StartupTalky

Tag: ✍️ Opinions

  • Can Structural Designers Drive Growth Amid Escalating Real Estate Costs?

    This article has been contributed by Ajay Gupta, Principal Consultant & Founder Perceptive Ideas Consulting Engineers Pvt. Ltd.

    The escalating real estate costs are a multidimensional problem stemming from market dynamics, raw material prices, energy cost volatility, labour costs and design layout. They inadvertently affect developers’ profit margins as well as Construction Quality & Construction Timelines, causing a disruption in efforts of long-term sustainable urban development. The solution to this conundrum is quite simple. Structural designers have knowledge and techniques that can influence the simple game of demand and supply in the landscape of real estate.

    The structural design of the building directly influences the real estate cost, timelines and long-term durability (which in turn is itself a cost), and structural designers are the key to lowering construction costs. Responsible for designing the structural components of a building to guarantee safety and stability, structural designers have the power to determine the amount of raw materials and human resources that would be needed to build an infrastructure. At its simplest, their efficient design can become a cornerstone for profitability and growth amid the rising real estate costs, and that too without compromising the structural integrity of the building. 

    From integrating BIM (building information modelling) and sustainable construction techniques to using advanced structural analysis in designing columns, beams, foundations, and load-bearing walls, among others, an experienced structural designer can dramatically decrease the material requirements and labour costs of a construction project while creating resilient and sturdy foundations. Today, the challenge for them is to not just keep a building erect but also ensure the financials are taken care of to drive profitability and stability in the market.

    Contributing to Value Engineering

    Value engineering has become a highly popular process for investors and developers, as it optimises the project to meet all requirements while ensuring a long life cycle and high endurance, which is the core of intelligent infrastructure that is created by structural engineers. Here are some ways in which they are reshaping the landscape of civil engineering.

    Incredibly precise 3D modeling 

    Structural engineers can create 3D simulations of their vision through programs such as ETABS, STAAD PRO and SAP2000  with unmatched precision. These softwares allow for an incredibly advanced analysis of the design’s integrity and functionality against disasters and other environmental factors that affect a building’s life.

    At the same time, the technology allows them to determine the right size and composition of elements, which in turn ensures that no wastage of materials occurs. It is an automated and highly accurate process that ensures reliability in every step, allowing for better planning and reducing vulnerability to market volatility. With Building Information Modelling, it also  helps structural engineers identify mechanical, electrical and plumbing-related threats even before the construction process starts, which saves developers a huge amount in change orders or on-site rework. 

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    Smart and Efficient Techniques

    Prefabrication is a technique wherein the individual components of construction are created off-site and then assembled on-site through logistical power. This significantly saves the labour costs by reducing the time of construction as well as allows for greater precision in the making process. A method that uses BIM technology, it is great for bulk manufacturing and quality control besides cost efficiency. The key here lies in successful coordination and collaboration between Prefab Fabricators and Structural Engineers. The designers are in charge of creating a blueprint that is repeatable and suitable for a controlled factory environment to maximise the financial viability.

    Doing More With Fewer Materials

    Balancing Material Choices for Optimal Construction
    Balancing Material Choices for Optimal Construction

    Structural designers inspect every gram of raw material that is being used in making. Whether it is choosing a High-Strength Steel or Grades of Concrete, they take care of each specification, bearing in mind durability, environmental factors and the budget. The material choice can increase or decrease the required measurements of beams and foundations as well as columns, affecting the overall project costs.  When designed with efficiency, the net profits can be maximised.

    Post-tensioning in slabs is a popular technique that entails tensioned high-strength steel tendons being inserted in concrete, which makes the slabs thinner, reducing material usage. This saves money spent on cladding and curtain walls in large buildings by lowering the building’s height. Additionally, the number of columns needed to support the building also gets reduced, saving a considerable amount of space for dwellers. 

    Creating Cost-Effective Composites

    Composite Construction: Combining materials to leverage their best properties is a key strategy. The most common example is steel-concrete composite decks. A profiled steel deck acts as permanent formwork and tensile reinforcement for a concrete slab. This system is incredibly fast to erect, reduces or eliminates traditional formwork, and creates a lightweight, strong floor system.

    Value Engineering of Rebar

    Shear walls, beams, columns, slabs, and foundations are just a few of the concrete components that are frequently reinforced with rebar. As a result, 20% or more of the cost of construction constitutes the expenditure for reinforcing concrete elements. Structural designers can greatly influence this by minimising the rebar diameters and shapes, which directly brings down the expenditure on fabrication, placement and labour. The 3D software helps in making detailed patterns that can affect the length of reabrs and reduce any wastage. Designers can use epoxy-coated or stainless steel rebars as replacements in environments which can make traditional rebars corrode soon, bringing down maintenance costs by a huge margin for homebuyers. 

    Choosing the Right Skeleton

    Every site has specific requirements. The foundation size varies with every terrain and while moment frames can bring flexibility to the structure, they can also be material intensive.  Thus, a structural engineer’s role in making the choice for the very skeleton of the system is  of immense value to any project. 

    The Future Vision

    Gone are the days when structural designers were mere technical consultants in development projects. Today, they are valuable partners for real estate, given that their design blueprints drastically affect the cost of construction without being involved in financial decision-making. They have the ability to optimise the raw material usage and speed up construction to tackle market volatility, directly decreasing the operational and capital expenditure. Proactive collaboration with them is thus non-negotiable to drive profitability in the real estate industry while also ensuring sustainability and safety.

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  • Navratri’s Spirit – How the Festival Reflects Feminine Strength and Why Women Founders Should Embrace Their Unique Energy to Transform Industries

    This article has been contributed by Dr Malini Saba,  founder of the Saba Group and Saba Family Foundation

    Navratri isn’t just a festival we wait for because of the music, lights, colours and devotion; it’s messy, alive and joyful in its unpredictability, and it carries something deeper. Those nine nights are really about the strength of the feminine – how it bends, survives, and still finds a way to transform. Every form of the goddess we worship has a story, a meaning: courage, energy, wisdom, and compassion. It’s like looking at the many sides of what power really is.

    For the women building businesses, it’s the same thing. The journey is rarely straight. Some days it’s about standing firm, other days it’s about holding back and being wise, and sometimes it’s about starting again with fresh energy. That’s what Navratri teaches too. It’s not only devotion or celebration; it’s also a reminder that change, whether in life or in work, always begins with that inner strength. Not the big speeches or grand gestures, but the small, steady choices we make when nothing is perfect.

    Durga in the Everyday

    Durga looks fierce in images, riding a lion. But in real life, courage doesn’t look like that. It looks like answering a client call when the plan has fallen apart. It looks like sitting with a tired team at 11 pm and saying, “We’ll fix this together.” It looks like trying again the next morning. Courage isn’t in drama; it’s in persistence.

    Saraswati’s Quiet Reminder

    We can learn everything and still miss the point if we don’t pause. Saraswati is that reminder. Knowledge helps, but wisdom comes when we notice what others don’t: the hesitation in someone’s voice, the frustration in someone’s silence. The pause before acting often saves us from mistakes.

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    Lakshmi and Shared Growth

    Success is meaningless if we keep it to ourselves. Lakshmi reminds us of that. We’ve all seen growth that stayed locked with one person; it dies quickly. But when we mentor, share, and open doors for others, our own work gains roots. Communities grow when we grow together. Growth confined to oneself is fleeting.

    Women-led ventures often embrace collaboration instinctively: mentoring, supporting peers, and building networks. A skill shared, a platform extended, a door opened – these small acts ripple outward, creating lasting influence. Communities thrive when growth spreads beyond the individual. Influence multiplies relationally, not in isolation.

    Kali and the Need to Be Bold

    There are days when you know deep down that playing safe won’t get you anywhere. You sit in a meeting, and everyone is circling the same old ideas, afraid to speak the thing that actually needs to be said. You look at the numbers and realise the system you’ve been working in is outdated. Markets stall, teams hesitate, and you feel the weight of “this is how it’s always been.” That’s when Kali comes alive – not as a figure from a book, but as a fire in your own chest.

    Kali doesn’t whisper. She disrupts. She tells you it’s time to break something before it breaks you. And yes, it feels risky. Your stomach knots, your palms sweat, and you wonder if you’re about to wreck everything. But without that boldness, nothing shifts. No industry ever changed because someone politely waited for permission. Sometimes leadership is exactly that – doing the thing that feels terrifying because the alternative is stagnation.

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    Katyayani’s Firm Stand

    Boldness is one thing. But sometimes courage looks quieter. It looks like refusing to move when everything is pushing you to.

    In negotiations, when you can feel the scale tipping unfairly, it takes strength to say, “No, this isn’t acceptable,” instead of compromising to close the deal. When someone on your team is being sidelined or their voice is being dismissed, it takes courage to stop the meeting and call it out. When bending would make life easier but cost you your integrity – that’s when Katyayani shows up.

    Her energy is not flashy. It’s in the spine, not the spotlight. Leadership is often like that. It’s not about rushing forward but about planting your feet and saying, ‘This line, we don’t cross.’

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    Endurance, Calmness, Patience

    Not everything can be fixed with bold moves. Some parts of leadership feel endless. You wake up, and it feels like you’ve been walking the same road for months with no finish line in sight. That’s when Kaalratri teaches endurance – the grit to keep putting one step in front of the other even when it’s dark.

    Mahagauri brings calmness into the mix. She’s the reminder that not every problem needs an instant reaction. Sometimes the smartest thing a leader can do is pause, breathe, and wait until the dust settles. And then there’s Brahmacharini, who teaches patience. The daily grind no one claps for – the emails, the small follow-ups, the quiet consistency – those are what build the foundations for everything else.

    None of these traits are glamorous. They won’t get applause on stage. But they hold leaders together when quick wins fade.

    Community and Rhythm

    Navratri isn’t a solo performance. Anyone who has danced knows that the circle is what gives it meaning. Each step isn’t just yours; it feeds into the rhythm of others.

    Business works the same way. You can be brilliant, but if you’re dancing alone, the music doesn’t last. Teams, mentors, collaborators – even competitors – all create the rhythm that sustains us. Going fast on your own burns you out. Going together keeps you moving longer.

    Authenticity and Leadership

    Every goddess has her own way of showing strength. None tries to copy another. That’s a lesson worth holding close.

    Too often, leaders feel the pressure to imitate – talk like the popular CEO, adopt the style of whoever is trending. But authenticity is what stays. People can sense when you are playing a role versus when you’re being real. Real leadership doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being trustworthy. Sometimes that’s intuition. Sometimes empathy. Sometimes decisiveness. Sometimes creativity. But it’s always yours.

    Light Wins

    Every Navratri ends with light pushing back darkness. The darkness doesn’t vanish – it’s part of life – but light still wins.

    That’s what persistence is. You keep showing up, even when things fall apart. You focus on purpose over control. You use knowledge not as decoration but as action. And you measure success not just in revenue but in how many people grow with you, how many relationships last, and how much resilience you’ve built in yourself and your team.

    That’s what it means for light to win.

    Reflection

    What most people forget about Navratri is the quiet. The pauses. The stillness between drums and songs. That’s where reflection lives.

    Leadership needs the same thing. Without space to stop, think, and realign, we start reacting instead of deciding. The truth is, strength doesn’t arrive in big heroic gestures. It grows through small acts of recovery – when a campaign fails and you regroup, when a client walks away and you rebuild, when your team shifts and you find your balance again. Resilience is ordinary persistence, repeated until it becomes momentum.

    Lessons from Rituals

    The Cycle of Sustainable Leadership
    The Cycle of Sustainable Leadership

    Even the small rituals matter. Fasting builds discipline. Music restores joy. Dance restores energy. These are not “extras”; they are survival. Leadership also needs that rhythm: strategy, yes, but also rest, creativity, and recovery.

    Women leaders often bring this instinctively. They know a business that only runs will collapse, but a business that breathes will last.

    The Essence

    Navratri is not only about goddesses. It is about us. It shows that strength wears many faces – boldness, patience, calmness, fairness, and empathy. When women entrepreneurs bring all of this into their work, they don’t just build companies. They build communities. They shape industries not only with profit but also with purpose.

    Leadership, like Navratri, is messy. It flickers and steadies. It bends and rises again. The lamps of Navratri aren’t perfect – they shake in the wind, sometimes dim, sometimes blaze – but they never go out. Neither do we. With persistence, reflection, and shared rhythm, we keep the flame alive.

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  • Luxury Housing Boom: Can Premium Projects Sustain India’s Real Estate Momentum?

    This article has been contributed by Rahul Rajendran, Vice President, WSB Real Estate Partners 

    India’s premium and luxury housing has experienced a remarkable surge in the past few years. According to a recent industry report, nearly 50 ultra luxury homes with a ticket size of INR 100cr+ have been sold in the past 3 years across Mumbai and Delhi NCR markets, amounting up to a cumulative sale value of ~INR 7,500cr. About half of these transactions – ~INR 3,650cr – occurred in 2024 itself. As 2025 began, the momentum continued, with 4 ultra luxury sales amounting to a total sale value of ~INR 850cr occurring within just the first two months. 

    India’s real estate market has been predominantly driven by mid-income and affordable housing, where developers focused on high volumes at lower ticket prices, and luxury homes were achievable to a narrow segment of buyers. Today, the picture is quite different. The question now, though, is not whether this segment will collapse – most analysts agree it will not – but more so whether this pace of growth is sustainable. 

    The Uneven Geography of Luxury

    Luxury in India is very city-specific and remains concentrated in certain cities and neighbourhoods. Take Mumbai, where supply is tight, and demand from new-age wealth and generational businesses is insatiable. According to another recent industry report, in H1 2025, homes priced INR 10cr and above accounted for over 690 transactions ~INR14,750cr, across primary and resale markets. Yet when compared against the overall 47,035 residential sales in H1 2025, the luxury segment is just a sliver of the total transactions. 

    Delhi NCR tells a similar story, where luxury homes in areas such as Golf Course Road and Central Delhi see average ticket sizes in the INR 6–12cr range, reflecting robust demand from business families and HNIs. Meanwhile, in Bengaluru, where luxury has traditionally been a thinner market, saw sales in this segment rise ~59% in FY 2024-25 to merely INR 1000cr in value, while the city recorded a total of 26,599 residential units sold in H1 2025 across all segments.

    Beyond these metros, other cities are gradually entering the map, though the definition of luxury differs highly from the metros. Hyderabad has witnessed luxury launches above INR 4–6cr, while Chennai’s elite zones have selective demand for homes priced around INR 5–7cr. Other cities such as Pune and Ahmedabad are still nascent in the segment, where “premium” is defined at lower thresholds – typically INR 3–5cr – and often targeted at NRIs or established business families.

    This uneven distribution reflects the regional appetite for luxury living and displays that while luxury sales have gained momentum and captured the media attention, the segment remains a very small part of India’s housing market. The mid-income and affordable housing segment still contributes to a significant portion of the overall market demand and supply.

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    What Fueled the Boom?

    India's Premium Housing Boom
    India’s Premium Housing Boom
    • Equity Market Wealth Creation: India’s market capitalisation grew from around USD 1.5 trillion in 2014 to over USD 4.3 trillion by 2025. In addition to that, India saw a massive influx of Venture Capital funding between 2020-2023, totalling nearly USD 88 billion. This liquidity hallowed many startups to unlock substantial gains, which – until the INR 10cr cap on reinvestments came into effect in 2024 – could be allocated without limit into real estate, increasing the demand for premium, luxurious housing.
    • NRI Inflow: Remittances increased nearly 14% y-o-y, reaching a record USD 135.5 billion in FY 2025. A significant portion has flowed into the real estate market, with NRI investments in the real estate industry estimated at USD 13 billion in 2023, and USD 3.1 billion in just the first six months of 2024. Developers such as DLF report over 20% of their FY 2024 sales were from NRIs.
    • Growing HNI base: India had 85,698 individuals with assets of more than USD 10 million in 2024, a 6% rise from 2023. This number is projected to reach nearly 94,000 by 2028, making it one of the fastest ultra-wealthy expansions in the world.
    • Low interest rates: Between 2020 and 2022, record-low interest rates improved affordability. Cheaper borrowing costs, easy access to credit, and abundant liquidity further fanned the demand for premium housing.
    • Changing aspirations: The pandemic also reshaped buyers’ preferences. Buyers focused more on larger layouts, private terraces, wellness-oriented amenities, and branded residences, displaying a shift toward lifestyle-driven choices.

    Balancing Momentum and Market Realities

    Despite the sharp growth, questions are being raised about how long the momentum can last. Demand is still limited to a small group of HNIs and ultra-HNIs, many of whom already own more than one luxury home. For these individuals, buying is often a lifestyle choice rather than a real need. On top of that, policy changes are starting to weigh on sentiment. The new INR 10 crore cap on capital gains reinvestment, which came into effect in 2024, has reduced the tax benefits on high-value properties, slowing down some of the earlier rush in this space.

    Secondly, supply is catching up. In H1 2025 Quarter to sell (QTS) in segments priced above INR 10cr continue to see longer sales cycles, with QTS extending beyond 16.1 quarters in some cases, particularly in Central and South Mumbai. Across India, inventory levels in the higher ticket sizes, particularly those in the INR 20-50cr category, have grown by 37% YoY. The QTS for units priced above INR 50cr is currently at 7.9 quarters, while it rises sharply to 17.1 quarters in the INR 20–50cr range. As a result, even marginal shifts in supply or availability can lead to significant fluctuations in QTS, rendering it more volatile over a relatively brief period.

    Thus, the segment will remain relevant but is likely to grow at a measured pace. 

    Conclusion

    India’s luxury housing market is still booming, especially in cities like Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, and Bengaluru. But the demand is coming from a limited group, the very wealthy and NRIs. Homes that are in the right location, backed by strong brands, and offer something special will continue to sell. Projects that don’t have these strengths may struggle to find buyers.

    The boom will sober up rather than collapsing. The years ahead will reward developers who temper their ambition with caution, concentrating on prime sites and unique offerings. For the sector as a whole, the post-2020 surge will transition to a more stable and selective growth – resembling maturity and sustainability.

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  • The Evolution of Destination Management: How India’s Travel Industry is Adapting to Bespoke Experiences

    This article has been contributed by Louis D’Souza, Managing Partner at Tamarind Global

    India’s travel market is in the midst of a dramatic transformation, moving from traditional tour packages to highly personalized, experience-based travel. This transformation has been driven by a new generation of tech-savvy, adventurous travelers – many of whom hail from smaller cities – who are looking for curated, meaningful experiences instead of generic itineraries, says Louis D’Souza, Managing Partner, Tamarind Global. Connectivity has been key to this evolution: better roads, short-haul flights and air travel infrastructure has made these often-remote destinations accessible.

    At the same-time, the hospitality sector has elevated its offering to combine the best of local culture and service to satisfy rising expectations. According to industry leaders and various reports from McKinsey, changes in travel infrastructure and hospitality are redefining travel and travel behaviour and providing accelerated economic growth – ushering in a new era of destination management in India that is based on the pillars of curated experiences and seamless access.

    From Packages to Personalization

    India’s travel industry is shifting gears from a rigid, generic package model to a more customized and emotional travel experience. Travellers want itineraries that represent their personal interests, values, and aspirations, not standard, one-size-fits-all travel plan. While travel companies try to customize the experience for travellers, the industry pushes further personalization by using technologies like AI, data analysis, etc., to gain a deeper understanding of traveller behaviour and design experiences that match traveller’s interests.

    To create personalized travel, travellers need to actively participate in their travel plans. The development of user-friendly mobile apps and digital platforms allows for this real-time customization of travel plans to make the changes quickly, easily, and seamlessly while the traveller is travelling. When a better travel experience is created through personalization, it leads to better satisfaction, deeper cultural experiences, and stronger sustainable tourism,  personalizing authentic, high-quality local products over the mass-market experience.

    Technology and Seamless Logistics

    India’s destination management sector is undergoing a transformational phase as technology stitches together highly personalised experiences to seamless guest logistics. Destination management companies (DMCs) and online travel agents (OTAs) are harnessing AI-driven recommendation engines, data-driven segmentation and client virtual previews to curate bespoke itineraries that reflect traveller preferences, and genuine local authenticity.

    At the same time, DMCs are using integrated logistics platforms, local operator networks, and real-time operations dashboards to ensure that on-ground activity co-ordination is frictionless from transfers, to event staging, to location set up. Clients experience the normalcy and expectations of late minute customisation, contactless services and measurable sustainability credentials and expect destination management firms to continue to combine their creative curation ability with operational orchestration and operational resiliences. 

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    Rise of Experiential Travel

    Evolution of Destination Management in India
    Evolution of Destination Management in India

    India’s travel landscape is evolving quickly, and Destination Management Companies (DMCs) are leading the way by fuelling a transition from packaged holidays to neighbouring, high-touch experience journeys. Travellers today expect their itineraries to infuse seamless transportation and logistics with deeply personal and enriching experiences, such as private vineyard tours in Nashik, wellness experiences in the Himalayas, and conservation-led safaris in Ranthambore.

    The demand for all-encompassing or deeply immersive experiences has transformed DMCs from simple plotters into experience curators, coordinating everything and anything from exclusive local experiences to luxury hospitality. As client expectations become more nuanced, so the industry has its focus as they promote authenticity, cultural engagement and seamless execution. The transition is forcing the destination management in India to reconsider their operations and redefine their industry with bespoke experience travel becoming their new normal.

    Luxury with Local Flavour

    India’s destination management sector is undergoing a significant evolution, driven by the desire of luxury travelers for customized and personal journeys into local culture. Travel is no longer confined to visiting popular sights. Destination Management Companies (DMCs) now offer experiences and itineraries that provide guests with meaningful engagement: think culinary trail experiences through royal kitchens in Jaipur, wellness retreats that are led by local yogis in Rishikesh, or artisan-led textile workshops in Kutch. Such experiences combine logistical excellence with authentic engagement, and speak to an emerging client preference for meaningful luxury over material luxury. DMCs are developing increasingly meaningful ties with regional suppliers, boutique accommodations, and community-based experiences to deliver exclusivity without losing cultural authenticity; acting as total stewards of the experience rather than just organizing the travel.

    Evolving Client Expectations

    India’s travel sector is changing, as Destination Management Companies move towards more engineered styles of travel. The full-service DMCs are more than handling the cut-and-dried logistics (hotel, transport etc.) it’s actually curating rich and multi-layered experiences that are deeply personal, immersive of local culture. Travellers no longer wish to conduct travel only for the basics included in a trip. They aspire to more than what the ordinary itinerary would dictate. For example, a traveller could now have their very own private culinary trail in Jaipur or an art-focused heritage trail in Kolkata.

    As travellers are becoming increasingly more discerning, DMCs are moving towards designing experiences that merge seamless travel logistics and rich local touch points. Clients are also expecting ethical or responsible tourism – eco-conscious stays in Ladakh or community-run experiences in Kerala – to evidence alignment of their values to travel. As clients’ expectations evolve, DMCs are now moving towards data driven planning backed up by active stakeholder engagement, to curate experiences that are unique, effortless and place-based.

    With demand growing for personalized travel, culturally-rich experiences, and responsible travel, DMC’s are changing their role as storytellers and experience makers. With development in infrastructure and hospitality, we are witnessing travel that is seamless yet soulful. It is a meaningful shift where the destinations of India are being managed not simply as places to visit, but experiences to dive deep into and take away meaningful memories.

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  • Millennials, GenZ, and the New Indian Traveller: What’s Driving the Next Wave of Medical Tourism?

    This article has been contributed by Mr. Rajeev Taneja, Founder and CEO, GlobalCare Health 

    If you think medical tourism is just about saving money on surgeries abroad, think again.

    India’s medical tourism industry is racing toward USD 142.7 billion by 2032, but what’s fueling this rapid growth isn’t only affordability; it’s a new breed of traveller, led by Millennials, Gen Z patients, and the increasingly discerning new Indian traveller. For them, healthcare journeys are no longer about flying in for a bargain surgery. They want clarity, comfort, digital support, cultural nuance, wellness add-ons, and experiences that make their journey feel less like a clinical errand and more like a blend of healing and discovery.

    Beyond Cost: What Younger Patients Really Want

    Healthcare Expectations
    Healthcare Expectations

    A decade ago, medical tourists came to India primarily because of affordable treatment options. Global patients could access world-class cardiac, orthopaedic, or cosmetic surgeries at a fraction of what they would spend in the US, UK, or Europe. Cost was the magnet, plain and simple.

    Today, while affordability remains relevant, it’s no longer the central pillar — more like the starting point. Millennials and Gen Z patients are wired differently. They want:

    • Quality of Care: Advanced, accredited hospitals, cutting-edge technology, and experienced specialists.
    • Time Efficiency: No long waiting lists. Healthcare on-demand is an expectation.
    • Digital Experience: Seamless online consultations, medical records sharing, and clear communication.
    • Customization: Tailored treatment journeys that reflect cultural and personal needs.
    • Reputation & Trust: Hospitals with global accreditations and doctors whose expertise is easy to verify.

    This evolution marks a major shift. Instead of being passive recipients of affordable care, young medical tourists are active decision-makers — researching, comparing, and curating their own healthcare plans. They want healthcare that is accessible, reliable, technologically advanced, and compassionate.

    When younger patients think about medical tourism, cost is just one lens. What takes priority is peace of mind. They want clarity at every step, from initial enquiry to after-care. Transparency is essential: pricing, treatment plans, recovery timelines, even hidden charges. They often demand video consultations before travel, allowing them to make informed decisions.

    The Numbers Speak for Themselves

    For Gen Z and Millennials, trust, guidance, and a holistic experience matter as much as the surgery itself. Here are the numbers that speak for themselves. In 2020, India’s Medical Value Travel (MVT) sector stood at USD 2.89 billion. By 2026, it’s expected to hit USD 13.42 billion. Already, in just the first few months of the year, over 1.3 lakh people came to India for treatment, over 4% of all foreign tourists.

    But these numbers are more than statistics. They reflect the rise of healthcare facilitator specialists who are not just “middlemen,” but trusted partners who connect patients to hospitals, ensure transparent pricing, organize logistics, and offer post-care support. They’re the bridge between anxious patients and world-class Indian medical institutions.

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    Why This Generation is Different?

    Think about the new generation, how Millennials and Gen Z shop, eat, travel or even date. Everything is researched, reviewed, and compared online. Healthcare is no different. Millennials and Gen Z are digital natives. They research online, compare hospitals across destinations, read patient stories, and value transparency. That’s why digital platforms and healthcare facilitators are critical. They connect patients with Indian providers and offer curated, end-to-end journeys.

    This makes digital-first healthcare facilitation platforms critical. They’re not directories; they’re end-to-end ecosystems offering second opinions, visa support, curated treatment packages, accommodation, and wellness add-ons. Essentially, they transform treatment plans into patient experiences. This approach ensures that both patients and hospitals gain from the ecosystem.  For them, a medical journey isn’t just treatment. It’s an end-to-end experience, where recovery doesn’t stop when they leave the hospital; it extends to aftercare, wellness, and peace of mind.

    The Role of Facilitators & Hospitals

    Top facilitators go beyond treatment coordination. They understand cultural sensitivities, provide translators, and even curate healing itineraries. For example, a patient coming for cardiac treatment might also receive an option to extend recovery at a yoga retreat in Rishikesh. Meanwhile, Indian hospitals are making bold moves too:

    • Centres of Excellence in specialties like cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopaedics, and reproductive medicine.
    • International accreditations like NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals) or JCI (Joint Commission International).
    • Global patient departments with trained staff to handle visa paperwork, foreign currencies, and translational services.

    This two-way collaboration facilitators curating journeys and hospitals strengthening clinical depth, ensures India remains competitive against international hubs.

    Government’s “Heal in India” Push

    The Indian government has recognized this shift and is actively supporting medical tourism through its “Heal in India” initiative. It is designed to make medical travel smoother, covering everything from making appointments to tracking treatment easier. Launching digital patient portals to reduce the unnecessary time and procedures, enabling families and patients to travel easily. Easing of medical visa processes and the initiative promotes India’s natural diversity, offering the best of modern medicine with traditional wellness like Ayurveda, yoga and Indian medicines, where treatment and recovery go together with all-around well-being. 

    This integration of modern healthcare with holistic wellness resonates especially with the Millennial and Gen Z traveller, who increasingly values both physical recovery and mental balance.

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    Why India Stands Out?

    Yes, Thailand, Singapore, Turkey, and Mexico are established medical tourism hubs. But India has a unique blend that’s hard to beat because of its budget-friendly treatments, doctors who speak English and accredited hospitals, along with traditional wellness. Alongside the balance between modern and traditional healthcare makes India appealing to new generations and new Indian travellers who want to experience both wellness and overall well-being with modern care.  This mix speaks directly to the younger traveller, someone who wants healthcare but also a chance to recharge, grow, and experience something meaningful.

    Sure, countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Turkey are strong competitors. But India offers a rare combination of affordability + accessibility, even after flights and lodging, costs remain far lower than in developed countries, language advantage – english-proficient doctors make communication smoother; world-class expert Surgeons and specialists trained at leading global institutions; the cultural depth – the option to combine advanced surgery with holistic wellness like Ayurveda, meditation retreats, or scenic rehabilitation stays. For Millennials and Gen Z patients, this is gold. They’re not just seeking a surgery; they want an experience where care, travel, culture, and wellness blend together. India delivers that mix.

    The Future: Less Transactional, More Transformational

    Medical tourism is no longer “book ticket → get surgery → return home.” It’s about transparent journeys, digital handholding, and transformational healing; Millennials and Gen Z want healthcare journeys that are transparent, digitally-enhanced, and culturally enriching. And in India, all of the ecosystem- hospitals, facilitators, and government programs- are working together, giving India the opportunity to establish itself as not just the treatment center, but a place for healing, wellness, and human connection on a global stage.

    In short, the next generation of medical tourism isn’t about saving dollars; it’s about building trust and experience. India is stepping up to that challenge and thriving. India, with its unique mix of affordability, clinical depth, and cultural richness, is positioned not as a fallback solution for cheap healthcare but as a global healthcare destination where treatment, wellness, and human connection converge.

    The next chapter of medical tourism isn’t about saving a few thousand dollars on a hip replacement. It’s about building trust, creating meaningful patient experiences, and making health journeys transformational rather than transactional. Millennials, Gen Z, and the new Indian traveller are leading this shift, and India is embracing the challenge beautifully. With hospitals, facilitators, and government aligned, the subcontinent stands on the brink of redefining global healthcare itself. India is no longer just where you come to get treated. It’s where you come to heal, learn, and grow.

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  • Building India’s Future: How Civil Engineers are Shaping Businesses Beyond Construction

    This article has been contributed by Mr. Sandeep Singh, Managing Director, Brawn Globus

    Civil engineering has long been seen as the backbone of physical infrastructure. Roads, bridges, buildings, and dams have historically defined the profession. But in today’s dynamic business environment, civil engineers are playing a far greater role than just constructing structures. They are becoming catalysts of business transformation, shaping workplaces, influencing sustainability practices, driving innovation, and enabling organizations to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

    As Managing Director of Brawn Globus, a company dedicated to delivering world-class interior fit-out solutions, I have had the privilege of working closely with civil engineers and witnessing this remarkable shift. What was once a discipline purely defined by technical execution has evolved into one that blends engineering with strategy, sustainability, and design thinking.

    Civil Engineers in the Interior Fit-Out Industry

    The role of civil engineers is particularly critical in interior fit-outs, a sector where aesthetics meet function, and vision meets execution. I believe fit outs are not just about designing visually appealing spaces. They are about creating ecosystems that drive productivity, innovation, and employee well-being.

    Civil engineers ensure that the creative vision of architects and designers is translated into structures that are safe, practical, and long-lasting. For example:

    • When designing a flexible office for a tech giant, civil engineers work to ensure modularity in structures, allowing spaces to adapt as teams grow.
    • In Corporate fitouts, they play a vital role in ensuring compliance with safety codes while delivering employee-friendly environments.
    • For financial service firms, engineers integrate acoustic control, fire safety, and energy efficiency, all while maintaining premium aesthetics.

    Without their expertise, it would be impossible to transform corporate aspirations into functional realities.

    Civil Engineers Beyond Bricks and Mortar

    The traditional image of a civil engineer is someone working on construction sites, calculating loads, supervising foundations, and ensuring structural stability. While these responsibilities remain critical, the role today extends well beyond the physical. Businesses no longer view infrastructure as static assets; they view them as enablers of productivity, culture, and growth.

    For instance, when a global corporation sets up its Indian headquarters, it isn’t simply looking for an office building. It seeks a workplace that reflects its culture, attracts top talent, integrates sustainable practices, and supports digital transformation. Here, civil engineers step in as problem-solvers who align physical spaces with strategic goals.

    In our organistion, we have partnered with civil engineers to transform client expectations into tangible realities, delivering agile workspaces for technology leaders, sustainable campuses for multinational giants, and modern, collaborative offices for Indian enterprises. Their contribution lies in understanding that success is no longer about “building structures” but about building experiences.

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    The Strategic Value They Bring

    Civil Engineering Strategic Contributions
    Civil Engineering Strategic Contributions

    Civil engineers today contribute value in three key dimensions:

    • Technical Expertise Meets Business Insight: Their core strength lies in technical mastery- structural integrity, material knowledge, and execution. But beyond that, they understand the pulse of businesses, ensuring that projects are cost-effective, sustainable, and aligned with long-term goals.
    • Sustainability and Green Practices: With the global shift towards ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals, civil engineers are at the forefront of designing spaces that minimize environmental impact. From energy-efficient lighting systems to materials with lower carbon footprints, they bring sustainable practices into everyday construction and fit-out.
    • Innovation Through Technology: The adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM), digital project management, and advanced simulation tools has redefined how projects are planned and delivered. Civil engineers leverage these technologies to anticipate challenges, reduce errors, and deliver spaces that are more efficient and future ready.

    Shaping India’s Growth Story

    India is on the cusp of unprecedented growth, with rapid urbanization, global investments, and digital transformation driving demand for new-age infrastructure. Civil engineers are not only building cities but also shaping businesses that will define India’s economic future.

    Consider the workplace revolution post-pandemic. Businesses are rethinking office design, moving towards hybrid models, employee-centric layouts, and sustainability-driven campuses. Civil engineers are central to this transformation, helping companies reimagine their spaces for collaboration, innovation, and efficiency.

    At Brawn Globus, we are proud to partner with engineers who embrace this responsibility. From delivering LEED-certified green projects to creating innovative work environments for Fortune 500 companies, our collaborations have shown that civil engineers are no longer confined to the periphery of projects, they are at the heart of strategic decision-making.

    The Road Ahead: From Structures to Strategies

    Future of Civil Engineering
    Future of Civil Engineering

    As the business landscape evolves, civil engineers will continue to redefine their contribution. Their future role will be characterized by:

    • Sustainability Leadership : Driving carbon-neutral projects and eco-friendly innovations.
    • Technology Integration : Using AI, IoT, and digital twins to design smarter spaces.
    • Holistic Impact : Moving from a project-based mindset to a strategic partnership with businesses.

    I firmly believe that the future of workplace and interior design will be written in collaboration with civil engineers who understand both construction and commerce. Their ability to balance technical rigor with business insight makes them invaluable to shaping the India of tomorrow.

    Civil engineers are no longer just builders of infrastructure; they are builders of possibilities. They are helping businesses grow, adapt, and thrive by aligning physical spaces with strategic vision. As India continues its growth journey, their role will only become more influential impacting not just how we construct, but how we compete, collaborate, and innovate.

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  • How Indian Businesses Can Build Market Strategies Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty

    This article has been contributed by Mr. Ankit Chadha, Managing Director, TRC Consulting.

    A global talent pool, access to broader markets and supply chains, and an endless array of opportunities for innovation characterise globalisation. However, every order comes with a disorder. While participation in global markets and the internationalisation of trade practices have become a critical engine for business and national growth and development, encountering geopolitical risks and uncertainties has been a constant challenge for three centuries.

    Today, businesses are accumulating shockwaves and headwinds grounded in geopolitical risks like the rise of new global powers, galloping resource competition, populism, civil wars or military unrest, US-China trade wars, cyber-attacks and climate change. European energy security has been affected negatively by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and trade protectionism has led to trade policy uncertainty in many economies. Additionally, climate change is disrupting the world order further, with mass migration and food uncertainty leading to intensification of the existing resource competition between countries. 

    For businesses, these pose unique challenges to market entry and financial sustainability that become a test of their resilience and leadership management and, at the same time, bring a host of opportunities. There are many ways in which businesses can continue to grow in upended global supply chains, labour instability, refugee crises and state-sponsored cyberattacks. 

    Geopolitical Uncertainties and Building Market Strategies 

    Global economic integration is irreversible. Business and profit-making do not recognise international borders but only mutually beneficial cooperation to establish a connection. Compliance alignment, such as diversification of supply chain, building robust governance, making contingency plans and geopolitical risk mitigation strategies, can be adopted by businesses interested in cross-border economics to overcome the challenges posed by geopolitical risks.

    Tariff Smart Supply Chain: Rerouting and Exploring New Markets

    With the US-China trade war in full swing and the imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian exports by the US, there have been several operational delays and economic losses for businesses. Geopolitical military conflicts also disrupt trade practices in many regions. However, this creates an opportunity for Indian businesses to reflect on their dependence on one source of income. This could mean rerouting traditional supply chains, broadening customer bases and expanding sources of investment capital, as well as diversifying supplier bases to intercept single-point-of-failure risks. 

    Creating a smart supply chain also involves onshoring, nearshoring and friend-shoring.

    Onshoring:  Relocation of manufacturing in India or diversifying avenues of sourcing raw materials reduces the risks posed by global logistics dependence and enhances quality and compliance. 

    Nearshoring: Exploring supply chains in neighbouring countries or the Asia Pacific, like Bangladesh, Vietnam, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Taiwan, can ensure timely production and prevent operational delays caused by volatility.

    Friendshoring:  Businesses should take into account India’s political and diplomatic ties with nations before aligning operations in foreign markets. For instance, India’s diplomatic ties with numerous African countries are favourable for Indian businesses to expand and thrive. 

    Overall, to bring more agility and resilience, companies should also prepare themselves for sudden export bans or unexpected climatic conditions that can disrupt global channels. “What if drills” or scenario planning workshops with managers and key decision makers, as well as stocking up inventories, can be effective strategies to streamline marketing. 

    Using Technology to build Resilience

    Leverage Business Technology for Business Success
    Leverage Business Technology for Business Success

    Today, business leaders who are able to leverage technologies like global trade management (GTM) systems, transportation management systems (TMS) and control tower platforms to eliminate losses due to unnoticed inefficiencies, automate FTA validation and coordinate compliance alongside sourcing and logistics will not only survive but also thrive. Companies are also using digital tools to track US tariffs, validate free trade zones and redesign routeing and fulfilment processes. Additionally, technology can be leveraged to create a fail-proof risk mitigation strategy and for advanced predictive analysis for identifying potential geopolitical disruptions, including cyber threats and climatic calamities.  

    Taping the Potential of Protectionism

    Governments have realised the importance of having a resilient economy which is characterised by having domestic manufacturing. Therefore, they are offering businesses a great opportunity to set up domestic operations and manufacturing with the support of tax benefits and subsidies. Many foreign brands took advantage of this to maximise their profits despite traffic impositions in India. Indian businesses can learn from them to explore opportunities and collaborate with local businesses in target countries to gain the trust of buyers by building social capital locally.

    Comprehensive Auditing for Mergers and Acquisitions

    The M&A market is significantly affected by volatility in government trade policies. Thus, recent times have seen a shifting trend in M&A, wherein businesses are focusing on in-market consolidation since cross-border corporations face several threats. This is to say, businesses realise that geopolitical tensions are always going to persist but it doesn’t mean a halt on growth. Another way to manoeuvre through this is robust due diligence and using AI to find opportunities for lucrative deals. 

    Sustainable Practices to Overcome Climatic Challenges

    Several conflicts in Europe and the Middle East are driving the cost of energy. This affects business operations, market demand and product costs, which disrupts marketing significantly. However, the solution to this is simple and beneficial for the environment. India is the 3rd largest producer of solar energy and ranks 4th in the world in renewable energy production. Businesses can leverage the huge potential of India’s renewable energy market and reduce their reliance on imported fossil fuels. Moreover, offering sustainable and green solutions in their products and services can significantly boost their sales. They can keep track of countries that offer tax benefits on green products to maximise their profits.

    Key Takeaway

    Not long ago, we lived in a world ruled by two superpowers, America and Russia. However, China is emerging as a new world leader with a huge influence over key manufacturing sources and raw materials. At the same time, Japan is emerging as a leader in technology and India is growing its influence in the Global South. Free trade agreements, which were an essential part of the neoliberal economy, are now evolving and rapidly changing with the changing leadership of countries, and misinformation is spreading like wildfire, further upsetting businesses globally. With trade protectionism to grow domestic markets and multilateralism gaining popularity, many might think deglobalisation is underway.

    However, while geopolitical challenges of the 21st century are plenty and overwhelming for businesses, they have a history as old as the society, and great business empires have established themselves amid them through integrating geopolitical risk frameworks in their business proactively (not just as a reaction). All it takes is an able leadership that understands the importance of building resilient market strategies like secure supply chains, multiple channels of sourcing and a tariff-aware marketing design.

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  • Why Mega Hotel Developments Are Changing the Way Cities Compete for Global Tourists

    This article has been contributed by Hadi Pirzada, Complex Director of Sales and Marketing at AL Habtoor

    As mega hotel developments continue to grow, so does their impact on which cities will market what elements of the tourism sector. With luxurious, high-end properties dominating the travel landscape, hotels have begun rethinking what it means to be an accommodation, as they consider themselves ‘properties’ that can drive consumer interest on their own accord. Contemporary hotels utilize technology, offer elevated service levels, and provide innovative experiences which recast the expectations of a hotel stay, forcing existing properties to improve and offer more to their customers.

    While providing luxury places to stay is their obvious contribution, these mega hotels also provide an impact to the local economy, provide sustainable employment on a larger scale, and provide versatility for a city with travel options. When a city can host a mega hotel, it upgrades to that city as an international travel destination and differentiates itself by creating new experiences for arriving visitors, says Hadi Pirzada, Complex Director of Sales and Marketing, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, Dubai.

    Hotels as Destinations

    In the current global tourism race, cities are now not just selling landmarks they’re selling experiences, and mega hotels are at the forefront of this. Travelers are now also looking for destinations where the hotel itself draws them in and provides luxury, convenience, and culture as well. Like Dubai’s cluster of hotels right near The Burj Khalifa where world-class dining and stunning skyline views convert stays into events, or Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands where iconic architecture coexists with entertainment and convention spaces. These mega hotel developments do not only foster leisure tourism but MICE business, create jobs and impact local economies.

    By taking hotels and merging them into self-sufficient experiences, these urban hubs are changing the definition of hospitality by making accommodations destinations themselves, ensuring a plethora of opportunities for tourists to connect with cities in diverse, intimate, experiential, engaging, personal, memorable ways.

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    City Branding

    The mega hotel project is transforming the way cities position themselves in the global tourism market. Well-conceived hotel clusters that combine prestige hotels, boutique hotels, serviced apartments, and mixed-use onsite developments are an effective way to provide visitors with a seamless, immersive, authentic experience while strengthening the appeal of a city’s brand. Hotel clusters are not only an attraction for lifting leisure visitation in the city’s overall tourism economy but they can attract the MICE sector by providing integrated venues, accommodation, and infrastructure that lowers the barriers for international conferences and exhibitions.

    The economic knock-on effects translate into jobs, the start of supplier networks, visitation-related spending. The impact grows exponentially if supported by a sustainable approach, monetization, digitalization, and workforce capabilities, and not only can it improve a city’s competitive positioning, but create an enduring, unique character. Hotels have become a critical part of urban and global identity.

    Integrated Hotel Clusters

    Mega hotels are changing the landscape of tourism from where do we sleep to why do we travel. These integrated hotel clusters blur the distinction between accommodation and attraction, incorporating luxury suites, shopping boulevards, Bryn top-rated restaurants, casinos, theaters, and convention centers into one integrated property. Take estimates of Macau’s Cotai Strip, which arose from a sleepy coast saturated by The Venetian and City of Dreams, the fastest rising global entertainment destination. In Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa are intermingled with hotels, Universal Studios, aquariums, and integrated resorts.

    Las Vegas perfected this model decades prior, comparing with Hainan’s Sanya which is emerging as “the Hawaii of the East” with sprawling luxury resorts developments. At Al Habtoor City, three distinct hotels—Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton, and Al Habtoor Palace—offer guests exceptional choice and flexibility, with access to diverse dining, wellness, and entertainment options. This synergy creates a vibrant, self-sustaining environment that meets a variety of needs, enhances convenience, and fosters a strong sense of community for both guests and staff.

    Traveler Psychology

    Traveler's Psychology Journey
    Traveler’s Psychology Journey

    Mega hotel developments are no longer just expressions of architecture; they are psychological experiences that capture the shifting mindset of travelers worldwide. Travel has always focused on the experience of visiting a destination, but today’s travelers need more than luxury; they want an experience that makes them feel personally developed, elevated in status, or engaged with culture. A rooftop infinity pool or gold-leaf lobby might have used to have visual prestige, but more and more travelers are seeking hotels that create intimacy, authenticity, and meaning, such as local food experiences, cultural immersion programs, or wellness experiences based on local customs. Mega-hotels have been able to utilize the psychology of individuality and emotional fulfillment to change cities into experiences. Ultimately, in this transformation, mega-hotels are not competing in cities based on their tallest tower, but rather in their ability to change a hotel stay into a story of self-discovery.

    Global Examples

    Mega hotel developments are elevating travel and tourism through new dimensions of city competition for visitors’ attention.  In Japan, Toranomon Hills symbolizes the future of mixed-use hospitality and is designed to link a luxurious hotel with vibrant cultural and business amenities as an anchor for Tokyo’s global experience. Katara Towers, the national architecture and landmark in Qatar, merges world-class hospitality and architectural storytelling to attract global audiences beyond the world cup.

    In the United States, Las Vegas Bellagio or New York’s Hudson Yards show how hotels can stimulate entire hospitality and entertainment systems. These developments do not just develop rooms for rent, but are destinations that act as urban landmarks. Consequently, the competition appears to be less about established capacity and in many ways more about providing a destination within a destination, and ideally, an immersive, aspirational, and globally resonating experience.

    Challenges

    The notable rise of mega hotel developments is changing the urban tourism landscape, and with this comes new industry problems, solely due to their size. As travelers continue to demand sustainable practices, hyper-personalization, and seamless technology integrated and contactless services, there is an increased emphasis for a hotel to invest in the adoption of AI, IoT-enabled rooms, smart technologies, and contactless services through large-scale investment while they are also continuing to face rising operational costs and labor shortages. Beyond pressures on financial performance lies the management of vast guest data that brings considerable privacy concerns, while also potentially serving as a means of differentiation for the hotel.

    Equally, social and environmental responsibilities are important: overtourism is straining local infrastructure; acting as though regulations in different countries will not change is foolish (regulatory uncertainty means constant agility is needed). A city such as Miami, that uses mega properties to compete, will eventually need to balance offering world-class innovation, with ensuring that their hotels are responsible to economic viability, socially responsible, and adaptable to changing global forces. This tension represents the new battleground for global tourist attraction.

    The Big Picture

    Mega hotel developments are no longer places to stay; they are becoming city-scale strategies to drive global tourism. From Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah to Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands, these mega-properties bring hospitality, retail, entertainment, and even cultural interactions in one location. The difference is that cities are no longer largely competing on monuments and museums, they’re competing based on self-contained ecosystems their hotels create. For the audience, this shifts the travel experience from the fractured form of exploration to a curated form of immersion: you can dine, shop, go to global conferences, and enjoy world-class entertainment without leaving a mega hotel complex. The takeaway is obvious – mega hotels may not just be responding to demand; they are redefining how cities advertise themselves by turning city skylines into brands.

    Future Outlook

    The future of mega hotel developments is about more than size; it’s how they intelligently respond to and adapt to changing traveler expectations. As cities entice travelers and compete for the global tourist dollar, hotels are re-defining opulence and becoming ecosystems of personalization, sustainability, and integration of technology, seamlessly. AI-driven insights and learnings will lead to hyper-personalized stays, from room environment to dining choices, while eco-conscious design aspects like solar energy, reuse of grey water, and locally-sourced materials will be the new definition of luxury in the hospitality sector.

    Smart hotels that harness digital keys, IoT-enabled room controls, and virtual concierges will become the standard, while enhancing convenience without infringing on privacy. Perhaps most importantly, while health and safety was, for a time, a reaction to a crisis, it is now an institutionalized trust-building standard. These combined changes will create a new era of hotels that will be seen less as a place to stay, but rather a destination in their own right.

    Mega hotel development is no longer simply a place to stay; it also represents a strategic asset that changes the profile of a city internationally. The impacts of a mega hotel will reverberate throughout an economy due to its scale, and its innovative presence will set a precedent for hospitality. Ultimately, cities with mega hotels are not just competing for visitors, they are competing for their identity on the global stage.

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  • The Future of Affordable Intercity Mobility in India

    This article has been contributed by The Mr Prashant Kumar, Co-founder of Zingbus

    India’s travel landscape is experiencing a notable transformation, as the appetite for intercity travel is swiftly outpacing the antiquated supply-driven infrastructure. This shift in logistics is paving the way for intercity bus services to become a pivotal player in India’s mobility revolution, especially in ‘Bharat,’ or non-metro regions, where the middle class and aspiring youth are seeking travel options that are not only budget-friendly but also reliable, comfortable, and tech-savvy. As of the fiscal year 2023, the Indian intercity bus market boasts a valuation of INR 539 billion ($6.7 billion), which is more than double its worth from the previous year. The market is anticipated to continue its upward trajectory with a robust 8.5% Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR). This impressive growth of the bus market is vital for nurturing a more mobile and economically prosperous India.

    Responding to a New Generation of Travelers

    A key factor fueling this boom is the rising desire for cozy long-distance journeys among India’s expanding middle class and adventurous wanderers. Although numerous travelers still view expenses as a significant barrier, there’s a clear shift towards pursuing enhanced comfort and modern conveniences. In light of this, forward-thinking companies are enhancing their services with tiered models that address this varied demand. This shift in consumer habits has prompted bus operators and aggregators to reevaluate their offerings, providing tiered choices to cater to all market segments. One clever tactic they’ve embraced is a dual-brand strategy. Companies that are targeting budget-minded customers promote a “Lowest Price Guarantee” along with a money-back promise.

    Simultaneously, these companies offer premium choices for those seeking a more luxurious experience. This includes sleeper or semi-sleeper seats, free drinks, and entertainment systems. This approach of addressing diverse customer preferences highlights the industry’s growth to satisfy the complex needs of a changing travel market, making affordable travel in India more attainable.

    Filling the Gaps in Transport Network

    The bus industry is proving its importance by addressing the significant gaps in India’s transportation system. While Indian Railways is an affordable option, its immense popularity has led to persistent problems with capacity and booking delays, with several trains being overbooked in just a few days. On the other hand, air travel is quick but way too pricey for most people and only connects a few major hubs, with most of the flights going to just six major cities.

    Programs like the UDAN scheme are trying to enhance regional air connectivity, but they’re a long-term project and don’t yet offer the detailed point-to-point service that buses do. In this scenario, buses are the adaptable, scalable, and cost-effective answer. Buses can offer more regular services and span a wider area, connecting smaller towns and cities that lack direct rail or air links. The convenience and flexibility of buses, along with the rise in digital usage, make them an excellent choice for travelers. They help avoid the ‘airport hassle’ and the unpredictability of train bookings.

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    Powering Economic and Social Mobility

    Intercity buses connect Bharat, Enabling Economic Growth and Social Mobility
    Intercity buses connect Bharat, Enabling Economic Growth and Social Mobility

    Outside of metros, intercity bus travel plays a vital role for what many refer to as “Bharat,” which highlights the economic strength of Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. These cities are rapidly evolving travel hubs, acting as essential centers for economic development, student movement, and workforce relocation. The bus system is a key part of workforce migration, offering a dependable and frequent transportation option for millions of workers who commute regularly between their hometowns and expanding industrial areas.

    This network is also crucial for student mobility, with universities being significant trip generators as students head home for holidays multiple times a year. The significance of this transport connection became glaringly obvious during the COVID-19 lockdown when the halt of public transport left countless migrant workers stranded. In these areas, where trains and flights often fall short, buses serve as an essential means for social connectivity and for bolstering regional economies. By providing last-mile connectivity and reaching a wide array of smaller towns and cities, modern bus services facilitate the movement of goods, services, and people, which in turn enhances local businesses and tourism.

    The Future of Intercity Mobility

    The future of intercity mobility is being influenced by two major trends: the complete integration of digital tech and a significant shift towards sustainability. With over 690 million active internet users across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, there’s been a surge in mobile-first bus ticket booking. This digital-first strategy is evolving from just booking tickets to offering a comprehensive digital experience that features live GPS tracking for better transparency and punctuality, along with customer assurance programs. For instance, some companies provide an ‘On-Time Guarantee’ that gives a 50% refund if delays go beyond 45 minutes. This emphasis on reliability and customer service, paired with tech solutions to monitor driver fatigue and ensure proper ticket access, is bringing professionalism to a market that has traditionally been quite fragmented.

    The second big trend is the shift to electric buses in India (EV buses), which brings a ton of environmental and economic perks. Looking at it from an environmental angle, one EV bus can cut carbon emissions by almost 71% when compared to a diesel bus. On the economic side, even though the upfront cost for an EV bus is quite steep, the long-term savings really make up for it. Operators can save several lakhs per bus each year, mainly because of lower fuel and maintenance expenses. This shift is backed by government programs like FAME II, which provide incentives and subsidies to help make EVs more affordable. Some companies, such as Zingbus, are already taking advantage of this by rolling out electric fleets on key intercity routes.

    A New Era for Indian Mobility

    The intercity bus sector in India is undergoing a major transformation, shifting from a fragmented and chaotic market to a modern, digitally integrated, and passenger-centric system. This swift growth, driven by the expanding middle class in ‘Bharat’ (non-metro regions), represents more than just statistics; it marks a significant shift in travel preferences. As the sector matures, it is successfully bridging the crucial gaps that result from the limitations of rail capacity and the expense of air travel. In the future, this transition will likely accelerate with new product innovations and greater urgency attached to their environmental sustainability. The use of digital platforms to enhance the passenger experience with features like live tracking, reliable schedules, and more convenient booking will continue to strengthen passenger loyalty and trust in what is commonly regarded as an unreliable industry.

    Meanwhile, the electrification of buses will change this industry forever, with government incentives and a lowering of the total cost of ownership, lowering operational overhead, not only making bus travel greener but also making it a more economically attractive choice for operators. All things considered, the intercity bus service is much more than a transportation option in light of the developing narrative; it supports economic growth, social connection and environmental sustainability and has the means to help facilitate the future of intercity mobility in India.

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  • How to Ensure Compliance and Promote a Safe Workplace Culture at Scale

    This article has been contributed by Neha Mishra, Senior VP- Human Resources, Homesfy.in 

    Success in today’s workplace is more than productivity and profit; it is about safety, trust, and inclusivity. As organisations grow geographically and embrace hybrid models, creating culturally safe workplaces is no longer optional — it is essential. HR leaders must move beyond policies to embed behaviours and systems that ensure employees feel respected, empowered, and protected. 

    Compliance must be a living process that empowers employees to expect dignity and respect. A people-first approach views a safe workplace culture as trust-driven, where organisations nurture employees for success and growth. 

    A Safe Workplace Culture 

    Workplace culture is more than posters on a wall or compliance checklists. A truly safe culture provides psychological security, respect, and dignity to all employees. In India, this also means aligning with the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act, while creating an environment where employees can confidently raise concerns, share ideas, and represent themselves without fear of retaliation. 

    Implementing safety measures goes beyond drafting policies. It requires continuous sensitisation programs, leader accountability, regular PoSH training, and an open-door grievance redressal system. When misconduct is reported, a zero-tolerance policy must be applied with thorough investigation, making it clear that employees can speak up safely and without judgment. True safety is achieved when employees feel heard and protected without compromise. 

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    PoSH Compliance 

    Achieving Effective PoSH Compliance
    Achieving Effective PoSH Compliance

    The Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act plays a pivotal role in safeguarding workplace dignity and ensuring equal opportunity for all employees. However, true compliance is not limited to meeting statutory requirements; it depends on building an environment of trust, transparency, and accountability where employees know their rights and feel supported throughout the process. 

    A robust PoSH framework starts with clearly defining what constitutes sexual harassment, outlining zero-tolerance for misconduct, and putting in place transparent redressal pathways. The Internal Committee (ICC), composed of trained members from diverse genders, functions, and including an external expert, is central to this mechanism, and details of its members should be easily accessible across the organisation. 

    Awareness is reinforced through structured induction and annual training programmes, which go beyond legal obligations to cover bystander intervention, confidentiality, and protection from retaliation. Multiple reporting channels — from direct access to the ICC, to encrypted digital forms, email, or helplines — ensure that every employee has a safe, confidential, and convenient way to raise issues. Best practices also include offering interim relief measures such as temporary work reassignments, flexible working arrangements, or access to medical and psychological support while cases are under review. 

    When complaints are raised, organisations must act with sensitivity and urgency. If conciliation is requested, it should be conducted with the consent and comfort of the complainant. Otherwise, the ICC is required to complete its inquiry within 90 days, with the employer implementing any recommended actions within 60 days. 

    Ultimately, compliance on paper is not enough. A PoSH framework becomes truly effective when it reflects the organisation’s commitment to trust, fairness, and psychological safety, values that must be consistently demonstrated in practice, not just in policy. 

    Information Security 

    Information security should be an integral part of an organisation’s culture and processes; it is not just an obligation, but also critical for compliance and for fostering trust with employees. 

    For any PoSH matters, sensitive HR data is managed through a secure case management system with limited task-based access to the details, permitting only the ICC Chair, investigator HR representative, and Head of HR to view the information. No changes can be made to the system or uploaded documentation without authentication. All access is logged, and data is encrypted both at rest and in transit. The limit on sharing from the case management system is strictly within a secure enterprise method. 

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    Handling Sensitive Employee Issues 

    Sensitive and important matters must be handled with both empathy and process, promoting dignity and fairness at every stage. The first priority is the safety and wellbeing of all involved. Risks, relevant medical needs, requests for separation, and the urgency of evidence must be assessed as soon as possible.

    Investigations should be trauma-informed: participants are in safe places, always have supporters present, sensitive questions are asked with care, and breaks are allowed as needed. Evidence is ethically collected, including emails, chats, CCTV, and call logs, and devices are preserved only with consent or through legal processes. Custody logs should be kept when items are preserved for potential future use via appropriate procedures. 

    Decisions must be fair. Proven cases require respective disciplinary action and significant workplace changes, unproven cases are counter-productive and should restore people’s reputations, and malicious complaints must be acted upon in accordance with policies. After resolution, focus should shift to aftercare. This includes checking participant well-being, expanding support when they return to work, monitoring for anti-retaliation, and providing confidential updates and support. 

    Scaling Culture 

    As organisations grow, it is culture, not just processes, that sustains safety and inclusivity. Leaders act as custodians, consistently modelling values across teams and geographies. Formal codes of conduct, culture audits, and open feedback loops help maintain alignment and accountability. 

    When trust and safety are embedded in the DNA of the organisation, compliance naturally follows. Scaling responsibly means ensuring that no matter where employees work, they experience the same standards of dignity, protection, and respect.

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