Tata Group Asks Air India to Prioritise Cost Control Amid Rising Losses

Tata Group Asks Air India to Prioritise Cost Control Amid Rising Losses

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 15, 2026

Air India is reassessing its growth plans after Tata Group reportedly instructed the airline to focus on reducing losses and improving operational stability. The move marks a shift from the carrier's aggressive expansion strategy that had been underway since Tata Group took ownership of the airline in 2022.

According to people familiar with the matter, Air India is exploring several cost-control measures, including discussions with Airbus and Boeing to defer deliveries of aircraft from its large order book. Delaying aircraft deliveries could help the airline postpone substantial payments that are typically due when planes are handed over.

The airline is also reviewing its plans to launch services on new domestic and international routes. Expansion at certain airports, including the upcoming Noida International Airport, may be delayed as part of the broader strategy to manage costs and improve financial performance.

The change in approach comes after a challenging period for the airline. A fatal crash last year, airspace restrictions following Pakistan's closure of its airspace to Indian carriers, and disruptions linked to the conflict in Iran have all added pressure on operations. These developments have resulted in longer flight routes, higher fuel expenses, and increased operating costs.

Air India has also faced challenges from the weak Indian rupee, which has increased expenses as a significant portion of airline costs are denominated in US dollars.

The airline's financial performance remains a concern. Sources indicate that Air India has accumulated losses of more than ₹55,000 crore since 2022, while annual losses have reportedly reached around $3 billion (approximately ₹28,500 crore). The issue has become a key area of focus for the board of Tata Trusts, which controls Tata Sons, the majority owner of Air India.

Despite these challenges, Air India has continued to pursue one of the largest fleet modernisation programmes in the aviation industry. Between 2023 and 2025, the airline placed orders for around 600 aircraft from Airbus and Boeing as part of its long-term growth strategy. Most of these aircraft are expected to be delivered during 2027 and 2028.

Responding to reports, an Air India spokesperson described the claims as highly speculative and stated that the airline remains committed to fleet modernisation and its long-term transformation programme. Tata Group and Airbus did not comment on the matter, while Boeing declined to provide a statement.

The airline currently operates both the full-service Air India brand and low-cost carrier Air India Express. While passenger demand and revenues have benefited from India's growing economy and rising travel demand, the airline continues to face the challenge of balancing expansion with financial sustainability.

Singapore Airlines, which acquired a 25.1% stake in Air India in 2024, remains a strategic partner as the airline continues its transformation journey.


Athulya Senior Care Inaugurates Third Senior Care Facility in Bengaluru

Athulya Senior Care Inaugurates Third Senior Care Facility in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 14, 2026

Athulya Senior Care has inaugurated its third senior care facility in Bengaluru at Mathikere, further strengthening its presence and commitment to building a comprehensive senior care ecosystem in the city.

U.T. Khader, Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka, inaugurated the new facility in the presence of healthcare professionals, senior citizens, partners and members of the Athulya family. Athulya Senior Care also acknowledged the support of Raksha Ramaiah and the MSR Infrastructure team for their partnership in developing the new facility. The purpose-built centre has been designed around the specific needs of seniors, bringing care, comfort, rehabilitation and dignity together under one roof.

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Located in Mathikere, one of Bengaluru's premium residential neighbourhoods, the new geriatric care centre has been developed exclusively for senior citizens. It offers a range of services aimed at supporting seniors through different stages of care while also promoting active ageing and overall wellbeing.

The facility features 75 suite rooms, well-appointed living spaces and dedicated rehabilitation zones. It also includes technology-enabled physiotherapy services with virtual reality-based rehabilitation, specialised memory care infrastructure, emergency medical support, nutritious diet management and recreational spaces.

With the new centre, Athulya Senior Care now has 13 facilities live across India, including three centres in Bengaluru. The organisation has also crossed 300+ dedicated senior care beds in Bengaluru, expanding access to specialised geriatric care in the city. The new facility adds to Athulya's wider network of senior care services, with 1500 beds across India. Its expansion reflects the growing need for dedicated senior care spaces that combine medical support with rehabilitation, comfort and everyday wellbeing.

With 1500 beds across India and 300+ beds in Bengaluru, Athulya Senior Care continues to work towards one shared commitment, enabling seniors to age with dignity, independence and purpose.


ICAI to Support TTD in Strengthening Accounting and Financial Management Systems

ICAI to Support TTD in Strengthening Accounting and Financial Management Systems

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 11, 2026

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) held the 16th Meeting of its Strategy and Perspective Planning and Monitoring Committee at Tirupati on August 5, 2026, reaffirming its focus on supporting public institutions through professional expertise and research.

As part of the initiative, the ICAI Accounting Research Foundation (ICAI ARF) will conduct a detailed research study and prepare a project report to develop a stronger framework for the accounting and audit systems of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The proposed work will focus on strengthening the existing systems and bringing accounting and financial management practices in line with current requirements.

During the visit, Sri Muddada Ravichandra, IAS, Executive Officer, TTD, met with the Central Council Members of ICAI. The discussions covered areas of collaboration between ICAI and TTD, including accounting reforms, financial reporting and governance. The Central Council Members also shared suggestions on expanding the partnership into other areas.

Speaking on the occasion, CA. Prasanna Kumar D, President, ICAI, said, "ICAI is collaborating with TTD in reviewing and updating the Accounting Manual of TTD, including the Chart of Accounts, to align it with the prevailing Accounting Standards and global best practices. The initiative will also focus on integrating ERP-based accounting processes to ensure uniformity and strengthen financial management systems across all institutions under TTD."

Appreciating the initiative, Sri Muddada Ravichandra, IAS, Executive Officer, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), stated, "We appreciate ICAI for extending its support to TTD in strengthening our accounting and financial management systems."

The collaboration reflects ICAI's continued efforts to support public institutions through professional expertise, research-based inputs and the use of best practices in accounting, auditing and financial management. The initiative is expected to help TTD develop a modern and stronger financial management framework, while aligning its systems with contemporary accounting standards and governance requirements.


Longines Opens Third Boutique in Bengaluru with Sara Ali Khan

Longines Opens Third Boutique in Bengaluru with Sara Ali Khan

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 11, 2026

Swiss watch brand Longines has opened its third boutique in Bengaluru at Phoenix Market City, marking another step in its presence in the city. The boutique was inaugurated by Longines Friend of the Brand Sara Ali Khan.

Following the inauguration, Sara Ali Khan also visited the brand’s boutique at Phoenix Mall of Asia, enjoying an outing with Longines in a relaxed vacation mode setting.

Speaking at the event, Sara said, “Given the fact that this is Longines third store in Bengaluru speaks volumes about the loyalty of its customers in this city. I hope this success story is replicated everywhere in India.” She further added, “Longines quietly marks every moment with effortless joy and elegance, that’s what makes it unique.”

For the season, Longines is presenting a selection of its latest releases across different collections. The range includes the refined PrimaLuna, versatile Conquest, seaside-inspired HydroConquest, and the exploratory Longines Legend Diver, offering timepieces designed for different settings, from busy city days to relaxed beach escapes.

The new boutiques reflect the brand’s wider universe and showcase its latest product range. Visitors can explore the refined shapes of PrimaLuna and DolceVita, the sporty HydroConquest, as well as the watchmaking tradition represented by the Longines Master Collection and heritage timepieces.

With its third boutique in Bengaluru, Longines continues to strengthen its presence in the city while bringing its latest collections closer to its customers.

Addresses:

  • Address: Longines Boutiques - Ground Floor, Phoenix Market City, Bengaluru / First Floor, Mall of Asia, Bengaluru / First Floor, UB City, Bengaluru.

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