MAM
Rategain bets big, names Anurag Jain as EVP to lead growth charge in APMEA
MUMBAI: In the high-speed world of travel tech, getting left behind is about as appealing as missing your connecting flight. So, Rategain Travel Technologies has strapped itself firmly into the pilot’s seat by appointing Anurag Jain as its executive vice president for the Asia Pacific, middle east, and Africa (APMEA). With Jain at the helm, Rategain’s aiming to ensure its AI-powered solutions fly higher than ever—no turbulence allowed.
Announced on 20 March 2025, Jain’s appointment signals Rategain’s serious play to turbocharge its growth, partnerships, and market presence. Bringing more than 20 years of heavy-hitting experience, Jain previously transformed businesses at Expedia, Amazon, Johnson & Johnson, and Godrej. At Expedia, he notably drove expansion in south Asia, Indonesia, and China, helping hotels navigate digital mazes to optimise revenue streams.
“Anurag’s extensive experience in travel, e-commerce, and market expansion makes him an invaluable addition to Rategain,” said Rategain founder & MD Bhanu Chopra. “As APMEA continues to see rapid digital adoption and evolving travel trends, his leadership will be crucial in helping our customers maximize revenue, enhance distribution, and stay ahead in a competitive market. We are pleased to welcome him to the team as we further our mission to empower travel and hospitality businesses with AI-driven solutions, achieving unparalleled growth.”
Equally excited, Jain stated, “I am excited to join Rategain at a time when AI-driven innovation is reshaping the travel and hospitality industry. The opportunity to work with industry leaders and bring cutting-edge solutions to hotels, airlines, and OTAs across APMEA is incredibly exciting. I look forward to driving growth, building strategic partnerships, and delivering impact in one of the most dynamic travel markets in the world.”
An enthusiastic traveller himself, Jain enjoys exploring new destinations and is passionate about digital transformation—further proving he’s the right man to pilot Rategain’s next big leap. With Jain onboard, the journey ahead for Rategain promises to be as smooth as a first-class flight, equipped with all the latest tech upgrades.
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.
