Eternal has stated that there has been no material change to Blinkit’s quick commerce business model, following reports that platforms would discontinue the use of “10-minute delivery” branding. The clarification came in response to a notice from stock exchanges after media reports suggested that the development could impact the company’s operations and share price.

In a regulatory filing, Eternal said that there was no change to Blinkit’s business model that could have any material impact on the company. The company specifically addressed its quick commerce arm, stating that operations continue as usual despite the removal of the 10-minute delivery promise from branding and advertising.

The filing also responded to reports of sharp stock price movements, which Eternal denied. The company said there had been no unusual movement in its share price during trading hours, contrary to media speculation.

The clarification followed comments made earlier in the day by labour and employment minister Mansukh Mandavia, who asked quick commerce platforms to stop promoting 10-minute delivery claims. According to people familiar with the matter, the government raised concerns that such promises place excessive pressure on delivery workers and could compromise their safety.

Quick commerce players including Blinkit, Zepto and Swiggy Instamart reportedly assured the government that they would remove 10-minute delivery pledges from their platforms. The intervention comes after nationwide strikes by gig worker unions on December 25 and December 31, two of the busiest days for the sector. Worker groups have demanded that aggressive delivery timelines be scrapped and earlier payout structures restored, arguing that such models increase safety risks and have, in some cases, led to accidents.

Following the backlash, Blinkit has started displaying the distance of the nearest dark store to customers on its app. The move is aimed at improving transparency around delivery timelines rather than committing to fixed delivery promises.

Earlier, Eternal founder Deepinder Goyal had shared his views on the gig economy, describing gig work as one of India’s largest organised job creation engines. He stated that the sector provides insurance coverage and predictable wages to workers, while also maintaining that the industry requires less regulation to grow further. Goyal has previously defended fast deliveries, saying that shorter timelines are made possible by the proximity of stores to customers rather than by pushing delivery partners to travel faster.

India’s hospitality sector is entering a structurally stronger phase of growth, supported by rising domestic travel, diversified demand drivers, and favourable policy momentum, according to a recent report by ICRA Limited. The agency noted that the sector is now less exposed to global disruptions compared to the pre-pandemic period, with demand increasingly driven by domestic travellers.

ICRA highlighted that the industry remains on track to post record revenues and occupancy levels in FY2026–27, even as foreign tourist arrivals remain subdued. Sustained demand, limited new supply, and the growing adoption of asset-light operating models are helping hotels maintain strong performance and profitability.

“Demand drivers now include corporate travel, weddings and social events, religious and spiritual tourism, concerts, sports, MICE activities, and leisure-led travel to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities,” said Sruthi Thomas, Vice President & Sector Head, Corporate Ratings, ICRA Limited. “The market can now support multiple formats and price points, pushing hotel companies to diversify beyond the traditional upscale business hotel model.”

According to ICRA, demand growth continues to exceed supply expansion, strengthening pricing power for hoteliers. Revenue per available room has touched record levels, with occupancy rates in the range of 69–71 per cent and average room rates between INR 8,100–8,200 during the first nine months of FY2026, compared with Rs. 7,800–7,900 in the same period of FY2025.

The report also noted that despite short-term disruptions caused by revised flight duty norms in December 2025, the sector showed resilience. Extended stays, alternative modes of travel, and bulk wedding bookings helped cushion the impact. Occupancy levels in Q3 FY2026 stood at 76–78 per cent, underlining strong underlying demand.

Thomas pointed to the increasing preference for asset-light models such as management and franchise contracts, which “generate fee-based, high-margin income, require minimal capital, and enhance returns on investment.” These models enable hotel operators to scale faster while maintaining financial discipline and brand standards. She added, “Owned assets continue to anchor brand prestige, especially in prime locations. A mixed ownership strategy, retaining core assets while franchising or managing growth assets, is now emerging as the preferred model.”

Looking ahead, ICRA expects premium hotel occupancy to remain between 72–74 per cent in FY2026, with average room rates rising to INR 8,200–8,500. Growth will continue to be supported by business travel, weddings, MICE activities, and leisure tourism.

ICRA also anticipates that the upcoming Union Budget will further support the hospitality sector through continued focus on tourism, infrastructure development, and financing incentives. With demand remaining strong and supply additions limited, India’s hotel industry is well placed for another year of record performance.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts has announced the launch of Nanak Niwas Beacon New Delhi, Paharganj, marking another step in strengthening its footprint across the National Capital Region. The new addition reflects the group’s focus on expanding well-located urban properties that cater to the growing demand from both business and leisure travellers visiting the city.

Strategically located in Paharganj, the hotel offers convenient access to major transport hubs and key commercial areas, making it a practical choice for guests looking for comfort and ease of travel in central New Delhi. The property has been designed to meet the expectations of modern travellers who value efficient service, thoughtful amenities and a balanced midscale experience.

Commenting on the launch, Suhail Kannampilly, managing director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “New Delhi continues to be a critical market for hospitality, driven by consistent demand from business travellers, tourists and event-led visits. Nanak Niwas Beacon New Delhi, Paharganj has been developed to address this demand with a balanced midscale offering that focuses on comfort, operational efficiency and sustainability. The hotel reflects our commitment to creating well-connected urban properties that deliver reliable guest experiences while remaining environmentally responsible.”

Sharing his views on the partnership, Amandeep Singh Anand & Paharganj Nanak Niwas, said, “We are pleased to partner with The Fern Hotels & Resorts for the launch of Nanak Niwas Beacon New Delhi, Paharganj. This association brings together our local understanding of the market with The Fern Hotels & Resort’s operational expertise and commitment to quality hospitality. We believe the hotel is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of travellers visiting the city.”

Nanak Niwas Beacon New Delhi, Paharganj features 45 well-appointed rooms equipped with modern facilities, including high-speed Wi-Fi and eco-friendly amenities, in line with The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ sustainability-led approach.

The hotel also offers dining options through Aroma, a multi-cuisine restaurant serving a mix of local and global flavours in a refined setting. In addition, guests can access 24x7 in-room dining, with a menu that includes snacks, full meals, beverages and options for children, providing added convenience for resident guests.

With this launch, The Fern Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its presence in key city markets while offering travellers reliable, comfortable and environmentally responsible hospitality experiences.