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  Gaurav Shahane studied architecture in India and specialized in Interior Design and Sustainability at Oxford Brookes University, United Kingdom. He was associated with CEPT University as a Research Architect before founding Orenda Studio in 2017. Inspired by travel and a wide art historical canvas, Gaurav’s work is driven by an uncurbed curiosity to explore materiality and diverse artistic styles from classical to contemporary. Creating modern spaces with an eclectic twist through thoughtful and dynamic designs is his forte.   His designs are a thoughtful outcome of global and local trends in fashion, lifestyle, art, architecture, and history, which have led him to execute a wide-ranging palette of retail spaces, offices, restaurants, and residential projects. He describes his designs as ‘creative and playful.’ HOLY NAILS is a 2,000 sqft nail spa and beauty academy in Baner, Pune, designed by Orenda Studio. This space makes you feel like a Bollywood star once you enter inside. Designed to make clients feel like celebrities, this space speaks luxury in every corner. It contains a pedicure section, a nail art section which is the primary area, and an area dedicated to beauty treatments, while the major half of the area is the academy. Ar. Gaurav believes in making every space he designs aesthetically pleasing and super comfortable. Currently, the studio is working on various luxury interior projects in the hospitality, commercial, and residential sectors in Pune, Mumbai, and Nashik.     Ar. Gaurav Shahane Principal Architect, Orenda Studio [email protected]

  Nestled in the heart of Pune, Mandai stands as a testament to the city’s rich historical and cultural tapestry. Known formally as Mahatma Phule Mandai, this bustling marketplace is more than just a commercial hub; it is a landmark that encapsulates the spirit of Pune’s past, present, and future. For real estate enthusiasts and investors, Mandai offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern potential, making it a focal point for both cultural preservation and contemporary development. Historical Significance Mahatma Phule Mandai was established in 1886 and named after the renowned social reformer Mahatma Jyotirao Phule. The market’s Gothic architecture, characterized by its high arches and intricate stone carvings, reflects the British colonial influence of the era. Originally, it was the primary marketplace for the residents of Pune, supplying fresh produce, grains, and other essential commodities. Over the years, Mandai has witnessed the city’s transformation, standing resilient through the tides of change, from the British Raj to India’s independence and beyond. Architectural Marvel The structure of Mandai is an architectural marvel. Designed by British engineers, it features a central tower that serves as a prominent landmark. The marketplace is constructed with an octagonal layout, allowing for maximum space utilization and ease of access. The blend of European architectural styles with local craftsmanship makes Mandai a unique example of Pune’s colonial architectural heritage. This historical aura is a significant draw for real estate developers and investors who value properties with a storied past. Cultural Hub Mandai is not just a market; it is a cultural hub that brings together diverse communities. The market’s vibrant atmosphere, with vendors selling everything from fresh vegetables to traditional spices and household items, reflects the local culture and traditions. The area around Mandai is also home to several temples and heritage sites, adding to its cultural significance. This cultural richness enhances the appeal of the locality for real estate projects aimed at preserving the historical essence while catering to modern lifestyles.   Real Estate Potential The historical and cultural significance of Mandai makes it a prime location for real estate development. Properties in and around Mandai are highly sought after due to their proximity to key commercial areas, educational institutions, and transportation hubs. The area’s historical value adds a premium to the real estate prices, attracting both domestic and international investors. Modern developments in the vicinity are designed to complement the historical aesthetics of Mandai, ensuring a harmonious blend of old and new.   Preservation and Development One of the critical challenges and opportunities in Mandai is balancing preservation with development. Real estate developers are increasingly focusing on projects that respect the historical integrity of the area while providing modern amenities. This approach not only safeguards the cultural heritage but also enhances the living experience for residents. Initiatives to restore and maintain the historical structures in Mandai are underway, ensuring that the market retains its historical charm while adapting to contemporary needs.   Conclusion Mandai, Pune, is a shining example of how historical significance can enhance real estate value. Its rich history, cultural vibrancy, and architectural splendor make it a unique locale that attracts investors and developers. As Pune continues to grow, Mandai stands as a beacon of the city’s illustrious past, offering a blend of historical preservation and modern development that is truly unparalleled. For those in the real estate market, Mandai is not just a place to invest; it is a place to be part of history.   Chaitanya Rohini Raje Explorer & Associate Director

  Progress and Prospects: PCMC-Nigdi Metro Corridor The PCMC-Nigdi stretch is distinguished by its strategic location and comprehensive development, making it a unique feature within the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation area. This corridor serves as a critical connector between various industrial and residential zones, facilitating seamless movement and accessibility. Key highlights of this stretch include prominent educational institutions such as D.Y. Patil College and Modern College of Engineering, vital transport hubs like the Nigdi Bus Stand, numerous commercial centers and retail outlets, advanced healthcare facilities, recreational areas like Bhakti Shakti Park, well-planned residential complexes, and a vibrant community atmosphere with various cultural events and festivals. The PCMC-Nigdi extension line is a logical extension of the existing Corridor-1 of the Pune Metro Phase-1 Project towards the north and will further improve the share of public transport, increasing ridership. The PCMC-Nigdi metro extension spans 4.413 kilometers and includes four elevated stations: Chinchwad Station, Akurdi Station, Nigdi Station, and Bhakti-Shakti Station. This extension line will cater to: Chinchwad Station – Serving commercial, residential, industrial, and religious places, and integrating with Chinchwad Indian Railway Station. Akurdi Station – Serving residential, educational, and industrial areas. Nigdi & Bhakti-Shakti Stations – Serving residential, entertainment, and religious places, and integrating with the city bus depot connecting semi-urban areas like Dehu, Chikhali, Talegaon, and Vadgaon. The city boasts excellent infrastructure, including well-planned road networks, connectivity via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and public transport options with upcoming metro links. Renowned for its educational institutions and advanced healthcare facilities, PCMC ensures a high quality of life. The city’s commitment to green spaces, eco-friendly initiatives, and cultural diversity, along with ongoing Smart City projects, further enhance its appeal, making it a prime destination for residents, businesses, and investors.   The Government of India sanctioned the project on October 23, 2023, with viaduct and structural work for the stations awarded to RVNL. The Bhoomipoojan was conducted on March 6, 2024. The European Investment Bank has been onboarded, and tree felling/transplantation permission has been granted. Land requirements have been sent to PCMC and private parties. The RVNL team has been mobilized, and geotechnical investigation is in progress. The Design Basis Report has been approved, and detailed design of stations and viaduct is underway. Additionally, the casting yard has been finalized. The Pune Metro Rail Project consists of two corridors: the North-South Corridor (Purple Line) and the East-West Corridor (Aqua Line), with a total length of 33.2 kilometers and 30 stations. The elevated section is 27.2 kilometers, and the underground section is 6 kilometers. There are two maintenance depots, one each at Range Hills and Vanaz. Sections from PCMC to Phugewadi (7 kilometers) and Vanaz to Garware (5 kilometers) were inaugurated by Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi on March 6, 2022. Sections from Phugewadi to Civil Court (6.91 kilometers, 4 stations) and Garware to Ruby Clinic (4.75 kilometers, 7 stations) were inaugurated by Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi on August 1, 2023. On March 6, 2024, the line from Ruby Hall Clinic to Ramwadi (6 kilometers) was inaugurated by Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi.

  From a humble beginning in 2003, a vision emerged within the bustling markets of India. Isha Enterprises began its journey with a three-person team poised to venture into the world of technology. Today, that vision has evolved into R-ISHA Securetech Pvt. Ltd., marking a new chapter in the security technology sector with a promise of innovation and growth. “Isha Enterprises: Resilience and Growth” Since 2003, Isha Enterprises has navigated a path marked by resilience and strategic growth. By 2004, a dedicated team had formed after exploring various professions. A pivotal partnership with ZICOM in 2005 laid the foundation for expansion. Despite a significant property loss in 2006, the team persevered. In 2007, HIKVISION brought a promising start, enhancing security solutions. The year 2008 saw Isha Enterprises embracing projects of all sizes, demonstrating versatility and commitment. Teamwork and expansion marked 2009 with new members and partner holdings. Entering Pune in 2010, the company began distributing Western Digital, strengthening its foothold. Innovative strides were realized with a new office in 2011. Expansion across Maharashtra in 2012 saw the network grow to over 300 dealers. By 2013, distribution reached every corner of the state. Strategic alliances with NETGEAR in 2014 broadened the scope of technology solutions. By 2015, Isha Enterprises expanded its dealer network and inaugurated Isha House. The years 2016-2017 witnessed further expansion into Nashik and Kolhapur, with turnover surpassing 51+ crores. In 2018, the team grew to over 40 members, distributing the Honeywell brand. Success continued in 2019 with turnover doubling to 101+ crores and a Multi-Brand Expo. By 2020, the company built a robust dealer network of 3250+ and enhanced its digital presence with the Ravel brand. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, Isha Enterprises contributed through PLASMA/Blood donations and CSR and collaborated with Prama & Matrix Comsec in 2022 followed by the opening of new branches in 2023, envisioning a 12,000 Sq.Ft. CO-OP office.   A New Beginning: R-ISHA Securetech Pvt. Ltd. In 2024, Isha Enterprises transformed into R-ISHA Securetech Pvt. Ltd., ushering in a new era. This evolution aims to enhance dealer success and foster stronger partnerships, paving the way for a future where safety and technology seamlessly converge. Led by Group MD Mr. Rahul Mutha, R-ISHA Securetech Pvt. Ltd. stands as India’s leading supplier of video surveillance solutions. Known for its comprehensive portfolios in video surveillance, biometric systems, and security accessories, the company boasts a dedicated team committed to customer loyalty and support. Established in 2003, R-ISHA Securetech Pvt. Ltd. maintains a robust presence across Maharashtra and Goa.   Invitation to Builders and Construction Industry Join us in redefining security technology. Our advanced solutions meet modern project requirements, ensuring safety and efficiency. Integrate our surveillance systems, biometric controls, and security solutions to enhance your project’s security infrastructure. Partner with R-ISHA Securetech Pvt. Ltd. for security, innovation, and reliability. Join us in forging new paths to a secure future. Thank you for your trust and being part of our journey. For more information, please visit www.ishacctv.com or contact us at [email protected]. Rahul Mutha CEO & MD, R-ISHA Securetech Pvt. Ltd.

    Ar. Keval Valambhia, COO, CREDAI-MCHI [email protected] / [email protected] +919870985061       With the Union Budget 2024-25 on the horizon, the real estate sector eagerly anticipates the Modi 3.0 regime’s response to its pressing needs. The sector is hopeful for measures to boost the sentiment. The future of the sector hinges on comprehensive infrastructure development to enhance urban living standards and promote new growth areas. The talk in the real estate sector is, ‘will the government finally grant industry status to the entire housing sector? And will it take effective steps to rejuvenate the affordable housing segment, which has been struggling since the pandemic?’ According to research by CREDAI-MCHI, the Indian housing market has shown remarkable resilience in 2024. Housing sales have reached unprecedented levels in the top seven cities, with sales hitting a record 4.93 lakh residential units in FY23-24, and 4.47 lakh units launched. Nevertheless, sustaining this momentum is crucial, especially as the current growth is skewed towards mid-range and premium housing. It is very important to note that the housing needs of India’s lower-income groups cannot be met if the focus remains solely on higher-priced homes, while affordable housing continues to decline. Affordable housing has seen a significant downturn since 2021, dropping from over 26% of the market in 2022 and over 38% in 2019, to approximately 20% in Q1 2024. The share of affordable housing in the overall supply in the top seven cities also plummeted to 18% in Q1 2024, from nearly 40% in 2019. Many incentives for buyers and developers of affordable housing have lapsed in the last two years, exacerbating the issue. High-impact measures such as tax breaks are needed to revitalize this crucial segment. Furthermore, it is suggested that the government reintroduce the 100% tax holiday for affordable housing developers. This benefit, previously available under Section 80-IBA of the Finance Act, 2016, provided significant tax relief on profits from affordable housing projects. Such incentives are crucial to encourage developers to focus on affordable housing. Reviving the Credit-Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is essential. This scheme, which expired in 2022, provided subsidies to first-time buyers of affordable homes and should be reinstated. The CLSS was available for housing loans to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Lower Income Groups (LIG) for new constructions and home improvements. Reintroducing this subsidy will stimulate demand in the affordable housing segment. There is also a pressing need to redefine the criteria for affordable housing to broaden the benefits for home buyers. According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, affordable housing is defined by property size, price, and buyers’ income. Currently, it is described as a house with up to 90 sq. m. of carpet area in non-metropolitan cities and 60 sq. m. in major cities, priced up to Rs 4.5 million. However, these price caps are not viable in many cities. For instance, in Mumbai, a budget of Rs 4.5 million is unrealistic. Even the government-owned MHADA houses start at a threshold of Rs. 6 million The threshold should be increased to at least Rs 8.5 million for Mumbai and Rs 6.0-6.5 million for other major cities. This adjustment would allow more homes to qualify as affordable, enabling buyers to benefit from lower GST rates and government subsidies. By taking a practical viewpoint, I would rather suggest removing the price cap from the definition of affordable housing and declaring all homes under 60 sq m as affordable homes to boost the affordable housing sector in India.  CREDAI-MCHI’s research underscores the urgent need for the government to implement these changes. By addressing these issues, the government can ensure inclusive and holistic development, help Mumbai maintain its economic leadership, and meet the housing needs of an urban population projected to reach 590 million by 2030. The real estate sector stands at a critical juncture, and the upcoming Union Budget provides an opportunity for transformative measures. By adopting these recommendations, the government can foster a more balanced and inclusive housing market, benefiting millions of citizens.   The author is an urban planner and an architect and is the Chief Operating Officer of CREDAI-MCHI and the bravery award winner from the United Kingdom.

  Small Intro of project – (50 words) :-  GERA’s only Pune Metro-connected project, featuring Grade A commercial spaces in the prime location of Pimpri Chinchwad.   Configuration – Office Spaces and Retail Showrooms    Price Bracket –Starting from 70 Lakh up to 4.50 Crore.   Specification: Office Spaces available for startups, doctors, clinics, pathlabs, and multinational companies.   Amenities:- Grade A commercial spaces have all the necessary facilities to enhance your business. We have 5 escalators coupled with direct access paths to the Metro Station. ⁠ Connectivity:   IT: Infosys, TCS, Hinjewadi IT Park.  Manufacturing: JCB, TATA Motors, Force Motors, M&M, Bajaj.  Entertainment: Ozone Mall, Elpro Mall.  Hotels: Corporate hotels nearby include Taj Gateway, DoubleTree by Hilton.   Project Elevation – in drive   QR Scan of project –        P52100030184        P52100030167