India’s gig economy, while expanding rapidly, continues to grapple with low pay, income volatility and limited social security, according to insights from the Economic Survey. The report highlights the growing contribution of gig workers to sectors such as mobility, delivery and digital services, while underscoring persistent structural vulnerabilities. Despite offering flexible employment and expanding labor force participation, gig work often falls short of providing stable earnings and long-term security.

India’s pharmaceutical industry is undergoing a strategic transformation from volume-led expansion to value-driven growth, according to the Economic Survey 2025-26. The report emphasizes rising focus on innovation, complex generics, specialty drugs and global contract manufacturing as key drivers of sustainable growth. Strengthening regulatory compliance, increased investment in research and development and expanding global market access are reshaping the sector’s long-term trajectory. The survey also highlights the industry’s critical role in healthcare security and export growth.

India’s aviation market is on the cusp of a major expansion, with the country’s commercial aircraft fleet projected to nearly triple by 2035, according to aircraft manufacturer Airbus. The outlook is anchored in strong domestic travel demand, rising disposable incomes and sustained investment in airport infrastructure. Airlines are rapidly expanding capacity to serve both metro and regional routes, making India one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally. Airbus expects narrow-body aircraft to dominate future deliveries, reflecting the structure of India’s travel demand.

Brigade Hotel Ventures posted an increase in profit for the third quarter, reflecting sustained recovery in the hospitality sector and improved operating performance across its hotel portfolio. Strong domestic travel, higher occupancy levels and firmer room rates supported revenue growth, while disciplined cost management helped expand margins. The results underscore the resilience of India’s hospitality industry amid a broader economic recovery, with both business and leisure travel contributing to demand.

Piramal Pharma Ltd. posted a consolidated net loss of Rs 136 crore for the third quarter, weighed down by inventory-related pressures that offset steady operational activity across its business segments. Elevated inventory levels and associated costs strained margins, overshadowing stable demand in contract development and manufacturing services and consumer healthcare. The results underscore the sensitivity of pharmaceutical earnings to working capital management amid volatile global demand conditions.

Bharti Airtel has announced a partnership with Adobe to offer complimentary access to Adobe Express Premium for eligible customers, marking a strategic expansion of its digital value-added services. The initiative is aimed at supporting India’s rapidly growing community of creators, professionals and small businesses by giving them access to advanced design and content creation tools at no additional cost.

Shares of Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. slipped after the automaker reported its third-quarter financial results, as investors focused on margin pressures despite stable demand conditions. While the company continued to benefit from healthy vehicle sales and a strong market position, higher input costs and competitive pricing constrained profitability during the quarter. The market reaction underscored investor sensitivity to earnings quality and cost management in a highly competitive auto sector.

Indian stock markets closed lower as investors adopted a defensive posture ahead of the Union Budget, a key policy event expected to set the tone for fiscal strategy and economic growth. Uncertainty over government spending priorities, taxation measures and deficit management prompted profit-taking across sectors. Muted global cues and lingering concerns around interest rates further weighed on sentiment. Market participants largely stayed on the sidelines, awaiting policy clarity before making fresh commitments.

HDFC Capital Advisors has announced the launch of a Rs 1,000-crore platform dedicated to developing and scaling rental housing projects across India, highlighting a strategic shift toward income-generating real estate assets. The initiative targets the growing demand for professionally managed rental homes driven by urban migration, affordability pressures and evolving lifestyle preferences. By partnering with established developers and institutional investors, the platform aims to create high-quality rental housing while delivering stable, long-term returns.

The proposed India–European Union free trade agreement is drawing strong interest from India’s two-wheeler manufacturers, who see Europe as a key growth frontier. Lower tariffs, regulatory alignment and improved market access could significantly enhance the competitiveness of Indian-made motorcycles and scooters in developed markets. As domestic competition intensifies, export-led growth is becoming a strategic priority for leading manufacturers. However, entry into Europe also demands strict adherence to safety, emission and quality standards.