RS 10M ‘Young Entrepreneurs Fund’ Launched to Boost Next-Gen Innovators
New Delhi, 7th April, 2025: The Young Entrepreneurs Fund (YEF), a $10 million initiative, was launched today by Harshavardhan Chauhaan, the veteran marketing strategist behind billion-dollar retail and D2C ventures. Fueled entirely by proceeds from Chauhaan’s incendiary new book, #NCAYB (Nobody Cares About Your Brand), this radical fusion of literary provocation and venture capital targets early-stage founders driving innovation in Deep Tech, Clean Energy, Rural Platforms, and National IP. Chauhaan, whose career spans scaling hypergrowth startups and redefining brand psychology, positions YEF as both a critique of outdated marketing dogma and a capital engine for those rewriting India’s economic future, aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat, Karmyogi Bharat, and Vishwa Vyapi Bharat.
The fund’s structure defies conventional venture models, mirroring Harshvardhan Chauhaan’s unorthodox approach to consumer influence. Unlike traditional investors fixated on pitch decks and financial projections, YEF allocates $10,000-$250,000 grants to raw, pre-revenue ideas, prioritizing societal impact and scalable solutions over spreadsheets. This ethos stems directly from #NCAYB’s core thesis, that consumer trust, not product-centric frameworks like the 1960s-era 4Ps of Marketing, now dictates market success. Proceeds from every copy of #NCAYB sold directly go to the YEF, creating a self-sustaining loop between thought leadership and founder empowerment.
Commenting on the fund launch, Harshvardhan Chauhaan, said, “The true revolution in business won’t happen in boardrooms where executives cling to century-old theories. It will emerge from garages and Discord servers where founders understand that consumers don’t follow brands, they follow trust architectures. Through the launch of the Young Entrepreneurs Fund, our aim is to go beyond funding business plans by investing in neural networks of influence that rewrite consumer behavior from the subconscious up. When the history of 21st century commerce is written, it won’t mention advertisements or product features; it will document how trust became the only currency that mattered.”
Beyond financial backing, YEF provides grantees with mentorship from global brand strategists, growth marketers, and serial entrepreneurs who understand the evolving dynamics of consumer trust and fractional loyalty. Ashish Soni, an alumnus of IIT Bombay, serial entrepreneur, and industry leader in AI and emerging technologies, has joined YEF a pro bono mentor and board advisor. With over 14 years of experience across innovation, product development, and tech consulting, Ashish will help guide the fund’s direction, ensuring high-impact value creation and strategic excellence.
The fund’s mandate spans four strategic sectors critical to India’s transformation. In Deep Tech, YEF will support startups pioneering breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced robotics, technologies poised to redefine global technological frontiers. Clean Energy innovators will receive backing for solutions in renewable energy generation, green infrastructure, and carbon-neutral technologies, aligning with India’s sustainability goals. Rural Platforms form another key focus area for YEF, aiding ventures that democratize access to agritech tools, rural fintech ecosystems, and digital literacy programs to bridge the urban-rural divide – a direct contribution to the Viksit Bharat ideal.
Apart from these, YEF will also help National IP initiatives gain traction by scaling indigenous innovations, from traditional crafts to climate-resilient agricultural practices, ensuring these ideas achieve global resonance under the Vishwa Vyapi Bharat framework. These verticals align with #NCAYB’s principles of The Trust Algorithm, Fractional Loyalty, and the Influence Flywheel, while anchoring YEF’s role in fostering a Karmyogi Bharat where skill development and entrepreneurial grit converge. By channeling resources into these domains, the fund aims to cultivate a self-reliant economy where trust-based consumer relationships and homegrown innovations drive progress
Paytm Rolls Out MahaKumbh Soundbox with Digital Screen for Payment Updates
Paytm (One97 Communications Limited), India’s leading payments and financial services distribution company and the pioneer of mobile payments, QR codes, and Soundbox technology, has launched the Made-in-India Paytm MahaKumbh Soundbox to empower merchant partners with instant payment alerts on a digital screen and real-time transaction tracking. The latest addition to Paytm’s expanding Soundbox range, this 4G-enabled device helps businesses track payments effortlessly, improve transaction visibility, and enhance operational efficiency.
The MahaKumbh Soundbox represents the power of Indian unification—just as the rare pilgrim festival brings millions together, this device seamlessly integrates multiple features into one, enabling effortless transactions for merchants.
Equipped with diverse capabilities, the new Paytm MahaKumbh Soundbox comes with a built-in digital screen that provides a clear view of payments, including real-time transaction updates, total collections, and device status. Merchants can now see transactions instantly while also receiving audio alerts, ensuring quick verification even during peak hours when multiple payments are being made. It features Paytm pioneered QR code, allowing customers to scan and pay via all UPI apps and RuPay Credit Card payments through UPI. With a powerful 3-watt speaker, the device delivers clear voice confirmations, enabling merchants to instantly verify payments and reduce errors. Supporting 11 languages, it ensures merchants receive updates in their preferred language. Additionally, its long-lasting 10-day battery and durable, splash-resistant, and temperature-resistant design make it a reliable solution for businesses across retail stores, restaurants, and local markets.
Shri Sanjiv Singh ji, Joint Secretary, DPIIT said, “Startup Mahakumbh has been a landmark event celebrating India’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, bringing together visionaries, innovators, and policymakers to drive India’s digital and financial inclusion forward. In this spirit of innovation, Paytm continues to lead the way in transforming digital payments for millions of businesses across the country. The launch of the Paytm MahaKumbh Soundbox is another testament to India’s leadership in fintech innovation—empowering merchants with real-time transaction tracking, seamless payment acceptance, and operational efficiency. I commend Vijay Shekhar Sharma and the Paytm team for their relentless commitment to developing cutting-edge, Made-in-India solutions that strengthen our digital economy and support small businesses nationwide.”
Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder & CEO – Paytm said, “We are proud to have made mobile payments accessible to everyone. As pioneers of Soundbox technology, we introduced instant payment confirmations, bringing trust and ease to merchants. With our new Made-in-India Display Soundbox, we are taking it a step further to help our merchant partners track transactions effortlessly and manage their business with confidence.”
This launch follows Paytm’s recent green innovation of India’s First Paytm Solar Soundbox, aimed at providing sustainable energy solutions to merchants and businesses. By integrating solar-powered infrastructure, the company continues to drive innovation that enhances efficiency and reduces operational costs for its partners. Additionally, Paytm is enhancing digital transactions with its NFC-enabled payment solutions, allowing merchants to accept tap-and-pay transactions effortlessly. This ensures faster, more secure payments and an improved customer experience.
Paytm innovates based on customer needs, introducing features like UPI statement downloads (PDF & Excel), UPI Trading Blocks for direct stock trade payments without pre-funding, and the ‘Receive Money QR Widget’ for instant payments without opening the app. It also enables users to check UPI-linked bank account balances on the Paytm app and supports UPI, UPI Lite for small payments, RuPay Credit Card linking on Paytm UPI, cards, and net banking for seamless transactions. Expanding globally, it now facilitates UPI payments in the UAE, Singapore, France, Mauritius, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.
Lilavati Hospital Organizes A Kidney Awareness Programme
Mumbai, April 7, 2025: In a bid to promote kidney health and encourage early detection of kidney diseases, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre has organized a Kidney Awareness Programme to commemorate World Kidney Day. The programme also featured an interactive session on kidney diseases, a talent show by patients and staff, and a quiz competition ‘Kaun Banega Kidney Pati’, followed by prize distribution making it both informative and engaging. Present on the occasion were Shri Rajiv Mehta, The Permanent Trustee, Dr Niraj Uttamani, Chief Operating Officer, Dr Hemant Mehta, Dr K. L. Upadhya, Dr Arun Shah, Dr L. H. Suratkal, Dr Wasi Shaikh, and Dr Nageshwar Panchal.
Kidney diseases are surging in people of all age groups due to unhealthy lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and lack of awareness. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and dehydration contribute to kidney problems. If left undiagnosed, kidney issues can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and even kidney failure. Thisprogram aims to provide timely screenings, expert consultations, and essential education on maintaining kidney health and preventing complications. It will be a boon for individuals at risk, encouraging them to take proactive measures for kidney care.
Dr Hemant Mehta, Nephrologist Lilavati Hospital Mumbai said, “Kidney diseases progress silently and, in many cases, are detected at an advanced stage, leading to the need for dialysis or transplantation. Early diagnosis through routine screenings can prevent severe complications and ensure better management of kidney-related disorders. This initiative by Lilavati Hospital will help people understand the importance of kidney health, timely intervention, and the availability of advanced treatments for those in need. The program saw participation from kidney patients, including several who are on dialysis. It provided them with a platform to share their experiences, spread awareness, and inspire others to take preventive measures.”
Mr Prashant Mehta, Permanent Trustee at Lilavati Hospital Said, “ We are committed to safeguarding and improving health through interactive medical camps and educational awareness programmes. Our goal is to ensure that more people have access to early screenings and expert medical guidance, ultimately improving overall well-being.”
Mr Rajiv Mehta, Permanent Trustee of Lilavati Hospital said, ” World Kidney Day serves as a reminder of the importance of kidney health and the routine testing in reducing preventable complications. This year’s theme – ‘Are Your Kidneys Okay’ , detect early and protect kidney health encourages people everywhere to recognise risk factors and adopt healthier lifestyle choices as millions of people are globally affected. Most are undiagnosed with serious kidney diseases. Early detection can make a significant difference as kidney diseases are known to progress silently affecting between 15-20% adults. In this intricate web of human priority , every organ plays a crucial role , contributing to the symphony of life. The kidneys often overlooked until serious complications arise. The kidney’s major function lies in its remarkable ability to filter waste products and excess fluid from the body and ensuring the body can maintain the delicate balance of these waste products and fluids. A healthy kidney can keep the blood pressure stable , acid base balance for proper cellular functions, toxin removals, mineral and bone health and keeping producing immune modulating substances to fight off further diseases. Kidneys are the unsung heroes of our bodies silently performing vital functions that are essential for overall health and well-being. By understanding the importance of kidney health, and taking proactive steps to support their functions, we can safeguard these vital organs and pave the way for a healthier future. Taking care of your kidneys is about nurturing your body’s intricate system to flourish. Let’s give our kidneys the attention and care they deserve.”
“This awareness programme offers hope to many, encouraging them to prioritize their kidney health and seek timely treatment. Prompt detection can prevent complications, and initiatives like these empower people to take proactive measures for a healthier future,” concluded Dr Niraj Uttamani, Chief Operating Officer of Lilavati Hospital Mumbai.
i-merit Partners with DBUU for Skill Development Programs
07th April 2025: i-merit, the flagship program of Scholars Merit Online Pvt. Ltd., has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University (DBUU) to introduce a variety of skill development programs under the i-merit banner. These programs, spanning 120 hours, 12 weeks, and 25 weeks, are designed to enhance students’ employability by equipping them with industry-relevant skills through the i-merit Accelerate and Elevate initiatives.
The i-merit Nova courses, an integral part of this collaboration, aim to bridge the skill gap by providing hands-on training, real-world industry exposure, and essential professional skills. DBUU students will gain access to structured learning modules that align with current job market demands, ensuring they are well-prepared for future career opportunities.
Speaking about the partnership, Sumit Shukla, CEO of Scholars Merit, stated,
“Employability is one of the biggest challenges that graduates are facing in India. Our collaboration with DBUU aligns with our vision to empower students with industry-specific skills that make them job-ready. Through the i-merit Nova courses, we are committed to providing structured, hands-on learning that enhances both technical knowledge and workplace competencies.”Dr. R. K. Tripathi, Registrar, Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University, emphasized,
“At DBUU, we prioritize not only academic excellence but also the holistic development of our students. This partnership with i-merit allows us to further strengthen our commitment to skill-based education. By integrating these programs into our curriculum, we are ensuring that our students receive the practical training needed to excel in the workforce.“
Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University, recognized as one of the top educational institutions in North India, is known for its diverse academic programs across 11 constituent schools. Accredited by multiple regulatory bodies, including UGC, PCI, INC, BCI, and CoA, DBUU provides a strong foundation for students across various disciplines such as Engineering, Management, Law, Pharmacy, and Aviation & Airport Management, among others.
This partnership with DBUU is part of i-merit’s broader strategy of partnering with 100 colleges and impacting 50,000 students by December 2025. Notably, it follows recent MoUs signed with Kanpur Institute of Technology (KIT), SRM Institute of Science & Technology, and Sri Sai Group of Institutes, reinforcing i-merit’s commitment to skill development and employment readiness for students nationwide.
IIM Bodh Gaya Celebrates 7th Annual Convocation with 471 Graduates
The Indian Institute of Management Bodh Gaya hosted its 7th Annual Convocation, marking the graduation of 471 students across three academic programs. This year, 310 students from the MBA program, 91 from DBM, and 70 from HHM were conferred degrees. This convocation marked the graduation of students from the flagship MBA program, along with the first batches of the MBA in Digital Business Management (DBM) and MBA in Hospital & Healthcare Management (HHM), underscoring the institute’s growing focus on industry-responsive and future-ready education.
The convocation ceremony began with a welcome address by Dr. Janmejaya Sinha, Member of the Board of Governors, IIM Bodh Gaya. In his address, Dr. Sinha inspired the audience with his words, “Be an optimist. Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can.”
Dr. Vinita Singh Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, then presented the Annual Report for 2024–2025, highlighting the institute’s academic excellence, infrastructural advancements, and global partnerships. She also shared the institute’s placement performance, reporting that over 370 students were placed across the three programs out of 441 eligible candidates.
Prof. Sahay also highlighted the status of final placements, emphasizing compensation trends across all programs. The top 25% of the MBA, DBM, and HHM batches secured average CTCs of ₹18 LPA, ₹21 LPA, and ₹15 LPA, respectively. The overall batch average stood at ₹12 LPA for MBA, ₹12 LPA for DBM, and ₹11 LPA for HHM. Key recruiters included Deloitte, PwC, Accenture, ICICI Bank, and Tata Power, covering sectors such as consulting, BFSI, IT, and manufacturing.
As part of the ceremony, medals and degrees were awarded to students from all three programs. The awards were conferred in three categories: Chairman’s Gold Medal, Director’s Gold Medal, and the IIM Bodh Gaya Gold Medal for Best All-Round Performance.
In the MBA programme, the Chairman’s Gold Medal was awarded to Mr. Mihir Shaw, the Director’s Gold Medal to Mr. Aniket Kumar Gupta, and the Best All-Round Performance Medal to Mr. Goud Shriprasad Arun. In the MBA in Digital Business Management programme, the Chairman’s Gold Medal was awarded to Ms. Ankita, the Director’s Gold Medal to Mr. Udit Aggarwal, and the Best All-Round Performance Medal to Mr. Swapnil Sanjay Narkhede. In the MBA in Healthcare & Hospital Management program, the Chairman’s Gold Medal was awarded to Mr. Satyam Kumar, the Director’s Gold Medal to Mr. Abhinaba Manna, and the Best All-Round Performance Medal to Mr. Adarsh.
The ceremony concluded with an address by the Chief Guest, Mr. Arun Kumar Singh, Chairman and CEO of ONGC. He encouraged students to focus on depth and purpose in their careers. “Once you acquire width, it’s all about acquiring depth. Be a net giver instead of a net taker—true leadership comes from giving more than you take,” he said, offering a message of responsibility and growth.
CARE Hospitals Hi-Tech City Upgrades Orthopaedics with Expert Surgeons
On the addition of these esteemed doctors, Dr. Nikhil Mathur, Group Chief of Medical Services, CARE Hospitals, said “The addition of these highly skilled orthopaedic surgeons reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class, patient-centered care. Their expertise in advanced surgical techniques, combined with our cutting-edge technology, enables us to provide the highest quality orthopaedic services and improve patient outcomes.“Mr. Nilesh Gupta, Chief Operating Officer, CARE Hospitals, Hi-Tech City added, “We extend a warm welcome to our esteemed orthopaedic surgeons, whose expertise and dedication will further elevate our commitment to exceptional patient care”.
The Good Club Padel League Launches Live Auction in Chandigarh
Chandigarh, 07th April, 2025 – The Good Club, a vibrant community hub renowned for fostering social connection and active lifestyles, has done its first ever live player auction at 6, Vishnu Gdn Rd, behind Rock Garden, Kaimbwala, Kansal, Chandigarh 160001. The GCPL teams for the live auction were Smash Bucklers, Santa Banta Smashers, Ninja Steel Warriors, Raging Racketeers, Sunbrave Strikers & Net Ninjas.
The GCPL is not just a league; it’s a movement. Built on the foundation of camaraderie, healthy competition, and lifestyle elevation, the GCPL is a way of redefining what community sport looks and feels like. It brings together spirited individuals, families, and businesses, all under one common goal: to play hard, connect deeper, and grow together.
Padel, a dynamic and inclusive sport, has captured the hearts of people across all age groups. Its unique doubles format promotes teamwork, communication, and social interaction, making it an ideal activity for bonding with friends, family, and new acquaintances. This inherent camaraderie perfectly aligns with The Good Club’s vision of creating a space where everyone feels welcome and connected.
The Good Club has rapidly become a popular destination, attracting over 200 visitors daily. It offers a diverse range of activities, from fitness and social gatherings to relaxation in its café, ensuring there’s something for everyone. This welcoming atmosphere has solidified its position as a beloved community hangout.
Building on this success, The Good Club has launched the GCPL, a competitive league designed to unite regular club players with top-tier talent from across India. The league aims to provide a platform for players of all skill levels to compete, grow, and contribute to the sport’s burgeoning popularity.
On the occasion, The Good club and the GCPL founders Aashna A Mehra and Pranav Mehra said, “The GCPL is excited to host first-ever live player auction. With the vision to create a space where everyone feels welcomed, The Good Club padel league is an extension of the same. This league provides an incredible opportunity for players of all skill levels to compete, grow, and contribute to the expansion of this dynamic sport.”
The GCPL has witnessed an overwhelming response from Team Buyers, culminating in a Live Auction where the top six bidders secured their teams. This excitement continued with the highly anticipated Live Player Auction, which occurred on the 5th of April. Top Indian Players like Shashank Narde, Famas, Manav k Sreekumar were sold at record prices. Nearly 100 registered players were available for bidding, allowing teams to strategically build their squads for the upcoming matches.
The GCPL represents The Good Club’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community through the power of sport. By bringing together players of all levels, the league aims to elevate the profile of padel in India and create a lasting legacy for the sport.
Loveyapa The Ultimate Love Test, Now Streaming on JioHotstar
Get ready for a Delhi-sized dose of romance, chaos, and pure masala as Loveyapa is now streaming exclusively on JioHotstar. Directed by Advait Chandan, the film blends humour, emotional depth, and social commentary, exploring modern relationships in the digital age, fueled by the sizzling chemistry between Khushi Kapoor and Junaid Khan. Loveyapa is the Hindi adaptation of the 2022 Tamil blockbuster ‘Love Today’.
Set in Delhi, the story follows the journey of a young couple named Gaurav and Bani who fall in love and decide to get married. However, their lives take a drastic turn when Bani’s father, Atul Kumar Sharma (Ashutosh Rana), presents them with a unique challenge: they must exchange their mobile phones. As their secrets begin to unfold, the story takes unexpected twists. Directed by the remarkable Advait Chandan and produced by AGS Entertainment and Phantom Studios, Loveyapa stars a powerful cast of Khushi Kapoor, Junaid Khan in key roles along with Grusha Kapoor, Ashutosh Rana, Tanvika Parlikar, Kiku Sharda, Aaditya Kulshreshth and Nikhil Mehta.
Advait Chandan, the director of Loveyapa commented, “We all set out thinking we’re in love and then Loveyapa ho jaata hai. The film is a coming of age story of a couple. And I had an absolute blast making it. I can’t wait for it to come to JioHotstar so that a huge audience can watch it!!.”
Actor Junaid Khan added, “It was an exciting script that pulled me out of my comfort zone and it helped me expand my horizon as an actor. Loveyapa has a relatable take on the timeless themes of trust, honesty and love in relationships. I am so glad that it is now streaming on JioHotstar and I hope that more people will have an opportunity to watch it.”
The stunning Khushi Kapoor, who essays the role of Bani said,“I recall when I was first introduced to the film’s script by Advait, I felt there was a fresh perspective and an instant connection with the script. It’s a chaotic, funny love story that is highly relatable with catchy songs – it’s full on masala. I had a blast working with the cast and crew. With Loveyapa releasing on JioHotstar, I can’t wait for more and more people to watch the film.”
PNB Housing’s Affordable Book Surpasses INR 5,000 Crore Mark
Chandigarh, April 7, 2025: PNB Housing Finance Limited is delighted to announce a significant milestone of INR 5,000 crore Affordable book as on 31st March 2025.
This remarkable achievement is a testimony of our unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and families in their journey towards owning a home.
With the performance of Affordable and Emerging Markets Segment, the Retail segment loan book grew by ~18% YoY as on 31st March 2025. The total loan book of the Company crossed INR 75,000 crore as on 31st March 2025.
Commenting on the performance Mr. Girish Kousgi said: With the dedicated efforts of the team towards the common goal of making lives better, we are thrilled to achieve our first stated milestone of Affordable loan book of INR 5,000 crore. This accomplishment reflects our commitment towards enabling financial inclusion by providing accessible housing finance solutions to customers.
The housing sector is poised to continue its growth backed by favourable growth drivers viz improved affordability, rising urbanisation, nuclearization of families and government initiatives like PMAY 2.0 etc. PNB housing with its multiple product offerings through Prime, Emerging Markets and Affordable segment will continue to cater customers across the affordability pyramid and contribute towards the Government mission of “Housing for All”.
French DJ HUGEL Announces Maiden Show In India
India, 7th April 2025 – Platinum French DJ and producer HUGEL is set to unleash an electrifying night of pure sonic fire for his debut gig in the region with a standalone show in Mumbai on 27th April 2025 at Dome SVP Stadium.
Fresh off dominating global charts and igniting dance floors worldwide, this French maestro of deep house, Latin-infused and high-octane EDM is set to transform Mumbai into a pulsating epicenter of rhythm and light. His unforgettable remix of ‘Bella Ciao’ catapulted him into the spotlight, making him a favorite among music enthusiasts worldwide.
HUGEL states, “For me, every set is a chance to lose yourself in the music, to feel the energy of the crowd, and create something truly unforgettable. I can’t wait to bring that vibe to Mumbai!”
After hosting a successful sold-out show featuring Keinemusik’s &ME which saw the likes of Sanjay Dutt, Suhana Khan, Ibraham Ali Khan in attendance, Team Innovation in association with Paradox and Spacebound are bringing this world-class event to India.
Mohit Bijlani, Co-Founder, Team Innovation states, “We’re all about pushing boundaries and creating moments that resonate. Bringing an artist of HUGEL’s caliber to Mumbai is exactly how we aim to deliver those unforgettable cultural experiences.”