7, May 2025
NKure Therapeutics and CRISPR Therapeutics Partner to Advance CTX112 for Cancer Treatment in India
BENGALURU, India, ZUG, Switzerland, and BOSTON, May 7, 2025: NKure Therapeutics Private Limited, a Bengaluru-based cell and gene therapy startup committed to advancing innovative cell therapies, and CRISPR Therapeutics, a pioneer in gene-based medicines, today announced a strategic partnership to co-develop and co-commercialise CTX112™, a next-generation, off-the-shelf CAR T therapy, for oncology indications in India.
This collaboration marks an important step toward expanding access to advanced cell therapies in India, where B-cell malignancies, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and other forms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma pose significant health challenges. Over 41,000 new cases of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are diagnosed annually in India, yet treatment options remain limited, particularly for patients with relapsed or treatment-resistant disease. Although the country has recently approved its first autologous CAR T therapies, they remain costly and require complex, personalised manufacturing, resulting in long wait times. In contrast, CTX112‘s allogeneic and off-the-shelf approach may offer a more timely and potentially more accessible alternative for patients in need.
“We are thrilled to partner with CRISPR Therapeutics to bring CTX112 to India,” said Lalit Pai, CEO, NKure Therapeutics. “India faces a pressing need for advanced yet affordable cancer treatments. This partnership represents a unique opportunity to introduce a next-generation CAR T therapy that is both cost-effective and readily available, ensuring more patients can access life-saving treatments without long delays.”
“We are excited to collaborate with NKure to expand the reach of CTX112 to India, where there is a clear need for new treatment options for patients with B-cell malignancies,” said Naimish Patel, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, CRISPR Therapeutics. “This partnership underscores our commitment to advancing gene-based therapies and providing patients with access to potentially life-changing treatments worldwide.”
CTX112: An Investigational CRISPR-Engineered CAR T Therapy for India
CTX112 is an allogeneic CAR T product candidate targeting CD19 for the treatment of relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies. Unlike traditional autologous CAR T therapies that require modifying a patient’s own cells over several weeks, CTX112 is derived from healthy donor cells and gene-edited using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. This allows for a ready-to-use, off-the-shelf product that can be manufactured at scale and delivered more quickly.
The CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology behind CTX112 represents a breakthrough in making CAR T therapy more effective and affordable. The edits are designed to improve treatment durability by enhancing immune evasion, improving cell persistence, and reducing exhaustion—key challenges with current CAR T treatments. Using healthy donor cells also helps ensure consistent quality and potency.
CTX112 is currently being studied in ongoing clinical trials to evaluate its safety and efficacy in adult patients who have received at least two prior lines of therapy.
In India, access to CAR T therapy remains limited due to high costs and long manufacturing timelines. CTX112 aims to change this by offering potentially faster, more affordable, and scalable treatment. The collaboration with NKure Therapeutics, an Indian biotech committed to cost-effective immunotherapies, is intended to align with India’s healthcare system, and facilitate a streamlined path to regulatory approval and patient access.
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- By Neel Achary
7, May 2025
Celebrate Mother’s Day with Chicken Inn: A Brunch Crafted with Love and Timeless Flavours
This Mother’s Day, Chicken Inn invites guests to celebrate with “Maa Ke Haathon Ka Zaika”, a heartwarming brunch experience inspired by the comfort of home and the timeless love of a mother.
Curated from Chicken Inn’s signature dishes and nostalgic flavours, this special dine-in platter features a choice of Home-Style Chicken Curry, the legendary Butter Chicken, or the ever-popular Paneer Butter Masala. These are served alongside rich and creamy Dal Makhani, Jeera Rice or Tandoori Naan, and crisp, golden Kurkuri Bhindi. To round off the meal, guests can enjoy a fragrant Rose Phirni served in a traditional kulhad and a refreshing welcome drink — Aam Panna or a Rose Mocktail.
Each platter is accompanied by a handwritten note of gratitude for Mom, because no recipe in the world can match a mother’s love. This brunch is available exclusively on Mother’s Day during brunch hours, as Chicken Inn celebrates 65 years of its culinary legacy with the one who inspired it all.
7, May 2025
Muscat Grand Mall in Partnership with SRED Announces “Little India” as Social Anchor, Invites Indian Brands to Join the GCC Retail Growth Story
Muscat Grand Mall, a flagship destination of Tilal Development Company, in collaboration with SRED, proudly announces the launch of “Little India” as its new social anchor—a vibrant cultural and retail hub designed to celebrate and showcase the diversity of Indian lifestyle, cuisine, fashion, and heritage.
This strategic initiative positions Muscat Grand Mall as a key gateway for Indian brands seeking to expand into the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) region, leveraging Oman’s central location and growing appetite for curated international retail experiences.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Ali Hosni, Acting CEO/General Manager of Muscat Grand Mall, said:
“Muscat Grand Mall has always been a canvas for innovation and cultural expression. With ‘Little India’, we are not just creating a retail space—we are creating a bridge between India and the GCC. This is an invitation for Indian brands to be part of a regional success story, backed by strong footfall, premium infrastructure, and a rising consumer base in Oman.”Adding his perspective, Mr. Shriram PM Monga, Co-founder of SRED, stated:
“‘Little India’ is more than a commercial concept—it’s a social ecosystem designed to serve the large Indian community in Oman and the wider Gulf. It’s a unique opportunity for Indian brands to plug into a culturally aligned audience, celebrate India abroad, and grow in a region that values authenticity and diversity.”
Little India will serve as a permanent cultural anchor within Muscat Grand Mall, offering Indian brands a purpose-built platform to connect with both resident and tourist consumers in the Sultanate. Fashion labels, food concepts, home décor brands, and artisanal businesses from India will find a receptive and expanding market with strong engagement potential.
SRED’s strategic vision and regional retail expertise will guide the onboarding of Indian brands into Muscat Grand Mall, supported by tailored leasing programs, cultural programming, and integrated marketing to ensure long-term success.
Indian brands looking to explore retail expansion in the GCC are invited to connect with representatives from Muscat Grand Mall and SRED to discover how they can become part of this unique cultural and commercial initiative.
7, May 2025
Is Your DNA the Key to Beating Cancer? Exploring the Role of Genetic Testing in Cancer Care
By-Dr Chandrasekhar Prasad Singh, Consultant – Medical Oncology, HCG Abdur Razzaque Ansari Cancer Centre, Ranchi
Despite remarkable advancements in medicine, cancer remains one of the most challenging diseases to treat, with each patient responding differently to therapy. While lifestyle and environmental factors contribute to its development, our DNA holds crucial insights about cancer risk, progression, and treatment effectiveness.
Advances in genetic testing are now revolutionizing cancer care, helping to predict risk, tailor treatments, and even prevent cancer before it starts. But how exactly does genetic testing work, and can it truly be the key to beating cancer?
What Is Genetic Testing in Cancer Care?
Genetic testing analyzes a person’s DNA to identify mutations or inherited traits that may increase cancer risk. These tests can be performed on:
- Germline DNA– The genes inherited from parents, which can indicate a hereditary risk for cancer.
- Tumor DNA– Genetic changes in cancer cells that help determine treatment options.
By identifying specific mutations, doctors can take a more personalized approach to prevention, early detection, and treatment, improving patient outcomes.
How Can Genetic Testing Help in Cancer Treatment?
Identifying High-Risk Individuals
- Some people carry genetic mutations that predispose them to cancer, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 for breast and ovarian cancer or MLH1 and MSH2 for colorectal cancer. Knowing this allows for early screenings and preventive measures.
Personalized Treatment Plans
- Genetic testing helps doctors choose targeted therapies that are more effective for a patient’s specific cancer type. For example, HER2-positive breast cancer responds to targeted drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin), while lung cancer patients with EGFR mutations may benefit from specific inhibitors.
Predicting Treatment Response
- Certain genetic markers can indicate whether a patient will respond well to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation, helping to avoid ineffective treatments and reduce side effects.
Guiding Family Health Decisions
- If a person carries a hereditary cancer mutation, family members can also be tested, allowing them to take proactive health measures such as increased screenings or lifestyle changes.
Types of Genetic Tests in Cancer Care
There are different types of genetic tests, depending on their purpose:
- Predictive Genetic Testing– Identifies inherited gene mutations that increase cancer risk before any symptoms appear.
- Diagnostic Genetic Testing– Helps confirm a cancer diagnosis by identifying specific mutations in tumor cells.
- Pharmacogenomic Testing– Determines how a patient’s genes affect their response to medications, ensuring the most effective treatment is chosen.
Who Should Consider Genetic Testing?
Genetic testing isn’t necessary for everyone, but it may be recommended if:
- You have a strong family history of cancer(such as multiple relatives with the same type of cancer).
- You were diagnosed with cancer at a young age(such as breast or colorectal cancer before 50).
- You have an unusual or rare cancer(like male breast cancer or multiple types of cancer).
- Your ancestry is linked to higher genetic risk(e.g., Ashkenazi Jewish descent has a higher prevalence of BRCA mutations).
The Future of Genetic Testing in Cancer Care
With advancements in genomic medicine, genetic testing is expected to become even more precise, accessible, and impactful. Researchers are exploring gene-editing technologies like CRISPR to correct faulty genes, and ongoing studies continue to expand our understanding of how genetic mutations drive cancer progression.
Final Thoughts: Is DNA the Key to Beating Cancer?
While genetic testing isn’t a cure for cancer, it is one of the most powerful tools available for early detection, prevention, and personalized treatment. By unlocking the secrets within our DNA, we move closer to a future where cancer is not just treatable, but preventable. If you have concerns about hereditary cancer risk, consulting a genetic counselor could be the first step toward a proactive and personalized approach to your health.
7, May 2025
The Godrej Foundation co-launches the Global Access to Talent from India (GATI) Foundation Together with The Convergence Foundation and Manish Sabharwal, GATI Foundation aims to Make India a Global Talent Hub
Chandigarh, May 7, 2025: The Global Access to Talent from India (GATI) Foundation announced the launch at an event graced by Shri. Dr. S. Jaishankar, Hon’ble External Affairs Minister of India, as the Chief Guest. Shri. Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, attended as the Guest of Honour. Incubated by The Convergence Foundation, Manish Sabharwal, and Godrej Foundation, GATI is a non-profit Foundation dedicated to building structured, ethical, and circular pathways for global talent mobility.
This mission gains urgency amid projections that high-income economies will face a labour shortage of 45–50 million skilled and semi-skilled workers by 2030. With a vision to position India as a global hub for skilled talent, GATI Foundation aims to foster collaboration between governments, businesses, and nonprofits to unlock opportunities for Indian workers in international labour markets.
The launch event brought together foreign ambassadors, senior government officials, leading industry representatives, and think tanks to deliberate on key themes such as government-to-government partnerships, ethical recruitment practices, and industry-led solutions for global skills mobility.
Omar Momin, CEO, Godrej Foundation, said, “In a world where the same person can earn up to ten times more by simply crossing a border, promoting global labour mobility is not just smart economics—it’s transformative development. With high-income countries facing a shortfall of nearly 50 million workers by 2030, GATI can look to build ethical, circular, and well-regulated migration pathways that unlock a triple win: filling critical skill gaps, fueling prosperity at home, and offering individuals a dignified path to opportunity.”
Ashish Dhawan, Founder-CEO of The Convergence Foundation, added, “Today, nearly 700,000 Indians migrate to work overseas each year. However, 60% of this workforce is concentrated in GCC countries. We have a real opportunity to expand our annual migrant flows to 2-2.5 million, by diversifying across geographies and job roles. Doing this can not only create more job opportunities, but also help us increase our remittances to $300 billion. Since remittances flow directly into households—enhancing consumption, education, and health spending—there is also a significant impact on poverty reduction.”
Manish Sabharwal, Vice-Chairman, TeamLease Services, added, “GATI is an idea whose time has come for India. The noise is high, but economics will trump politics if it is able to move the debate on migration from illegal to legal, migration to mobility, and citizenship to work. The notion that rich countries can avoid inflation or do care-work without migration is impossible. The challenge for countries is to make migration orderly, temporary, and safe. GATI Foundation proposes to fight the battle for ideas that well-designed guest worker programs are an important solution to global prosperity in the next two decades.”
7, May 2025
Hungama OTT Marks New Chapter With Rebranding and Unveiling of 24-Show Slate at Exclusive Success Party
Mumbai, 07th May 2025 – Hungama OTT, one of India’s most popular digital entertainment platforms, formerly known as Hungama, hosted an exclusive success party on 05th May 2025 at Luuma House, Juhu, to mark a bold new chapter in its journey. The event celebrated the brand’s dynamic rebranding to ‘Hungama OTT’, the expansion of the Hungama OTT app—now available on smart TVs and connected devices, and the unveiling of a bold new content slate featuring 24 original shows across diverse genres, reaffirming its commitment to compelling storytelling. The celebration brought together key figures from the entertainment industry, including Monalisa, Amruta Khanvilkar, Divya Agarwal, Tina Dutta, Gulki Joshi, Yukti Kapoor, Akanksha Puri, among others, marking a significant milestone in the platform’s growth journey.
The celebration highlighted Hungama OTT’s impressive run since its September 2024 content showcase. Many of the shows announced then, such as Flight Attendant, Checkmate, Personal Trainer, Red Room, Pyramid, Pati Patni aur Padosan, Hasratein 2, and Khadaan, have emerged as fan favourites, trending across platforms and garnering critical acclaim. Continuing that momentum, the 2025 slate introduces fresh originals such as Mona ki Monohar Kahaniyaan, Judwa Jaal, Rose Garden, Chakravyuh, Badass begum, Blind Game, Balance show, Hungama Hone Do, Shaadi Ki Uss Raat, Takshika, Girl Scams, Room Service, Bollywood Murder, Hasratein season 3, and Ratri Ke Yatri season 3, promising an eclectic mix of thrillers, dramas, romances, and experimental formats. With the introduction of the Hungama OTT TV app, viewers can now experience this content on a more personalized, intuitive platform, bridging tech and storytelling.
Neeraj Roy, Founder & Managing Director, Hungama Digital Media, said, “Hungama OTT is focussed on delivering compelling and engaging shows with a strong commitment to storytelling. We’re launching an ambitious slate of 24 original shows in a year spanning drama, thrillers and more. while we’ve always been on your phones, we’re now coming into your living rooms. With a new Hungama OTT TV App, we’re bringing our content to the big screen offering a deeper, more immersive viewing experience. This is not just growth, it’s a bold leap into the future shaped entirely around our core audience.”
7, May 2025
Prega News Launches “Preggy” Campaign With Swiggy to Treat Unique Pregnancy Cravings this Mother’s Day
National; May 07, 2025: Prega News, India’s No. 1 pregnancy detection kit brand from Mankind Pharma, has announced a partnership with Swiggy Limited, India’s pioneering on-demand convenience platform to launch “Preggy”, a special campaign featuring a ‘Prega News Cravings Menu’ this Mother’s Day. The unique collaboration aims to celebrate one of pregnancy’s most distinctive experiences – ‘food cravings’ – by curating a specialised menu of sweet, sour, spicy, and uniquely combined dishes that cater specifically to expecting mothers’ desires.
As per a study conducted in India, over 75% of expecting mothers experience significant food cravings, particularly during the first and second trimesters. Prega News has been a trusted partner for women across all phases of pregnancy—pre, during, and post. Addressing this deeply relatable aspect of the journey, the ‘Prega News Cravings Menu’ initiative came as a thoughtful solution. Available exclusively on the Swiggy app, the special menu has been carefully curated based on extensive research done around common pregnancy cravings—allowing partners and families to surprise mothers-to-be with convenient access to their most desired foods this Mother’s Day. ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations and Choko La have partnered with Swiggy for crafting these special menus.
“Prega News believes in celebrating every aspect of motherhood, including the quirky and often unpredictable food cravings that come with pregnancy,” said Joy Chatterjee, Vice President, Sales and Marketing Head, Consumer Business Unit, Mankind Pharma. “By partnering with Swiggy, we’re acknowledging these cravings in a practical, supportive way while creating a meaningful connection with expecting mothers. This Mother’s Day initiative perfectly aligns with our brand philosophy of being present throughout a woman’s pregnancy journey.”
The ‘Prega News Cravings Menu’ features carefully selected food combinations that address the spectrum of cravings typically experienced during pregnancy. From sweet-and-spicy pairings to tangy treats with a savoury twist, the menu has been crafted to satisfy the distinct and sometimes surprising food preferences that characterise this special time.
Sharing his thoughts on the campaign, Mayur Hola, Vice President and Head of Brand, Swiggy said, “Cravings aren’t just about food – they’re emotional, personal and often a little quirky, especially during the times of pregnancy. Our collaboration with Prega News for the ‘Preggy Campaign’ brings this insight to life in a deliciously meaningful way. With the Prega News Cravings Menu, we’re making it possible for partners, friends, and families to order the food expecting mothers are craving for, and get it delivered at their doorstep, via the Swiggy app. It’s our way of delivering comfort, joy, and a little extra love this Mother’s Day.”
“At Swiggy, we’re constantly looking for ways to make everyday moments special by offering thoughtful convenience and pregnancy cravings are definitely one of them,” said Arjun Choudary, Vice President – Growth Marketing, Swiggy. “Cravings during pregnancy are unpredictable and deeply personal. Through the ‘Preggy’ campaign, we’ve collaborated with Prega News and our select restaurant partners to create a curated menu that speaks to these unique needs. This campaign is a great example of how marketing, product, and partnerships can come together to create real value.” he added further.
The campaign was conceptualised and executed by FCB Kinnect, highlighting the emotional significance of pregnancy cravings. The heart-warming ad film, which is part of the “Preggy” campaign, showcases a young mother-to-be experiencing an unusual food craving, which her supportive partner fulfils by ordering from Swiggy. The film beautifully captures the emotional journey of pregnancy cravings while demonstrating how the Prega News x Swiggy collaboration offers a practical solution to this common pregnancy experience.
Rohan Mehta, CEO, FCB Kinnect said “The best ideas come from simple human truths, and few are as universal and emotional as pregnancy cravings. We’re proud to have brought together this beautiful confluence of Prega News’s purpose and Swiggy’s practicality, into a genuinely memorable brand experience.”
Nishant Pratap, Group ECD South, FCB Kinnect added “Our intention, from the very beginning, was to celebrate mums-to-be. With an idea that isn’t just their cheerleader but one that actually delivers joy. That was it. We jumped up and thought, ‘Why not literally do exactly that?’ That’s how Preggy was born. As any Mum (and Dad) can testify, cravings have no rhyme or reason and no sense of timing. So we decided to do something about it. To work on brand Prega News is very special to us. To then have Prega News collaborate with Swiggy. What more can one ask for?”
The ‘Prega News Cravings Menu’ will be available on the Swiggy app in cities including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, allowing partners and family members to treat expecting mothers to their favourite food indulgences. With this initiative, Prega News reinforces its commitment to making the pregnancy journey more joyful and memorable by celebrating the little moments that make motherhood special.
6, May 2025
AIMIL Animal Health celebrated World Veterinary Day 2025 with nationwide virtual Continuing Veterinary Education (e-CVE) program
New Delhi, 6th May 2025
AIMIL Animal Health, the veterinary division of AIMIL Pharmaceuticals (India) Ltd, observed World Veterinary Day 2025 by organizing a large-scale virtual Continuing Veterinary Education (e-CVE) program. The online event was attended by over 3,000 participants which includes veterinary students, clinicians, research scholars, practicing clinicians, para vets, the Field staff and members of Allied profession. from across India and abroad, to explore the role of holistic and herbal approaches in animal healthcare.
The session was inaugurated by Dr. Sujit Kumar Dutta, Joint Commissioner at the National Livestock Mission, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India. In his keynote address, Dr. Dutta highlighted the importance of adopting integrative veterinary practices and acknowledged AIMIL’s contribution to promoting Ayurveda-based animal care. “Initiatives like this are crucial in encouraging young professionals to consider sustainable and holistic models of veterinary treatment,” he said.
The event featured presentations by several experts from diverse fields within veterinary science. Dr. Narayan Dutta of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) discussed the link between nutrition and animal productivity. Mr. Venkat Gollapudi, Project Head at AIMIL, shared the company’s ongoing projects in veterinary research. Dr. N.K. Mahajan focused on liver and kidney issues in poultry, while Dr. Vikas from CGS Hospital, Gurugram, presented on herbal treatments in canine care. Dr. Daniel Mateuta Sirbu Daniel , the international speaker from UAE spoke on integrative care for exotic species. Dr. K. Raj Kumar of RIVER, Pondicherry, addressed advancements in companion animal care, and Dr. Ujjwal Kr De (IVRI) outlined approaches for managing mastitis in cattle. Dr. Jaya Krushna Das from OUAT, Odisha, provided insights into livestock reproductive health.
At the helm of this initiative was Dr. Ikshit Sharma, Executive Director of AIMIL Pharmaceuticals, whose visionary leadership continues to guide AIMIL’s mission to enhance the well-being of animals and improve the livelihood of farmers and common individuals in the animal husbandry sector. Dr Sharma said the company aims to combine traditional systems of medicine with modern veterinary science. He spoke about the need for herbal veterinary alternatives that align with the One Health approach of the World Health Organization. He also noted the potential of phytobiotics and other non-antibiotic solutions in managing animal health.
The program received registrations from more than 3,000 participants, with 55 percent being veterinary students and the rest comprising field veterinarians, para-vets, and practitioners. Students from 47 veterinary colleges took part in academic activities, including a national quiz competition with 579 entries, 200 poster presentations, 51 thesis submissions, and 89 clinical case studies. Selected entries were awarded prizes, and all participants received appreciation hampers.
The Participants & prize winners of the various contests were appreciated by Honorable Founder and Managing Director of AIMIL Pharmaceuticals, Shri K K Sharma. The program was coordinated by Dr. Anil Kr Sharma and Dr. T.S. Easwari, Vice President at AIMIL, while Dr. Rajan Handa, General Manager, AIMIL Animal Health, delivered the vote of thanks. The organizers noted that veterinary health is a shared responsibility and called for stronger collaboration across the sector.
AIMIL Animal Health is known for its research-based herbal veterinary formulations used in the care of poultry, livestock, and companion animals. The division’s recent technology transfer from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute for a cattle feed supplement is expected to support further innovation and led to further product range expansion in livestock nutrition,poultry feed supplement, pet food and aquaculture.
6, May 2025
Viva ACP Launches Bricklyn – Where Timeless Strength Meets Modern Innovation
Viva, Asia’s largest manufacturer and supplier of aluminium composite panels (ACP), has been at the forefront of innovation in the cladding industry since 2003, continuously pushing boundaries with cutting-edge technology and design. We are proud to introduce Bricklyn, an exciting new addition to our Santa Fe series. Inspired by the enduring strength of traditional bricks and reimagined with a contemporary twist, Bricklyn is a fusion of heritage and modernity, bringing together classic construction aesthetics with advanced engineering.
Drawing inspiration from the dynamic energy of Brooklyn and the ingenious stacking design of Jenga, Bricklyn reinvents the timeless appeal of bricks into a stylish and durable ACP series. Designed to offer both structural integrity and aesthetic versatility, it creates visually striking façades while ensuring long-lasting performance. Each panel seamlessly fits together, forming walls that exude strength while allowing creative freedom in design.
Bricklyn is available in a stunning palette, ranging from beautiful soft muted tones to deep, rich hues, allowing architects and designers to craft elegant and dynamic exteriors. Whether creating a warm, earthy look or a bold, modern statement, this versatile colour selection enhances the visual appeal of any structure while maintaining a natural aesthetic.
Crafted using Stucco Textures and Synchro Technology, Bricklyn is engineered for durability and resilience, making it an ideal choice for contemporary architectural projects. With a 15-year warranty, this series guarantees quality and longevity, reinforcing Viva ACP’s commitment to excellence.
Bricklyn is more than just a cladding solution; it is a celebration of tradition, technology, and transformative design. With this latest innovation, Viva ACP continues to set new benchmarks in architectural possibilities, enabling designers and architects to bring their boldest visions to life.
6, May 2025
Shriram Mobility Bulletin, May 2025
Hyderabad, May 6th, 2025: The Shriram Mobility Bulletin released today reveals that truck rentals remained largely flat in April 2025, despite a 5-10% hike in toll charges across various routes. A rise in goods movement, coupled with movement of summer fruits contributed to a subtle positive undercurrent in the freight market.
Truck rentals on most key trunk routes remained unchanged. The Delhi–Chennai–Delhi corridor saw a sharp MoM increase of 2.5%, while the Delhi–Bengaluru–Delhi route recorded a decline of 1.6%. On a year-on-year (YoY) basis, truck rentals posted healthy growth — with the Kolkata–Guwahati–Kolkata route rising 14%, and the Mumbai–Chennai–Mumbai corridor up 8%.
Rural demand and improved connectivity led to a 12% MoM rise in two-wheeler sales. Bus sales grew 4%, continuing momentum from March’s all-time high. E-rickshaws with carts saw the strongest YoY growth at 77%. However, lower-than-expected government infrastructure spending impacted monthly commercial vehicle sales: tractors declined 13%, construction equipment 9%, and earth-moving equipment 19% MoM.
The electric vehicle (EV) segment showed mixed signals. While EV three-wheeler sales rose by 5% MoM, EV two-wheeler sales dropped sharply by 30%, and EV car sales declined by 4%. Despite these short-term setbacks, YoY comparisons were robust: EV cars grew by 58%, three-wheelers by 49%, and two-wheelers by 40%.
Mr. Y S Chakravarti, CEO and Managing Director, Shriram Finance Ltd. said, “Truck rentals remained subdued during April despite a 5 to 10% increase in toll charges from April 1. The undercurrent however turned slightly better as the just concluded Rabi season was good. With the summer heat waves predicted, trucking activity could get slightly impacted.”
Petrol consumption declined by 2% in April, whereas diesel consumption increased by 2% MoM, driven by higher industrial, mining, and commercial activity. FASTag transaction volumes grew by 0.9%, while the transaction value edged up by 0.03% MoM.
