India, February 10, 2025: Continuing its mission to drive innovation and entrepreneurship, NXP India, one of the largest R&D centers for NXP Semiconductors and a leader in secure connectivity solutions, proudly announces the return of Season 5 of the NXP India Tech Startup Challenge.

Organized in collaboration with Startup India Hub, this initiative aims to strengthen the startup ecosystem by driving global visibility and network scalability for tech startups. It provides access to incubation, mentorship, and global exposure. The Top 3 Winners will be invited into the Extreme Tech Challenge (XTC) to take part as finalists in global competitions. For the global competition, finalists will be publicized by XTC and have their company evaluated by an elite panel of investors for global exposure. The program’s goal is to foster technical innovation and strengthen the ESDM and semiconductor ecosystem in the country.

Additionally, Electropreneur Park (ESDM Incubator), SFAL, and INCeNSE will extend critical resources such as equity-free pre-incubation, advanced lab facilities, and expert mentorship to the top 10 selected startups, helping them refine their innovations and scale their solutions.

The challenge is dedicated to supporting startups working on IP development, processors, semiconductor fabless ASIC design, and embedded product development across key domains, including Automotive, Industrial & IoT, Smart Cities, Smart Homes, Healthcare, and Energy Management.

“As we increasingly embrace smart technologies, the future is shaping up to be one where everything is interconnected, with systems that not only predict our needs but also automate solutions. With continuous advancements in tech and a surge of innovative business ideas, it will be fascinating to see the exciting developments that Season 5 of the NXP India Tech Startup Challenge unveils. We’re thrilled to offer startups the opportunity to gain global exposure and access to scalable networks, empowering them to make a transformative impact on the world market” said Lars Reger, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at NXP Semiconductors.

“The future of technology lies in intelligent, connected solutions that drive efficiency and sustainability. NXP India’s ongoing efforts to support the startup ecosystem through various initiatives with the Tech Startup Challenge being one of our premier programs since 2021. As we launch Season 5 of the NXP India Tech Startup Challenge, we are excited to engage with emerging startups that are set to redefine the tech landscape. Our goal is to provide these startups with the platform, mentorship, and global exposure they need to thrive” said Hitesh Garg, Vice President and India Managing Director, NXP Semiconductors.

Key Program Benefits:

The top 3 winning startups will receive:

• INR 10 Lacs in prize money, equally distributed among the winners
• Exclusive mentorship (three interactive sessions per month for three months) with NXP India experts
• Finalist positions at Extreme Tech Challenge (XTC), offering global exposure through evaluation by a high-profile panel of investors

Top 10 selected startups will benefit from:

• Networking and industry visibility through NXP and its partners
• Up to 3-month equity-free pre-incubation at Electropreneur Park (ESDM Incubator), featuring state-of-the-art lab equipment, business plan mentorship, technical support, supplier connections, and reimbursement of up to INR 50,000 for prototyping expenses
• Up to 4-month equity-free cohort program at SFAL, granting access to high-value In-kind Partner (IKP) assets, FPGA Innovation Lab@SFAL, specialized tools, business guidance, and investment mentorship
• Up to 3-month equity-free pre-incubation at INCeNSE at IISc Bengaluru, with benefits including in-kind partner support worth INR 50,000 per startup, nanofabrication and characterization facility access, faculty mentorship, and participation in industry events

Program Timeline:

• Application Open Date: February 6, 2025
• Application Closure Date: March 6, 2025
• Application portal link: Startup India

Eligible applicants must be startups incorporated in India as Private Limited Companies with at least 51% Indian ownership. The challenge seeks the most innovative technology startups working in AI, ML, IoT, 5G, Edge Computing, Functional Safety, Security, Ultra-Wideband, Wi-Fi 6, and beyond.

Season 4 winners, including Muse Diagnostics, Reflex Drive (Sunmint Energy), and Glovatrix, gained significant industry traction. Past winners have also been featured on platforms like Shark Tank India, showcasing the impact of this initiative.

Mumbai: At an elegant function at the Vice President Enclave attended by an eminent group of leaders from the political and business classes along with members of the diplomatic community, Hon’ble Vice President of India Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar launched the book compiled by the noted business tycoon and Chairman of the Hinduja Group, Mr. Gopichand P. Hinduja’s “I Am?”

Addressing the August gathering, the Vice President of India Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar stated, “This is indeed a profoundly unique moment. The release of ‘I Am?’, a thoughtful and thought-provoking assimilation by Shri Gopichand P. Hinduja. This launch taking place in Bharat, the land of Sanatan, the cradle of one of the oldest civilizations and global spiritual center, carries deep significance. This book underscores the universal relevance of Bharatiyata, virtuosity that is discernible in all faiths. We can respect and appreciate others’ truth without alluring conversions. Unity means no uniformity. Bharatiya is a perfect example. It exemplifies unity in diversity.

Let me buttress my comment, King Charles III of the United Kingdom had accreditations for these treatises. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, minister of faith and tolerance and will, has glorified it.”

Mr. Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman, of Hinduja Group of Companies (India) in his inaugural address said, “Navigating different cultures across several geographies while maintaining its Sanaatan Traditions has always been a way of life for our family. Our businesses have flourished because promoting multicultural understanding has been an article of faith for us. GP often wondered, if religion is a stepping stone to discover one’s spirituality then how ‘that which is supposed to unite’ create division?

Inspired by the conversations with different spiritual masters, intellectuals, and world leaders on this subject, GP felt compelled to compile this book for the younger generation to help them positively and influence them to navigate the globalized and interconnected world”

President of Parmarth Niketan Trust, Swami Chiddanand Saraswati said, “Gopichand P. Hinduja’s book talks about inclusivity… It’s about the journey from ‘I’ to ‘We’ because only then can humanity move from illness to wellness. This embodies the message of the Rig Veda — Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — that the world is one family.”

Notable attendees at the event included Mr. Ajit Doval, National Security Advisor; Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, eminent jurist, and Rajya Sabha MP; British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron; Vipul Rungta, MD CEO HDFC Capital; Navin Jindal, Chairman, Jindal Steel & Power Ltd and Member Lok Sabha.

Love is in the air, and at Sheraton Grand Palace Indore, romance takes center stage this Valentine’s Day. Araana and S Café transform into havens, offering dining experiences designed to ignite romance and create unforgettable moments.

Experience an exquisite spread curated by Chef Karam Dogra and his team. The evening will unfold with vibrant appetizers like Caramelized Fig with Stewed Berry Compote and Beetroot Carpaccio with Feta followed by indulgent mains, including Aloo Banarasi Ka Pyaar, Guldastan Dil Korma, and Dal-e-Mumtaz, perfectly paired with refreshing beverages like the Rose & Basil Cooler and Pomegranate Sparkler.

For those looking to elevate their celebration, an exclusive poolside candlelight dinner setup awaits, offering a breathtaking ambiance under the starlit sky.

To conclude on a sweet note, savor a trio of exquisite desserts—the delicate Heart Strawberry Entremets, the charming “Love You” Fresh Fruit Gateaux, and the luscious Cherry Valentine Entremets—each thoughtfully crafted to make your celebration truly special.

What: Valentine’s Day Celebrations
Where: Sheraton Grand Palace Indore
When: 14th February 2025
Time: 7 pm – 11 pm

Bengaluru, India – February 10, 2025 – Garuda Aerospace, a leading force in India’s drone technology sector, proudly presented its latest innovation, the MV 1000 AMARAN, at Aero India 2025, unveiled by former DRDO Chairman & Advisor to Defence Minister Dr.Satheesh Reddy and Mr. Sampathkumaran S T, Executive President (Defence Business), HFCL Limited, . This advanced rocket launcher drone is poised to significantly bolster the nation’s defense capabilities and shape the future of security and humanitarian efforts. The AMARAN is a tribute to the memory of Major Mukul Varadharajan, a hero whose life story was immortalized in the film ‘Amaran’, starring Sivakarthikeyan.

“The MV 1000 AMARAN is a testament to our dedication to innovation and excellence in drone technology,” said Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO, of Garuda Aerospace “We believe this drone will play a crucial role in strengthening our nation’s defense infrastructure. We are honored to dedicate this achievement to the memory of Mukul Varadharajan, a true inspiration for our country,” he concluded

National, February 7, 2025: PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema chain, is setting the stage for an electrifying Valentine’s season with the release of two highly anticipated films – the heartfelt romance Loveyapa and the action-packed spectacle Badass Ravi Kumar. As love and adrenaline take center stage, audiences can expect an exhilarating movie experience featuring fresh faces, iconic performances, and unforgettable storytelling.

Loveyapa, directed by Advait Chandan, marks the grand debut of Aamir Khan’s son, Junaid Khan, and the big-screen debut of Sridevi’s daughter, Khushi Kapoor. This refreshing rom-com takes a lighthearted yet thought-provoking look at modern relationships. The film delves into themes of love, trust, and the ever-evolving dynamics of romance in the digital age. Loveyapa has already sparked major industry buzz, positioning itself as a must-watch for Gen Z audiences seeking romance and relatability on the big screen.

Adding an electrifying contrast to the season’s love stories, Badass Ravi Kumar brings back Himesh Reshammiya in a never-seen-before avatar. A spin-off of The Xposé, the film blends high-energy music with action-packed spectacle as Ravi Kumar takes on ten formidable villains. Featuring Prabhu Deva, Kirti Kulhari, and Sunny Leone, it promises gravity-defying stunts, grand monologues, and a nostalgic nod to over-the-top entertainers of the 80s—now with a modern twist. With its trailer already taking social media by storm with viral story threats and millions of views, anticipation is sky-high for this nuanced larger-than-life cinematic experience.

Speaking on the upcoming releases, Mr. Gautam Dutta, CEO, Revenue and Operations, PVR INOX Ltd said, “Valentine’s season at PVR INOX is all about giving audiences an unforgettable time at the movies. With Loveyapa bringing fresh love stories and Badass Ravi Kumar delivering high-voltage action, we are thrilled to offer a lineup that blends heart and adrenaline. We invite movie lovers to come together, celebrate, and experience the magic of cinema on the big screen.”

Be it romance, thrill, or sheer entertainment. As a special treat, movie tickets for Loveyapa and Badass Ravi Kumar will be available at just ₹149 on February 7th, making it the perfect opportunity for audiences to experience these films on the big screen.

Mumbai, 7th February: ECCO, a renowned premium Danish Footwear brand, is excited to announce the opening of its first signature store at Phoenix Palladium in Mumbai in partnership with Jaipuria. This marks a significant step in ECCO’s retail expansion in India.
The new store, which spans 1200 square feet of carpet area, showcases ECCO’s complete collection, including ECCO Biom, ECCO Cozmo, ECCO Metropole, ECCO Street, S-Three, ECCO Sculpted, and the Shoe Care Kit. Thus, it is a one-stop destination for shoe enthusiasts of all types.

Located in one of Mumbai’s premier shopping destinations, the ECCO store offers customers an elevated retail experience. It offers a full range of ECCO products for both men and women, presenting the finest expression of the brand and catering to all occasions and styles.

Sumeet Lohia, Country Manager of ECCO, shared, “The launch of our store at Phoenix Palladium marks an important milestone for ECCO in India. This prime location allows us to engage with Mumbai’s premium customers, introducing them to our signature craftsmanship, innovative designs, and high-quality materials. We are excited to showcase our finest collections and provide an exceptional shopping experience that reflects ECCO’s commitment to comfort, style, and innovation.”

Anurag Sharma, CEO of Jaipuria Brandz also added, “We are thrilled to bring ECCO’s renowned craftsmanship and comfort to the Indian audience, and we look forward to introducing more customers to the brand’s signature style and quality. Through strategic partnerships and upcoming store launches, we are focused on expanding our presence and making ECCO more accessible to consumers across key markets in India.”

The Phoenix Palladium store sets the tone for ECCO’s presence in India, focusing on its core values of comfort, technology, and premium craftsmanship. As ECCO continues to expand across India, customers can expect to experience the brand’s high-quality footwear and innovative designs.

The ECCO store is located at Phoenix Palladium Mall, 1st Floor, Near PVR, Lower Parel, Mumbai.

The store launch event was attended by Patrick Sønderskov Iversen, Regional Director of South East Asia and Pacific Region, ECCO Global, and Sumeet Lohia, Country Manager, ECCO India, Anurag Sharma, CEO Jaipuria Brandz along with notable guests like Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh, Anshula Kapoor, Mandira Bedi, Seema Sajdeh, Producer Tanuj Garg, Mother-daughter designer duo Neeta Lulla and Nishka Lulla Mehra, Atul Kasbekar, Dharma Productions CEO Apoorva Mehta and wife Bijal, and many more.

India, 7th February 2025- As India experiences a vibrant renaissance in the live music industry with classical music gaining more mainstream appreciation, Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, the youngest and last disciple of the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, and a scion of the esteemed Rikhi Ram musical instrument dynasty, announces India’s biggest ever classical music national tour under brand new IP Team Innovation Cultural.

Titled ‘Sitar For Mental Health’, this immersive, multi-sensory 10-city tour presented and produced by Team Innovation, India’s leading live entertainment management company, is poised to redefine the connection between classical music and contemporary well-being. The family-friendly tour designed to delight audiences across all ages will travel to cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Indore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Jaipur and Chandigarh between April and May of 2025.

This tour arrives at a pivotal moment, coinciding with a remarkable surge in classical music consumption among millennial and Gen Z demographics, as evidenced by recent streaming platform data. Sharma’s visionary approach seamlessly blends the profound traditions of Indian classical music with cutting-edge wellness modalities. Following a successful series of performances across the United States and Canada, this extensive India tour represents the most ambitious presentation of ‘Sitar For Mental Health’ to date.

Rishab Rikhiram Sharma states, “We are witnessing a fascinating cultural shift. Ancient ragas are resonating with contemporary listeners in profoundly new ways. Classical music isn’t just surviving in the digital age; it’s thriving. Young people are increasingly drawn to the transformative power of these age-old melodies, recognizing the emotional depth and resonance they offer, often absent in much of today’s music.”

Mohit Bijlani, Founder, of Team Innovation, underscores the tour’s cultural significance and adds, “We stand at the threshold of a transformative chapter in India’s musical history. Classical music has transcended traditional boundaries, evolving into a dynamic force within mainstream culture. At Team Innovation Cultural, we understand that today’s audiences crave authentic and meaningful experiences. This tour embodies that fusion of tradition and innovation, demonstrating the enduring power and relevance of classical music in the 21st century.”

The 120-minute performances offer a reimagined concert experience, seamlessly weaving the enchanting sounds of the sitar with innovative sound healing techniques. Each event creates a unique, contemplative atmosphere where timeless ragas intersect with contemporary wellness practices, highlighting the profound ability of classical music to address modern challenges, particularly in the realm of mental health. The tour invites audiences to explore the therapeutic potential of these ancient musical forms, offering a powerful and deeply moving experience.

Launched in December 2024, Team Innovation Cultural is a groundbreaking initiative launched by Team Innovation bridging India’s rich heritage and contemporary artistic expression. This visionary platform fosters cultural sustainability and artistic innovation by cultivating dialogue between traditional art forms and modern interpretations. Its inaugural event, headlined by global spiritual mentor Radhika Das, exemplified this mission, creating a transformative experience resonating with diverse audiences while honoring the spiritual foundations of Indian culture. Looking ahead, Team Innovation Cultural will curate immersive experiences, foster collaborations, create platforms for dialogue, develop sustainable preservation models, and facilitate audience engagement, ultimately serving as a catalyst for cultural renaissance.

Rishab Rikhiram Sharma belongs to a world-renowned family of musical instrument makers, a business started by his grandfather in 1920, in Lahore of undivided India. He picked up the instrument at the age of 10 and is the youngest and last disciple of world icon Pandit Ravi Shankar. In 2022, he was invited to perform his ‘Sitar For Mental Health’ set in the U.S. President Joe Biden’s annual Diwali celebrations and even made it to the President’s Instagram account. His admiration within the music industry has been significantly notable that he became the first sitarist of his generation to give a solo performance at the NGR Stadium in Houston Texas that attracted a live audience of 60,000+ people and 500+ million at-home live viewers. He also performed at Woodstock 50 Reunion (50 years of Woodstock Festival), paying tribute to the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar. Rishab has a bachelor’s degree in music production and economics from Queens College, The City University of New York.

By Ashwin Bhadri, CEO, Equinox Labs

India is facing a major health crisis. The Economic Survey 2024 reports that 54% of the country’s disease burden is unhealthy diets. This highlights an urgent need for better eating habits and stronger policies to reduce diet-related diseases. Rising obesity and growing consumption of processed foods make this issue more pressing than ever.

The Rise of Obesity and Processed Foods

Obesity in India has more than tripled in recent years. The increase is especially steep among children, making India one of the fastest-growing nations for childhood obesity. The main cause is a shift in the dietary patterns and habits. People are consuming more processed foods, which are high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and salt. At the same time, physical activity levels have dropped.

This combination has led to more cases of diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses. Many Indians also suffer from vitamin and mineral deficiencies due to poor diet quality. As the economy grows and eating habits change, the need for healthier food options is becoming more urgent.

Taxing Junk Food

The Economic Survey suggests several steps to fight obesity and poor nutrition. One key proposal is enforcing higher taxes on junk food. This would make unhealthy food more expensive and encourage people to choose healthier options.

The survey also recommends better regulation of processed foods. This includes requiring clearer nutrition labels on packaging so consumers can make informed choices. Promoting balanced diets with more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is another major focus.

Improving nutrition education is a critical part of the plan. Schools, healthcare providers, and public campaigns can help people understand the importance of healthy eating. When people know more about nutrition, they are more likely to make better food choices.

A Global Problem with Local Challenges

India’s health crisis is part of a global trend. Around the world, diabetes cases have more than doubled in the past 30 years. More than 800 million adults now live with the condition. This shows the importance of reforming eating habits and reducing the consumption of processed foods.

India’s problem is made worse by rising food prices. Many people struggle to afford fresh, healthy food and instead rely on cheaper, processed options. To solve the crisis, the government must promote better diets and make nutritious food more affordable for everyone.

The Path to a Healthier India

India has a clear opportunity to improve public health. Taxing unhealthy foods, promoting better diets and increasing nutrition education are all important steps. These actions can help reduce obesity and diet-related diseases.

For lasting change, the country must also make healthy food more accessible. A well-rounded approach that includes policy changes, public awareness and economic support will create a healthier future for all Indians.

by Mr. Kishore Lodha, Chief Financial Officer, UGRO Capital.

“The much-awaited rate cut has finally arrived, easing interest rate pressure on the industry as a whole and providing relief to home loan borrowers. However, liquidity has turned negative, which remains a cause for concern. The RBI is closely monitoring the situation and implementing measures to mitigate the risk. Inflation has moderated, and the RBI expects it to average 4.2% next year, creating further room for additional rate cuts. Key factors to watch include geopolitical developments, Rabi and Kharif crop yields, GDP growth, and inflation trends.”