Blog

  • Quick Commerce Surge in India Seen Driving Market to Dollar 70 Billion by 2030

    New Delhi, Apr 24 (BNP): India’s quick commerce sector is gaining remarkable momentum, with rapid expansion over the past two years positioning it as one of the fastest-growing segments in the country’s digital economy. A recent report suggests the market could reach as much as $65–70 billion by 2030 if current trends continue.

    The segment, built around delivering groceries and daily essentials within minutes, has moved well beyond its early-stage appeal in metro cities. It is now steadily expanding into tier-2 and tier-3 markets, supported by wider internet access, improved logistics networks, and evolving consumer expectations.

    Industry observers say convenience is now a key driver of growth. More consumers are choosing speed and reliability over heavy discounts, leading to frequent orders and stronger platform loyalty. This shift is encouraging companies to invest further in supply chain efficiency and last-mile delivery capabilities.

    At the same time, quick commerce platforms are diversifying their offerings. Beyond groceries, many are adding categories such as personal care, electronics, and household items, aiming to increase order value and customer retention.

    While the growth outlook remains strong, profitability continues to be a challenge. High operational costs, especially in maintaining dense delivery networks and dark stores, are pushing companies to refine their business models and focus on sustainable scaling.

    Despite these concerns, the sector is expected to play a transformative role in India’s retail landscape over the coming years, reshaping how consumers shop and how brands reach their customers.

  • Sitharaman Calls for Stronger Cyber Shields in Banking as AI Risks and Global Tensions Rise

    New Delhi, Apr 24 (BNP): Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has urged India’s banking sector to step up its defences against emerging digital threats, cautioning that rapid advances in artificial intelligence are reshaping the risk landscape for financial institutions.

    Speaking at a recent review meeting with senior bankers and officials, the minister stressed that cybersecurity can no longer be treated as a back-end function. Instead, she said, it must become a core priority as banks handle growing volumes of digital transactions and sensitive customer data.

    Sitharaman pointed out that newer AI-driven tools have the potential to exploit system vulnerabilities more quickly and at a larger scale than before. In this context, she encouraged banks to invest in smarter monitoring systems, strengthen internal safeguards, and stay alert to evolving threat patterns. She also highlighted the importance of coordination among financial institutions and government agencies to respond effectively to cyber risks.

    Alongside technology-related concerns, the minister drew attention to external pressures stemming from ongoing tensions in West Asia. She noted that global uncertainties, particularly those affecting energy markets and trade routes, could have a ripple effect on financial stability. Banks, she said, must remain prepared for sudden shifts in the global economic environment.

    The message from the finance ministry signals a broader push to make India’s banking system more resilient—both digitally and economically—as it adapts to fast-changing technologies and an increasingly unpredictable global backdrop.

  • Deendayal Port, DP World Explore Tuna Tekra Terminal to Strengthen Kandla Logistics Hub

    Gujarat, Apr 24 (BNP): The Deendayal Port Authority has initiated discussions with global logistics major DP World to develop the proposed Tuna-Tekra terminal, a move expected to enhance capacity and efficiency at the Kandla port ecosystem.

    According to officials familiar with the matter, the talks are part of a broader effort to modernize infrastructure and position Kandla as a more competitive logistics hub on India’s western coast. The proposed terminal at Tuna-Tekra is likely to focus on handling next-generation cargo volumes while improving turnaround times for vessels.

    Sources indicated that both sides are exploring ways to integrate advanced technologies and streamlined operations into the project. If finalized, the collaboration could bring in global best practices in port management, helping the region handle rising trade demand more effectively.

    The development comes at a time when cargo traffic across major ports is witnessing steady growth, driven by increased industrial activity and export momentum. Strengthening facilities at Tuna-Tekra is expected to ease congestion at existing berths and create additional capacity for future expansion.

    Industry stakeholders believe that such partnerships can play a crucial role in improving logistics efficiency, reducing costs, and supporting India’s ambitions to become a global trade hub. The Kandla region, already a key gateway for bulk and container cargo, stands to benefit significantly from upgraded infrastructure and enhanced connectivity.

    While discussions are still at a preliminary stage, officials expressed optimism that the project could attract further investment and generate new economic opportunities in the region.

  • Pemmasani Calls for Design Driven Growth and Higher R&D in Telecom Sector

    Bhubaneswar, Apr 24 (BNP): Union Minister of State for Telecommunications, Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, has urged stakeholders in India’s telecom industry to move beyond cost-driven models and embrace design-led innovation as a core growth strategy.

    Addressing industry representatives at a recent forum, the minister emphasized that India must strengthen its capabilities in research and development (R&D) to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving global telecom landscape. He noted that while the country has made significant progress in expanding connectivity, the next phase of growth will depend on indigenous innovation and technological leadership.

    Pemmasani highlighted the need for telecom companies to invest more in developing homegrown solutions, particularly in areas such as 5G, network infrastructure, and emerging digital technologies. He stressed that a shift toward design-centric approaches would not only improve product quality but also enable Indian firms to capture greater value in global markets.

    The minister also pointed out that collaboration between industry, academia, and government institutions will be essential to build a strong innovation ecosystem. Encouraging startups and supporting local manufacturing were identified as key pillars in driving this transformation.

    Industry experts at the event echoed the minister’s views, noting that increased R&D spending and a focus on original design could help India transition from being primarily a consumer of telecom technology to a global innovator.

    The call aligns with the government’s broader vision of strengthening domestic capabilities and reducing dependence on imports in critical technology sectors.

  • Divorced Singles in India Redefine Modern Relationships

    Re-entering the matchmaking and matrimony scene after divorce and separation is not like restarting the dating journey. It takes a lot more smart choices. A study by the one-of-its-kind matchmaking platform for second-chance seekers, Rebounce, reveals that previously married singles from different Indian cities are approaching their second shot at love in their own unique ways, each no less notable than the other. From early cut-offs in Hyderabad to scheduled emotional bandwidth in Bengaluru, divorced singles are creating a highly personalized style of seeking love.

    The survey was conducted among 6843 divorced and separated singles between 28 and 45, who are active on matchmaking platforms. Respondents were chosen from Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. The data collected highlights the different systems previously married singles have strategically put in place to protect their hearts in their second time seeking love.

    Rebounce’s Founder and CEO, Ravi Mittal, commented,

    “Divorced and separated singles are not hesitant to try new methods of finding love the smart way. They are already self-aware and have a higher level of clarity, so reactive matching is not really their style. What’s more interesting is that every city has a hero style, whether it is setting boundaries or exiting at the first sign of incompatibility, different city singles have different trends that adds an additional layer of protection.”

    3 dates rule, but reverse

    While young daters have been following the 3-date rule, where they wait for at least 3 dates to decide whether or not to commit, the divorced and separated singles between 30 and 40 from Hyderabad are reportedly using the same rule, but in reverse. 31% of these singles shared that they make decisions within the first three interactions. If things don’t seem to be going the way they imagined, after the 3rd date, they choose to respectfully exit the connection. This is not rash but rather a very calculated move. While connections can grow over time, 7 out of 10 divorced singles claimed that if the spark or compatibility is missing in the first three interactions, it is almost always certain that the relationship is not built to last. Their years of lived experience help them identify misalignment and avoid getting into a doomed relationship.

    Scheduled emotional bandwidth

    For 33% of divorced singles in Bengaluru, finding love the second time looks very structured. Rebounce users reveal that they use the “calendar blocking” method to schedule interactions, virtual meetups and maintain regular conversation without overextending themselves emotionally. This careful approach stems from their difficult past, a desire to avoid getting hurt and evade emotional burnout. These singles also avoid multiple matches and tend to focus on one quality match for a less overwhelming and more aligned experience.

    Delhi take accountability

    From the survey data, it is seen that divorced and separated singles in Delhi are more sensitive to inconsistencies. Almost 8 in 10 previously married women and 6 in 10 men disclosed that they pay closer attention to contradictions in talk vs effort, inconsistencies in past history details, unclear communication, mixed signals and overall, not taking any accountability for their failed marriages. Neelam, 35 year old mother of two, said, “I know I have some hand in my marriage not working out. Usually it takes two to make a marriage, and two to break too. For me, a person who shakes all responsibility off their shoulder and places the entire blame on their ex is a red flag. That’s just avoidance and denial and I wouldn’t wanna commit to a person like that.”

    Selective merging in Mumbai

    Rebounce’s internal data and survey show that 29% of divorced singles from Mumbai are opting for selective merging. Instead of blending their entire routine with their partner, they are maintaining individuality in certain aspects while integrating some other parts of their lives quickly. For instance, single parents tend to delay introducing their match to their kids for as long as six months into the relationship.

  • Israeli Strikes Kill 5 in Lebanon Despite Ceasefire, Truce Under Strain

    Apr,24(BNP): At least five people, including a journalist, were killed and another injured in fresh Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon on Wednesday, despite an ongoing ceasefire, further heightening tensions in the region.

    Israeli Strikes Kill 5 in Lebanon Despite Ceasefire, Truce Under Strain

    According to reports, the strikes occurred even as Lebanon prepares to seek a one-month extension of the existing truce during upcoming talks with Israel in Washington, D.C. under United States mediation. The current 10-day ceasefire, announced following initial negotiations last week, is set to expire on Sunday.

    Lebanese officials stated that their delegation will push for an extension of the truce, a complete halt to Israeli military operations in affected areas, and firm commitments to uphold the ceasefire agreement. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun confirmed that diplomatic efforts are underway to prolong the ceasefire period.

    Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar called for cooperation from Lebanon against the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, which has been central to the ongoing conflict. Although Hezbollah opposes direct negotiations, there are indications it may consider indirect talks facilitated by the United States.

    The conflict, which began on March 2, has resulted in significant casualties and destruction. Lebanese authorities report that at least 2,454 people have been killed since the escalation began, with over 50,000 housing units damaged or destroyed.

    In the latest incident, journalist Amal Khalil was among those killed in the strikes, while another journalist was injured. Lebanese officials condemned the attack, stating that media personnel were targeted while performing their professional duties. The Israeli military, however, stated that the strikes targeted individuals allegedly linked to Hezbollah and accused them of violating ceasefire terms.

    Despite the truce, sporadic exchanges of fire have continued, with Hezbollah also claiming retaliatory strikes against Israeli positions in southern Lebanon.

    The situation remains volatile, with international stakeholders closely monitoring developments. Calls for restraint and adherence to ceasefire agreements continue to grow amid fears of further escalation.

  • From India to Africa: Sculpture of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Unveiled in Malawi on Baisakhi

    From India to Africa: Sculpture of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Unveiled in Malawi on Baisakhi

    New Delhi, Apr 24: The unveiling of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh sculpture in Malawi, Africa, on April 19 was a beautiful moment that brought together geography, culture, and heritage. The sculpture was made by the famous Indian sculptor Mr Naresh Kumar Kumawat and is another milestone for the Sikh community. The event happened around the auspicious celebration of Baisakhi, which made it even more special.

    The ceremony took place at a Gurudwara in Malawi. About 400 Sikhs were there to see the historic moment. It was a very special time that made them feel proud and connected to their culture. Watching the statue of Sher-e-Punjab find its place thousands of miles away from its homeland was beautiful in more than one way.

    The sculpture’s installation was more than just an artistic achievement. It is a strong symbol of identity, resilience, and belonging for the Sikh community in Malawi. The statue serves as a memory that connects them to their roots in India. It is a beautiful step toward preserving Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s legacy and strengthening a shared heritage across continents.

    Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Naresh Kumar Kumawat expressed his deep gratitude and emotional connection to the project. “It is very humbling to see my work touch so many people in a community far from home. It was very moving to see over 400 members of the Sikh community come together during Baisakhi to celebrate this unveiling. As an artist, there is no greater reward than knowing that your work becomes a bridge between people and their heritage. Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s legacy of courage and leadership now stands tall on African soil, inspiring generations to come.”

    The unveiling also showed how Indian culture is still present around the world and how art helps keep it alive. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a great leader, a secular ruler, and a skilled soldier. He is still an important part of Indian culture today. His statue in Malawi is a tribute to his legacy and a reminder of the values he stood for: unity, strength, and inclusion.

    The event ended with prayers and community celebrations. It renewed the sense of pride among attendees. The sculpture stands tall in Malawi and symbolises the unbreakable bond between the Indian immigrants and their cultural heritage. It also assures that distance can never diminish the identity of one’s roots. 

  • Record Voter Turnout in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu; CEC Hails Historic Participation

    Apr 24 (BNP): The Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, has lauded the voters of West Bengal and Tamil Nadu for recording the highest-ever voter turnout since Independence, describing it as a historic milestone in India’s democratic journey.

    Record Voter Turnout in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu; CEC Hails Historic Participation

    According to the Election Commission of India, Tamil Nadu registered an impressive voter turnout of 84.69%, while West Bengal (Phase I) recorded a remarkable 91.78%. Both figures surpass previous records set in 2011, when Tamil Nadu had recorded 78.29% and West Bengal 84.72%.

    Commending the electorate, the CEC said the unprecedented participation reflects rising voter awareness, strong faith in the electoral system, and a deep commitment to democratic values. “This is the highest-ever polling percentage since Independence. We salute every voter in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu,” he stated.

    The polling process was closely monitored through 100% live webcasting across all polling stations in both states. The CEC, along with Election Commissioners Dr. S. S. Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi, maintained continuous oversight to ensure transparency and the smooth conduct of polling.

    Special arrangements were made for Persons with Disabilities (PwD), including the provision of wheelchairs, volunteer assistance, and transportation to polling stations, ensuring inclusive participation.

    The Election Commission also commended polling personnel, security forces, and administrative officials for conducting the elections in a peaceful, free, and fair manner.

    The record turnout is being widely seen as a strong indicator of growing civic engagement and the continued strengthening of democratic processes in the country.

  • Panerai returns to the Salone del Mobile.Milano as Official Time Keeper of the 64th Edition

    Panerai returns to the Salone del Mobile.Milano as Official Time Keeper of the 64th Edition

    Panerai, the historic luxury watch brand merging Swiss precision with Italian design, confirms for the fourth consecutive year its role as Official Time Keeper of the Salone del Mobile.Milano, sealing its partnership with the most prestigious international design event, now in its 64th edition.

    From April 21 to 26, 2026, Panerai will reopen the doors of its pop-up store in the heart of Milan Rho Fiera, along the very central Corso Italia, offering both visitors and watch enthusiasts the opportunity to experience a new immersive journey into the Maison’s universe.

    In a temporary space of approximately 100 square meters, Panerai will unveil a curated selection of watches from its iconic collections – Luminor, Submersible and Radiomir, in addition to the Luminor 8 Giorni PAM01733, a new timepiece that, unveiled at Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026, will be early available and previewed to the Italian Market during the week of the Salone del Mobile.

    The pop-up has been renovated to further enhance Panerai’s intrinsic and unique identity, including the Maison’s Italian origins, its legendary history, and its connection to the world of the sea, through a carefully curated selection of materials and decorative elements. Among these, the Panerai timeline stands out, tracing the most significant stages of the brand’s history, accompanied by a rich display of evocative images. The narrative finally culminates with a video positioned at the center of the space, inviting viewers to discover the technical innovations and distinctive features of Panerai’s latest releases.

    The Italian bar, conceived as a convivial meeting space, offers customers not only an informal area for a break in perfect Italian style, but also an additional exhibition and sales area.

    “We are pleased to renew our collaboration with Salone del Mobile.Milano, the most important event in the international design landscape. A consolidated bond, founded on common values and similar visions, driven by a passion for excellence, innovation, and functional design. This year, with the return of EuroCucina, we hope to welcome even more visitors, industry experts, and enthusiasts from all over the world to both our pop-up at the Fair and our Milanese flagship in Montenapoleone,” states Alessandro Ficarelli, CMO of Panerai.

    Throughout the entire week, a rich program of appointments and exclusive initiatives will animate the pop-up store in Rho Fiera, while in the city downtown, at number 19 of Via Montenapoleone, Casa Panerai will host a series of evening events marking the time of Fuorisalone 2026, while celebrating the Italian spirit and dynamic essence of the brand.

    Panerai

    Founded in Florence in 1860, Panerai began as a workshop, shop, and subsequently school of watchmaking. This foundational expertise soon led to forging a pivotal partnership with the Royal Italian Navy, commencing in the 1910s, with initial commissions to design precision instruments and leading in 1935 to the development of its first dive watch prototype, Ref. 2533, with a luminescent Radiomir dial. For many decades thereafter, Panerai maintained its role as a highly secretive supplier to Italian Navy commandos, manufacturing professional-grade tool watches and high-precision instruments built to withstand their challenging missions.

    The defining technical features Panerai developed to meet the Italian Navy specifications—exceptional luminescence, superior water resistance, extended power reserve, and robust construction—remained a military secret until 1993. That year marked a key moment: the introduction of the first watches to the civilian public, including the first Luminor 44mm, whose now-iconic crown protecting bridge and bold design would soon achieve international recognition.

    In 1997, Richemont acquired Panerai, leading to its debut at SIHH (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie) in 1998. This event propelled Panerai’s rise as a prominent international brand within the watchmaking industry.

    Today, Panerai honors its heritage by manufacturing its movements and watches at its Neuchâtel manufacture since 2002, where cutting-edge technology and Swiss precision converge with Italian design. Panerai watches are available worldwide through a carefully selected network of distributors and boutiques.

  • Emerald Month – The Joy of Colour by Gemfields

    Emerald Month: the joy of colour

    Mumbai, Apr 24: Gemfields is celebrating Emerald Month by taking a moment to appreciate the joy of colour. This May, for which the birthstone is emerald, it feels fitting to revere green once again. Emeralds are often associated with hope and growth, with a luscious hue reminiscent of the green shoots of spring and new beginnings.

    In colour theory, green marries the calming stability of blue with the energetic warmth of yellow, bringing a sense of balance and harmony. The green of an emerald comes from traces of chromium, vanadium, and iron. Compared to emeralds of other origins, Zambian emeralds in particular are lacking in vanadium, resulting in their desirable bluish-green tint and often eye-clean crystals, and ever-so-slightly richer in iron,  which is pivotal in bonding the elements more tightly. Consequently, Zambian emeralds boast a distinctive colour, which can be described as a sharp, evenly distributed green that glows with a tint of blue.

    Highly prized emeralds display an even saturation of colour, and a vivid hue. Early humans’ fascination with colour and the desire to own lasting examples of it made them fall in love with gemstones, for their vivid beauty remained unchanged with every passing day. In a world where people aged, flowers wilted, and sunsets faded, only the colour of gemstones remained unchanged. For them, the only logical explanation was that gems were divine, forever linking gemstones to the spiritual world.

    This enduring allure of gemstones continues to captivate and remind us of the beauty and permanence found in a transient world.

    Choosing a Gemfields Zambian emerald of your very own is easier than you might think! Gemfields collaborates with a number of international jewellery brands at differing price points, offering an array of jewellery designs to suit your unique style.

    Mohar Fine Jewels x Gemfields Diamond & Emerald Floral Heritage Necklace (POA); Mohar Fine Jewels x Gemfields Diamond & Emerald Drop Studs (POA); DIACOLOR x Gemfields Majestic Bloom Ring (POA); DIACOLOR x Gemfields Verdant Majesty Ring (POA)

    For a masterclass in the enigmatic allure of emerald, see the DIACOLOR x Gemfields Majestic Bloom Ring, which boasts a 26.49 carat pear-cut Gemfields Zambian emerald, diamond and south sea pearls, or the DIACOLOR x Gemfields Verdant Majesty Ring, which frames a 38.43 carat emerald-cut emerald with diamonds. For a complete emerald celebration, look no further than Mohar Fine Jewels x Gemfields Diamond & Emerald Floral Heritage Necklace, featuring 18 octagon-cut Gemfields Zambian emeralds totalling 35.95cts. An elevated everyday emerald look is easily achieved with Mohar Fine Jewels x Gemfields Diamond & Emerald Drop Studs, which frame striking octagon emeralds with round diamonds, blending bold geometry with refined sparkle.