors to the pavilion were introduced to the region’s evolving tourism narrative—one that combines heritage with modern infrastructure, and tradition with contemporary travel experiences. Informational material, destination presentations, and interactive discussions helped create awareness about the wide spectrum of travel opportunities available in Jammu & Kashmir.

The India International Travel Mart continues to serve as a premier platform connecting tourism stakeholders across India and beyond. Jammu & Kashmir Tourism’s participation not only strengthened its visibility in the eastern market but also reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the region as a safe, accessible, and must-visit destination.

As the event concluded, the delegation expressed optimism about forging new partnerships and attracting increased tourist interest in the coming seasons, further contributing to the growth of tourism in the Union Territory.