Karnataka is further strengthening its position as one of India’s leading alco-beverage manufacturing and innovation hubs, with the state government signalling strong support for sustainability, domestic manufacturing, and expansion of brewery ecosystems beyond Bengaluru.

The focus came into discussion during an industry conclave held in Bengaluru, attended by the Hon'ble Excise Minister, Joint Excise Commissioner, brewers, distillers, sustainability experts, technology providers, and key industry stakeholders.

Addressing the gathering, Excise Minister, R B Timmapur highlighted the state's recent efforts towards improving ease of doing business and building a stronger alco-bev ecosystem.

"Over the last one year, Karnataka has undertaken a series of progressive excise and regulatory reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business for breweries, distilleries, and alco-bev manufacturers. We are moving towards a more transparent, technology-enabled, and industry-friendly ecosystem through simplified label approvals, streamlined declared price and MRP updation systems, digital compliance mechanisms, annual licence renewal reforms, and operational rationalisation measures," the Minister said.

He further added, "The Government is committed to providing long-term policy stability and regulatory visibility for the industry till 2030. Stable and forward-looking policy frameworks are essential to attract investments, scale manufacturing ecosystems, strengthen domestic production capabilities, and position Karnataka as a leading destination for brewing innovation and alco-bev manufacturing."

The Minister also highlighted the sector’s economic impact, noting that Karnataka generates nearly ₹40,000 crore annually through excise revenue, reinforcing the alco-bev industry's importance to the state economy.

"Karnataka today generates nearly ₹40,000 crore annually through excise revenue, underlining the alco-bev sector's importance to the state economy and industrial ecosystem. At the same time, our objective is not merely revenue generation, but building a balanced ecosystem that benefits consumers, industry, farmers, manufacturers, and local communities through sustainable and inclusive growth," he added.

Industry participants at the conclave observed that Karnataka has emerged as a preferred destination for breweries, premium spirits manufacturing, and craft beer innovation due to its strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, entrepreneurial ecosystem, and progressive policy support.

Speaking at the event, Shri Shivkumar Eashwaran, Chairman, Indian Chamber of Commerce, Chairman - Canadian Crystalline Water India Limited and Consul General (Hon.) of the Republic of Armenia in South India, stressed the growing importance of sustainability in the sector.

"Water conservation, wastewater recycling, energy efficiency, and circular economy practices must become integral to brewing and distillation operations. Karnataka has the opportunity to emerge as a globally benchmarked sustainable brewing ecosystem," he said.

He also highlighted the need for inclusive growth across the value chain, especially for farmers and rural communities.

"Karnataka today has one of the strongest economies in India, and as the alco-bev sector grows, the benefits of this growth must reach every stakeholder across the value chain. We should not leave our farmers behind in this journey. Raw materials required for breweries, including barley, grains, fruits, and other agricultural produce, should increasingly be sourced from our own farmers, thereby strengthening local supply chains and rural livelihoods," he said.

The conclave further highlighted opportunities for Karnataka’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to emerge as manufacturing hubs for brewing equipment and allied technologies. Industry representatives also called for stronger partnerships between government, academia, and manufacturers to drive research, innovation, engineering, automation, and skill development.

The event also recognised excellence in India’s craft brewing segment. American Brew Works received the Best Brewer Award, while Kling Brewery and Oasis were honoured with the Best Beer Line-Up Awards.

Industry experts noted that India’s craft beer and premium spirits market is entering a new phase of growth, with Indian brands increasingly gaining global attention and export opportunities. The conclave concluded with a call for stronger collaboration across government, industry, sustainability experts, and technology providers to build a globally competitive and environmentally responsible alco-bev ecosystem.

Noida International Airport is turning into more than just a travel hub, as it brings together modern infrastructure and India’s cultural depth through large-scale art and design elements.

The airport features significant works by Padma Shri awardee Paresh Maity, blending artistic expression with a strong sense of regional identity drawn from Uttar Pradesh’s heritage. The design language of the terminal reflects Western UP traditions, including red granite inspired by historic monuments, steps that echo the ghats of Varanasi, and open courtyard-style spaces influenced by traditional havelis.

Passenger experience has been kept at the centre of the design. The terminal includes calm courtyard zones after security, high ceilings for an open feel, and carefully placed art installations. Natural lighting and clear navigation systems add to a smooth and stress-free travel flow.

A key highlight is Maity’s installation titled “Mystic Abode”, made up of more than 8,000 brass bells. The artwork is designed as a reflective space, encouraging travellers to pause and experience calm amid busy modern life. The sound and symbolism of bells are used to create a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, similar to traditional Indian homes and temples.

Alongside this is his large oil-on-canvas work “Awakening (Jagriti)”, spread across six panels. The artwork presents a visual journey across India’s spiritual and cultural landmarks connected through sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, Saryu, and Saraswati.

Each panel highlights a different landmark and its cultural meaning from the spiritual ghats of Varanasi, the teachings of Buddha at Sarnath, the beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra, the devotional landscapes of Mathura and Vrindavan, the sacred city of Ayodhya, to the energy of the Mahakumbh gathering. The artwork is unified by the theme of sunrise, symbolising both a new beginning and inner awakening.

Paresh Maity, known for his nearly five-decade-long career, has exhibited widely in India and abroad. His works are part of major collections including the Rashtrapati Bhavan, British Museum, and National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi. He is also recognised for creating one of the world’s longest airport murals at Delhi’s international terminal.

Through this integration of art and architecture, Noida International Airport aims to offer travellers not just movement, but a culturally rich and reflective experience.

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of Cygnett Inn Motihari, a new brownfield hospitality project in Motihari, Bihar, further strengthening its presence in the state and supporting its expansion strategy across emerging Tier II and Tier III destinations in India. The upcoming property will operate under Cygnett Inn, the company’s contemporary midscale brand designed to serve business travellers, leisure guests, and social gatherings.

Located in Bihar’s East Champaran district, Motihari has steadily evolved into an important regional hub with growing commercial activity and improved connectivity. The city also carries historical significance as the place associated with Mahatma Gandhi’s Champaran Satyagraha movement. Alongside this heritage value, increasing trade, educational activity, and business movement continue to drive demand for organised hospitality infrastructure.

The upcoming hotel will feature 70 well-appointed rooms and a range of facilities including an all-day dining restaurant, gymnasium, spa, and swimming pool. Along with accommodation offerings, the property has also been designed to support meetings, celebrations, and large social gatherings.

One of the major highlights of the development is its extensive banqueting infrastructure. The hotel will feature three event venues, including a 5,500 sq. ft. banquet hall connected to a 17,000 sq. ft. outdoor lawn, creating an ideal venue for weddings and large social events. It will also include two dedicated meeting spaces of approximately 1,600 sq. ft. and 575 sq. ft. for conferences, corporate gatherings, and private events.

Commenting on the development, Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder and Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, said: “Hospitality demand in India is increasingly expanding beyond traditional metro markets. We are witnessing growing demand for quality branded accommodation and event infrastructure across emerging cities, driven by regional economic activity, improving connectivity, and evolving travel patterns. Motihari represents an important market with strong long-term potential, and this signing aligns with our strategy of strengthening our presence across high-growth destinations.”

The hotel is expected to become operational by the end of this year. Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has built a diversified portfolio across upscale, midscale, and budget segments through brands including Cygnett, Cozzet, and Cygnett Inn. The company also maintains a strategic association with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, enabling it to strengthen its hospitality footprint while delivering internationally benchmarked service standards and enhanced guest experiences.