Category Archives: Business

Mahindra Introduces the Premium XUV700 Ebony Limited Edition for a Classy Drive

Chandigarh, March 18, 2025: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., India’s leading SUV manufacturer, today launched the XUV700 Ebony Limited Edition—a striking new avatar that amplifies the XUV700’s unmissable presence and sophisticated design. This exclusive variant is set to outshine the dark with its captivating dual black-and-silver aesthetic.

Bold and Unmistakable Exterior

Crafted for those who refuse to blend in, the Mahindra XUV700 Ebony Edition embraces a Stealth black exterior accentuated by brushed silver skid plates. Black-on-black grille inserts and blacked-out ORVMs create an imperious front profile, while the R18 black alloy wheels lend a refined edge to the SUV’s imposing stance. This meticulous interplay of black and silver underscores the XUV700’s unmissable design philosophy, exuding confidence on every road.

Refined Interior with Enhanced Comfort

Step inside, and you are greeted by a bold yet graceful cabin layout—featuring black leatherette upholstery, blacked-out trims, and silver accents along the center console and door panels. A complementary light grey roof liner underscores the dual-tone theme, adding a refined touch of sophistication to the interior. Meanwhile, dark-chrome air vents further enhance the XUV700 Ebony Edition’s premium feel, creating a space that seamlessly blends modern luxury with elegance.

Crafted for the Confident

True to Mahindra’s ethos, the XUV700 Ebony Edition is designed for those who demand nothing less than excellence. This limited edition speaks to individuals who value meticulous craftsmanship and innovative technology. From spirited weekend adventures to chauffeured weekday drives, the Ebony Edition stands ready to offer an upscale SUV experience that seamlessly blends comfort, capability, and commanding design.

Signature Global’s Bhoomi Pujan Kicks Off the Much-Awaited Titanium SPR Development

Gurugram, 18th March 2025: Signature Global (India) Ltd., one of India’s leading real estate developers, today held the Bhoomi Pujan for its premium residential project, Titanium SPR, in Sector 71, Gurugram, marking a key step in its development. The Bhoomi Pujan, a traditional ceremony symbolizing a positive and prosperous start, was attended by key stakeholders and company representatives. It showcased Signature Global’s commitment to delivering high-quality homes while reinforcing its vision for modern, well-planned, and sustainable living spaces.

On this occasion, Mr. Lalit Kumar Aggarwal, Co-founder & Vice Chairman, Signature Global (India) Ltd., said: “The Bhoomi Pujan marks a significant milestone for Titanium SPR and reaffirms our commitment to delivering high-quality homes with modern design and thoughtful planning. This ceremony not only reflects our deep-rooted cultural values but also sets the foundation for a project that will redefine urban living in the Delhi NCR region. With Capacit’e Infraprojects as our construction partner, we are confident that Titanium SPR will offer homebuyers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience.”

Launched in June 2024, Titanium SPR received an overwhelming market response, achieving sales exceeding ₹2,700 crore during the allotment phase. In October 2024, Signature Global awarded a ₹1,203 crore construction contract to Capacit’e Infraprojects Limited, a company renowned for its construction excellence. The recent Bhoomi Pujan marks the project’s transition into the construction phase, bringing Signature Global’s vision for modern luxury living closer to realization in Gurugram’s Sector 71.

Strategically located along the Southern Peripheral Road, Titanium SPR spans over 14 acres and offers seamless connectivity to major routes such as the Dwarka Expressway, Golf Course Road, Golf Course Extension Road, South of Gurugram, and NH-48. The project draws inspiration from Singaporean architecture, featuring high-rise towers with cityscape views and thoughtfully designed layouts that ensure complete privacy, with no balconies facing each other. Residents will have access to over 55 exclusive amenities, including lagoon pools, sensory gardens, a Miyawaki forest, and state-of-the-art recreational facilities.

The project’s design is the result of collaboration with renowned international architects, including DPC from Singapore, MPFP from the USA, Confluence, NMP Design, Senelac Consultants, and Vintech Consultants. Notable features include expansive 26-feet and 28-feet-long decks, a grand triple-height entrance lobby, and seven meticulously designed lagoon pools, setting a new benchmark for luxury living in the Delhi NCR region.

Emphasizing sustainability, Titanium SPR is a dual-certified green development, holding certifications from both the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies). These certifications validate the project’s eco-friendly design, energy efficiency, and focus on sustainability, ensuring a reduced carbon footprint and optimized resource utilization for a greener living environment.

In recognition of its architectural excellence and sustainable design, Titanium SPR was honored with the Best Green Development award at the 2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (India). With its luxurious design, world-class amenities, prime location, and award-winning sustainability features, Titanium SPR is poised to redefine urban living in the Delhi NCR region.

Novotel Visakhapatnam Presents the Majestic Flavors of Awadh and Lakhanvi Cuisine

Visakhapatnam, 18th March 2025: Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach is set to transport food lovers on a regal culinary journey with its exclusive Awadhi Food Festival. Celebrating the rich and aromatic flavours of Lucknowi cuisine, the festival will showcase signature dishes like the legendary Galouti Kebab and the classic Shami Kebab, along with a curated selection of Nawabi delicacies.

Awadhi cuisine, known for its slow-cooked, aromatic, and melt-in-the-mouth textures, is deeply rooted in the royal kitchens of Lucknow. The highlight of this festival, the Galouti Kebab, is an indulgent delicacy crafted from finely minced meat and a secret blend of spices, ensuring a soft and flavorful experience. Complementing it, the Shami Kebab—a delicately spiced, pan-fried meat patty—will add to the richness of the feast.

Guests at Novotel Vizag will relish an array of Awadhi specialities prepared by expert chefs who have mastered the art of this age-old cuisine. Each dish is meticulously cooked using authentic techniques, offering a true taste of Lucknow’s royal heritage.

Join us at Novotel Visakhapatnam and indulge in a culinary affair fit for royalty. Immerse yourself in the flavours, aromas, and traditions of Awadh as we bring the Nawabi dining experience to the City of Destiny.

DDA, CESL Initiative: EV Charging and Battery Swapping Stations Set to Launch in Delhi Sports Complexes

New Delhi, March 17, 2025: Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) have signed an agreement to develop electric vehicle (EV) charging and battery swapping stations across DDA sports complexes in the city.

CESL is a subsidiary of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), under the Ministry of Power.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Shri Vijay Kumar Singh, DDA Vice-Chairman, Shri Vishal Kapoor, MD and CEO – CESL, Shri Chittaranjan

Dash, Principal Commissioner, DDA, and Shri Rajneesh Rana, Head-Convergence. This collaboration marks a significant step toward enhancing the capital city’s EV infrastructure and supporting India’s transition to clean mobility.

As part of the agreement, DDA will provide adequate vacant land at identified locations within its sports complexes. CESL will utilise these sites to establish and operate public charging infrastructure.

The identified locations for the installation of EV charging and battery swapping stations span across North Delhi, West Delhi, South Delhi and East Delhi, enabling wider access to efficient charging facilities for EV users in the city.

Under CESL’s business model, tailored to evolving market conditions for the development of EV charging and battery swapping stations, it will procure services from Charge Point Operators (CPOs) for the supply, installation, testing, commissioning, operation, and maintenance of EV charging and battery swapping stations. These facilities will be deployed on a Build-Own-Operate-Maintain (BOOM) model, ensuring sustainable and long-term EV infrastructure expansion.

By supporting this vision, CESL and DDA are contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation ecosystem in the city.

Commenting on the collaboration, MD & CEO, CESL, Shri Vishal Kapoor said: “This partnership between CESL and DDA marks a crucial milestone in Delhi’s EV journey. By leveraging CESL’s expertise in upscaling clean energy solutions, we are creating a robust and accessible EV charging network that will drive faster EV adoption. CESL remains committed to pioneering sustainable and scalable solutions that contribute to India’s decarbonisation goals.”

DDA vice-chairman Vijay Kumar Singh said, “DDA is committed to enhancing urban infrastructure and supporting initiatives that promote sustainability. By integrating EV charging and battery swapping stations within our sports complexes, we are optimizing the use of public spaces to facilitate green mobility. This initiative aligns with our vision of making Delhi a more environmentally friendly and future-ready city.

CESL has already installed 455 charging stations across India, reinforcing its commitment to accelerating e-mobility adoption across India and aligning with the national vision for a cleaner and more sustainable transportation ecosystem.

Poonawalla Fincorp Unveils Commercial Vehicle Loan Business, Boosting Bharat’s Economy

Mumbai, March 17, 2025 – Poonawalla Fincorp Limited (PFL), a Cyrus Poonawalla Group promoted NBFC, focused on Consumer & MSME Lending, has expanded its product suite with the launch of its Commercial Vehicle (CV) Secured Loan Business. This new offering aims to bolster the essential logistics and supply chain sectors, by enhancing transportation capabilities for CV operators. The loan covers Small, Light, and Intermediate & Heavy Commercial Vehicles from all major manufacturers, supporting both new and used vehicle purchases. Customers will also benefit from flexible, structured payment and repayment options.

As part of this launch, PFL has also introduced a technology solution aligned with its risk-first approach. The solution focuses on reducing the documentation process for customers, enabling faster turnaround time and a seamless onboarding experience. By integrating with various technology partners, the company has developed assessment framework with validation from verified sources.

With a strong focus on Bharat’s tier 2 and tier 3 markets, PFL plans to initially enter 68 locations across 12 states in the first phase, with further plans to expand to 400 locations across 20 states through a hub-and-spoke model in the next phase. CV loans will be offered through direct-to-customer, dealers, and channel partners. The company has onboarded industry professionals to provide tailored financial solutions and enhance customer experiences.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Arvind Kapil, Managing Director & CEO of Poonawalla Fincorp, said “Commercial transport sector continues to be the backbone of our growing economy. Our new Commercial Vehicle Loan directly facilitates the financial needs of transporters with streamlined processes and hassle-free documentation. It also adds clear strength to the bouquet of our secured businesses.”

India’s booming e-commerce sector, rapid industrial growth, and ambitious infrastructure development have fueled a rising demand for both new and used commercial vehicles nationwide. The used commercial vehicle segment, projected to form a significant part of PFL’s Commercial Vehicle loan portfolio, stands as a cornerstone of this initiative, driving affordability and opportunity across the transport and logistics ecosystem.

Adopting a strategic, risk-first approach, PFL not only facilitates quicker loan disbursements but also ensures that fleet owners and transporters can expand their operations with confidence and stability. The company continues to focus on simplifying lending, creating customer delight, and enhancing experiences, which are its top priorities.

C Summit and Awards 2025: Primus Partners Focus on Green Growth for MSMEs

New Delhi, March 14th, 2025- India’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are key drivers of economic growth, but their shift toward sustainability remains a challenge. Addressing this, the inaugural edition of the C³ Summit & Awards, organized in partnership with Primus Partners and supported by the Ministry of MSME, brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Unlike conventional summits, this two-day event focused on enabling MSMEs to tackle climate challenges through a structured approach.

Centered around the theme ‘Empowering MSMEs for a Sustainable Future’, the two-day event highlighted the need to align Climate, Circularity, and Community for a greener MSME sector.

The event was graced by Jitan Ram Manjhi, Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, who highlighted the crucial role of MSMEs in building a Viksit Bharat and highlighted their significant contribution to GDP and exports.

He said, “MSMEs are the cornerstone of a Viksit Bharat. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of MSME has been strengthened to drive growth. MSMEs contribute 30.1% to the GDP and 45.73% of exports, supported by initiatives like the PM Vishwakarma Yojana and others, which empower women, enhance skills, and create jobs. We are confident that Bharat will rise to the 3rd position globally by 2027, and MSMEs will be key to this remarkable progress.”

In their address to the attendees, Mercy Epao, and Ateesh Kr. Singh, Joint Secretaries from the Ministry of MSME, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to sustainable development, energy transition.

A report titled, ‘Financing the Future: Bridging India’s $11 Trillion Annual Green Capital Gap’ was also unveiled in the august presence of Sameer Jain, MD (Sustainability & ESG) of Primus Partners, Pooja Lahri, Vice President at Primus Partners, Meenakshie Mehta, Outlook Publisher & Director, M Ramakrishnan, MD (Agriculture), Primus Partners and Neeraj Thakur, Editor, Outlook Business.

The C3 Summit and Awards also saw the launch of Vishwa Carbon, an end-to-end decarbonization platform, in collaboration with Primus Partners. With a global presence across five countries and representing Bharat Carbon in India, the platform is primarily focused on supporting MSMEs in their net-zero journey.

Emphasizing the critical role of technology, policy, and financing in India’s sustainability journey, Sameer Jain, MD of Primus Partners, said, “As India progresses towards its ambitious Panchamrit goals, the intersection of AI, renewable energy, and MSMEs will shape the future of sustainability. With MSMEs contributing 30% to India’s GDP and leveraging AI for innovation, growing data consumption will inevitably increase energy demand, making it crucial to integrate sustainable energy solutions and technological advancements to meet these evolving needs.”

Talking about the policy intervention, Pradeep Tharakan, Director, Energy Transition, ADB said, “As the world’s third-largest energy market, India needs long-term plans like the 2070 net-zero goal, backed by government programs, incentives, and regulations to shift from a fuel-based to a material-based economy. A fully integrated grid supports this transition, but efforts must scale up 5-6 times consistently. With new technologies emerging, MSMEs need better access. Policy interventions are also vital. India must focus on three priorities—securing diverse, affordable financing; expanding into regions like the Northeast; and developing a skilled, digitally equipped workforce.”

The discussions highlighted the critical role of MSMEs in decarbonizing sectors where they form a vital part of the supply chain, with a strong emphasis on climate finance and easing access to sustainable funding. Experts explored policy interventions, financing mechanisms, and technological innovations essential for a smooth green transition.

On scaling India’s computer power, Vishal Dhupar, Managing Director, Asia South at NVIDIA said, “India needs to scale up its compute power consumption from 0.5% to at least 3%, as its current status is far below the global average because of its relatively small compute fabric despite the country’s large population. India must scale up to at least 3% of compute power consumption, but if we continue relying on traditional computing models, it will be an expensive path.”

Highlighting the financing gap for MSMEs despite government programs and stressing upon the need for a strong climate transition narrative, Pooja Lahri, Vice President, Primus Partners said, “Despite several government programs, MSMEs continue to face a significant financing gap. To bridge this, we need a strong and clear climate transition narrative that aligns financial support with sustainable growth.”

In a conversation with the Resident Commissioner of Maharashtra and the Commissioner of Industries, Trade, and Commerce of Arunachal Pradesh, Ramakrishnan M, Managing Director of Primus Partners, emphasised the importance of collaboration among all key stakeholders, regardless of the scale of industrial developments within a state. He highlighted that no matter how large or small the industrial activities may be, it is crucial for all involved parties—government bodies, industry leaders, and local communities—to come together with a shared focus on sustainability thereby ensuring that growth is not only economically beneficial but also environmentally responsible and socially inclusive for the long term.

Emphasizing the crucial role of industry collaborations amongst MSMEs, Prashant Girbane, Director General, MCCIA said, “The Ministry of MSME has introduced excellent schemes, but their impact depends on wider reach and effective implementation. We must leverage industry collaboration, much like Germany, to ensure these initiatives drive real growth and transformation across the sector.”

Discussing the role of the synergy between central and state governments, Rajiv Chawla, Founder & Chairman, IamSMEofIndia said, “Sustainable profits, opportunities, and simplified compliance are the key factors encouraging MSMEs to adopt a greener, more sustainable path. MSMEs are primarily focused on achieving regulatory compliance, seizing opportunities, and ensuring strong profits and returns on investment (ROIs) while moving toward sustainability. Both central and state governments play a vital role by offering incentives tied to ZED certification, which encourages businesses to follow eco-friendly practices.”

Masterclasses were also conducted, equipping MSMEs with actionable insights to adopt sustainable practices and navigate the path toward a net-zero future. The C³ Summit & Awards concluded with a firechat discussion with Jitendra Kumar a.k.a. Jeetu Bhaiya that inspired MSMEs and leaders to pave the way for sustainability. Industry leaders were honored with awards in their respective fields to recognize their contributions and celebrate their commitment to sustainability and innovation. The event focused on helping MSMEs transition to sustainability, supporting India’s net-zero 2070 goal.

ISACA Study: 1 in 3 Tech Pros Switched Jobs in Past Two Years, Leaving 74 Percent of Firms Worried About IT Talent Retention

Heavy workloads and long hours cited as the top stressors for IT professionals,according to new research

Bangalore, India, 14th March 2025 – A career in tech can bring invigorating work, solid compensation and high satisfaction, but can also come with its own stresses—and can be challenging to break into in the first place—according to new research from ISACA, a global professional association championing the digital trust workforce.

The global ISACA Tech Workplace and Culture survey of 7,726 technology professionals explores career satisfaction, pay, levels of authority, mentorship, retention factors and more, including similarities and differences by gender and age group.

Career Motivation

While only 18 percent of respondents report pursuing a job in IT because of the ability to have a work-life balance, this factor does seem to matter to them once they are hired—41 percent cite this as the top reason that they stay at a job or company. Other key motivations for staying include:

• Hybrid/remote work options (40%)
• Liking job duties (37%)
• Interesting work (36%)
• Compensation (34%)

And why pursue a career in IT in the first place? Nearly half (45 percent) of respondents say they go into these professions because they enjoy problem-solving, followed by a desire for continuous learning (41 percent) and liking the job security/demand (38 percent).

There are some bright spots for those in this career. Nearly 70 percent of respondents received a salary increase or promotion in the last two years, despite the findings that only 36 percent took the initiative to ask for a salary increase or promotion and 57 percent did not even ask. Additionally, 70 percent say they are satisfied overall with their career progression (67 percent of women and 71 percent of men).

“India’s IT industry has been a global leader for decades, but the speed of technological change and changing employee aspirations are redefining workforce dynamics across the world. With 1 in 3 global tech professionals having changed employers over the last two years and 74% of companies grappling with retention, the issue is more than providing competitive salaries,” says Kannammal Gopalakrishnan, Senior Manager – Security and Resiliency, Kyndryl Solutions India Private Ltd; Member, ISACA Emerging Trends Working Group. “Firms worldwide, including in India, need to invest in flexible work, upskilling programs, and a robust culture of mentorship to hold on to their best talent. Work-life balance, career advancement, and purpose will be the drivers of IT workforce stability in the next few years.

Stress and Obstacles

However, challenges can arise when pursuing IT careers in the first place. Respondents say that these difficulties include the need for more technical knowledge (35 percent), changing technology, tools and best practices (31 percent) and specialized skills required for specific IT areas (30 percent).

They face other headwinds when trying to advance their careers, citing the biggest career obstacles as 1) not having an upward career path (30 percent), 2) limited career opportunities (24 percent), and 3) lack of mentors (19 percent).

Respondents note overwhelmingly that mentors are important (83 percent), and 63 percent say they would like to have a mentor. However, only 22 percent actually have one. The survey also found that women are more likely to have a mentor, want a mentor and recognize the importance of mentors—but men are more likely to be mentors.

These IT professionals experience stress on the job as well—with the exception of a fortunate 21 percent who say they do not—and these main work-related stressors include:

1. Heavy workloads (54 percent)
2. Long hours (43 percent)
3. Tight deadlines (41 percent)
4. Lack of resources (41 percent)
5. Unsupportive management (41 percent)

Disparities between men and women working in tech also present additional challenges. The survey finds that 37 percent of women have experienced gender discrimination at work, compared to 9 percent of men. Additionally, 42 percent of women say women are underrepresented in tech due to pay inequity, vs. 14 percent of men. Most believe that gender-inclusive programs have a positive impact, with 58 percent of men and 72 percent of women indicating they feel that way.

Retention Insights

In the face of these obstacles, one third of respondents indicate that they have changed jobs in the last two years, and 74 percent of organizations say they are concerned with attracting and retaining tech talent. However, only 27 percent of organizations frequently talk to their own employees about the issue.

While a similar percentage of men (31 percent) and women (32 percent) have recently left their jobs, these numbers look different when examining by age, with the following age demographics noting that they have changed jobs or employers in the last two years:

• Under 35 years old: 42 percent
• Ages 35-44: 35 percent
• Ages 45-54: 29 percent

The respondents cite the top reasons for leaving a job as being 1) desire for higher compensation (seen most among those under 35, at 43 percent for this group), 2) improve career prospects, and 3) desire for more interesting work.

“A robust and engaged tech workforce is essential to keeping enterprises operating at the highest level,” says Julia Kanouse, who serves as Chief Membership Officer at ISACA and oversees the association’s SheLeadsTech program. “In better understanding IT professionals’ motivations and pain points, including how these may differ across demographics, organizations can strengthen the resources and support these employees need to be effective and thrive, making strides in improving retention along the way.”

TiE Mumbai Recognizes SIDBI’s Pivotal Role in India’s VC Ecosystem

New Delhi, March 14, 2025: The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has been applauded by The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) Mumbai for its outstanding contributions in nurturing and supporting the venture capital and startup ecosystem in the country. The recognition was conferred at TiEcon Mumbai 2025, India’s premier entrepreneurial leadership summit, held on March 12, 2025.

The award, which highlights SIDBI’s pivotal role in fostering India’s startup ecosystem and driving innovation, was conferred upon Shri Manoj Mittal, CMD, SIDBI.

It was received on behalf of SIDBI by Shri S.P. Singh, CGM, SIDBI, from the esteemed hands of Shri Narayana Murthy, co-founder of Infosys.

Since its inception in 1990, SIDBI has been at the forefront of developing the Venture Capital (VC) ecosystem in India, playing a crucial role in promoting innovation-led enterprises. Over the past three decades, SIDBI has consistently nurtured this segment through sustained funding from its own balance sheet, as well as pioneering ecosystem-building initiatives.

In the early 1990s, when India’s venture capital ecosystem was still in its infancy, SIDBI took the initiative to establish a dedicated venture capital department facilitating the emergence of startups across various states. In 1999, it set up its own asset management company, managing multiple sector-specific funds, including one of India’s first IT-focused venture funds. Over the years, SIDBI has launched funds catering to manufacturing, social ventures, exports etc, significantly contributing to the diversification of India’s funding landscape.

From Millennials to Gen Z: The Entrepreneurial Evolution of a New Era

National, March 14, 2025: Entrepreneurial spirit is high among women worldwide – particularly younger generations – in a bid to pursue their dreams, gain financial independence, improve work-life flexibility, and make a difference in the world.

New research from Mastercard released reveals almost half (45%) of women in India have considered running their own business. This increases significantly among millennial women (46%), followed by Gen Z (45%) who are far more likely to say this than Gen X or Baby Boomers, both accounting for 38% each.

The top three motivators for Indian women to start their own business are the desire to pursue their dreams (51%), the search for a better work-life balance (44%), and freedom from traditional working structures (40%). Further, nearly half (46%) of Indian women currently have a side hustle, with the figure increasing to 61% among women baby boomers, who are more motivated than all other age groups to start their side hustle to earn more money.

Women business owners are slightly more likely (89% for women; 87% for men) than their male counterparts to say they expect revenue to grow over the next five years. Nearly four in ten (38%) women expect more than 50% growth over the next five years compared to just a fifth (20%) of men. The industries in which they would like to start a business are education (28%), food and drink (21%), and working as an online seller (16%).

Barriers faced by women entrepreneurs

Despite evident appetite for entrepreneurship, the research shows that for many women, including those who have already started a business, there are still barriers in place. Around four in ten (42%) women would like to start their own business but believe it isn’t possible for someone like them — with the count rising to 46% among Gen Z women.

The main barriers preventing them from setting up their own business are limited understanding of the customer base (38%). Further, over a third (36%) of women claim they lack the financial resources to start a business, compared to 29% of men. Lack of funding (24%), risk of failure (29%) are some of the other challenges faced by women when starting their business.

Women who have already started a business also say they struggle disproportionately with caring responsibilities and work-life balance, with women founders twice as likely as men to say childcare arrangements were a challenge when starting their business (16% for women vs. 7% for men).

Support needed

Women feel more confident about starting their own business when they receive training on the best technology (43%) and develop their business plan (42%), compared to men (35% and 34%), respectively

Two-fifths of Indian women (41%) are also looking for more available funding options to help them set up their business, with the figure rising to more than half (54%) in Gen X women. Four in ten women (38%) would also like better training in technological skills, such as coding. Additionally, nearly two fifths of women founders (36%) say they would benefit from guidance from an expert on managing payments, compared to 27% of men.

Gautam Aggarwal, Division President, South Asia at Mastercard, said, “This research highlights the remarkable entrepreneurial spirit among women in India, particularly within younger generations. Despite the progress made by women entrepreneurs, the findings also underscore the challenges that still exist. These barriers emphasize the need for fast and meaningful change to create an environment where all entrepreneurs can thrive.”

“Mastercard is committed to building an inclusive digital economy in India, where small businesses, especially those owned and led by women, are empowered with the solutions and support they need to grow and succeed. The company’s strategic initiatives in this area have so far benefitted nearly 300,000 micro and small enterprises across the country,” he added.

Marol Naka Metro Station in Mumbai Now Fevicol-Branded

Mumbai, 14 March 2025: Fevicol, India’s most iconic adhesive brand from Pidilite Industries Ltd., today announced the renaming of Marol Naka Metro Station to ‘Fevicol Marol Naka.’ This move is not only a tribute to the brand’s deep-rooted connection to the city but also a heartfelt homage to its visionary founder, the late Shri Balvantray Kalyanji Parekh, fondly known as the ‘Fevicol Man,’ on his 101st birth anniversary.

The renaming of the metro station not only reinforces Fevicol’s brand presence but also honours the vision of the man who built a great organization on the simple philosophy of bringing people and materials together seamlessly. The strategic partnership was facilitated by Madison Outdoor Media Solutions (MOMS).

As part of this transformation, one of the vestibules of the Marol Naka station has been turned into a walk-through gallery, showcasing Fevicol’s legendary advertisements from over the years. With the unique approach – setting Fevicol apart from other stations, the focus was to thoughtfully curate a space that connects audiences with the timeless and humorous Fevicol ads, which have brought smiles to Indians across generations. Commemorating the brand’s rich legacy, this unique exhibit allows commuters to relive Fevicol’s most memorable campaigns that have shaped Indian advertising. Additionally, multiple digital screens across the station have been dedicated to playing Fevicol’s iconic ads, ensuring that passengers experience the brand’s creative storytelling while in transit.

Speaking on this occasion, Bharat Puri, MD of Pidilite Industries, said, “At Pidilite, we believe in building lasting bonds. Our founder, Late Shri. Balvantray Kalyanji Parekh, realized his dreams in Mumbai and started the first manufacturing facility in this area. Celebrating his 101st birth anniversary, we honour his legacy and our connection to this city. The neighbourhood is now home to multiple Pidilite offices—this initiative brings immense pride to our employees who frequent this station daily.”

Jayesh Yagnik, CEO, MOMS, said, “As Fevicol continues to be an integral part of everyday life in India, it’s only fitting that we chose a platform that is central to the daily routines of millions of Mumbaikars. The Marol Naka Metro Station, as a key interchange hub, allows Fevicol to reach its target audience effectively and meaningfully. Madison’s meticulous approach has ensured this partnership is executed flawlessly, with a lasting impact for both Fevicol and Mumbai Metro.”

Mr. Rohit Chopra, COO, Times OOH said “We are thrilled to welcome Fevicol as the exclusive station branding partner at Marol Metro Station. As the sole concessionaire of Mumbai Metro Line 1, Times OOH is committed to delivering impactful brand experiences through high-visibility transit media solutions. This collaboration reinforces the power of metro advertising in connecting brands with millions of daily commuters, creating a lasting impression in a highly engaging environment. Marol is an elevated metro station on Mumbai Metro’s Line 1 (Blue Line), serving the Marol neighbourhood in Andheri (East), Mumbai. Andheri, being a key Commercial and residential hub in Mumbai, makes it an ideal station to build brand value while targeting a diverse audience. We are confident that this station will prove to be a valuable addition to the brand’s marketing initiatives.”