Boost to India’s Hospitality Sector: JK Lakshmipat University Students Honoured for ITDC Systems Design Project

Boost to India’s Hospitality Sector: JK Lakshmipat University Students Honoured for ITDC Systems Design Project

By Author

Published on February 17, 2026

In a moment of pride for design-led education in India, five students from the Institute of Design at JK Lakshmipat University (JKLU) were felicitated for their Systems Design project developed for the Taj Restaurant under the India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC). The honour was conferred by Union Minister for Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on 13 February at The Ashok Hotel, New Delhi.

The recognition highlights the growing importance of industry-linked academic projects and the role of design thinking in addressing complex, real-world systems within India’s hospitality and tourism sector. The project reflects how academic institutions are increasingly contributing practical solutions to public-sector organisations.

The interdisciplinary student team included Harsh Warrier, Susnitha Sivaraju, Yashika Bhatt, Rashi Bhagre, and Ritika Malik. The project was carried out under the mentorship of Binil Mohan, Assistant Professor at the Institute of Design, JKLU. The team conducted extensive initial research for both the Taj Mahal and ITDC, which formed the foundation for the systems design interventions proposed.

The final presentation was divided into three well-defined segments. The first segment focused on research related to the Taj Mahal, followed by the development of a solution framework led by Harsh Warrier, Rashi Bhagre, and Susnitha Sivaraju. The second segment presented research and detailed solutions for India Tourism Development Corporation, developed by the same team members. The final segment showcased the specific solution work and contributions undertaken by Ritika Malik.

“The felicitation is a proud moment for the university and underscores the impact of industry-linked, research-driven design education in addressing complex systems,” said A Balasubramaniam, Director, Institute of Design, JKLU.

The recognition reinforces JKLU’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, academic excellence, and meaningful engagement with industry partners. It also stands as a testament to the quality of work being produced by students at the Institute of Design.

The students were felicitated during a double commemoration event celebrating 60 years of ITDC and 70 years of the Ashok Hotel. Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram also graced the ceremony with his presence.


Starbucks Reserve Opens at World St. Worldmark Aerocity, New Delhi

Starbucks Reserve Opens at World St. Worldmark Aerocity, New Delhi

By Hariharan U

Published on July 17, 2026

World St. at Worldmark Aerocity, New Delhi has welcomed Starbucks Reserve, bringing the premium coffee brand’s elevated café experience to one of the capital’s most vibrant lifestyle and dining destinations.

The opening strengthens World St.’s vision of creating a globally inspired urban destination featuring celebrated brands, immersive experiences, and curated food and beverage offerings. Positioned as “The Social Spine of Worldmark,” World St. is designed as a walkable F&B and lifestyle hub within Delhi’s prominent business district, offering guests a blend of dining, leisure, and social experiences.

The launch marks the fourth Starbucks Reserve store in India and the third Starbucks Reserve destination in Delhi NCR, further expanding Starbucks’ premium coffee footprint in the country. Built around Starbucks’ philosophy of creating a welcoming “third place” between home and work, Starbucks Reserve offers guests an enhanced coffeehouse experience focused on connection, discovery, and community.

The café showcases the craftsmanship behind specialty coffee through a selection of rare and premium coffees, signature espresso creations, handcrafted beverages, and curated food offerings. Guests can also enjoy the brand’s bake-in menu, designed to complement the premium beverage experience.

A key highlight of the store is the Black Eagle espresso machine, an advanced brewing system that enables Coffee Masters to achieve greater precision in extraction and preparation. The technology further enhances the artistry and expertise behind every cup served at Starbucks Reserve.

The arrival of Starbucks Reserve adds to World St.’s expanding portfolio of globally recognised dining and lifestyle brands. Spread across approximately half a kilometre through Worldmark 4, 5, and 6, World St. covers nearly 2,60,000 sq. ft. of gross leasable area and has been developed as a pedestrian-friendly destination featuring global cuisine, alfresco dining spaces, green courtyards, art installations, and contemporary street furniture.

Connecting three iconic Worldmark developments, World St. brings together work, leisure, and culture through a diverse mix of cafés, patisseries, restaurants, and bars. The destination has established itself as one of Delhi-NCR’s prominent food and lifestyle destinations, featuring brands such as India’s first Olive Garden, P.F. Chang’s, and Magnolia Bakery.

With the addition of Starbucks Reserve, World St. continues to strengthen its positioning as a destination for premium experiences, attracting visitors seeking international brands, culinary discovery, and vibrant social spaces.

Starbucks Reserve at World St., Worldmark, Delhi will be open to customers from 15 July 2026, operating from 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM.


IHCL's Taj Named India's Strongest Brand for the Fifth Consecutive Year

IHCL's Taj Named India's Strongest Brand for the Fifth Consecutive Year

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 16, 2026

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India's largest hospitality company, has announced that its iconic brand Taj has once again been recognised as India's Strongest Brand across sectors in the Brand Finance 'India 100 2026' report. The achievement marks the fifth consecutive year that Taj has earned the distinction.

Commenting on the recognition, Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, said:

“Being recognised as India’s Strongest Brand across sectors for the fifth consecutive year is a matter of immense pride. For over 120 years, Taj has remained an enduring symbol of Indian hospitality, staying rooted in its timeless values of warmth, authenticity and excellence. This recognition reflects the deep trust and emotional connection that generations of guests have placed in the brand, as well as the unwavering commitment of our associates who bring the spirit of Tajness to life every day through thoughtful service and genuine care.”

He further added:

“Founded by Jamsetji Tata in 1903, IHCL’s iconic brand Taj has played a pioneering role in shaping India’s tourism landscape. Today, with a portfolio of 150 hotels across 15 countries, it offers a distinctive collection of grand palaces, landmark city hotels, wildlife safaris, beach and hill resorts and service residences. Guided by Paathya, IHCL’s ESG+ framework, the brand’s growth is anchored in responsible business practices that balance environmental stewardship, social impact and cultural preservation. As a custodian of Indian hospitality, Taj remains committed to creating long-term value while enriching destinations, empowering communities and preserving the heritage and traditions that define its legacy.”

According to the Brand Finance 'India 100 2026' report, Taj recorded a 32% increase in brand value, reaching USD 878 million. The brand also retained its AAA+ brand strength rating, supported by a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5 out of 100.

The report highlights Taj's strong brand familiarity, customer preference, and deep understanding among Indian consumers. It also notes that the brand's signature hospitality experience, widely recognised as 'Tajness', continues to set it apart, with a significant number of respondents identifying Taj as their preferred hotel brand.

Commenting on the recognition, David Haigh, Chairman, Brand Finance, said:

“Taj Hotels’ position as India’s strongest brand for the fifth consecutive year reflects the strength of its reputation and consistency of its brand performance. Brand Finance’s research shows exceptionally high levels of familiarity, preference, and understanding in its home market, underscoring the value of investing in a distinctive brand experience, maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, and delivering what guests value most. As Taj continues to expand its footprint across India and internationally, preserving these strengths will be key.”

The latest recognition further reinforces Taj's position as one of India's most trusted hospitality brands, reflecting more than a century of excellence, guest trust, and continued growth across domestic and international markets.


Punjab & Sind Bank's Cochin Branch Earns IGBC Green Interiors Certification

Punjab & Sind Bank's Cochin Branch Earns IGBC Green Interiors Certification

By Hariharan U

Published on July 15, 2026

Punjab & Sind Bank has announced that its Cochin Branch has been awarded the IGBC Green Interiors Certification by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) under the IGBC Green Interiors Rating System (New Interiors), reinforcing the Bank's commitment to sustainable infrastructure and environmentally responsible banking practices.

The certification recognises the Bank's efforts in creating a workplace that incorporates green interior standards, energy-efficient design, and sustainable operational practices. The initiative is aimed at providing a healthier environment for both customers and employees while reducing the branch's overall environmental footprint.

The recognition marks another milestone in Punjab & Sind Bank's ongoing sustainability journey, highlighting its focus on integrating environmentally responsible practices across its operations. The Bank said the certification reflects its commitment to embedding sustainability into its operational framework while promoting resource efficiency and responsible infrastructure development.

Punjab & Sind Bank continues to align its sustainability initiatives with the Government of India's vision of promoting green infrastructure and sustainable development. Through environmentally conscious banking practices and infrastructure upgrades, the Bank aims to contribute towards building a more sustainable and resilient future.

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