MAM
Kaunsal takes centre screen as NMH’s new marketing head
MUMBAI: From customer care cubicles to commanding campaigns Ajit Singh Kaunsal’s journey has come full stream. Kaunsal has been appointed as vice president & head of marketing at New Media Holding (NMH), a move he confirmed via a Linkedin post. In his new role, he will helm the marketing strategy for one of India’s most dynamic digital media ecosystems home to brands like One Digital Entertainment, Blush, Being Indian, Instant Bollywood, and Social Nation, among others.
With over 20 years of experience in media, research, and digital growth, Kaunsal brings a toolkit honed across major media houses. Most recently, he spent five years at MX Player, navigating the platform through intense competition in the OTT space. Before that, he clocked nearly six years at Sony Pictures Networks India, where he shaped digital and analytics strategies for SonyLIV, helping steer its early digital transition.
But it wasn’t all front row from the start. Kaunsal began his career in 2005 as a customer service agent at First Source Pvt. Ltd., before stints at Harapa International and TAM Media Research. That hands-on foundation spanning data, customer experience, and content makes him a uniquely well-rounded fit for a company as multifaceted as NMH.
NMH, with its diverse play across content, creators, and commerce, is at the centre of India’s evolving media zeitgeist. Kaunsal’s appointment signals a sharper focus on marketing leadership as the company scales its brand ecosystem and influence in pop culture and the creator economy.
In a digital-first world where attention is currency, Kaunsal’s brief is clear: keep NMH at the top of feed and mind.
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.
