7, Oct 2025
Simplismart and Yotta Partner to Deliver the Next Generation of AI Infrastructure for Indian Enterprises with Shakti Studio

Bengaluru, October 7, 2025 — Simplismart, an Accel-backed company building the fastest MLOps platform for AI workloads, has announced a strategic partnership with Yotta, India’s leading data services provider and NVIDIA Cloud Partner. The collaboration combines Simplismart’s industry-leading inference technology with Yotta’s sovereign GPU cloud infrastructure to power the serverless inference engine behind Yotta’s Shakti Studio, India’s homegrown inference platform for enterprise-scale generative AI.

The partnership marks a significant milestone in India’s AI infrastructure landscape. Simplismart’s ultra-fast, inference-first platform forms the foundation of Shakti Studio’s serverless inference layer, delivering real-time performance, record pod spin-up times, and ultra-low latency even for the largest large language models (LLMs).   Yotta,   through its   Shakti   Cloud AI platform,   contributes high-performance   GPU infrastructure, reliability, and enterprise-grade security, enabling organisations to deploy and scale open-source models within India’s sovereign cloud environment.

“At Simplismart, we’ve always believed that the future of AI depends not just on how powerful models become, but on how easily and responsibly they can be deployed in the real world,” said Amritanshu Jain, CEO and Co-founder, Simplismart. “Enterprises shouldn’t have to choose between performance, security, or sovereignty — they deserve all three. Our partnership with Yotta bridges that gap by pairing India’s most advanced inference platform with sovereign GPU infrastructure. Together, we’re building the foundation for a future where AI is faster, more efficient, and truly made for India  enabling every organisation to turn powerful models into practical, real-time impact.”

“With Shakti Studio, we’re bringing the full power of India’s sovereign AI infrastructure to life,” said Sunil Gupta, Co-Founder, MD, & CEO, Yotta Data Service. “By combining Yotta’s Shakti Cloud with Simplismart’s inference technology, we’re enabling enterprises to deploy generative AI at unprecedented speed and scale — securely, locally, and responsibly. This is India’s AI future, built in India, for the world.”

This collaboration is designed to empower Indian enterprises and government organisations with access to locally hosted, production-grade generative AI solutions. By combining Simplismart’s proprietary inference IP and orchestration platform with Yotta’s GPU-backed Shakti Studio & Shakti Cloud, the two companies are setting new benchmarks in scalability, sovereignty, and performance for AI infrastructure in India.

7, Oct 2025
Galgotias Students Secure INR 22 LPA Dream Package at Cisco

Greater Noida, 07 October 2025: For Jai Sindhu and Anushka Raj, final-year B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering students (Batch 2021–2025) at Galgotias University, landing a prestigious role at Cisco with an impressive ₹22 LPA package demonstrates the culmination of passion, preparation, and perseverance. Their journey showcases how an ecosystem built on innovation and experiential learning can empower students to achieve extraordinary results.

Galgotias Students Secure ₹22 LPA Dream Package at Cisco

Turning Curiosity into Career Success

From their first semester, both Jai and Anushka were fascinated by how networks and systems keep the world connected. Choosing Computer Science at Galgotias was not just about earning a degree, it was about turning their curiosity into opportunity. Through projects, teamwork, and practical learning, they gained the skills and confidence to think beyond books and solve real-world problems like true engineers.

Cisco Centre of Excellence: Bridging Academia and Industry

A key catalyst in their journey was the Cisco Centre of Excellence (COE) at Galgotias University, a collaborative initiative with Cisco Systems that provides students access to advanced training in networking and digital technologies.

This centre helps students gain hands-on exposure to Cisco-certified tools and programs, participate in innovation-driven projects, and earn globally recognized certifications. The COE serves as a bridge between classroom concepts and industry practices, enabling students like Jai and Anushka to align their skills with real-world demands and stand out in competitive placement drives.

Where Learning Meets Application

Galgotias University’s strong focus on Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA), hands-on coding labs, and industry-aligned hackathons played a defining role in shaping their technical edge. Regular coding bootcamps and mock technical interviews helped them hone not only their programming proficiency but also their strategic approach to problem-solving.

The university’s emphasis on practical learning and mentorship gave us the right foundation to tackle real-world challenges,” shares Anushka. “Every project pushed us to go a step further to think deeper, and build smarter.”

Mentorship, Preparation, and Momentum

From early placement guidance to rigorous mock sessions, Galgotias ensured that students were not just job-ready but industry-ready. Faculty mentors offered individualized feedback, ensuring that both technical and communication skills grew in tandem.

For Jai, these structured touchpoints made all the difference. “Continuous mentorship and exposure to competitive coding culture gave me the clarity and confidence to perform under pressure,” he says.

Shaping Future Innovators

Their success at Cisco reflects more than just personal achievement, it’s a testament to Galgotias University’s mission of nurturing global tech talent ready to lead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

At Galgotias University, we are committed to transforming potential into performance through world-class academic excellence and industry collaboration,” said Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University.

By blending strong academic foundations with real-world exposure and sustained institutional support, Galgotias continues to be a launchpad for future innovators, students who don’t just adapt to technology, but shape it.

7, Oct 2025
Wacoal India Reaffirms Commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness with CPAA in 4th Edition of #WacoalKnowsBreast

Wacoal India Reaffirms its commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness with CPAA in the 4th Edition of #WacoalKnowsBreast Initiative

India, 7th October 2025: Wacoal, the premium lingerie brand from Japan, continues its enduring commitment to breast cancer awareness through the 4th edition of its flagship initiative, #WacoalKnowsBreast, in partnership with the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA). CPAA is a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to ‘Total Management of Cancer’, which encompasses Awareness, Early Detection, Support for treatment, Guidance and Counseling, Rehabilitation, Research Studies and Advocacy. 

Wacoal_Breast Cancer Awareness (2)

This year, the initiative is amplified through the #WacoalKnowsBreast social media campaign designed to encourage regular self-checks, debunk myths, and make conversations around breast health more accessible for women across India. 

As part of the initiative, a portion of proceeds from every bra purchased in October will go towards supporting CPAA’s breast cancer programs. To further symbolize their commitment, Wacoal India will once again spotlight the 3-finger salute, a symbolic gesture where one places their right hand on their left chest and forms the number 3 with their fingers. This represents a self-check test that individuals can perform to check their breasts for lumps while also embodying the alphabet ‘W’ for Wacoal. 

Ms. Pooja Merani, COO-Wacoal India, expressed her thoughts on the initiative, stating, “Breast cancer is one of the most pressing health concerns for women today, but the power of early detection cannot be overstated. At Wacoal, we are committed to going beyond being a lingerie brand, we want to be a partner in women’s well-being. Through this partnership with CPAA and the #WacoalKnowsBreast campaign, we aim to not only spread awareness but also ensure that women feel supported in their journey towards health and confidence. We hope to make a considerable impact in this area and make it accessible to all women in need.”

Ms. Alka Bisen, CEO of the Cancer Patients Aid Association shared her perspective on the collaboration with Wacoal: “Breast cancer continues to be one of the most significant health challenges for women, and the key to overcoming it lies in awareness and early detection. Through our partnership with Wacoal, we are able to amplify this message, encourage regular self-checks, and provide timely support to those affected. Together, we want to create an environment where women feel informed, empowered, and unafraid to prioritize their health.”

The social media campaign also addresses a common misconception: that eating healthy and staying active alone can safeguard women from breast cancer. By reinforcing that anyone can be at risk, Wacoal positions the simple 3-finger test as a routine practice that every woman can easily incorporate into her daily life. Through these conversations, Wacoal seeks to break taboos, promote early detection, and inspire women across India to take proactive steps toward health, ultimately leading to healthier futures for women across India.

7, Oct 2025
UGRO Capital Launches UtsavKiUdaan with Business Lakshmi Mantra

Chennai, October 7th, 2025: Diwali in India is a season of light and prosperity. But for small businesses, the festival begins much earlier, in the stockrooms where shelves are filled weeks in advance, in the ledgers where cash flows are balanced late into the night, and in the hope that this season will bring growth, not just celebration. It is this reality that UGRO Capital has chosen to spotlight with its festive campaign, #UtsavKiUdaan. At the heart of the initiative are the Business Lakshmi Mantras, a 10-point practical checklist for MSMEs to prepare fully for the surge. From early planning and cashflow discipline to stocking smart, digital readiness, and customer relationships, these mantras are designed as a festive playbook that small businesses can carry forward well beyond Diwali.

Utsav Ki Udaan - UGRO Capital

The campaign is rooted in research. In a recent readiness poll conducted across platforms by UGRO Capital, nearly 80 percent of MSMEs revealed that they begin preparing one to three months in advance, and over 73 percent said they plan their festive budgets in detail. Funds, not demand, emerged as the single biggest challenge, with over 60 percent citing liquidity as their primary bottleneck. At the same time, more than 90 percent admitted to analysing last year’s performance before planning for this one. These insights confirm a truth UGRO has long believed in – MSMEs are far more disciplined and forward-looking than they are often given credit for.

The Business Lakshmi Mantras were unveiled through an exclusive digital campaign and a podcast conversation between UGRO Capital’s Founder & Managing Director, Shachindra Nath and host Salil Acharya, blending festive spirit with business insight. The Business Lakshmi Mantras booklet, available in seven languages (English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu and Kannada) will reach over three lakh MSMEs directly via WhatsApp and email. The campaign is further amplified through influencer unveilings with a combined reach of 1.5 million, reels under the theme “Main Diwali Ready Hoon” showcasing real entrepreneurs, and a presence in Dainik Jagran and iNext to reach MSME hubs across Bharat. In all, UGRO expects to touch the lives of over two million people this festive season.

Speaking on the launch, Shachindra Nath, Founder & Managing Director, UGRO Capital, said,“Every Diwali, India’s homes light up with diyas but for MSMEs, the real light comes from preparation. If MSME Accha Hai was about recognition, and Bharosa MSME Par was about trust, then #UtsavKiUdaan is about readiness. Prosperity doesn’t arrive by chance; it is created step by step, and UGRO’s role is to stand beside MSMEs in that journey.”

Adding to this, Ankit Chothani, Head – Marketing & Corporate Communications, UGRO Capital, said, “With #UtsavKiUdaan and the Business Lakshmi Mantras, we wanted to give MSMEs more than festive greetings, a toolkit they can act on. By distributing it in seven languages, amplifying through influencers, and engaging three lakh businesses directly, we hope to make readiness the new definition of prosperity. This campaign is not just a celebration; it is a movement to equip MSMEs to take their Udaan.”

This campaign continues UGRO Capital’s brand journey from recognition through #MSMEAcchaHai, to trust with #BharosaMSMEPar, and now to readiness and prosperity with #UtsavKiUdaan. More than a festive greeting, it is a movement that puts MSMEs at the centre of India’s growth story, giving them not only capital but also the confidence to take flight this Diwali and beyond.

7, Oct 2025
QWR and Kaynes Tech to Build India’s First Waveguide & XR Device Manufacturing Hub

QWR and Kaynes Technology Announce Strategic Partnership to Build India’s First Integrated Waveguide & XR Device Manufacturing Hub

Pan India, October 7, 2025 – QWR Interactive Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (QWR), India’s pioneering deep-tech XR and AI wearables company, and Kaynes Technology India Ltd. (Kaynes), leader in Electronics System Design & Manufacturing (ESDM), today announced a strategic partnership to co-develop and manufacture the next generation of head-worn computers (XR Devices) and smart glasses in India.

Suraj Aiar (CEO - QWR) & Ramesh Kunhikannan - (Chairman and Managing Director of Kaynes Technology)

The collaboration marks a first-of-its-kind fusion of Independent Design House (IDH) expertise and world-class EMS capabilities, designed to localize critical technologies such as waveguide optics, AI-integrated AR/VR headsets, and smart glasses components. Together, QWR and Kaynes aim to build the only end-to-end XR manufacturing ecosystem outside of China, redefining the global XR landscape from India

Key Highlights of the Partnership

  • Strategic IDH-EMS Collaboration: QWR will serve as the IDH and ODM partner, contributing proprietary IP, manufacturing SOP, Industrial and Mechanical Designs, CMF R&D, calibration protocols, and product designs (VRone Pro, VRone Edu, HUMBL AI Glasses). Kaynes will scale manufacturing with new SMT and Optical calibration lines in India. 
  • Job Creation & Skill Development: The partnership will create 1,000+ skilled jobs by 2027, addressing India’s ESDM talent gap while training engineers to design and build next-generation XR and AI-powered computing devices. 
  • Global Competitiveness: Kaynes, in partnership with QWR is also planning to collaborate on waveguide optics, reducing reliance on imported components by 40–50%, positioning India as a global XR export hub. 
  • Strategic Market Impact: By localizing critical technologies, the partnership strengthens India’s ability to serve defense, education, enterprise, and consumer sectors, positioning the country as a hub for innovation, production, and export in AR/VR devices. 

Suraj Aiar, Founder & CEO, QWR said,“With Kaynes, we’re building deep-tech infrastructure that fuses design, waveguides, and device manufacturing – giving India full-stack ownership of the XR value chain. It’s a declaration: India will no longer be an afterthought in the future of computing. By integrating these critical layers under one roof, we’re positioning India to lead in a global XR market.”

Himanshu Verma [AI/XR BU Head @Kaynes] Kaynes Technology added:“We’re proud to partner with QWR to bring advanced optics and spatial computing devices to industrial scale. This collaboration enables global-grade hardware to be built in India while also training a new generation of engineers and technicians in frontier technologies.”

Long-Term Impact

The partnership will roll out in multiple phases:

  1. Immediate Manufacturing: AR/VR headsets and waveguides to meet domestic and global demand.
  2. Expansion into AI-Powered Smart Glasses: Serving defense, education, enterprise training, and industrial applications.
  3. Co-Innovation Programs: Developing next-generation XR components from sensors to holographic displays and pushing India to the forefront of XR research and manufacturing.

With strong government support for ESDM and XR, and a global AR/VR market projected to surpass $150 billion by 2030, the QWR–Kaynes collaboration represents a defining leap for India’s role in the global XR technology landscape, driving innovation, exports, and workforce development simultaneously.

7, Oct 2025
Imarticus Learning Launches ISFB, India’s First School of Finance & Business

Mumbai, 07 October 2025: Imarticus Learning, India’s leading professional education company, today announced the launch of the Imarticus School of Finance & Business (ISFB), the country’s first dedicated institution focused on bridging the persistent quality gap in finance education. Backed by a ₹25 crore venture fund in partnership with BLinC Invest, ISFB will empower entrepreneurial students with seed capital from day one to build and scale their ventures. For aspirants aiming for global B-schools, ISFB’s collaboration with Ambitio opens pathways to elite institutions such as NYU, Cambridge, MIT, and Carnegie Mellon, leveraging AI-powered admissions tools and mentorship from top admissions experts.

India produces over one million commerce graduates every year, yet less than 10 percent transition into sector-relevant finance roles. The issue is not supply, but quality. Recruiters consistently report that only one in ten candidates they meet is job-ready, with over 80 percent lacking the applied skills employers demand. Outdated curricula, rote-led education, and limited exposure to global practices have left graduates holding degrees but not careers. This is happening at a time when demand for finance talent is set to touch 16 million new jobs by 2030 across banking, investment, insurance, asset management, and fintech. Globally, finance education is racing ahead, embedding AI, fintech, and ESG at its core, while India lags.

ISFB has been established to close this gap by creating an institution where finance education is not just theoretical, but applied, practical, and benchmarked against international standards.

At the heart of ISFB is its proprietary R.E.A.L. pedagogy (Reflect, Experience, Apply, Learn), a framework where academic depth and industry exposure constantly reinforce each other. Reflection happens in classrooms led by industry leaders, where students examine real-world problems and decision frameworks. Experience comes through global and domestic immersions such as a week in Singapore with SP Jain School of Global Management, bootcamps at IIM Visakhapatnam, and grassroots finance explorations through the Explore India Mission. Application is built into the journey with M&A negotiations, Big4-led competitions, and simulation-driven trading labs that pressure test every concept. Learning is anchored throughout by academic leaders from IIMs, ISB, Ivy League schools, and leading economists, ensuring every concept is grounded in research and rigor.

The School launches with a three-year Bachelors in Finance & Business and will soon add an 11-month PG in Global Finance & AI. Both programmes are structured to deliver deep specialisations in fintech, financial analysis, and global accounting, with integrated CFA and ACCA pathways.

Industry integration is a defining feature of ISFB. Partnerships with Ambit (Investment Banking), Motilal Oswal (Asset & Wealth Management), and Cognizant (Digital Finance & AI) ensure students graduate with the exact skills employers demand.

Under the leadership of Joy Parekh, CEO of the Imarticus School of Finance and Business (ISFB), the institution is guided by a distinguished Advisory Council, chaired by Nikhil Barshikar (Founder & CEO, Imarticus Learning), and co-chaired by Ajay Srinivasan (Financial Services Veteran). Council brings together leaders such as Ajay Rajan (Country Head of Transaction Banking and New Economy Business, Yes Bank), Ravindra Pandey (Dy MD & CIO, State Bank of India), Garima Batra (MD and Partner, BCG), , Vikas Khattar (MD, Ambit), Dr. Avantika Tomar (Partner, EY Parthenon), Rajat Mathur (ex-MD, Morgan Stanley), along with policy experts, fintech innovators, and global academic leaders.

Beyond academics, ISFB equips students with career pathways at a scale rarely seen in Indian education. Preparation is shaped by 200+ industry experts who bring the boardroom into the classroom, and a hiring network of 1,000+ companies that translates training into real jobs. AI-driven mock interviews and masterclasses ensure graduates are job-wanted, not just job-ready. Structured internships with BFSI firms, fintechs, VC funds, and startup incubators give learners hands-on experience that often converts into full-time roles. Mentorship is woven into the journey, with 15+ personal mentors and access to an active alumni community that includes leaders at Goldman Sachs, PwC, and BlackRock. A ₹25 crore venture fund with BLinC Invest supports entrepreneurial ambitions, providing seed capital for student-led startups from day one. And for those who dream of attending global B-schools, ISFB’s partnership with Ambitio opens pathways to elite institutions such as NYU, Cambridge, MIT, and Carnegie Mellon, with AI-powered admissions tools and mentorship from top admissions officers.

The credibility of ISFB is rooted in Imarticus Learning’s decade-long legacy in finance education, having trained over 7,50,000 learners, placed 50,000+ professionals into Fortune 500 companies, and powered by a network of 3,500 hiring partners worldwide. Today, one in five investment bankers in India is an Imarticus alumnus. This placement record and employer trust provide ISFB with a strong foundation that few institutions can claim.

The campus, located at Hiranandani Knowledge Park, Powai, Mumbai, places students at the heart of India’s financial capital, surrounded by banks, fintechs, regulators, and investors. With smart classrooms, simulation labs, deal studios, ESG forums, and fintech clubs, the campus is designed to provide not only academic learning but also a professional environment that supports innovation and leadership.

Nikhil Barshikar, Founder of Imarticus Learning and Chairman of the Advisory Council, ISFB, said: “India doesn’t suffer from a shortage of graduates. It suffers from a shortage of graduates who are prepared for the future of finance. Outdated curricula and degree-led education no longer serve the needs of an industry that AI, digital lending, ESG, and globalisation are reshaping. ISFB has been created to address this gap. We’ve built an institution where practice is as important as theory, where global exposure is integral, and where industry sits inside the classroom. Our vision is simple: to give students a launchpad into careers that are globally relevant, future-focused, and real-world ready.”

Ajay Srinivasan( Executive and former CEO of Aditya Birla Capital Ltd), Co-Chair of ISFB’s Advisory Council, added: “Having spent over three decades helping to build large financial institutions, I know how critical talent is to driving and sustaining growth. ISFB is a bold response to a gap that exists. By bringing together top talent from academia and industry, it aims to create a new generation of professionals who can help shape the future of finance, both in India and on the world stage.”

With its cutting-edge pedagogy, strong industry partnerships, and the credibility of Imarticus’ legacy, ISFB represents a new chapter in higher education. More than a school, it is an institution built to prepare India’s next generation of finance professionals for the opportunities ahead.

7, Oct 2025
TOTO India Expands Premium Collection with Wellness-Driven Showers and Sleek Faucets

India, 7th October 2025 – TOTO has unveiled its new G Shower and L Shower series, along with an expanded range of GT, LH and Pull-Out lavatory faucets for the Indian market. Staying true to TOTO’s philosophy of Weaving together spaces that are beautiful and comfortable, and experiences that are pleasant the new collection combines advanced technology, refined aesthetics, and everyday comfort.

TOTO_Faucets2

The New G Shower series offer the 3Rs of showering experiences: Relaxing, Refreshing and Revitalizing. Its innovative spray modes include the newly designed Calming Shawl, where spray holes are arranged in an arc to create a shawl-like water flow that gently envelops the body while keeping hair and face dry. It also features a Warm Spa technology that raises body temperature for a soothing full-body warmth. With three overhead spray modes-CALMING SHAWL, COMFORT WAVE, INTENSE WAVE and four hand-shower spray modes- WARM SPA, COMFORT WAVE, MIST SPA , INTENSE WAVE, and availability in eight elegant finishes.

The New G Shower is designed to deliver a premium bathing experience with innovative spray modes.It focuses on relaxation, personalization, and wellness. Its Thermostat Interface feature large, easy-to-press buttons and ridged dials for comfort and accessibility, while Safety Thermo technology ensures quicker and more stable temperature control for safer bathing. The L Shower, introduced as a complementary offering, is designed for ease of use across all age groups. 

Completing the launch, TOTO expands its faucet portfolio with the GT and LH series as well as a new Pull-Out lavatory faucet. The GT series emphasizes thinner, lighter, and noiseless design innovations, while the LH series offers harmonized styling with sleek, modern aesthetics. The Pull-Out lavatory faucet brings everyday convenience with extended flexibility, featuring an easy-to-use pull-out hose for effortless bowl cleaning, a smooth and light-operating handle suitable for children, and a durable five-layer construction that resists scratches and corrosion to maintain long-lasting beauty

The new portfolio reflects TOTO’s Premium Value, offering affordability while maintaining superior technology and finish quality. Each product showcases Japanese Craftsmanship, with carefully designed elements that prioritize comfort, beauty, and durability, setting new standards in aesthetics. Furthermore, the collections ensure Seamless Integration, being compatible with TOTO’s existing showers and faucets to enable easy upgrades and tailored solutions for consumers.

“Everyday rituals are an important part of how people experience comfort and wellbeing. With our new G Shower, L Shower, and faucet collections, we have combined thoughtful design with advanced innovation to meet the needs of Indian consumers,” said Mr. Shiozawa Kazuyuki, Managing Director, TOTO India. “Our design concept was Human Approach. We aimed to create solutions that are closely attuned to people’s lives. With these launches, TOTO continues to reinforce its commitment to blending functionality, style, and human-centric innovation in the bathroom space.”

7, Oct 2025
Global Women Trade Summit 2025: Women as Catalysts for Global Trade & Economic Growth

IWFCI Mumbai

Mumbai India, October 7th, 2025- The International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry (IWFCI – India National Chapter) successfully hosted the “Global Women Trade Summit (GWTS 2025)” — a four-day celebration of women’s leadership in trade, technology, and innovation from 3rd to 6th October 2026. The summit brought together 30 delegates from 11 countries, including the USA, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Uzbekistan, alongside India’s leading entrepreneurs and educators.

Day 1 began with a vibrant B2B Meet at the World Trade Centre, Cuffe Parade Mumbai, where more than 150 Indian entrepreneurs networked with international delegates, exploring partnerships and trade opportunities. Day 2 marked the official inauguration of GWTS 2025, where promising speeches were delivered by the Chief Guest, Dr. Vijay Kalantri, President-World Trade Center, Ms. Sunit Rajan MD- APAC Media Sales & Marketing, Bloomberg Media, Ms. Diana Abruzzi – Founder & International Chair IWFCI and Dr. Daphne Pillai, Founder President – IWFCI, India on the theme of the summit, “Women as Catalysts of Global Trade.” At the first panel discussion “INDIA – Advantages and Opportunities for Trade and Commerce” moderated by Dr. Rema Ramchandran, Director IWFCI-India, trail blazers of the corporate sector, Ms. Bhavana Bindra, Board member- Radiance, Kennametal India, Ms. Geetha Nerurkar, Founder and CEO, Maxim Global Resources Pvt Ltd and Ms. Pallavi Gill, CEO, RCMPA Polishing Technologies Pvt. Ltd. shared their thoughts around India’s evolving trade landscape and emerging global opportunities.

In the second panel discussion “The Power of Collaboration: Women Leaders Driving Sustainable Businesses” moderated by Ms. Ann Rapheal, Oil & Gas Consultant, inspiring leaders Ms. Jayati Chakraborty, Managing Director, Hapag-Lloyd AG, Dr Mita Dixit, Co-founder, Equations Advisors Pvt. Ltd. and Ms. Metilda Stanley, MD – Techsurance Private Limited shared real-world strategies and powerful stories of collaboration that are shaping the future of sustainable businesses. The day ended with a workshop on “Creating an authentic brand in the world of AI” where brand expert Ms. Parinita Adukia shared practical strategies and valuable tips that enabled leaders to reflect, refine, and strengthen one’s own personal brand.

On Day 3, a panel on “Emerging Opportunities for Women in Technology, Innovation & Global Trade” moderated by Geetanjali Bhattacharji, Founder CEO, Glassbox Venture spotlighted the opinions of Ms. Priyanka Swain, Director of Engineering – Tally Solutions Pvt Ltd, Ms. Sonali Nimkar, Director (Data Science & AI) – Capgemini and Anil Nair, Co-Founder, DeepSpot.AI, on the importance of mentorship and breaking barriers in the field of technology. A key highlight was the session on “Empowered Women, Empowered Economies,” featuring IWFCI Presidents who showcased the opportunities of their respective nations, opening doors for collaboration.

7, Oct 2025
Panasonic Selects 11 Startups for Third Cohort of ‘Panasonic Ignition’ Accelerator Program

Panasonic selects 11 startups as part of the Third cohort of “PANASONIC IGNITION” Corporate Accelerator Program

New Delhi, 7th October 2025: Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), a leading diversified technology company, and Panasonic Corporation (PC) announced 11 start-ups shortlisted from over 113 entries for the third edition of the “Panasonic Ignition” challenge. Panasonic Ignition Challenge is a corporate innovation accelerator programme, launched in association with Beyond Next Ventures, aimed at transforming residential living through scalable, tech-driven solutions, aligned with long-term impact and sustainability. Panasonic aims to mentor, guide, and fund early to mid-stage startups that are creating innovative solutions in this field.

Panasonic

Over 113 startups applied for the program, which was launched in September 2025 under the guidance of Mr. Kunio Gohara, the Chief Transformation Officer of Panasonic Corporation. After a robust evaluation process, 11 startups were shortlisted. These startups will participate in the ‘Panasonic Ignition’ cohort program over the next three months and be mentored by Panasonic and Beyond Next Ventures. These selected startups will receive potential investment, access to various masterclasses, expert mentorship, and support around product strategy and growth, which would assist them in building innovative technologies and products that enhance people’s lifestyles in India. As a part of this engagement, Panasonic will also roll out challenges for these startups, and based on regular reviews, the final winner(s) will be announced in December 2025.

“We are thrilled with the response received for the third edition of the Panasonic Ignition programme, with a clear objective of improving residential living—whether through smart home solutions, sustainable energy, or digital consumer experience,” said Mr. Manish Misra, Chief Innovation Officer, at Panasonic Life Solutions India. “This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering groundbreaking technologies and solutions that address the evolving needs of our consumers while contributing to a sustainable future.”

Tsuyoshi Ito, the CEO and Managing Partner of Beyond Next Ventures, stated, “Over the past few weeks, we conducted extensive sourcing and evaluation to identify startups pioneering innovative solutions to enhance consumer lifestyles. With more than a decade of experience investing in deep-tech ventures, we understand the critical role corporate partnerships play in achieving global impact. This cohort features a range of forward-thinking innovators addressing challenges in wellness, sustainability, and beyond. We are thrilled to collaborate with Panasonic to help these startups realize their full potential.” 

Following is the list of the 11 promising startups:

  1. Ambiator (https://www.ambiator.com) – provides A dew-point regenerative cooling system that delivers 100% fresh, cooled air at 80% reduced electricity bills.
  2. Awiros (https://awiros.com/) – Transforms Video Data into Real-Time Intelligence through Video AI Platform 
  3. Biomoneta (https://www.biomoneta.com/) – An airborne decontamination device that with over a 99.999% efficiency, without producing harmful byproducts
  4. Cantata (https://www.cantatacs.com) – provides a universal remote to control all connected devices using a smart interface
  5. Devic Earth (https://devic-earth.com/) – deep-tech cleantech company with a scalable solution for large-area air pollution control
  6. DoorVihttps://www.doorvi.co/) – provides a smart visitor management solution that transforms any smartphone into a wireless video intercom
  7. Kubo Carehttps://kubocare.com/) – health-tech startup building a contact-free monitoring system to help seniors live safely and independently
  8. Red Health (https://www.red.health) – provides an integrated, technology-led platform to support “first minute, last mile” emergency response solution
  9. Respirer Living Sciences https://www.respirer.in/) – provides IoT-enabled Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) to  maintain healthy indoor air without wasting energy
  10. Spacemate (https://spacemate.xyz/) – proptech startup building an integrated, privacy-first “SuperApp” for premium residential communities
  11. The Energy Company (https://www.energycompany.in/) – builds smart Energy Storage Systems (ESS) to help households reduce bills and integrate with solar and EV charging

Together with Beyond Next Ventures (Venture Partner), Panasonic aims to co-create cutting-edge solutions that align with emerging market needs. This collaborative effort reinforces Panasonic’s vision of staying at the forefront of technological advancements and consumer-centric innovations, fostering sustainable growth and positive societal impact in India.

7, Oct 2025
Tilaknagar Industries appoints Nishant Jain as President Sales

New Delhi, October 07, 2025: Leading Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) manufacturer, Tilaknagar Industries Limited (TI) (BSE: 507205) (NSE: TI), has announced the appointment of Mr. Nishant Jain as its President  Sales.

Nishant Jain

Mr. Jain’s extensive experience with leading alco-bev companies will be a key driver of TI’s growth at a time when the company is gearing up to expand its presence in the whisky segment across the country, with the impending acquisition of Imperial Blue Whisky from Pernod Ricard India. An independent sales vertical has been created at TI to establish the company’s leadership in the whisky category that accounts for nearly 65 per cent of the IMFL market in India. Traditionally, TI has been a leading brandy maker dominating in prominent IMFL markets in South India such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Puducherry and Kerala, amongst others.

 Mr. Amit Dahanukar, Chairman & Managing Director, Tilaknagar Industries said, “Nishant’s extensive experience and proven leadership will be instrumental in strengthening our growth journey, as we expand our regional and portfolio presence, following the Imperial Blue acquisition.”

 With over 26 years of experience in Sales, Trade Marketing and Key Accounts, Mr. Jain has had a wide exposure to the alco-beverage sector in India which ranks as one of the largest whisky markets across the globe. Prior to joining TI, Mr. Jain was Chief Operating Officer, Spirits Business at Inbrew Beverages. Earlier, he has worked with Allied Blenders & Distillers as well as Pernod Ricard India, leading sales and trade marketing initiatives nationwide.

 An alumnus of IIT Roorkee and IIM Lucknow, Mr. Jain is widely recognized for his expertise in scaling businesses and building high-performing teams.

 Taking on the new role at TI, Mr. Nishant Jain said, “I am excited to join Tilaknagar Industries at this transformative stage in its journey. With a vast portfolio of brands and a talented team, TI is well positioned for growth and I am eager to contribute to its next phase of expansion.”