Menthra Hosts 'Human Advantage' Event on AI, Mental Health, and Leadership

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCS0X6b60WSUdXJDSEXQ6SQn8CiGl5HDim-AZHlG9cWyCSqNgHpVR-A6WxtHxi9qYPu8TJ_5bXDPJeVpLal-uydJrUWtI8hKtGD1qdYtexIGmglubb_8YpeUZ_rlqKfHWWgFcgq0PBM3zhqvhj8cXWVCTCqtUgQRdYb6ni5cJXSLAobmhhVjxQ5LoP" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCS0X6b60WSUdXJDSEXQ6SQn8CiGl5HDim-AZHlG9cWyCSqNgHpVR-A6WxtHxi9qYPu8TJ_5bXDPJeVpLal-uydJrUWtI8hKtGD1qdYtexIGmglubb_8YpeUZ_rlqKfHWWgFcgq0PBM3zhqvhj8cXWVCTCqtUgQRdYb6ni5cJXSLAobmhhVjxQ5LoP" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div><b>Mumbai:</b> As artificial intelligence rapidly transforms the way people work, create, communicate and make decisions, Menthra brought together a diverse community of leaders and changemakers for ‘Human Advantage’, at a gathering  built around a fundamental question: “As AI becomes more capable, what becomes more valuable about being human?”</div><div><br></div><div>Bringing together voices from business, technology, healthcare, psychology, education, entrepreneurship and the creative community, the event explored the human capabilities that will be critical to thriving alongside AI, including emotional wellbeing, resilience, connection, creativity and leadership.</div><div><br></div><div>The event came at a significant moment for the global mental health conversation. This year’s World Mental Health Day theme, ‘Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change’, calls for people with lived experience to have a meaningful role in shaping mental health policies, services and decisions.</div><div><br></div><div>Human Advantage built on this idea by creating a space where different experiences and perspectives could come together, not only to discuss technology, but to examine its impact on human connection, emotional wellbeing, resilience, creativity, leadership and the way we live and work.</div><div><br></div><div>The day moved through three connected movements. The first rediscovered human possibility and what changes as machines grow more capable: what becomes more valuable in us, and how we move through change. The second looked at balance at work, at progress measured against humanity, and at mental wellbeing. The third turned forward, to who we become, what we choose to build, and ultimately what all of it is for. It closed where responsibility belongs, with human choice.</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at the event, <b>Dinakara Nagalla, founder of Menthra</b>, said: “AI will change the way we live and work, but our greatest advantage will always be our ability to be human. Human Advantage was about recognising that the future isn’t only about smarter technology. It’s about stronger, more resilient and more connected people.”</div>

Menthra Hosts 'Human Advantage' Event on AI, Mental Health, and Leadership

Mumbai: As artificial intelligence rapidly transforms the way people work, create, communicate and make decisions, Menthra brou...

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Malabar Gold & Diamonds Opens New Showroom at Nexus Seawoods Mall, Navi Mumbai

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbB7hqgBhnquVtP8APVp07Vy5dHg3QTtv5-V63uZjTb1lqX_tXaKR8oQPHuTTIQA1vuHmA1ML97x1YP4popU-9pItpV_bDZuTwEAc1kESo-Gh0V9o4kDdpclx2n7nTfG80miTCd162Ra3OolK2svD25lgRAm3unwW8mc4cg06Yj_W6zZn5K6_32doK" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbB7hqgBhnquVtP8APVp07Vy5dHg3QTtv5-V63uZjTb1lqX_tXaKR8oQPHuTTIQA1vuHmA1ML97x1YP4popU-9pItpV_bDZuTwEAc1kESo-Gh0V9o4kDdpclx2n7nTfG80miTCd162Ra3OolK2svD25lgRAm3unwW8mc4cg06Yj_W6zZn5K6_32doK" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div>Strengthens its presence in Maharashtra with a contemporary jewellery destination featuring lightweight, everyday-wear designs.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Navi Mumbai: Malabar Gold & Diamonds</b>, the jewellery retailer and The Responsible Jeweller, has inaugurated its new showroom at Nexus Seawoods Mall in Navi Mumbai. Spanning approximately 1,734 sq. ft., the showroom strengthens the brand’s retail presence in Maharashtra, bringing a curated selection of contemporary jewellery to customers in the region.</div><div><br></div><div>Designed in line with Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ global retail standards, the showroom offers a comfortable and premium jewellery shopping experience. Featuring contemporary, lightweight, and youthful designs, the assortment is tailored to meet the evolving preferences of Navi Mumbai shoppers. The collection caters particularly to young consumers aged 25–35 years, offering versatile designs suited to everyday wear and different occasions. The showroom was inaugurated by actress Prarthana Behere, Regional Brand Ambassador – West Zone, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, along with Fanzeem Ahamed A T, Head-Retail Expansions & Regional Head West and distinguished guests and valued customers.</div><div><br></div><div>The opening of the new showroom reinforces Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ continued expansion across Maharashtra. Seawoods was selected for its strong retail footfall and growing demand for jewellery among consumers in the region. Located within Nexus Seawoods Mall, the showroom enables the brand to further expand its presence in Navi Mumbai and cater to customers seeking contemporary and lifestyle-oriented jewellery collections.</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking on the occasion<b>, M P Ahammad, Chairman, Malabar Group, </b>said, “The opening of our new showroom at Nexus Seawoods Mall marks an important step in strengthening our presence in Maharashtra. Every new showroom gives us an opportunity to bring Malabar Gold & Diamonds closer to customers and serve them in a market that continues to evolve. Through our presence at Seawoods, we look forward to building lasting relationships with customers in Navi Mumbai and extending the assurance that comes with shopping at Malabar Gold & Diamonds. For us, expansion goes hand in hand with our commitment to being The Responsible Jeweller, with a strong emphasis on purity, transparent pricing, and responsible business practices. As we continue to grow, our endeavour is to ensure that every new showroom upholds these principles and reflects the trust that customers have placed in us over the years.”</div><div><br></div><div>Customers visiting the showroom can avail themselves of inaugural offers, including up to 30% off on the making charges of gold, uncut, and gemstone jewellery, and up to 30% off on diamond value. The offers are valid until 15 November 2026. The showroom reflects Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ commitment to responsible retail practices. All gold jewellery is BIS hallmarked with HUID, while all diamond jewellery is tested and certified. Under the brand’s Malabar Promises, customers benefit from 100% exchange value on gold and diamond jewellery, transparent pricing, lifetime free maintenance, and responsibly sourced products.</div><div><br></div><div>With this launch, <b>Malabar Gold & Diamonds</b> continues to align its retail approach with evolving local consumer preferences while maintaining consistent quality standards and customer-centric retail practices across markets.</div>

Malabar Gold & Diamonds Opens New Showroom at Nexus Seawoods Mall, Navi Mumbai

Strengthens its presence in Maharashtra with a contemporary jewellery destination featuring lightweight, everyday-wear designs. ...

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Black Opal Consultants Shares Hit ₹210 Upper Circuit After BSE SME Debut, Gain 6.60% Over IPO Price

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUs9LmLdsjajLlK8Vl2b6D5Fd4AW2_OL4aZIqIVQ9IAbMY-jd9pCYyrNAlKaRH_gnzsvn-UByAdGaKsWLTJ9tOtMoFzVaZaMV74ddrz7lPI2n9NRo2KZEJNOY-cIvjZn2-Ydu6Clwxu7riDmUjSckhOe_z1DAKWUKrY4xAZ-rSiUl45_rVHo30abIw" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUs9LmLdsjajLlK8Vl2b6D5Fd4AW2_OL4aZIqIVQ9IAbMY-jd9pCYyrNAlKaRH_gnzsvn-UByAdGaKsWLTJ9tOtMoFzVaZaMV74ddrz7lPI2n9NRo2KZEJNOY-cIvjZn2-Ydu6Clwxu7riDmUjSckhOe_z1DAKWUKrY4xAZ-rSiUl45_rVHo30abIw" width="400"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCh2XQAt2uquU2DLSnTxNKRvZnwmC3Mej-SKvUDKgd6iY4QUTc_h-KcjehVaE_GCfbWXWJuC73xDbi4XqMaIo12lPtNBoVqlLtrbrnM7WTG3Cw9y7NOgJeZnHag_tyAqSXWTaSZASKflPGtO_7xB8cR3oK0cDgyRdbs8JV7z01V2Vzwx3Rd99hvtpd" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCh2XQAt2uquU2DLSnTxNKRvZnwmC3Mej-SKvUDKgd6iY4QUTc_h-KcjehVaE_GCfbWXWJuC73xDbi4XqMaIo12lPtNBoVqlLtrbrnM7WTG3Cw9y7NOgJeZnHag_tyAqSXWTaSZASKflPGtO_7xB8cR3oK0cDgyRdbs8JV7z01V2Vzwx3Rd99hvtpd" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div><b>Mumbai: Black Opal Consultants Limited</b>’s shares gained momentum after making their debut on the BSE SME platform rising to ₹210 and hitting the upper circuit. At ₹210, the stock was trading 6.60% above its IPO issue price of ₹197.</div><div><br></div><div>The shares opened at ₹200, representing a 1.52% premium over the issue price, before moving higher during the session.</div><div><br></div><div>The company’s ₹55.08 crore IPO comprised a fresh issue of 22.38 lakh shares amounting to ₹44.09 crore and an offer for sale of 5.58 lakh shares amounting to ₹10.99 crore.</div><div><br></div><div>The IPO, which opened on September 29 and closed on October 1, was priced in the range of ₹185 to ₹197 per share. The final issue price was fixed at ₹197 per share, with a lot size of 600 shares.</div><div><br></div><div>The issue received strong investor interest, with the IPO being subscribed 68.71 times at the close of the bidding process. The issue received 59,512 applications. The Non-Institutional Investor (NII) portion was subscribed 92.30 times, while the Retail Individual Investor (RII) portion was subscribed 60.15 times and the Qualified Institutional Buyer (QIB) portion was subscribed 59.77 times.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Prasoon Chauhan, Promoter and Managing Director, Black Opal Consultants Limited</b>, said, “The successful listing marks an important milestone for Black Opal and reflects the confidence placed in the company by investors. We are grateful for the strong participation in our IPO and remain focused on disciplined execution, strengthening our platform and creating sustainable long-term value.”</div><div><br></div><div>Established in 2020, Black Opal operates as a real estate solutions platform connecting leading developers with buyers and investors. The company has worked with more than 25 developers and 300 broker partners and has served over 2,200 customers, with aggregate real estate sales exceeding ₹4,000 crore since inception.</div><div><br></div><div>Khambatta Securities Limited acted as the Book Running Lead Manager and Underwriter to the issue, while Share India also acted as an Underwriter.</div>

Black Opal Consultants Shares Hit ₹210 Upper Circuit After BSE SME Debut, Gain 6.60% Over IPO Price

Mumbai: Black Opal Consultants Limited ’s shares gained momentum after making their debut on the BSE SME platform ri...

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Series Goes on Sale in India with exciting Multi-buy benefits and No-Cost EMI options

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhPUqLiLlzKHt9OSpQ1bHMNCXJFfSGF5ES8_zrNRxI6siNn9zeii_IIuAa87BODj7cGTrujd87HbaTQy5kejoj1vQNZ1gzsyv6NyXqi6yZmFfj-pfipepJUzPL6RsKl-hJI0Id8DbRn3wL4tTYBuu2PrqxBd0XqFErWzfRifvB9-OK8XoIQuNvCi_A7" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhPUqLiLlzKHt9OSpQ1bHMNCXJFfSGF5ES8_zrNRxI6siNn9zeii_IIuAa87BODj7cGTrujd87HbaTQy5kejoj1vQNZ1gzsyv6NyXqi6yZmFfj-pfipepJUzPL6RsKl-hJI0Id8DbRn3wL4tTYBuu2PrqxBd0XqFErWzfRifvB9-OK8XoIQuNvCi_A7" width="400"> </a> </div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai: Samsung India</b> announced the sale of the Galaxy Tab S12 Series—Samsung’s most capable and versatile tablet experience to date, combining powerful performance, and the latest Galaxy AI in an ultra-thin design. The latest tablets will be available in Gray and Silver colour options.</div><div><br></div><div>Customers purchasing the Galaxy Tab S12 series can avail themselves of a range of benefits, including multi-buy offers: INR 15000 off on Tab and smartphone purchases, including the Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy S25 Ultra, or S25+; 15% off on select wearables; 30% off on the Pro Keyboard Cover; up to INR 5000 bank cashback; up to INR 5000 upgrade bonus; and no-cost EMI for up to 24 months through participating banks and NBFC partners.</div><div><br></div><div>Samsung has also introduced the Galaxy Forever programme for Galaxy Tabs for the first time, making them more accessible and affordable to consumers. This initiative is available for customers purchasing through Samsung Finance+ at Samsung Exclusive stores and Samsung.com, offering an extended ownership proposition with a Galaxy Forever pack priced at INR 12499.</div><div><br></div><div>Under this two-year programme, customers can own the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S12+ by paying 75% of the device price along with the Galaxy Forever programme fee, spread over 24 EMIs. The programme provides eligible customers with structured options for device ownership and upgrade, including defined residual-value benefits.</div><div><br></div><div>The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra starts at INR 149999, while the Galaxy Tab S12+ starts at INR 129999. The Pro Keyboard Cover for the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra costs INR 27999 while the Pro Keyboard Cover for the Galaxy Tab S12+ is priced at INR 26499. </div><div><br></div><div>Both models—Wi-Fi and 5G variants with 12GB RAM, and 256GB or 512GB storage options—will be available from October 7 via Samsung Exclusive Stores, partner stores, Samsung.com and other online platforms.</div>

Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Series Goes on Sale in India with exciting Multi-buy benefits and No-Cost EMI options

Mumbai: Samsung India  announced the sale of the Galaxy Tab S12 Series—Samsung’s most capable and versatile tablet experience to...

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Kia India Expands Assured Buyback Programme Across ICE, Hybrid and EV Portfolio

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj4sL5bU6xKS_pWEydQK-9Ui1hmvOLBoJA5N-kk4Ppgmw9U134UQ8EuCvU_NoPBfbE8lEJf_fVc_U8tPN2J806tREKPiNG11T7iIzGY7b-WSHoXx4-k9I9scbmUBeaq7yKBaKkHcGAQlKw0pCNkBhuLh7KDdGS_dhi-dJJZ01pkUp6ZNdtsj1UInkQE" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj4sL5bU6xKS_pWEydQK-9Ui1hmvOLBoJA5N-kk4Ppgmw9U134UQ8EuCvU_NoPBfbE8lEJf_fVc_U8tPN2J806tREKPiNG11T7iIzGY7b-WSHoXx4-k9I9scbmUBeaq7yKBaKkHcGAQlKw0pCNkBhuLh7KDdGS_dhi-dJJZ01pkUp6ZNdtsj1UInkQE" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div>Kia India Expands Assured Buyback Programme Across ICE, Hybrid and EV Portfolio with Assured Residual Value of up to 75% in 3 Years</div><div><br></div><div>•  Offers industry-leading assured residual value of up to 75% in 3 years, strengthening ownership confidence and upgrade convenience</div><div><br></div><div>•   Flexible plans available for tenures of up to five years and mileage options of up to 100,000 kms</div><div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai: Kia India</b>, country’s mass-premium automakers, announced the expansion of its Assured Buyback Programme across its ICE, Hybrid and EV portfolio. The programme strengthens Kia India’s ownership proposition by providing customers with assurance around their vehicle’s future value and a more seamless procedure to exchange or upgrade.</div><div><br></div><div>Under the programme, eligible customers can avail an assured residual value of up to 75% for ICE and up to 70% for EV models in 3 years. By establishing the vehicle’s assured future value at the time of purchase, the programme enables customers to plan their ownership journey with greater confidence and transparency, subject to applicable terms and conditions.</div><div><br></div><div>The programme covers Kia India’s portfolio, including Sonet, Syros, New Seltos, Carens, Carens Clavis and Sorento, across applicable powertrain options such as Petrol, Diesel, CNG, Hybrid and EVs. Designed to accommodate diverse ownership preferences and driving requirements, the programme offers flexible tenure options of 3, 4 or 5 years for ICE models and 3 or 4 years for EVs, along with annual mileage options of 10,000 kms, 15,000 kms or 20,000 kms, covering up to 100,000 kms over the ownership period. This flexibility enables customers to select a plan aligned with their vehicle usage, ownership horizon and future upgrade aspirations, ensuring greater predictability, convenience and confidence throughout their ownership journey.</div><div><br></div><div>Commenting on the announcement, <b>Atul Sood, Senior Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Kia India,</b> said, “A vehicle purchase is a long-term decision, and customers increasingly seek greater certainty around future value and upgrade convenience. By expanding our Assured Buyback Programme with industry best resale value of upto 75% on ICE and upto 70% for EV in 3 years, we are enabling eligible customers to understand their vehicle’s assured residual value at the outset and plan their ownership journey with greater confidence. The initiative reflects our commitment to building enduring customer relationships and delivering consistent value from the first purchase through to the next exchange or upgrade.”</div><div><br></div><div>The Assured Buyback programme responds to the evolving priorities of Indian car buyers, who increasingly evaluate residual value alongside product performance, technology and the overall ownership experience. Its availability across multiple models, powertrains, tenures and mileage options allows customers to make more informed purchase decisions based on their individual mobility requirements.</div><div><br></div><div>The programme will be offered through authorized Kia dealer partners. Eligible customers may enrol in the relevant plan at the time of vehicle purchase, subject to applicable programme criteria. At the end of the selected tenure, customers may avail the assured buyback value in accordance with the programme agreement and relevant terms and conditions.</div>

Kia India Expands Assured Buyback Programme Across ICE, Hybrid and EV Portfolio

Kia India Expands Assured Buyback Programme Across ICE, Hybrid and EV Portfolio with Assured Residual Value of up to 75% in 3 Ye...

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Mumbai's Biggest Garba Festival Is Here; Rangilo Re, Live Now on thumpN

<div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCX_4vRt93MlumeQ7XSw-XVRsTQkUTJC-CJqwYg4narozeAM-bgadvH1axAEueYaeVHY6LyAvQdmxWXsLko-bQolIqku58Kvugfmtj4SVVHkn3wkzroJ-3gYYLaiWEgHwTr7rfZ6nae7pami_nBfnV35v4xBCGkZp08IEm-68ZWqszb84UnxgUJmBy"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzhrXUx0GYq3B526l8fSA1FYVGrKz4EWz2V8bwy2V7kmee5VRbIoFw1Y3v_IE9fcND7ccXacmjTe6BMIGwB_cM5EZzEsYf4lj_v-xi5xNsMLO4gPj3j9NmHI4NM5mPlkln_4oP9hjtrB8aFdue9_XAY1QoCPg_L_-2zR69uULXLzrDOirxHx11naeo" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzhrXUx0GYq3B526l8fSA1FYVGrKz4EWz2V8bwy2V7kmee5VRbIoFw1Y3v_IE9fcND7ccXacmjTe6BMIGwB_cM5EZzEsYf4lj_v-xi5xNsMLO4gPj3j9NmHI4NM5mPlkln_4oP9hjtrB8aFdue9_XAY1QoCPg_L_-2zR69uULXLzrDOirxHx11naeo" width="400"> </a> </div><br> </a> </div><div><b>Mumbai:</b> <b>Rangilo Re, Mumbai's indoor Garba festivals</b>, is back for its 8th edition with a nine-night run at NESCO Hall 6, Mumbai, from October 11 to 19. Tickets are up and live on *thumpN (थम्पएन)* , India's AI-native platform for live entertainment discovery and ticketing.</div><div><br></div><div>Building on the success of its previous 7 editions, which drew large crowds of cultural patrons from across the country, Rangilo Re is set to return for its grandest chapter yet. This year's festival brings together 9 nights of Garba, Dandiya Raas, and Gujarati cultural celebrations, featuring the spellbinding live orchestrations of iconic folk-fusion maestro Parthiv Gohil, known for his work across Gujarati folk, Indian classical, Bollywood, devotional and contemporary music, and for acclaimed films including Devdas and Saawariya, among others.</div><div><br></div><div>"For a lot of people, Navratri isn't just a festival - it's about memories, family, friends, community and a celebration they look forward to all year," said <b>Varun Khare, CEO, thumpN</b>. "Rangilo Re brings that feeling to life over 9 nights, with an energy that pulls in people across all ages. As the exclusive ticketing partner for this edition, we're focused on making the journey - from discovering the right night to walking into the venue - feel as considered as the celebration itself. That's exactly the kind of moment thumpN is being built for."</div>

Mumbai's Biggest Garba Festival Is Here; Rangilo Re, Live Now on thumpN

Mumbai: Rangilo Re, Mumbai's indoor Garba festivals , is back for its 8th edition with a nine-night run at NESC...

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Festive hiring to grow 15–20%; South and West region to lead demand: TeamLease

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP8vgcGl7I2jnlSE-XOCcHD7s586TXMsRrkj9c7Jz-6UEWMfHdri8L89UgE8qbYW6jMXt-JJXHoe3bGZ2FAR6BlPmVCPzRGR7Zo-UfiOnY3erXdd0wj2S_BxVzNIH-mtC6Eho9-uBV7_z7DYSvbkU0WntHJn76OZ7uEcq8LMlZFQXjZE92PQqa4BZc" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP8vgcGl7I2jnlSE-XOCcHD7s586TXMsRrkj9c7Jz-6UEWMfHdri8L89UgE8qbYW6jMXt-JJXHoe3bGZ2FAR6BlPmVCPzRGR7Zo-UfiOnY3erXdd0wj2S_BxVzNIH-mtC6Eho9-uBV7_z7DYSvbkU0WntHJn76OZ7uEcq8LMlZFQXjZE92PQqa4BZc" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div><b>Mumbai: </b>Temporary hiring across organised retail, e-commerce, quick commerce, logistics, FMCG and consumer durables is expected to grow 15–20% this festive season, according to <b>TeamLease Services' Festive Season Workforce Report 2026</b>. Hiring, however, is shifting beyond volume recruitment towards specialised frontline roles as businesses prepare for a longer festive calendar, faster fulfilment expectations and increasingly omnichannel consumer journeys.</div><div><br></div><div>India's festive consumption engine continues to gather pace. Festive e-commerce GMV crossed ₹1.2 lakh crore last season, while quick commerce increased its share of festive spending to 12% from 8% a year earlier, reflecting consumers' growing preference for instant fulfilment across electronics, beauty, fashion and gifting. As sale windows extend from Independence Day through Diwali and the year-end holiday season, employers are building workforces designed for sustained execution rather than short-term demand spikes.</div><div><br></div><div>"The festive hiring season continues to evolve beyond volume hiring to precision hiring," said <b>Balasubramanian A, Senior Vice President, TeamLease Services</b>. "Employers are focusing equally on speed, productivity, and customer experience, leading to increased demand for specialised operational roles. We expect temporary hiring to grow on similar lines to last year (15-20%), supported by strong demand from e-commerce, retail, logistics, and quick commerce. Organisations are also investing more in incentives, digital onboarding, and workforce readiness to ensure seamless execution during the festive period."</div><div><br></div><div><b>TeamLease</b> estimates frontline salaries could increase by 8–10% during the second half of 2026, although employees' effective take-home pay may rise by 5–8% due to labour law changes. Median monthly CTC for frontline festive workers rose marginally to ₹20,525 in H2 2025 from ₹20,282 a year earlier, the report showed. While e-commerce, quick commerce and logistics continue to offer the highest average monthly compensation among frontline sectors.</div><div><br></div><div>The frontline workforce is also getting younger, with median age falling to 26.7 years in H2 2025 from 28.2 years the previous year, while the male-female split held broadly steady at roughly 85:15.</div><div><br></div><div>Geographically, hiring momentum is expected to remain strongest in South and West India, led by Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad, while employers are expected to add workers across all regions. City-tier dynamics are also reshaping festive workforce deployment. TeamLease estimates that Tier I metros will account for 40.5% of the frontline workforce in 2026, up from 38.2% in 2025 and 33.1% in 2024. Tier II cities are expected to account for 26.5%, while Tier III markets will contribute 33%. The growing concentration in metros is being driven by the rapid scaling of e-commerce and quick-commerce networks, particularly dark stores and hyperlocal fulfilment infrastructure. Meanwhile, Tier II and III markets continue to see absolute workforce growth, supported by expanding retail and logistics footprints.</div><div><br></div><div>The report identifies warehouse pickers, packers and dark-store personnel as the largest hiring categories this festive season, followed by In-Store Promoters and Specialists, Retail Associates, Cashiers and Store Operations Executives . Demand is also rising for newer operational roles such as inventory and fulfilment coordinators, warehouse automation operators and returns management executives, reflecting the increasing sophistication of India's retail supply chains.</div><div><br></div><div>To improve retention during peak demand, employers are increasingly deploying attendance bonuses, sale-event surge pay, referral incentives, productivity-linked rewards and digital learning programmes. The report also highlights paperless onboarding, pre-assessed talent pools and cross-functional training as key workforce strategies helping businesses shorten hiring cycles and improve deployment readiness.</div><div><br></div><div>On the supply side, TeamLease said there is no major quantitative shortage of talent for customer-facing, retail or warehouse roles this festive season. The real bottleneck, it said, lies in deployment readiness — digital literacy and the ability of new hires to be productive quickly during short, high-intensity order surges, prompting employers to front-load paperless onboarding, build pre-assessed talent pipelines months in advance, and cross-train frontline staff across roles.</div><div><br></div><div>The report analysis is built upon TeamLease’s internal workforce dataset, evaluating anonymised employment records of ~60,000  frontline associates deployed during the Festive Season across Consumer Durables, Organised Retail, E-Commerce, Quick Commerce, Logistics, and FMCG. The study tracks empirical shifts in demographics, regional deployment, city-tier concentration, job role evolution, and monthly CTC benchmarks.</div>

Festive hiring to grow 15–20%; South and West region to lead demand: TeamLease

Mumbai: Temporary hiring across organised retail, e-commerce, quick commerce, logistics, FMCG and consumer durables is expected ...

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Kandla Forum 2026 Brings Global Hydrogen leaders of Hydrogen Council and Maritime Leaders to DPA

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXOconfu1r3IGbTJkB_SnlxA1usF9b4GPR8lqAlxAjEK9WE6GgCwPy29vcCmTuH4Io0rrFyw7GEKUeZrjYA1HmJo-R1ASQ5V65WVUZsSiBoe-yzj-OjtMvgqyCMrj83QgkIAck6qgnWBsuZ6r7SoCaEUqjT8oZJOZLTMT0-qTcsezGdxPeD1zU3Y_k" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXOconfu1r3IGbTJkB_SnlxA1usF9b4GPR8lqAlxAjEK9WE6GgCwPy29vcCmTuH4Io0rrFyw7GEKUeZrjYA1HmJo-R1ASQ5V65WVUZsSiBoe-yzj-OjtMvgqyCMrj83QgkIAck6qgnWBsuZ6r7SoCaEUqjT8oZJOZLTMT0-qTcsezGdxPeD1zU3Y_k" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div>Kandla Forum 2026 Brings Global Hydrogen leaders of Hydrogen Council and Maritime Leaders to DPA, Kandla; Focus on Turning Green Ambitions into Projects.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Kandla: </b>Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla hosted the Kandla Forum 2026 – “Anchoring Maritime Decarbonisation”, knowledge sharing and technology transfer, bringing together leading global and Indian stakeholders from the hydrogen, clean energy, shipping, shipbuilding, engineering, technology and financial sectors.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla is actively advancing India’s commitment towards achieving Net Zero by 2070.</b> Through its growing green hydrogen and clean-fuel ecosystem, DPA is positioning Kandla as an emerging hub for green energy, sustainable shipping and maritime decarbonisation.</div><div><br></div><div>The Forum emerged as a significant platform for direct engagement between global industry leaders and Deendayal Port Authority, with discussions centred on accelerating investments, technology partnerships and development of a robust green fuels and maritime decarbonisation ecosystem at Kandla. The Forum was specifically conceived to connect companies capable of developing the green-energy value chain with the Port leadership and enable focused, on-ground engagement. </div><div><br></div><div>The Forum witnessed participation from a high-level international delegation comprising more than 200 senior executives representing 62 Hydrogen Council member companies, spanning electrolyser and equipment manufacturers, energy and industrial gas majors, engineering and EPC companies, mobility manufacturers, shipping and maritime organisations, classification entities and project finance institutions. They were joined by Indian manufacturers, developers and offtakers, shipping and shipbuilding companies, financial institutions and other stakeholders, bringing together around 200 senior leaders. </div><div><br></div><div><b>Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman, Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla</b>, led an extensive interaction with the global industry delegation on Kandla’s green hydrogen and derivative infrastructure and its emerging role in the maritime energy transition.</div>

Kandla Forum 2026 Brings Global Hydrogen leaders of Hydrogen Council and Maritime Leaders to DPA

Kandla Forum 2026 Brings Global Hydrogen leaders of Hydrogen Council and Maritime Leaders to DPA, Kandla; Focus on Turning Green...

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Saudi Crisis: Indian Embassy Issues Helpline, Warns Citizens to Stay Alert

<div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSwiCj_tj6bcc4vLZyt9VIZxH_ECPlb1bd3oUn5ODlqTxaF56AuiwhSFgiGpfeJS1wpskbeYlDeFQh-ep1dkXa6husNdRuQKEZ_wfeLKg7kDpH6aD7cYUpWKx-VR8etPwvO71rkB72oU4IlRjvXw59qvdBXPZVIJO1IrkBOwbPKRqgGPtuovVPjbbW" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSwiCj_tj6bcc4vLZyt9VIZxH_ECPlb1bd3oUn5ODlqTxaF56AuiwhSFgiGpfeJS1wpskbeYlDeFQh-ep1dkXa6husNdRuQKEZ_wfeLKg7kDpH6aD7cYUpWKx-VR8etPwvO71rkB72oU4IlRjvXw59qvdBXPZVIJO1IrkBOwbPKRqgGPtuovVPjbbW" width="400"> </a> </div></div></div><div><b>Riyadh/Mumbai: </b>Amid the escalating security crisis in Saudi Arabia, the <b>Indian Embassy in Riyadh</b> has issued a highly important emergency advisory concerning the safety of Indian citizens living in the country. The embassy has urged the large Indian community residing in Saudi Arabia to remain extremely vigilant, alert, and cautious in the current circumstances.</div><div><br></div><div>In the official security advisory, all Indian citizens have been strictly instructed to avoid going outdoors unless absolutely necessary and to remain indoors for their safety. Given the sensitivity of the security situation, the Indian Embassy has made a special appeal to citizens, urging them not to share or repost any videos, photographs, or unverified news related to recent developments, military activities, or explosions in Saudi Arabia on social media platforms.</div><div><br></div><div>The embassy has emphasised the need to refrain from spreading any form of misleading information and has advised citizens to rely only on instructions and information issued through official channels by local Saudi authorities.</div><div><br></div><div>The move comes shortly after reports of several explosions being heard in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, on Thursday, amid a deteriorating security situation. Shortly before these explosions, serious incidents involving missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia's Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh had come to light, resulting in several casualties. The Government of India has strongly condemned these attacks, describing them as a major threat to regional peace.</div><div><br></div><div><b>The Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Riyadh </b>are continuously monitoring the situation. To assist the millions of Indians living in the Gulf nation and respond to any emergency, the embassy has announced that the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra's 24×7 toll-free helpline service, 8002471234, remains operational around the clock. Indian citizens can contact this number during a crisis to receive the necessary diplomatic and logistical assistance immediately.</div>

Saudi Crisis: Indian Embassy Issues Helpline, Warns Citizens to Stay Alert

Riyadh/Mumbai: Amid the escalating security crisis in Saudi Arabia, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh has issued a highly important ...

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