Brands
American Pistachios Growers onboards PV Sindhu as brand ambassador
Mumbai: The India office of American Pistachios Growers (APG) has announced PV Sindhu, one of India’s sports icons, as the brand ambassador for California-grown American pistachios in India in 2023-24 season.
APG Indian representative Sumit Saran said, “We are very delighted and honored to be associated with one of India’s icon, PV Sindhu. Her exceptional achievements have not only brought glory to the nation but have also inspired countless individuals.”
“India is a growth market for American pistachios. India itself does not produce any pistachios. However, as awareness about pistachios and its health benefits increase, we are seeing continuous growth in demand for American pistachios. With PV Sindhu, we are looking to take this information about California pistachio nutrition and health to health conscious consumers across the country,” Saran added.
Speaking on the association, PV Sindhu said, “I am delighted to partner with American Pistachios Growers. As an athlete, maintaining a healthy diet is crucial. Pistachios are a smart choice – they’re protein-rich and offer the right balance of fats for sustained energy. In the world of sports, every detail counts. That’s why I choose California pistachios as they are nutrient-dense and support overall health and performance.”
American pistachios are easily available on all major e-commerce platforms and with major dry fruit retailers across India. Consumers can find them by simply searching or asking for “California pistachios” and choose from the many brands that sell them in India.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
