Timex Group India Ltd Delivers Another Strong Financial Result for Q3 FY25
Timex Group India Ltd (TGIL), a prominent player in the Indian watch industry and part of the globally renowned Timex Group, has reported an impressive financial performance for the third quarter of the fiscal year 2025. Driven by the launch of innovative and premium products, expansion of distribution channels, and strong traction in the luxury and fashion segment, the company achieved a record total income of 120 crores, reflecting a double-digit growth of 27% vs last quarter. Both EBITDA and PBT show the upward journey of the company, each reported at 4.6 crores, and 2.6 crores respectively.
The quarter’s results highlighted strong performance across channels, with traditional trade taking the main stage as the largest sales contributor with an impressive growth of 30%. E-commerce maintained the growth momentum this quarter, while the defence sector demonstrated significant progress, underscoring Timex Group India’s ability to diversify and cater to varied markets effectively.
Timex continues its strong momentum, with the core brand Timex delivering an impressive 36% growth this quarter. In the fashion segment, Guess recorded a solid 17% growth. Notably, Philipp Plein, a key brand in the licensed luxury portfolio, 82% Growth in Q3, underscoring the segment’s robust performance.
Business Performance
- Total income reached ₹403.7 crores, showing an impressive 23% double-digit growth
- Profit Before Tax (PBT) also saw an increase of 62%, indicating strong financial health
- Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) grew by 44%
Channel Performance
- E-commerce grew by 31%,
- Trade saw an impressive growth of 22% while other channels had a healthy double-digit growth
Brand Performance
- Timex maintained the growth momentum with a 22% increase
- Luxury brand Versace saw a spectacular growth of 37%
- Guess grew by 29%
- Philipp plein at 337%
Mr. Deepak Chhabra, Managing Director, Timex Group India Ltd, commented on the quarter’s performance, “We are excited to share yet another successful quarter performance, which is a result of our continuous focus on delivering exceptional craftsmanship and tapping into emerging market opportunities in the premium segment. The outstanding performances of our flagship Timex brand coupled with fashion and luxury segments, inspire us to keep innovating and expanding our reach to meet India’s growing appetite for premium timepieces.”
The quarter was also marked by the 170th-anniversary limited edition 1-dollar watch launch, showcasing the legacy of Timex in the art of watchmaking, amplifying the brand’s visibility, and strengthening consumer engagement across platforms. Collaborations with globally recognized brands and designers such as Fortnite, James Brand, and Jacquie Aiche further solidified Timex’s appeal among India’s modern, style-conscious consumers. The festive season launches witnessed the acceptance of premium collections, including the Timex Fria Peekaboo range which introduced watches with unique, modern designs.
Timex Group India Ltd is charting a clear course for sustained growth reaching new milestones each quarter. The company plans to deepen its presence in high-potential areas including airport retail, introducing premium brands, and diversifying its portfolio with new categories like Guess Jewellery further enhancing its consumer connection.
Timex continues with its commitment to watchmaking with the launch of a limited-edition watch designed by Timex’s Milan-based Creative Director, Giorgio Galli, whose passion for minimalist design and functional elegance has set him apart in the watch industry. Limited to just 500 pieces, the Giorgio Galli S2Ti is the final evolution of the iconic S series that redefines sophistication, seamlessly blending contemporary design with exceptional durability. Enhanced digital experiences are a top priority to keep pace with India’s rapidly evolving consumer landscape.
MS Dhoni and Namita Thapar Join Forces to Champion Women’s Health Awareness
Mumbai, January 31, 2025: Cricket legend M.S. Dhoni and Emcure Pharma’s Whole-Time Director Namita Thapar have come together in a powerful conversation to highlight the urgent need to prioritize women’s health.
A video shared by Namita on her podcast on women’s health, Uncondition Yourself with Namita, highlights how women, despite being the core of the family, often have their health neglected and mocked. The video emphasizes the need to destigmatize and have an open dialogue about women’s health, advocating for a shift away from dismissive attitudes and encouraging women to be vocal about their health concerns.
The discussion was part of Emcure’s Arth campaign, dedicated to shedding light on social attitudes and empowering women to take charge of their health.
In a candid conversation, Namita throws a googly at Dhoni by asking if he knows the hemoglobin levels of himself and Sakshi (his wife). Caught off guard, Dhoni admits he has no idea. Namita and Dhoni both agree that despite being the nucleus of the family and taking care of everyone, women often tend to ignore their own health.
When women talk about their own health, family members may be dismissive. Dhoni points out, “Mocking remarks like ‘ye normal hai’ need to be replaced with empathy and action. Women must be heard and supported, not dismissed.” He insists that men and women must play an equal role in bringing about this shift, advocating for a culture, free from mocking remarks or indifferent attitudes towards women issues. We should encourage women not only to talk openly about their health but also to take timely action, such as opting for regular health check-ups and timely treatment.
Namita Thapar, a passionate advocate for women’s health, echoes Dhoni’s sentiment. She says, “A condescending attitude, with remarks like ‘maybe she’s going through PMS (premenstrual syndrome) or hormonal mood swings,’ often discourages women from speaking up. Addressing these health-related challenges by creating a supportive and empathetic environment is essential, ensuring that health is never a barrier to women’s personal and professional growth.”
Dhoni aptly concludes the video with a simple yet powerful message: “Health is wealth. Sacrifice some comfort, give some time to yourself and invest it in your health; it will pay good dividends.”
Channelplay Partners with Bombay Banta to Scale Offline Sales and Distribution in India
Gurgaon, 31st January 2025 – Channelplay, a leading retail distribution and sales management solutions provider, has been entrusted with the responsibility of launching and scaling the offline distribution of Bombay Banta in the Indian market. The initiative will commence in the Delhi NCR region, leveraging a combination of direct and indirect distribution models to service small and mid-sized retail outlets effectively.
This partnership marks a significant milestone in Bombay Banta’s journey to expand its footprint in India, bringing its innovative and refreshing offerings to a broader audience. With Channelplay’s extensive expertise and cutting-edge technology platform, 1Channel, the distribution strategy is poised for efficiency, transparency, and scalability.
Channel, Channelplay’s flagship technology platform, will serve as the backbone of this initiative, ensuring seamless operations across the supply chain. Known for its robust capabilities in retail distribution management, the platform enables real-time monitoring, data-driven decision-making, and enhanced collaboration between stakeholders, making it the ideal tool to support Bombay Banta’s growth aspirations.
Mr. Lakshya Das, Senior Vice President at Channelplay, says, “I am very excited about the opportunities in the mocktail market in India. This sales and offline distribution partnership between Bombay Banta and Channelplay is a significant step forward for both organizations. It combines Bombay Banta’s innovative product offering with Channelplay’s proven expertise in retail distribution. Together, we aim to deliver refreshing value not only to consumers but also to our channel partners, creating a win-win for all stakeholders,”
Akkshita Malhotra, Co-Founder & Director, Bombay Banta added, “This partnership with Channelplay is a pivotal moment for Bombay Banta as we take our brand to the next level in the Indian market. With Channelplay’s extensive expertise in offline distribution and their innovative technology platform, we are confident in our ability to reach small and mid-sized retail outlets effectively. Together, we aim to offer a refreshing and exciting product to our consumers while creating strong value for our channel partners,”
The collaboration between Channelplay and Bombay Banta represents a strategic alliance aimed at transforming the offline distribution landscape for innovative beverage products in India. With Channelplay’s years of industry expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to operational excellence, coupled with Bombay Banta’s refreshing and unique offerings, this partnership is poised to create significant value for consumers and channel partners alike.
Manipal Academy of Higher Education Partners with Deakin University to Revolutionize Healthcare Through Technology and Research
Manipal, 31st January 2025: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) collaborated with Deakin University, Australia to organize a prominent International Symposium on Technology for healthcare. The two-day symposium concluded with the purpose of improving medical technology and healthcare outcomes by bringing a diverse group of academic and clinical experts together to discuss revolutionary themes and establish meaningful partnerships.
Professor K. Baskaran, Associate Dean (International), Faculty of SEBE, Deakin University, and Dr. Satish Rao, MAHE, in their respective speeches, reflected and highlighted their institution’s shared vision of revolutionizing global healthcare through technology.
Professor K. Baskaran, Associate Dean (International), Faculty of SEBE, Deakin University, in collaboration with MAHE, said, “Deakin University is proud to partner with MAHE in this pivotal initiative, where technology and research converge to address the critical healthcare challenges of our time. As the global demand for innovative and accessible healthcare solutions intensifies, this collaboration exemplifies our shared vision to harness cutting-edge research and technological advancements to create tangible, life-changing impacts for communities worldwide.”
Dr. Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Health Sciences, MAHE, shared his thoughts, “The partnership between Manipal Academy of Higher Education and Deakin University will possibly bring out an advanced transformation of technology not only within the realm of the healthcare sector but also help establish the power of technology by setting an example.”
The symposium highlighted engaging discussions on crucial themes in digital health technologies and identified at least three joint research projects poised to push the boundaries of medical technology. Participants gained insights into MAHE’s robust research infrastructure and Deakin’s expertise in technology-driven healthcare solutions by getting involved in clinical and lab tours at Kasturba Medical College (KMC).
Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Technology & Sciences, MAHE, expressed his views, “The Deakin-MAHE partnership demonstrates how the convergence of interdisciplinary research and expertise sharing between Australia and India can address global healthcare challenges. This symposium underscores the transformative power of partnerships in fostering innovation and creating meaningful solutions.”
Priyanka Singh, Executive Director (South Asia), Deakin University, said, “By leveraging our collective strengths, we are not just advancing research but also paving the way for impactful outcomes that benefit both nations and beyond The International Symposium not only highlighted the importance of global partnerships in cultivating meaningful progress in healthcare technology but also symbolized another milestone in the longstanding collaboration between MAHE and Deakin University.
British Council Hosts Seminar on ‘Online, Distance, and Digitally Delivered Learning’ and Launches Going Global Partnerships Grants
Kolkata, 31 January 2025 –The British Council, UK’s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural exchange, hosted a seminar on Online, Distance and Digitally delivered Learning to shed light on the current, rapidly changing landscape of opportunities and challenges in online learning segment. The seminar explored the best practices of universities for online courses.
Taking a step further and to deep dive into the quality and effectiveness of Online, Distance, and Digitally Delivered Learning (ODDL), the organisation announced a Going Global Partnerships grants. The Going Global Partnerships programme promotes collaboration and innovation in teaching and learning and transnational education in higher education institutions between India and the UK.
The grant will support collaborative efforts to enhance mutual understanding of UK-India educational systems, identify areas for further collaboration, and harness technology to improve the learning experience. Special attention will be given to improving student engagement, developing innovative teaching practices, and addressing the challenges of assessment quality and course completion rates.
Lord Jo Johnson, Former Universities Minister of the UK, offered a look into the future trends of online and digitally delivered education. Meanwhile, Prof. Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi, Former Member of the National Council for Vocational Education and Training, provided an overview of the regulatory landscape for education in India.
A thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director of Education- India, British Council, was organised during the seminar which delved into the ideal framework for distance education. Esteemed panellists, including Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU, and Joshua Fleming, Director Strategy Office for Students UK, shared their perspectives on creating scalable, accessible, and high-quality online learning systems.
Throughout the seminar, experts examined the evolving landscape of online, open, and digitally delivered education. The event featured a series of innovative demonstrations by leading online education providers and addressed key issues such as student engagement, regulatory frameworks, and the scalability of digital learning models. With global demand for higher education expected to rise, the seminar underscored how digital education can effectively meet these challenges while ensuring equity, access, and quality.
At the event, Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director of Education- India, British Council, said, “Understanding and improving the quality and effectiveness of Online, Distance, and Digitally Delivered Learning (ODDL) is crucial as we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of education. The Going Global Partnerships grant represents a significant step towards fostering collaboration between India and the UK, aiming to enhance the learning experience through innovative teaching practices and technology. We hope this will complement the brilliant efforts of the Indian authorities in this space through mutually beneficial collaboration.”
Professor Dame Sally Mapstone DBE, FRSE, President UUK and Principal and Vice-Chancellor, University of St Andrews said, “We are delighted to strengthen the collaboration between the UK and India through initiatives like the Going Global Partnerships programme. This grant will help us to explore innovative approaches to online, distance, and digitally delivered learning, fostering a deeper understanding of our educational systems. By sharing best practices, enhancing student engagement, and addressing challenges in assessment and course completion, we aim to build a more accessible, scalable, and high-quality digital education landscape for both our nations.”
The Going Global Partnerships grant call for online, distance, and digitally delivered learning, in conjunction with the seminar, is expected to build meaningful partnerships that will contribute to the development of a robust digital learning environment, break barriers around access, and ultimately enhance the employability and skill acquisition of students globally.
India-UK collaboration on internationalising higher education focus on research partnerships, future skills for students, improved teaching quality, and capacity building. The UK and India are key partners in mobility and the UK wants more Indian students to work and study in UK. The UK is open and welcomes international students to pursue high quality courses at globally ranked universities that offer excellent graduate outcomes.
Yamaha Marks 10 Years of R3 with Price Revisions for R3 & MT-03 to Meet Rising Demand
Bengaluru, 31st January 2025: India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd., in line with its customer-centric approach and to cater to the growing demand for premium motorcycles, has announced a price reduction of up to INR 1.10 lakh on its flagship models – the Yamaha R3 and MT-03 effective from 1st February 2025. These models, known for their superior performance and Yamaha’s signature racing DNA, are now available at unbeatable prices. As Yamaha celebrates a decade of the R3 legacy globally, this price revision reinforces the brand’s commitment to its customers and the premium motorcycle segment.
The Yamaha R3 is now priced at INR 3,59,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi) and is available in Icon Blue and Yamaha Black colour options. Meanwhile, the MT-03, with its bold design and street performance, is priced at INR 3,49,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi) and comes in Midnight Cyan and Midnight Black colour options.
Over the last 10 years, the Yamaha R3 has built a cult following among riding enthusiasts globally for its track-oriented precision, exhilarating performance, and timeless design. With its lightweight diamond frame, aerodynamic design inspired by Yamaha’s iconic YZR-M1, and a powerful 321cc engine the R3 offers a thrilling riding experience. The 50/50 weight distribution, sporty riding posture, and advanced braking system make it the perfect companion for both track and road enthusiasts.
The Yamaha MT-03, a hyper-naked streetfighter, stands out with its aggressive styling and torque-focused performance. Designed for agility and everyday usability, it features an upright riding position, twin-eye LED headlights, and mass-forward bodywork that highlights its bold character. The MT-03 is powered by the same 321cc engine as the R3, ensuring thrilling acceleration and smooth performance, while its compact design and mono-cross rear suspension offer unmatched manoeuvrability in city traffic.
With this change in pricing, Yamaha reaffirms its commitment to offering accessible premium motorcycles that deliver on performance, design, and innovation. This strategic move is expected to further strengthen Yamaha’s foothold in the premium motorcycle segment in India and attract a wider audience of riding enthusiasts.
Exploring New Paths: Actors Open Up About Their Alternate Career Dreams
Have you ever wondered what your favourite actors would be doing if they weren’t in the entertainment industry? It turns out these talented individuals have unique skills and passions that could have led them to completely different career paths! From teaching and singing to dancing, &TV actors share how their alternate professions would still reflect their creativity, dedication, and desire to inspire. Here’s a look at the professions they might have pursued if not acting, featuring Neeta Mohindra (Kailasha Bua from Bheema), Sonal Panwar (Malaika from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabhi from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai). Neeta Mohindra, known for her role as Kailasha Bua in Bheema, says, “If I weren’t an actor, I would have fully committed myself to teaching acting and the art forms that I hold dear. Alongside my acting career, I’ve been fortunate to teach students, especially in acting and Kalaripayattu, an ancient Indian martial art that blends discipline, strength, and grace. With a master’s degree in fine arts and a Ph.D. in Tribal Art Forms, I am passionate about preserving and passing on our cultural heritage. Teaching allows me to guide aspiring artists, helping them discover their potential and refine their craft. Had acting not been my main focus, I would have devoted my time entirely to nurturing the next generation of performers, combining my love for art, storytelling, and education into a fulfilling teaching career.”
Sonal Panwar, who plays Malaika in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, shares, “If I weren’t an actor, I would have pursued a career as a singer. Music has been a constant part of my life since childhood, and I’ve been learning to sing for as long as I can remember. The power of music to express emotions and connect with people deeply resonates with me. Singing brings me immense joy and allows me to convey feelings that words often can’t. I find myself humming tunes or singing my favourite songs during my free time—it’s like therapy for me. If I hadn’t been performing on screen, I would have loved to perform on stage or even teach music, sharing the magic of melodies with others. Singing will always be an integral part of who I am.” Shubhangi Atre, known for her portrayal of Angoori Bhabhi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, reveals, “If I hadn’t become an actor, I would have definitely pursued a career as a Kathak dancer and teacher. Dancing has been a part of my life since childhood, and Kathak holds a special place in my heart. The rhythm, expressions, and grace of this classical dance form have always fascinated me. I’ve spent countless hours practicing, and it has brought me immense joy and peace. Teaching Kathak would have been a dream come true, as it would allow me to share my passion for this beautiful art form with others and inspire them to embrace our rich cultural heritage. Even now, whenever I get the chance, I love performing Kathak, and it reminds me of the timeless beauty of Indian classical arts.”
2025 Budget Expectations Insights from Industry Experts
Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President of the Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Society
“We are immensely thankful to Govt of India & especially Hon’ble Finance Minister for great work done for Sickle Cell disease in the previous budgets, wherein allocations have been made for its eradication by 2047, but unfortunately, the bigger evil the most lethal and dreaded disease “Thalassemia”, which is also a genetic blood disorder like sickle cell anemia fails to find any mention in the previous budgets, which is a very grave blunder, which needs to be rectified with immediate effect in the coming budget.
Both, Sickle Cell Anemia and Thalassemia are same type of disease with a little difference, thalassemia is much more severe and the methodology for eradicating them are the same and in both cases, patients survive by periodic blood transfusion for a life time, which is horror in itself and both of them can be eradicated and nations have eradicated them, by simple HbA2 blood test, which needs to be made mandatory by the Government. Sickle Cell Anemia and Thalassemia are two sides of same coin, both of them are to be taken together for eradication efforts, kindly rectify the error.”
“We are very much positive towards the upcoming Budget as the govt has been considerate with its allocations for conditions such as sickle cell anaemia and unfortunately thalassemia has been left out in the previous budgets. The most noteworthy one was the allocation of significant budget towards tackling sicklecell anemia, aiming to eliminate it by 2047, with a focus on universal screening, counseling, and comprehensive management programs. However there is a greater need for Budget 2025-26 to broaden its scope. As we approach the upcoming Union Budget 2025-2026, Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Society urges Hon’ble Finance Minister Smt Nirmala Sitaraman, Finance – Govt of India to prioritize advancements in medical diagnostics, particularly for genetic blood disorders such as thalassemia and sickle cell. We expect targeted investments in affordable, accessible diagnostic services, as well as enhanced funding for research and healthcare infrastructure. The need for early detection, specialized care, and patient-centered solutions has never been more pressing. We hope the budget reflects a commitment to improving healthcare outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions at large.
Mr. Randhir Chauhan, Managing Director, Netafim India
The Union Budget 2025 presents a pivotal opportunity to reshape India’s agriculture sector by prioritizing innovation, sustainability, and efficiency. Focused investments in infrastructure, water efficiency, and technological innovation, combined with supportive policies, can unlock significant growth potential for farmers. These measures will not only enhance agricultural productivity but also drive broader economic progress, contributing to a more resilient agricultural future for India.
Granting infrastructure status to the micro-irrigation industry will help the sector and allied industries to flourish, which is predominantly made up of MSMEs, accounting for 95% of the overall Agri sector. It can substantially reduce operational costs, lower equipment prices, and drive expansion. Integrating renewable energy, such as solar installations, with micro-irrigation systems can further enhance energy efficiency, cut costs, and boost profitability for farmers.
India’s agricultural R&D investment is currently below 1% of its Agri-GDP. This needs urgent redressal. Allocating more funds to the Agri Innovation Fund would stimulate Agri-tech startups, foster digital solutions, and promote the adoption of smart farming, precision agriculture, and cutting-edge irrigation technologies.
Additionally, targeted schemes like Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) aim to tackle pressing issues in irrigation, mechanization, and agricultural infrastructure. After being subsumed under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) in the 2022-23 budget, the PDMC has become a flagship program. With subsidies ranging from 45% to 55% for micro-irrigation systems, and several states offering top-up subsidies, this scheme holds immense promise. Yet, to unlock its full potential, it must remain a centralized and standalone initiative. Centralizing PDMC ensures uniformity in implementation, offering clear guidelines and reducing the inconsistencies caused by state-level variations in subsidy distribution. This oversight will allow for strategic prioritization of regions facing severe water scarcity, which is crucial to combating India’s growing water crisis.
Moreover, there is vast untapped potential to improve water efficiency, especially in oilseed cultivation. Despite oilseeds occupying only 13% of cropped area, they contribute a mere 6% in value terms. Adopting drip irrigation and other high-efficiency methods could conserve up to 60% of water, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance productivity. Expanding micro irrigation into canal command areas and incentivizing crop diversification into oilseeds, oil palm, and millets would not only increase climate resilience but also bolster farmer incomes.
With ever depleting Ground water table, we need to have a push for adoption of Drip in water guzzling crops like Rice, wheat, and sugarcane. When we export sugar or Basmati rice, we are exporting water which is very scarce resource. Also, in crops like rice, we can reduce the release our GHGs by adoption of Drip Irrigation.
Mr. Rajesh Sharma, MD Capri Global Capital Ltd.
“As the Union Budget 2025 approaches, the NBFC sector looks forward to policy measures that will bolster its pivotal role in India’s economic growth. NBFCs play a crucial role in extending credit to underserved segments such as MSMEs, Housing, Agriculture, and Renewable Energy, contributing significantly to inclusive development. Establishment of a dedicated liquidity facility through the Finance Industry Development Council (FIDC), aimed at ensuring affordable credit flow to priority sectors would be beneficial. This initiative would support small and mid-sized NBFCs by providing competitive-rate funds, reducing dependency on high-cost borrowing. Empowered with steady capital, NBFCs can effectively meet the credit needs of sectors crucial for job creation, rural development, and sustainable economic growth.
Anticipated reforms like reducing the SARFAESI Act’s loan threshold to ₹1 lakh, could expedite asset resolution and bolster financial resilience. Additionally, a proposed market-making mechanism could streamline funding access, enhancing the ability to serve priority sectors effectively. Such reforms if implemented, would further help NBFCs to contribute significantly to India’s economic aspirations, ensuring inclusive and sustainable progress.”
Mr. Jasdeep Singh, Group CEO, CARE Hospitals
“The Union Budget 2025-26 is a key opportunity to strengthen India’s healthcare system by making it more affordable, accessible, and innovative. At CARE Hospitals, we hope to see a higher allocation for public healthcare spending to close gaps in infrastructure, especially in rural and underserved areas. Expanding Ayushman Bharat to cover outpatient care and diagnostics, along with promoting preventive health programs, can help address the growing challenges of both communicable and non-communicable diseases while ensuring quality healthcare for everyone.
Cancer is a major health concern in our country, putting a heavy financial and emotional strain on people. To make cancer care more affordable, reducing customs duties and GST on essential equipment like LINACs would improve access to advanced treatment in underserved areas. It’s also important to revise reimbursement rates under government schemes like CGHS, PMJAY, and ECHS by linking them to inflation, as many rates have stayed the same for nearly a decade.
To position India as a global healthcare hub, creating a dedicated fund to promote high-quality healthcare and medical tourism is essential. Such measures can not only enhance our healthcare system but also boost India’s stature globally. The government should also prioritize funding research and development in the MedTech sector, incentivizing innovation, and transitioning to quality-linked procurement standards for value-based care.
Encouraging digital health solutions, medical research, and public-private partnerships can help India stay ahead in healthcare innovation. Providing tax benefits and supportive policies for healthcare providers will also be crucial in meeting new health challenges. At CARE Hospitals, we are committed to patient-focused care and hope this budget will empower healthcare providers to reduce gaps, improve outcomes, and make healthcare a key driver of national growth.”
Dr Rohan Dutta, Associate Professor, Anant School For Climate Action
“As India strives to achieve its climate action goals and transition towards a sustainable future, the Union Budget 2025 presents a pivotal opportunity to prioritise climate education in alignment with the visions of the National Education Policy 2020, and the National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change under the National Action Plan on Climate Change. I expect increased budgetary allocations to incorporate climate literacy at all levels of education, from primary schools to higher institutions. This must include curriculum redesigns focused on sustainability, renewable energy, conservation, and practical skill-building programs for green jobs. Investments in teacher training and digital resources can enhance the reach and effectiveness of climate education, especially in rural and underserved areas. Collaboration with industries and research institutions can foster innovation hubs within educational institutions, promoting climate solutions tailored to India’s unique challenges.
Climate change is no longer abstract – it directly affects livelihoods, health, and economies. Therefore, empowering the next generation with knowledge and solutions is an investment in long-term resilience. The 2025 Union Budget must demonstrate a commitment to making climate education a cornerstone of national development, aligning with global best practices and India’s ambitious sustainability commitments. Only with informed citizens can India truly lead in creating a sustainable and climate-resilient world.”
Mr. Manoj Tulsian, CEO and Joint Managing Director, Greenply Industries Ltd.
“As we look towards Union Budget 2025, we expect strong focus on sustainable economic growth driven by domestic consumption, green manufacturing incentives, and skill development. Revising the income-tax rebate threshold can enhance disposable income, improving demand in sectors like housing and interiors, which are key to economic expansion.
At the same time, targeted tax benefits for sustainable manufacturing—such as incentives for green building materials and responsible forestry practices—would not only support industrial growth but also reinforce India’s climate commitments. Equally critical is investment in skill development, particularly in carpentry and allied trades, to bridge the workforce gap in India’s expanding furniture and infrastructure industries.”
Mr. Pankaj Dhingra is the CA & US CPA, Managing Partner, FinTram Global LLP
“Budget 2025 presents an opportunity to make tax filing more accessible and transparent for everyone. Leveraging AI-based income tax systems can not only streamline processes but also help identify fraudulent practices efficiently, ensuring fairness and accountability.
Further, revising outdated tax slabs and increasing the 80C deduction – that has remained unchanged for years – will provide a much-needed relief to taxpayers.
Next, to boost entrepreneurship, introducing tax holidays and other benefits for startups and young entrepreneurs can provide the necessary impetus for innovation and job creation for common man.
Additionally, reducing GST on education to 5% will make learning and skilling more affordable, empowering students to invest in their future.
If implemented thoughtfully, these measures can create a simplified, inclusive, and growth-oriented tax framework for all.”
Zepto Now Offers vivo Mobile Phones for Instant Delivery
Bengaluru, India – January 31st, 2025: Zepto, India’s fastest-growing quick commerce platform, is expanding its electronics category with a broad selection of mobile phones starting January 25th. This initiative is part of Zepto’s ongoing strategy to enhance its product offerings and provide users with an even wider selection of mobile technology. As part of this expansion, Zepto will feature the latest models from vivo India, offering a new range of options for smartphone enthusiasts.
“At Zepto, our Sellers are committed to providing our users with quick, reliable, and affordable solutions for their everyday needs. I thank our sellers for enabling a larger selection of smartphones to our platform which further support this goal,” said Abhimanyu Singh, Business Head, Electronics, Zepto. “We are excited to collaborate with vivo India and our Sellers to bring the latest mobile technology directly to our users in a fast, convenient, and seamless way.”
Mr Pankaj Gandhi, Head, Online Business, vivo Mobile India Pvt Ltd “vivo India has always been dedicated to delivering cutting-edge smartphones that enhance the lives of our customers. Our collaboration with Zepto reflects our shared commitment to making the latest mobile technology easily accessible and available at the fingertips of users. This partnership will ensure that vivo customers across India can enjoy the convenience of purchasing our products through Zepto’s fast and efficient platform.”
Zepto will feature a range of devices starting at just ₹5,999 inclusive of taxes. To celebrate the launch, an exclusive ICICI Bank promotion is offering a flat 5% off (up to ₹5,000) on mobile purchases over ₹5,000. This limited-time offer is live till January 31st, ensuring users can enjoy both affordability and convenience while shopping for the latest smartphones.
Timex Group India Reports Strong Q3 FY25 Financial Results
National | January 31, 2025 – Timex Group India Ltd (TGIL), a prominent player in the Indian watch industry and part of the globally renowned Timex Group, has reported an impressive financial performance for the third quarter of fiscal year 2025. Driven by the launch of innovative and premium products, expansion of distribution channels, and strong traction in the luxury and fashion segment, the company achieved a record total income of 120 crores, reflecting a double-digit growth of 27% vs last quarter. Both EBITDA and PBT show the upward journey of the company, each reported at 4.6 crores, and 2.6 crores respectively.
The quarter’s results highlighted strong performance across channels, with traditional trade taking the main stage as the largest sales contributor with an impressive growth of 30%. E-commerce maintained the growth momentum this quarter, while the defence sector demonstrated significant progress, underscoring Timex Group India’s ability to diversify and cater to varied markets effectively.
Timex continues its strong momentum, with the core brand Timex delivering an impressive 36% growth this quarter. In the fashion segment, Guess recorded a solid 17% growth. Notably, Philipp Plein, a key brand in the licensed luxury portfolio, 82% Growth in Q3, underscoring the segment’s robust performance.
Timex Group India Ltd financial highlights for YTD FY25
Business Performance
- Total income reached ₹403.7 crores, showing an impressive 23% double-digit growth
- Profit Before Tax (PBT) also saw an increase of 62%, indicating strong financial health
- Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) grew by 44%
Channel Performance
- E-commerce grew by 31%,
- Trade saw an impressive growth of 22% while other channels had a healthy double-digit growth
Brand Performance
- Timex maintained the growth momentum with a 22% increase
- Luxury brand Versace, saw a spectacular growth of 37%
- Guess grew by 29%
- Philipp plein at 337%
Mr. Deepak Chhabra, Managing Director, Timex Group India Ltd, commented on the quarter’s performance, “We are excited to share yet another successful quarter performance, which is a result of our continuous focus on delivering exceptional craftsmanship and tapping into emerging market opportunities in the premium segment. The outstanding performances of our flagship Timex brand coupled with fashion and luxury segments, inspire us to keep innovating and expanding our reach to meet India’s growing appetite for premium timepieces.”
The quarter was also marked by the 170th-anniversary limited edition 1-dollar watch launch, showcasing the legacy of Timex in the art of watchmaking, amplifying the brand’s visibility, and strengthening consumer engagement across platforms. Collaborations with globally recognized brands and designers such as Fortnite, James Brand, and Jacquie Aiche further solidified Timex’s appeal among India’s modern, style-conscious consumers. The festive season launches witnessed the acceptance of premium collections, including the Timex Fria Peekaboo range which introduced watches with unique, modern designs.
Timex Group India Ltd is charting a clear course for sustained growth reaching new milestones each quarter. The company plans to deepen its presence in high-potential areas including airport retail, introducing premium brands, and diversifying its portfolio with new categories like Guess Jewellery further enhancing its consumer connection.
Timex continues with its commitment to watchmaking with the launch of a limited-edition watch designed by Timex’s Milan-based Creative Director, Giorgio Galli, whose passion for minimalist design and functional elegance has set him apart in the watch industry. Limited to just 500 pieces, the Giorgio Galli S2Ti is the final evolution of the iconic S series that redefines sophistication, seamlessly blending contemporary design with exceptional durability. Enhanced digital experiences are a top priority to keep pace with India’s rapidly evolving consumer landscape.