Business - The Purbottar

19 Mar

BHIM-Dhoni partnership signals trust-led push in India’s expanding digital payments economy

Business BureauBusiness

NPCI BHIM Services Limited’s (NBSL) decision to appoint former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni as brand ambassador reflects a calibrated strategy to deepen trust and drive the next phase of growth in India’s digital payments ecosystem. As BHIM approaches a decade of operations, the platform is repositioning itself beyond a functional payments interface to a preference-led product in an increasingly competitive UPI market. The choice of Dhoni—widely associated with consistency, discipline, and reliability—aligns with BHIM’s emphasis on building long-term user confidence, particularly as digital transactions expand across diverse socio-economic segments. NBSL MD & CEO Lalitha Nataraj indicated that the focus…

19 Mar

ISUZU rolls out nationwide pre-summer service camp from March 23

Business BureauBusiness

Isuzu Motors India has announced a nationwide ‘ISUZU I-Care Pre-Summer Camp’, aimed at enhancing customer service experience and ensuring vehicle readiness ahead of the summer season. The service initiative will be conducted across all authorised ISUZU dealer service outlets from March 23 to March 28, 2026. The camp, part of the company’s ‘ISUZU Care’ programme, will cover ISUZU D-MAX pick-ups and SUVs, offering preventive maintenance checks along with special service benefits for customers. The initiative is designed to provide a hassle-free driving experience during peak summer conditions, with a focus on vehicle performance and safety. The service camp will be…

18 Mar

Air India and Air India Express begin operations from Guwahati’s new Terminal 2

Business BureauBusiness

Air India and Air India Express have started operations from the newly opened Terminal 2 at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, marking an important step in improving air connectivity in the region.The first Air India flight to arrive at the new terminal was AI 879 from Delhi. The same aircraft later departed as AI 880, becoming the airline’s first outbound flight from Terminal 2. Soon after, Air India Express also began its services from the new terminal with flight IX 1517 arriving from Kolkata, which then continued its journey to Imphal. At present, Air India operates two daily…

18 Mar

Gold and Silver Prices Retreat on MCX as Investors Brace for Crucial US Federal Reserve Policy Verdict

anuprova EditorBusiness

The Indian bullion market witnessed a sharp correction on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, as gold prices on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) slumped by over ₹700 to settle at ₹1.55 lakh per 10 grams. This downward movement was mirrored in the silver market, where prices tanked by 1 percent, reflecting a cautious shift in global investor sentiment ahead of the high-stakes US Federal Reserve policy meeting. The decline in precious metals is primarily attributed to a strengthening US Dollar Index and rising Treasury yields, as market participants recalibrate their expectations regarding the pace of interest rate cuts in light of…

18 Mar

Ishan Kishan partners Ai+ Smartphone ahead of Nova series launch

Business BureauBusiness

Ai+ Smartphone has announced an exclusive brand alliance with Indian cricketer Ishan Kishan, aligning its technology-driven identity with the player’s aggressive, boundary-pushing approach to the game. The company said the partnership reflects a shared belief that ambition should not be limited by access, positioning both the brand and the cricketer as symbols of performance without compromise. Ai+ Smartphone, which focuses on delivering modern technology at accessible price points, said the collaboration comes at a time when it is preparing to launch its upcoming Nova Series. As part of the association, Kishan will feature in the brand’s campaigns and initiatives, including…

18 Mar

Coke Studio Bharat unveils Season 4 line-up, expands focus on regional soundscapes

Business BureauBusiness

Coca-Cola India on Tuesday announced the artist line-up for Season 4 of Coke Studio Bharat, marking the return of the music platform that has gained prominence for blending regional traditions with contemporary sounds. The new season opens with ‘The List,’ featuring a diverse mix of artists including Rekha Bhardwaj, Aditya Rikhari, Kutle Khan, Faheem Abdullah, Arsalan Nizami, Madhur Sharma, Mohammad Faiz and Mame Khan, among others. After three seasons that reshaped India’s streaming music landscape, the platform aims to deepen its engagement with local musical traditions. Season 3 tracks such as Arz Kiya Hai and Holi Aayi Re had topped…

18 Mar

Hyatt signs 140-key Hyatt Place hotel in Ahmedabad, expands India portfolio

Business BureauBusiness

Hyatt Hotels Corporation on Tuesday announced the signing of an agreement for Hyatt Place Ahmedabad Nikol, marking a fresh step in its expansion across India’s high-growth urban markets. The 140-key property, being developed by Golden Buildcon, will strengthen Hyatt’s presence in Ahmedabad, a key administrative and commercial hub of Gujarat. The upcoming hotel will feature multiple dining options, including a main restaurant and a grab-and-go market. It will also house a 3,455-square-foot ballroom, along with conference rooms and a boardroom, catering to meetings and events. Additional facilities such as a fitness centre and swimming pool are expected to attract both…

18 Mar

Coffee emerges as Gen Z’s preferred gifting choice, signalling shift in consumer trends

Business BureauBusiness

The culture of gifting is undergoing a noticeable transformation, with Gen Z increasingly opting for thoughtful and experience-driven presents over conventional options. Among the emerging trends, coffee is gaining prominence as a preferred gifting choice, reflecting a shift towards more intentional and personality-led gestures. Unlike traditional last-minute gifts, Gen Z consumers are prioritising meaning and emotional value. Coffee, often associated with shared moments and daily rituals, is being seen as more than just a beverage. It plays a role in conversations, creative sessions, and leisurely weekends, making it an immersive and experiential gift. Gifting coffee aligns with the generation’s preference…

18 Mar

Renault launches new Duster in India, prices start at Rs 10.49 lakh; hybrid bookings sold out for 2026

Business BureauBusiness

Renault India on Tuesday launched the all-new Duster in the country, with introductory prices starting at ₹10.49 lakh (ex-showroom). The company also announced a limited R-Pass offer at ₹10.29 lakh valid until March 31, 2026, as dispatches begin nationwide. Built on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), the SUV is designed for Indian driving conditions, combining structural strength with improved ride and handling. The turbocharged TCe 160 engine delivers 163 PS and 280 Nm torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or DCT gearbox. Renault said over 90% of petrol bookings are for the higher-powered turbo variant. The SUV comes…

17 Mar

Energy Shock Intensifies: Global Oil and Gas Prices Surge as Iran Targets Production Hubs

anuprova EditorBusiness

Global energy markets witnessed a sharp spike in prices on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, as Iran escalated the ongoing conflict by successfully targeting vital oil and gas production facilities across the Gulf for the first time. International benchmark Brent crude jumped 3% to $103.28 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose over 3.6% to reach $96.85, reversing a brief decline from the previous session. The surge was triggered by reports of a drone strike on the Shah natural gas field in the United Arab Emirates—one of the world's largest—which forced a complete suspension of operations. Additionally, attacks were…