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Rising Maintenance Costs Push Thousands of Hyderabad Residents Into GST Net

Hyderabad: Thousands of residents living in gated communities across the city are facing increased financial pressure in FY 2026–27, as rising maintenance charges have pushed many households into the 18% GST bracket.

Monthly maintenance costs, which previously ranged between ₹6,000 and ₹7,000, have now surged to ₹8,000–₹10,000. This increase has taken many households beyond the ₹7,500 threshold, above which an 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is applicable.

📈 What’s driving the increase?

Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) attribute the hike to a steady rise in operational expenses, including:

  • Security staff salaries
  • Electricity charges
  • Maintenance of clubhouses and common amenities
  • Water supply and infrastructure systems

“These are essential services, and costs have gone up significantly over the past year,” said an RWA representative.

📊 Growing number of affected households

According to estimates:

  • Hyderabad has nearly 200 gated communities and hundreds of high-rise complexes
  • These house over 5 lakh families
  • Around 2 lakh households are already paying 18% GST
  • An additional 50,000 households are expected to fall under the GST bracket due to the latest increase

💸 Impact on household budgets

The financial impact has been immediate. Residents who were earlier paying around ₹7,000 per month—without GST—are now paying significantly more.

For instance:

  • Earlier: ₹7,000 (no GST)
  • Now: ₹9,000 + 18% GST = ₹10,620

This sharp increase is straining monthly budgets, especially for middle-class families.

⚠️ Residents voice concerns

Many residents have expressed concern over the “double burden” of rising maintenance charges and taxation. Some are urging authorities to reconsider the GST threshold or provide relief to urban households.

🧾 Conclusion

With operational costs continuing to rise, more households in Hyderabad are likely to be impacted in the coming months, making this a growing urban affordability issue.

Hyderabad Sets New Record in Office Market in Q1 2026, GCCs Power Growth

Hyderabad, India – Q1 2026: Hyderabad’s commercial real estate sector witnessed an all-time high in the first quarter of 2026, with office space transactions reaching a record 5.86 million square feet. This marks a significant 48% increase year-on-year from 4 million sq ft recorded in Q1 2025, according to Knight Frank India.

The strong performance places Hyderabad as the second-largest office market in India for the quarter, following Bengaluru, which led with 9.2 million sq ft of office absorption.

Rising Rents and Fresh Supply

Driven by robust demand, office rental values increased by 8% year-on-year, averaging ₹77.5 per sq ft per month. Additionally, the market saw the completion of 2.3 million sq ft of new office space, further strengthening supply.

GCCs Continue to Dominate Demand

Global Capability Centres (GCCs) remained the backbone of Hyderabad’s office market, contributing 43% of total leasing activity. These firms leased 2.5 million sq ft, reflecting a 53% growth compared to the previous year.

Despite global uncertainties, GCCs have maintained steady expansion, reinforcing Hyderabad’s appeal as a key global business destination.

IT Firms and Flexible Workspaces Surge

Third-party IT services companies ranked as the second-largest contributors, accounting for 29% of total leasing, or 1.7 million sq ft—the highest among major Indian cities for this segment.

Flexible workspaces also saw explosive growth, with leasing activity rising 457% year-on-year to 1.42 million sq ft, up from 0.26 million sq ft in Q1 2025. Large corporates, especially GCCs, played a major role in driving this trend.

Industry expert Joseph Thilak of Knight Frank India highlighted that Hyderabad’s growth is broad-based, with multiple sectors contributing rather than reliance on a single industry. He also noted that strong demand has pushed rental values upward.

Residential Market Shows Stability

On the residential front, Hyderabad maintained steady performance during the quarter:

  • Total sales: 9,541 units (up 1% year-on-year)
  • New launches: 9,975 units
  • Average price: ₹8,211 per sq ft (up 9% year-on-year)

Premium Housing Drives Growth

The ₹1–2 crore segment led the market with 4,061 units sold, accounting for 43% of total sales.

However, premium housing segments recorded the fastest growth:

  • ₹2–5 crore segment: 2,192 units (36% growth)
  • ₹5–10 crore segment: 415 units (46% growth)

Meanwhile, the affordable housing segment (below ₹50 lakh) saw a decline, with sales dropping 29% to 335 units, reflecting a nationwide trend.

Changing Buyer Preferences

Hyderabad continues to show resilience compared to other major housing markets in India, supported by consistent end-user demand. However, there is a noticeable shift toward premium housing, which has reduced demand in the affordable segment.

Conclusion

Hyderabad’s real estate market has demonstrated strong momentum in Q1 2026, with record-breaking office leasing and steady housing demand. The continued expansion of GCCs, rising rental values, and growing preference for premium housing underscore the city’s evolution into a leading real estate and business hub in India.

Hans India Lensmen Shine at Best Photo Journalist Awards 2025 in Hyderabad

Hyderabad witnessed a proud moment for photojournalism as The Hans India’s lensmen earned recognition at the Best Photo Journalist Awards 2025. The awards were organized by the Telangana State Photo Journalist Association at the Telangana Media Academy office in Nampally.

Chief Photo Journalist Adula Krishna secured the second prize for his outstanding work, while Mucharla Srinivas received a consolation prize, highlighting the team’s dedication and excellence in visual storytelling.

The awards were presented by former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu, who appreciated the role of photojournalists in capturing impactful moments. The event was also attended by former Minister Ponnala Lakshmaiah, Telangana Media Academy Chairman K. Srinivas Reddy, and several other prominent personalities from the media fraternity.

The recognition reflects The Hans India’s continued commitment to high-quality journalism and the remarkable efforts of its photojournalists in bringing stories to life through powerful imagery.

Hyderabad woman wins gold in logistics at IndiaSkills Competition 2026

Title idea inside: She packed more than boxes – she packed a punch.

You know those stories that just make you nod and smile? This is one of them.

Meet Mehrunisha Begum – a regular Hyderabad woman with an extraordinary spark. While most of us are still figuring out Monday mornings, she just went and won GOLD at the IndiaSkills Competition 2026. And not in something fluffy – in Logistics & Freight Forwarding.

Yeah, logistics. The backbone of everything you order online. The thing that makes sure your packages don’t end up in Timbuktu.

So who is she?
Mehrunisha works at Cargoman Logistics and studied at Begumpet Degree College. Nothing flashy. Just a woman who decided to be really, really good at her job.

The competition wasn’t a cakewalk. She fought through district → state → regional → national rounds. That’s like climbing four mountains, each one steeper than the last. Organized by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the Skill Development Ministry, this event is no joke.

And here’s the cool part – this win isn’t just a gold medal. It’s a ticket to represent India at WorldSkills. Imagine that: a Hyderabadi girl on the global stage, showing the world how to move goods smarter, faster, cleaner.

For anyone under 22 (that’s the age limit), IndiaSkills is basically the Olympics of hands-on trades. And Mehrunisha just proved that women in logistics are not just participants – they’re champions.

So next time you track a parcel and see “out for delivery”, remember: somewhere, a woman like Mehrunisha made sure it got there.

High five to all the behind-the-scenes heroes. And to this gold winner – go break some world records now.

Hyderabad-Somasila-Srisailam Helicopter: Telangana Tourism’s New Aerial Circuit

Telangana introduces helicopter tours on Hyderabad–Somasila–Srisailam route from April 2026.
Floating above the Krishna River will soon be possible thanks to new plans revealed by Tourism and Culture Minister Jupally Krishna Rao. Soaring views of the dense Nallamala forests are now within reach. A fresh way to see one of Telangana’s holiest destinations begins to take shape. The journey there shifts, quietly, into something different.
The Route and Itinerary
The Helicopter Flies This Scenic Route

Hyderabad to Somasila Over Backwaters. Somasila to Srisailam Through Nallamala Forest. Srisailam to Hyderabad Same Day Return
On-ground activities included:
Boating on Somasila’s quiet backwaters
Darshan at Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple among the twelve jyotirlingas
Forest and river views along the Krishna
This could happen all in one day, turning a weekend or short visit into something smooth. A single stretch of hours might hold everything, shaping a trip without rush.
Project Implementation
A team is working alongside private air service groups to get things running. Just last week, official Jupally Krishna Rao stopped by Somasila, taking a close look at the helipad build still underway – checking progress before operations begin.
What Sets This Apart?

Soaring above gives a fresh look at the Krishna River beneath, tangled green forests stretching beyond sight. Back in Hyderabad before evening light fades, no need to wait overnight somewhere else. Skip the tiresome drive through heat and dust – roads that chew up half your day each direction. Prayer stops blend quietly with boat rides along quiet waterways, both feel part of the same journey.
Government Plans More Helicopter Tours
One reason this route works? It opens doors. Helicopter tours to more places across Telangana could start soon – officials are moving ahead. Locations like temples, lakes, and hill towns may be next. Progress here shapes what comes after

Nagarjuna Sagar Largest masonry dam with vast reservoir. Ramappa Temple Ancient stone temple recognized by UNESCO. Nizam Sagar Old dam set in quiet natural landscape.
Why Srisailam?
A temple called Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy sits in Srisailam, counted among twelve sacred Jyotirlingas as well eighteen powerful Shakti Peethas – this draws many who walk long paths for faith. Tucked within the Nallamala hills, the place rests beside flowing waters of the Krishna River like something whispered by earth itself.
Five to six hours by car right now from Hyderabad
Helicopter Travel Time Approximately 1 to 1.5 Hours
Quick Facts

Hyderabad to Somasila to Srisailam round trip. Starts April 9 2026. Run by Telangana Tourism and private air services. See Krishna River from above. Fly over Nallamala forests. Boat ride at Somasila. Visit Mallikarjuna temple. Later may include Nagarjuna Sagar. Ramappa Temple and Nizam Sagar on future list.

Telangana tourism’s heritage walk aims to spotlight Hyderabad’s cultural legacy

The Telangana Department of Tourism organized a special heritage walk on Saturday, tracing the historic stretch from the iconic Charminar to the magnificent Chowmahalla Palace. The walk drew participation from 60 women delegates of the Global Shapers Community, highlighting Hyderabad’s rich cultural legacy on an international stage.

A Walk Through History

The heritage walk covered one of Hyderabad’s most historically significant corridors, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the city’s architectural grandeur and storied past.

LandmarkSignificance
CharminarIconic 16th-century monument and symbol of Hyderabad
Chowmahalla PalaceFormer seat of the Nizams, known for its stunning courtyard and clock tower

International & National Participation

The delegates represented a diverse mix of global and Indian cities:

🌍 International Hubs:

CountryCity
United StatesChicago
MaldivesMalé
BhutanThimphu
Sri LankaKandy

🇮🇳 Indian Cities:

RegionCities
North/WestAjmer, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune
SouthBengaluru, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Chennai, Coimbatore, Puducherry
East/CentralAmaravati

Why This Heritage Walk Matters

The initiative by Telangana Tourism serves multiple purposes:

  • ✅ Showcasing Hyderabad’s cultural legacy to international visitors
  • ✅ Promoting heritage tourism as a key driver of economic growth
  • ✅ Building global connections through platforms like the Global Shapers Community
  • ✅ Encouraging local participation in preserving historical landmarks

The Global Shapers Community Connection

The Global Shapers Community is an initiative of the World Economic Forum, comprising young leaders dedicated to driving positive change in their communities. The participation of delegates from multiple countries underscores Hyderabad’s growing reputation as a destination for cultural and diplomatic exchanges.

A Growing Trend: Heritage Walks in Hyderabad

Telangana Tourism has been actively promoting heritage walks across the city, including routes covering:

Walk RouteHighlights
Charminar to ChowmahallaQutb Shahi and Nizam architecture
Secunderabad CantonmentColonial-era buildings
Purana Pul areaOld bridges and markets

These walks are designed to educate both residents and tourists about the city’s layered history, from the Qutb Shahi dynasty to the Asaf Jahi Nizams and beyond.

What Participants Said

While specific quotes were not available in the source, delegates reportedly expressed appreciation for the well-preserved heritage and the opportunity to experience Hyderabad’s culture firsthand. The walk concluded with a sense of shared admiration for the city’s ability to blend tradition with modernity.

Looking Ahead

Telangana Tourism plans to organize more such heritage walks, targeting both domestic and international travelers. The department is also working on:

🏛️ Restoration projects for key heritage sites

🚶 Self-guided walking tour maps

📱 Mobile apps with audio guides

SRH Crush KKR by 65 Runs to Register First Win of IPL 2026

Sunrisers Hyderabad delivered a commanding performance to defeat Kolkata Knight Riders by 65 runs in their IPL 2026 clash at Eden Gardens on Thursday.

Batting first, SRH posted a massive total of 226, powered by a brilliant half-century from Heinrich Klaasen (52). He was well supported by Travis Head (46) and Abhishek Sharma (48), who provided explosive starts at the top. Nitish Kumar Reddy added a valuable 31 runs to push SRH past the 220 mark. Despite a four-wicket haul from Blessing Muzarabani, KKR struggled to contain the flow of runs.

In response, KKR began aggressively with Finn Allen smashing 24 runs in the opening over, but his early dismissal shifted momentum. Angkrish Raghuvanshi stood out with a fighting 52, while Rinku Singh chipped in with 36. However, regular wickets and poor coordination between batters hurt their chase.

SRH bowlers maintained pressure throughout, with Eshan Malinga and Jaydev Unadkat playing key roles in dismantling the KKR batting lineup. KKR were eventually bowled out for 161, falling well short of the 227-run target.

With this win, SRH not only secured their first points of the season but also became the first team in IPL 2026 to successfully defend a total, showcasing a complete team performance.

Yuva Bharat Run 2026: A Tribute to Swami Vivekananda by Kishan Reddy & Leaders

This morning I was at the flag-off of the Yuva Bharat Run 2026 — a mass fitness run aimed at getting citizens, particularly young people, to take health seriously. Not as a resolution, not as a trend, but as a habit.

Who Was There
The flag-off brought together former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu, Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, IT & Electronics Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu, and organizer Kishan Reddy Gangapuram. It’s not every day you see that kind of gathering at a community run — and the turnout from participants matched the energy on stage.

What Kishan Reddy Said
His message was straightforward: a country can’t develop on paper alone. The people have to be well. Kishan Reddy made the point that physical fitness isn’t just personal ambition — it feeds directly into what a working, productive, progressing nation looks like. If the Viksit Bharat vision means anything at the ground level, it starts with people who are healthy enough to show up and do the work.
He also brought up Swami Vivekananda — not as a ceremonial reference, but as someone whose ideas about strength, discipline, and character still hold up. The run was framed partly around that spirit: build your body, build your mind, contribute something beyond yourself.

Why This Kind of Event Still Matters
Mass fitness runs get dismissed sometimes as feel-good optics. Maybe. But there’s something real about getting thousands of people outside and moving on the same morning, for the same reason. It normalizes the conversation around health in communities where gyms are expensive and sedentary routines are the default.
The Yuva Bharat Run 2026 won’t fix public health on its own. But as a nudge — especially for young people who haven’t yet built the habit — it’s worth more than another awareness poster.

IPL 2026 Hyderabad: Security & Traffic Curbs at Uppal Stadium

Hyderabad is getting two IPL 2026 matches at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Uppal — April 5 and May 22. The stadium holds 39,000 people, and if past seasons are any indication, it’ll be packed. Before you head out, here’s the actual useful stuff.

Security: It’s Thorough, So Budget Extra Time

The police aren’t taking chances. Expect mandatory frisking and baggage checks at every entry point, CCTV coverage across the venue and surrounding roads, anti-drone measures, and aerial surveillance. Quick response teams will be positioned throughout the stadium.

Don’t bring banners, flags, outside bottles, or anything sharp. They’ll turn you away at the gate — not warn you, turn you away. Check the official advisory the morning of your match to catch any last-minute additions to the banned items list.

Arrive at least 90 minutes early. The queues at Uppal can get brutal, and the frisking lines move slower than you’d expect with 39,000 people trying to get in.

Traffic: The Uppal Stretch Will Be a Slog

This is the part most people underestimate. On match days, roads leading to the stadium will have closures and diversions, and heavy vehicles — trucks, tankers, earth movers — get rerouted entirely. No parking within a set radius of the venue unless you have an authorized pass. If you show up without one, you’re getting turned back at the checkpoint.

Shuttle buses will run from designated parking lots to the stadium. That’s your best bet if you’re driving.

Honestly though? Just take the Metro. Uppal station is right there, and timings typically extend past midnight for night matches. You’ll walk out of the stadium after a thriller finish and be home before the highlights package ends. Anyone driving from Secunderabad, Ameerpet, or LB Nagar is making their life harder than it needs to be.

At the Stadium

Carry your ticket and an ID, keep your bag small, and drink water before you go in — outside beverages aren’t allowed. If you spot anything that looks off, tell a security person immediately rather than filming it for Instagram.

The crowd at Uppal is genuinely one of the better atmospheres in the IPL. Show up in good time, get settled, and enjoy it.

IIT Hyderabad Hosts ‘Sundays on Cycle’; Over 1,000 Participate in Fitness Initiative

Sangareddy: In a spirited celebration of health, fitness, and community engagement, the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH), in collaboration with the Fit India Movement under the Sports Authority of India, successfully organised the ‘Sundays on Cycle’ event at its scenic Kandi campus in Sangareddy district.

The event, held on Sunday morning, witnessed an overwhelming response with more than 1,000 participants joining from within the institute and the surrounding local community. Students, faculty members, staff, and fitness enthusiasts gathered early in the day, transforming the campus into a vibrant hub of physical activity and positive energy.

Organised by the IITH Cycling Club, the event was designed to promote cycling as a simple, sustainable, and accessible fitness activity. Participants had the opportunity to choose between 10 km and 20 km cycling routes, both of which were carefully planned across the campus to ensure safety while offering an enjoyable riding experience.

The event began with energising warm-up sessions, preparing participants for the ride ahead, followed by lively Zumba workouts that added a fun and inclusive dimension to the fitness drive. Beyond cycling, the initiative also included community engagement activities, encouraging people of all age groups to take part and embrace a more active lifestyle.

The programme was formally flagged off by renowned Indian badminton coach Pullela Gopichand, who attended as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Sushant Kandwal, Director of Fit India & Khelo India, and Prof. B.S. Murty, Director of IITH. The presence of Fit India brand ambassadors Chandna Jayaram, Ravi Netha, and Santhana Selvan further added enthusiasm and inspiration to the occasion.

Speaking on the initiative, organisers emphasised that ‘Sundays on Cycle’ aligns closely with the broader vision of the Fit India Movement, which encourages citizens to incorporate fitness into their daily routines through simple practices like cycling, walking, and outdoor activities. The event aimed not only to promote physical well-being but also to foster environmental awareness by encouraging eco-friendly modes of transport.

Participants expressed their excitement and appreciation for the well-organised event, highlighting the sense of community and motivation it generated. Many noted that such initiatives help break the monotony of sedentary lifestyles and inspire people to stay active.

The success of the event underscores the growing awareness and enthusiasm for fitness among people, especially youth. By bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, IITH once again demonstrated its commitment to holistic development—extending beyond academics to include health, wellness, and community building.

With such strong participation and positive feedback, ‘Sundays on Cycle’ stands as a testament to how collective efforts can drive meaningful change, reinforcing the message that a healthier India begins with small, consistent steps taken by individuals every day.