News

Hyderabad Emerging as Preferred Destination for GCCs, Says Sridhar Babu

Hyderabad: Telangana is positioning itself as a major global hub for electronics manufacturing by developing a complete end-to-end ecosystem that extends beyond device assembly, IT and Industries Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu said on Saturday.

Speaking during an interaction at the Secretariat, the minister emphasized that electronics manufacturing is a key pillar of the state’s industrial and economic growth.

Congratulating Hyderabad-based Radiant Appliances and Electronics Private Limited for achieving the milestone of manufacturing 10 million television units, he said the accomplishment reflects the growing strength and maturity of Telangana’s industrial sector.

Sridhar Babu noted that the government is focused on creating a comprehensive electronics value chain covering component manufacturing, printed circuit board assembly, semiconductors, and smart devices.

Referring to India’s target of reaching $500 billion in electronics production by 2030, he said Telangana is well placed to make a strong contribution to the national goal.

The minister added that Hyderabad is increasingly attracting global capability centres (GCCs) and major companies due to its highly skilled talent pool, world-class infrastructure, smooth road connectivity with relatively low traffic congestion, and affordable commercial rentals.

He said the state government is strengthening infrastructure, extending policy support, and promoting industry-academia collaborations to build a future-ready workforce and attract high-value, export-oriented investments.

Hyderabad to Get ‘Science City’ with Rs 232.7 Crore Science Experience Centre

Hyderabad: Hyderabad is set to emerge as a major destination for science education and innovation with the development of a new Science City featuring a state-of-the-art Science Experience Centre. The ambitious project will be built at the CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) campus near the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) at an estimated cost of Rs 232.70 crore.

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy shared the first look of the proposed building designs on social media platform X, describing the initiative as a transformative step in Hyderabad’s scientific journey.

According to the Minister, the Science Experience Centre will offer a wide range of interactive and immersive attractions designed to make learning science more engaging and accessible for students, families, and visitors.

Key Attractions of the Science Experience Centre

The upcoming facility will include:

Interactive Exhibition Halls with hands-on science displays
Motion Simulators demonstrating concepts of physics and aeronautics
Walk-through Aquarium showcasing marine ecosystems
3D Digital Dome Theatre with immersive astronomy and space visuals
Dedicated Astronomy & Space Science Galleries
Advanced Robotics Centre for workshops and demonstrations
Innovation Hubs & Activity Zones for students and young creators

Promoting Scientific Innovation

The larger Science City project aims to move beyond traditional classroom education by offering experiential learning opportunities through real-world applications and modern technology.

Officials believe the centre will inspire curiosity among young minds, encourage scientific thinking, and strengthen Hyderabad’s reputation as a hub for research, innovation, and technology.

Boost for Telangana Youth

Once completed, the world-class facility is expected to become a landmark destination for education and tourism, while providing students across Telangana access to practical learning experiences in science, robotics, and emerging technologies.

The project reflects the Government of India’s broader vision to promote scientific temper and innovation-led growth across the country.

Hyderabad Police Launch ‘She Netra’ Teams to Detect Hidden Cameras, Strengthen Women’s Safety

Hyderabad Police Launch ‘She Netra’ Teams to Detect Hidden Cameras, Strengthen Women’s Safety

In a major initiative aimed at enhancing women’s safety and protecting personal privacy, the Hyderabad City Police have launched specialized ‘She Netra’ teams to identify and curb the misuse of hidden cameras in public and private spaces across the city.

The initiative was formally introduced by Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand and senior officials, marking a proactive move to address growing concerns over unlawful surveillance and privacy violations.

According to officials, seven dedicated She Netra teams have been deployed initially. These teams are equipped with advanced technology to detect concealed cameras installed in locations such as hotels, hostels, paying guest accommodations, changing rooms, washrooms, and other sensitive areas.

The police said the teams will carry out regular inspections, surprise raids, and complaint-based checks to ensure that establishments comply with privacy and safety norms.

Speaking on the occasion, officials emphasized that the department is combining modern surveillance-detection tools with strong field enforcement to create safer environments for women and the general public.

Authorities also warned that strict legal action will be taken against individuals or organizations found installing or using hidden cameras illegally.

As part of the new safety framework, businesses and institutions have been instructed to strengthen internal monitoring systems, conduct periodic inspections, and immediately report suspicious devices or privacy breaches to the police.

The Hyderabad City Police urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any concerns, stating that the She Netra initiative reflects the department’s commitment to safeguarding dignity, privacy, and security in urban spaces.

Major Milestone for IIT Hyderabad

The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) has appointed Dr. G Satheesh Reddy, former Chairman of DRDO and former Secretary, Department of Defence R&D, Government of India, as Honorary Advisor (R&D), marking a significant step in strengthening the institute’s research and innovation ecosystem.

Dr. G Satheesh Reddy is widely recognized as one of India’s most accomplished scientific leaders in Defence and Aerospace technologies. Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in advancing India’s strategic capabilities through his leadership at DRDO, his service as Scientific Adviser to the Defence Minister, and as a Member of the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB).

Welcoming the appointment, IIT Hyderabad leadership stated that Dr. Reddy’s visionary guidance and vast experience in national R&D will greatly benefit the institution. His expertise is expected to help accelerate research excellence, industry collaboration, and innovation-driven growth.

With this association, IIT Hyderabad aims to further strengthen its capabilities in strategic sectors such as Defence, Aerospace, Advanced Manufacturing, Artificial Intelligence, and Deep-tech research, while also creating new opportunities for students, faculty, startups, and industry partnerships.

Established in 2008, IIT Hyderabad has rapidly emerged as one of India’s top higher education institutions. In a short span of 17+ years, the institute has earned a strong reputation in academics, cutting-edge research, technology development, entrepreneurship, and startup incubation.

In the NIRF 2025 rankings, IITH secured 7th position among Engineering institutions and ranked 6th in Innovation, while consistently maintaining its place among the country’s top engineering institutes.

The appointment of Dr. G Satheesh Reddy is seen as another major step in IIT Hyderabad’s mission to become a globally competitive hub for education, advanced research, and transformative innovation.

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.

SRH vs LSG IPL 2026: Shami’s Magic & Pant’s Ice-Cool Finish Steal Thriller in Hyderabad

First, a confession

I was this close to turning off the TV when SRH were 35/4 inside 10 overs.
Abhishek Sharma – golden duck. Travis Head – gone. Ishan Kishan – bowled first ball. Liam Livingstone – struggling like a fish out of water.

It felt like a funeral at Uppal Stadium.

But then… Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy happened.

The Recovery That Gave Us Hope

These two didn’t just bat. They fought.
116 runs together. Seven sixes. Eight fours. And just like that, SRH went from “dead and buried” to 156/9 – a total that suddenly looked defendable.

Klaasen’s 62 off 41? Pure class.
Reddy’s 56 off 33? Future star written all over it.

But cricket is a cruel mistress. Just when we thought SRH would cross 180, Avesh Khan pulled off a double-wicket over, and Prince Yadav bowled a tight final over. Game on.

Then Came Shami’s Masterclass

Chasing 157, LSG needed a solid start. But the real story was Mohammed Shami’s opening spell:

4 overs
9 runs
2 wickets
18 dot balls

That’s not bowling. That’s suffocation.
He sent Abhishek and Head back to the pavilion like they were his personal guests. The man was on a hat-trick at one point. Vintage Shami. 🐐

But Pant Had Other Plans

Rishabh Pant walked in at No. 3, and for a while, he looked rusty. Struggled. Pushed and prodded. But that’s the thing about Pant – he never panics.

Wickets fell around him: Marsh (14), Markram (45), Pooran (1), Badoni (12), Samad (16).
But Pant? Cool as a cucumber.

And then… the final over.

Needing a few runs, Pant smashed three boundaries in the last over, finishing with a winning four that sent the LSG dugout into a frenzy. 160/5 in 19.5 overs. Five-wicket win. First victory of the season for LSG.

My Favorite Moment (Not Just the Finish)

Honestly? It was that run-out of Nicholas Pooran for 1 run.
Ishan Kishan, behind the stumps, reacted like a cobra – broke the stumps in a flash. For a moment, SRH fans (including me) thought: this is our game.

But Pant said: Nahi, aaj nahi.

🔥 Three Things That Won LSG the Match

Shami’s powerplay dominance – 18 dots is illegal. Someone check his bowling arm.
Pant’s composure – Didn’t try to be a hero until the very end.
Death bowling – Avesh & Prince Yadav pulled SRH back from 140/4 to 156/9.

💔 Three Things That Hurt SRH

Top-order collapse – 35/4 at home is unforgivable.
Missed run-out chances – Pant survived a close call early.
No Pat Cummins – His presence in crunch overs was missed.

🧠Final Verdict

This wasn’t just a match. It was a masterclass in two halves:

First half: Shami’s swing and seam.
Second half: Pant’s ice-cool veins.

SRH fans, don’t lose heart. Klaasen and Reddy showed you have the middle order. Just fix that top order fast.

LSG fans? You just found your season’s template. Shami + Pant = wins.

And me? I’m just grateful for Sunday evening cricket like this.

📢 Over to You, Reader

Were you cheering for Pant or crying with SRH?
Is Shami still India’s best T20 pacer?
Should Ishan Kishan open or come at No. 3?

Comment below – let’s fight like cricket fans do. 👇

Little Hero Wins Best Volunteer at ASWA Blood Donation Camp Hyderabad – 57th Camp Story

Some days, the internet throws you a news story about a gold medal.
Other days, someone sends you photos from a blood donation camp that make you stop scrolling.

Today was the second kind.

I came across ASWA’s 57th Blood Donation Camp in SR Nagar, Hyderabad. And honestly? I wasn’t ready for the one photo that stole my heart.

A Little Hero of Compassion

There’s a picture of a young boy – probably not even a teenager – standing proudly with a “Best Volunteer of the Day” paper in his hands. No stethoscope. No uniform. Just a smile that says:

“I helped. And that matters.”

The caption on the image says it perfectly:
“Not all heroes donate blood… Some serve with love, care, and a smile.”

And that hit me.
Because we spend so much time talking about big achievements – gold medals, rankings, trophies – that we forget:
Compassion is also a skill. And this kid just won gold in it.

What ASWA Did Right

ASWA (Love all – Serve all) organized their 57th Blood Donation Camp on 5th April 2026. Fifty-seven camps. Let that sink in. That’s not an event – that’s a movement.

The other image shows a beautiful, simple line:
“Selfless heroes turning compassion into life.”

That’s not a tagline. That’s a truth.

Every person who rolled up their sleeve that day – and every young volunteer who handed out water, guided donors, or simply smiled at someone nervous – they turned compassion into life.

Why This Matters for You & Me

You don’t have to wait for a big stage like IndiaSkills to be a hero.
You don’t need a medal from the government.

You just need to show up.
At a local camp. In your colony. With a glass of water and a kind word.

That boy in the photo? He’ll remember this day longer than any video game win.
And so will the person whose life gets saved because someone donated – because someone served.

A Small Request to You, Reader

Next time you see a blood donation camp near you:

Donate if you can
Volunteer if you can’t
Clap for the little heroes if nothing else

And if you’re from Hyderabad – especially SR Nagar – keep an eye on ASWA.
Fifty-seven camps mean they’re not stopping anytime soon. ❤️

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.