India’s Opportunity to Lead the Blockchain Revolution
By: Mr. Ashish Singhal, Co-founder, CoinSwitch on this move.
“The golden age of crypto is here, and the world is taking notice. With the US spearheading the creation of a Strategic Crypto Reserve, we could be on the brink of a global accumulation race—one that could push regulatory clarity forward and accelerate Web3 innovation. This is more than just a milestone for digital assets; it’s a shift that could redefine global finance and technology.
India stands at a crucial crossroads. With our deep pool of tech talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and thriving startup ecosystem, we have everything it takes to lead the next wave of blockchain-driven transformation. But to do so, we must act now—embracing progressive policies, fostering innovation, and positioning ourselves as a hub for decentralization. The future of the internet is being rewritten, and India has the potential to be at the forefront. This is our moment to seize the opportunity and build, not just for India, but for the world.”
Honda India Posts 4,22,449 Units Sold in February 2025
Mumbai, March 4, 2025: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India today announced its sales numbers for the month of February 2025.
The company’s total sales for February’25 stood at 4,22,449 units. This includes domestic sales of 3,83,918 units and 38,531 units exports.
It is worth mentioning that HMSI’s YTD FY25 (April’24 – Feb’25) total sales stand at 54,04,216 units. This includes domestic sales of 49,25,241 units and 4,78,975 units exports.
HMSI’s Key Highlights of February 2025:
- Product: HMSI introduced the updated OBD2B compliant versions of the Shine 125 and Hornet 2.0 with advanced new features. Moreover, the company also launched the all-new NX200 with OBD2B compliant engine and upgraded equipment.
- Business: HMSI surpassed 2 crore sales in South India and 10 lakh cumulative sales for Shine 125 and SP125 in Madhya Pradesh, highlighting its consistent growth and product appeal.
- Road Safety: Expanding road safety awareness in India, HMSI promoted campaigns in 10 locations across India – Mathura (Uttar Pradesh), Saputara (Gujarat), Amravati (Maharashtra), Amritsar (Punjab), Angul (Odisha), Ballari (Karnataka), Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh), Darbhanga (Bihar) and Goa. As part of its ongoing project, Mindset Development for our Future Generation, HMSI also organized a Road Safety Convention with school principals in Mumbai (Maharashtra). Additionally, HMSI celebrated the 6th anniversary of its Traffic Training Park in Chennai, advancing its efforts towards responsible road habits.
- CSR: With the aim to support and strengthen Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in Uttar Pradesh, Honda India Foundation signed the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with Government of Uttar Pradesh for ‘Project Annadata- Sashakt Kisan, Samridh Rashtra.’
Delhi Roared Simba Uproar 2025 Redefined Underground Culture
March 4, 2025, Delhi was set ablaze as Simba Uproar turned Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium into the pulsating heart of underground culture. From pulse-racing performances to awe-inspiring art, the festival electrified the city, uniting thousands in a shared celebration of music, creativity, and adrenaline.
A killer lineup of India’s hip-hop royalty—King, Raga, Karma, Trick Singh, and Pho—set the stage on fire with electrifying performances. King’s triumphant return to Simba Uproar after performing in its first edition was met with roaring cheers, while Raga’s razor-sharp verses, Trick Singh’s electrifying presence, and Pho’s raw energy kept the crowd hooked. Each performance pushed the boundaries of India’s hip-hop scene, turning the night into an unforgettable spectacle.
Simba Uproar was not just about the music—it was an all-out sensory adventure, celebrating art, high-octane action, and boundary-pushing experiences. The live art spaces pulsed with creativity, while the adventure zones and interactive showcases kept the crowd on their toes. Furthermore, the adrenaline-packed skateboarding arena and a striking bespoke art installation became crowd favourites, setting the festival ablaze with excitement. Taking the thrill up a notch, a massive ramp in front of the main stage hosted gravity-defying FMX stunts, leaving audiences stunned. Meanwhile, a monster truck-turned-DJ-console pumped out beats at the second stage as Dhiraaj, founder of Crab Culture, kept the energy soaring.
The festival was also a haven for food lovers and brand enthusiasts. Festival-goers indulged in a curated feast of flavors, while brands like New Republic, Shady Gators, and Boring Socks redefined retail with innovative activations and exclusive drops. Among the highlights was the limited-edition Boring Socks x Simba collaboration, drawing in festival-goers eager to grab a piece of this exclusive drop.
For those desiring more than just music and fashion, the Power Pit delivered high-octane gaming experiences, featuring a claw machine and other interactive challenges that kept competitive spirits alive. Meanwhile, the Beat Street Bar carved out a laid-back escape, with a DJ curating relaxing beats to set the perfect mood for revellers looking to unwind without missing a moment of the action.
Simba Uproar isn’t just an event—it’s a movement redefining the future of culture. This year’s edition not only glorified the underground but also backed the festival’s mission of nurturing grassroots talent and intensifying the voices that drive India’s hip-hop and street culture forward.
“We’re thrilled with the overwhelming response to Simba Uproar Delhi 2025,” said Ishwaraj Singh Bhatia, Co-Founder and COO, Simba and ZigZag. “This edition marked another milestone in our journey of reimagining urban culture, and we’re proud to see the community come together to herald authenticity, talent, and creativity.”
As Simba Uproar continues to grow, it remains committed to pushing boundaries and nurturing a community that bridges the underground and mainstream like never before. To stay updated on future editions and exclusive content, follow @roarwithsimba and @simba.uproar on Instagram.
With its unmatched energy and bold vision, Simba Uproar Delhi 2025 has set a new benchmark for cultural festivals in India, leaving attendees eager for the next chapter of this extraordinary event.
Andhra Pradesh Takes Green Energy Leap with CM Naidu’s Inauguration
Mumbai, March,4 2025 – Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, today virtually inaugurated Hero Future Energies’ (HFE) first-of-its kind Green Hydrogen plant at Rockman Industries in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. This project reinforces HFE’s commitment to driving India’s green hydrogen ecosystem, and accelerating industrial decarbonisation, while also testifying to Rockman Industries consistent focus on sustainable business operations.
The plant was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh today virtually from Amravati in the presence of Sri K. Vijayanand, Chief Secretary, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Dr. N. Yuvaraj, Secretary Industries, Govt. of AP, Sri CM Saikanth Varma, IAS, CEO of APEDB, Sri Rahul Munjal, Founder and CMD, Hero Future Energies, and Sri Ujjwal Munjal, Managing Director of Rockman Industries.
At the Rockman Plant near Tirupati, the following dignitaries and officials of Tirupati and senior management from the two Companies namely, Sri Bojjala Sudhir Reddy, MLA, Srikalahasti, Dr. S. Venkateshwar, IAS, Collector, Sri V Harshavardhan Raju IPS, Superintendent of Police, Sri K. Santhosha Rao, CMD, Southern Discom, Sri NSRCM Maruti Prasad, Joint Director, Department of Industries, Sri V Ramakrishna Reddy, Deputy Chief Inspector of Factories, Mr Srivatsan Iyer, Global CEO, Hero Future Energies, Mr Kaushik Manna, CEO, Rockman Industries, and Mr Arne Ballantine, CEO, Ohmium, were present.
This plant is considered a pioneering initiative for its unique blending of green hydrogen with PNG/LPG for an industrial furnace application- a breakthrough feat in industrial de-carbonization, setting a new benchmark for India’s energy transition. This technology integration promises significant reductions in emissions, laying the groundwork for a scalable model that can be replicated across hard to abate industries in AP and the rest of India.
On this occasion, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu, said, “Congratulations to Hero Future Energies and Rockman Industries on the commissioning of this pioneering Green Hydrogen Plant at Rockman’s factory in Tirupati. Andhra Pradesh, with its strong industrial base and forward-thinking energy policies, is uniquely positioned to become a hub for green hydrogen adoption. With ample renewable energy resources and industrial demand, the state can lead the way in scaling up green hydrogen use across refineries, fertilizers, steel, mobility, and other key sectors—supporting India’s energy transition story. I commend Hero Future Energies and Rockman for choosing Andhra Pradesh for this one-of-a-kind project which opens up another pathway towards India’s energy transition. I wish them all success in this endeavour. I assure that the Government of Andhra Pradesh will extend all support to investments in clean energy projects, making use of the liberal provisions under the new ICE Policy that I announced in October 2024.”
Rahul Munjal, Founder CMD, Hero Future Energies, thanked the Hon’ble Chief Minister for inaugurating the project amid his very busy schedule and said, “This plant has the unique capability of blending green hydrogen with LNG which opens the door of possibilities for industries to decarbonize their hard to abate operations. This pioneering project will give a boost to adoption of green hydrogen by industries and catalyse development of the green hydrogen eco system in India. I am grateful to Hon’ble Chief Minister for his blessings and demonstrating his commitment to innovative clean technologies for sustainable Industrial growth in AP and India.”
Ujjwal Munjal, Managing Director, Rockman Industries, stated, “We are extremely happy that the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh inaugurated this green hydrogen plant, set-up in partnership with Hero Future Energies, our sister company in the Hero Group. Together, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and leading the way in eco-friendly innovation in the automotive component industry. Looking ahead, we aim to expand green hydrogen usage across our processes and collaborate with HFE to implement further advancements in renewable energy technologies.”
Conan O’Brien goes desi as he addresses India during Oscars 2025
4th March 2025: The 97th Academy Awards brought Hollywood’s biggest night to screens worldwide, and this year, Indian viewers got a special surprise.
Host Conan O’Brien gave a desi twist to the ceremony by addressing India in Hindi, saying, “Namaskar, wahan subah ho chuki hai toh mujhe umeed hai ki aap nashte ke saath Oscars dekhna!” The unexpected greeting instantly won over audiences, making the moment go viral.
The Oscars 2025 were live-streamed in India on March 3 at 5:30 AM IST and will be re-telecast at 8:30 PM IST on Star Movies for those who missed it. With breathtaking red carpet moments, star-studded performances and historic wins, this year’s ceremony is a must-watch!
BIMTECH Rings in VIHAAN’25, Its Annual Festival of Innovation and Culture
Mumbai, 4 March 2025: Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), one of India’s leading business schools, successfully concluded VIHAAN’25, its annual management, cultural, and literary festival. Over two days, the BIMTECH campus was abuzz with enthusiasm as students from across the country competed in 23 diverse competitions, showcasing talent, strategic thinking, and creativity. Participants from prestigious institutions such as IIT Delhi, IIT Roorkee, TAPMI, FORE School of Management, IIM Kashipur, IIM Jammu, and Delhi University made it a truly national-level fest.
At BIMTECH campus, VIHAAN’25 commenced with a grand inauguration, featuring the Lighting of the Lamp led by Dr. Mohammad Athar, Partner & Leader at PwC. This year’s theme “Give Wings to Your Aspirations” inspired participants to push their limits, think innovatively, and take bold decisions. From strategic business challenges to artistic and cultural showcases, the event provided a holistic platform for students to explore, engage, and excel.
BIMTECH’s clubs and conduits curated a diverse range of competitions at VIHAAN’25, challenging participants in problem-solving, managerial decision-making, creativity, and sustainability awareness. The flagship event, Best Manager, tested leadership across 10 rigorous rounds, while Crime Enigma 3.0 engaged detectives in a thrilling murder mystery. Sustainability took center stage with Sustainopoly and Ecolution, integrating CSR and a Model UN session.
Business acumen shone in StratVyuh 4.0, CosmoMogul, Deal Breaker 3.0, and Ecoinfluence, covering strategy, international trade, stock trading, and economics. Marketing enthusiasts battled in Dhindora, Hype Station, and Ad-Angles, testing branding, advertising, and creative storytelling. Finance and operations were highlighted in Fix Your Finance, The Assurance Arena, and Operatopolis 3.0, focusing on BFSI, financial literacy, and real-world business challenges.
On this special occasion, Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director of BIMTECH, shared, “VIHAAN is more than just a management fest; it is a dynamic learning experience that pushes students beyond textbooks and conventional academics. With talent converging from across institutions, it fosters confidence, strategic thinking, and creative problem-solving. By competing, collaborating, and showcasing their skills on such a grand platform, students not only overcome hesitation but also gain invaluable insights into their strengths and areas for growth, preparing them for the challenges of the real world.”
Global Quest blended diplomacy with a treasure hunt, while Cognicioun’25 pushed participants’ general knowledge limits. Artistic and cultural expression thrived in Bailamos, Goonj, War of Bands, and Legends of Hidden Tale, showcasing dance, music, and storytelling. Synergy Circuit emphasized team-building through interactive games, Data Vishleshan tested analytical prowess, and Dual Perspective encouraged visual storytelling through photography. With innovation, strategy, and skill at their core, these events celebrated intellect, creativity, and collaboration.
Dr.Manosi Chaudhuri, Convenor of Vihaan, shared that Vihaan was powered by Unstop and the event’s success was amplified by the generous support of Title sponsor Pilot Pen India, Associate Partner MCX, and other sponsors like Nevada Waters, Burgrill, Chai Garam, Belgian Waffle, Chandrakala, Rice Box, Union Bank of India, Axis Bank, Bank of Baroda, Skilled Sapiens, Dennison, StockEdge, SuperDogs, KUHOO, M S Finline, HSSC India, Nura, Safexpress and media partner StartupNews, ensuring a seamless experience.
With intense strategy battles, artistic showcases, and unforgettable musical moments, VIHAAN’25 embodied the spirit of competition, creativity, and camaraderie. As the curtains close on this spectacular edition, anticipation for VIHAAN’26 is already building, promising an even bigger and more thrilling celebration next year.
Inspired by its founders Late Basant Kumar Birla and Sarala Birla, BIMTECH pioneered innovative programs like PGDM, PGDM-International Business (IB), PGDM-Retail Management (RM), and PGDM-Insurance Business Management (IBM), nurturing individuals into global leaders. Also, BIMTECH is now AACSB accredited, joining the Ivy League of Top Globally Recognized B-Schools. Fostering a symbiotic relationship, the institute excels in management education, supported by its globally placed robust network of over 8000 alumni.
International Women’s Day Women’s Love for Love & Diamonds
A woman’s ‘affair’ with ‘love’ and real ‘diamonds’ is timeless. In fact a ‘real diamond’ is the troika of the ‘love duets’ in her life!
The diamond desire mania starts from her early years. For example a girl’s ‘Forever Present’ father gifts her life’s first-ever real diamond to commemorate their growing up journey. After all, only a real diamond can best capture and preserve a girl’s best moments of life.
As a young adult, a girl seeks and finds love multiple times. Gen-Next is celebrating the discovery of their soul-mates with diamonds. Several leading diamond jewellery retailers have unveiled ‘Soul-Mate’ collections to capitalise on this trend. The logic is simple. The real diamond is symbolic and significant because these days, finding one soulmate from among millions is like a pin in a haystack.
Social media (especially dating sites) has expanded the world of Gen-Next and their chances of finding their chosen one has increased and become faster. But in reality, Gen-Next has become lonelier and it is struggle to discover the one truly meant for a girl in a pack of millions. So finding your partner is a celebration akin to finding a natural diamond.
The third phase of her woman is one when she gets ready to transition towards starting her householder life. The most significant moment in this journey is when her lover proposes to her with a real diamond.
What’s my marriage and relationship worth? – asks every girl and woman. A woman projects the value of the real diamond gifted to her on to herself. She tells herself, “He is giving me diamond of great value as he values me greatly.” The real diamond adds to her self-confidence, self-belief, self-worth and self-esteem. A real diamond cements the relationship of millennials as they grow older in their fast-paced world. Your diamond will reveal if you are the ‘real love’ of your partner or just a substitute.
Therefore a natural diamond gifted to a girl/woman is as unique as her relationship with her loved one. Relationships are one-to-one and never shared or mass — therefore only a natural diamond can capture the serendipity of a relationship and commitment.
For women, there are several moments or culturally relevant occasions of showing love for self, family and friends and self-celebration showcasing their independence or personal/professional milestones. These include engagement ceremony, marriage, anniversaries, festival time, friendship days, baby shower, new home ritual, love for children, etc. Real diamonds signify each one of these occasions.
Just as a woman finds several moments in life to love and live, diamonds have been her best friends forever (BFFs).
Maxton Hall Season 2 of Global Hit Series Coming to Prime Video This Year
Mumbai – March 4, 2025 – Prime Video confirmed that the second season of the most successful International Original Series in Prime Video history, Maxton Hall – The World Between Us, will be available on Prime Video at the end of this year.
The first season of the series produced by UFA Fiction achieved the largest first week global viewership for an International Original in Prime Video history, reaching the number 1 spot on the Prime Video Charts in over 120 countries and territories. The second season of Maxton Hall – The World Between Us is based on Save You, the second instalment in author Mona Kasten’s bestselling novel series published by LYX.
In addition to Damian Hardung and Harriet Herbig-Matten, Sonja Weißer as Lydia, Ben Felipe as Cyril, Fedja van Huêt as Mortimer, Runa Greiner as Ember, Justus Riesner as Alistair, Andrea Guo as Lin, Frederic Balonier as Kieran and Eli Riccardi as Elaine return to the cast of the second season.
Martin Schreier directs the second season of Maxton Hall – The World Between Us. Executive Producers of the upcoming season are Markus Brunnemann and Ceylan Yildirim, who also acts as head writer of the series. Alongside Yildirim, Juliana Lima Dehne and Marlene Melchior are the scriptwriters of the series. Valentin Debler is once again the producer for UFA Fiction. The series is supported by the German Motion Picture Fund (GMPF).
Mister at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi Unveils New Flavours for Guests
(New Delhi, March 4th) : Shangri-La Eros New Delhi invites culinary enthusiasts to rediscover the heart of India’s tea culture with Mister Chai’s newly crafted menu. Nestled in the heart of the colourful capital, this contemporary tea lounge re-imagines Indian street food, where the aroma of perfectly brewed chai fills the air and conversations flow effortlessly.
From the gentle clink of cutting chai glasses to the tempting aroma of Indian street food specialties, Mister Chai offers an elevated yet authentic take on India’s cherished tea-time traditions.
Mister Chai’s new menu offers a well-rounded selection of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, blending traditional street food favourites with modern, innovative twists. It’s designed to cater to a variety of tastes, from the familiar to the adventurous.
Key highlights include the signature Butter Chicken Samosa and the classic ‘Punjabi’ Aloo Mattar Samosa, representing the essence of Indian street food. There are also creative fusion dishes like Paneer Khurchan Tacos and Masala Amritsari Fish N Chips, served with a unique achari tartar sauce. For those craving comfort, the Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Burger and Mister Chai Chicken Club Sandwich are perfect options. The Croissant and Kadaknath Egg Sandwich, combines continental breakfast with local flavors.
For dessert, the menu offers a mix of sweet indulgences, featuring items like Vanilla Mille Feuille, Tiramisu Gateaux, and specialty treats like Dark Chocolate Sea Salt, Gold Pistachio Caramel Pearls, and other delicious options such as Chocolate Salted Caramel, Lavender Honey, Banana Walnut Cake, Dry Fruit Cake, and Dark Chocolate Cake. Inclusivity is at the heart of this new menu; health-conscious and vegan guests can indulge in options like Vegan Samosa Chaat and Kale Patta Chaat, catering to contemporary dietary preferences.
To complement the food, Mister Chai’s beverage menu highlights India’s tea culture with options like the Shangri-La Signature Blend, Kadak Masala Chai, and Kashmiri Kahwa. Modern coffee selections such as Orange Iced Coffee and Coconut Iced Coffee, along with wellness-focused drinks like Immune Boost Juice and Mint Ajwain Chhachh, are also available. For a sweet indulgence, the Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate is a must-try, inviting guests to savor their time in this vibrant tea lounge.
Shangri-La Eros New Delhi presents a brand-new menu at Mister Chai, offering guests a new take on their favorite tea offerings. With a variety of flavors and dishes to choose from, there’s something to delight everyone. Whether relaxing on the comfortable couches or discovering a new culinary experience, Mister Chai provides the ideal atmosphere to unwind and indulge.
New Nissan Magnite Goes Fully E20 Compatible Hits 50,000 Exports
Gurugram, 04th March 2024 – Nissan announced today that as part of its commitment to sustainable mobility the New Nissan Magnite BR10 naturally aspirated engine is now fully E20 compliant, joining the more powerful 1.0L HR10 turbocharged petrol engine, which became E20-compatible in August 2024.With this development, all powertrain options of the New Nissan Magnite are E20 compatible.
Nissan Motor India has reached another significant milestone as the Magnite achieves 50,000 units of export sales since its inception. The New Nissan Magnite since launch has increased wholesale volume in domestic and export markets as part of the recently announced India strategy which includes growing domestic and export volume positioning India as a major export hub for the company. The introduction of the LHD version has boosted this considerably since the first dispatch in January 2025.
In February 2025, Nissan recorded consolidated wholesale dispatches of 8567 units, primarily driven by a surge in export shipments. Domestic sales accounted for 2328 units, while exports totalled 6239 units, reflecting 97 per cent year-on-year (YoY) growth compared to 3163 export units in February 2024.
The strong global demand for the New Nissan Magnite showcases Nissan’s expanding footprint in international markets and the increasing preference for ‘Made in India’ vehicles.
Mr. Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director of Nissan Motor India, commented:
“The New Nissan Magnite continues to make its mark not only in India but also in global markets, having crossed the significant milestone of 50,000 export sales. This achievement highlights the growing trust in Nissan’s ability to deliver quality, innovation, and performance. Coupled with the New Nissan Magnite’s full E20 compliance, our strategy emphasizes our dedication towards future-ready mobility solutions, aligning with evolving environmental standards. We remain committed to our India operations and the New Nissan Magnite’s constant evolution is a testament to this dedication.”
In January 2025, Nissan Motor India commenced exports of the Left-Hand Drive (LHD) variant of the New Nissan Magnite, shipping nearly 2,900 units from Chennai’s Kamarajar Port (KPL – Ennore) to LATAM markets, and later in February 2025, exported over 2000 units to the Middle East, North Africa and Asia Pacific regions, and over 5,100 units of the LHD New Nissan Magnite units to select Latin American markets, with an overall shipment of over 10,000 units of the LHD Magnite by February-end. This reinforces Nissan’s ‘One Car, One World’ strategy and strengthens India’s role as a key export hub.
With its bold road presence, premium features, and expanding global reach, the New Nissan Magnite is now present in over 65 countries, including both the Right-Hand Drive and Left-Hand Drive markets. The SUV’s bold and stylish design, 20+ first & best-in-segment features, and 55+ safety features make it a standout choice in the compact SUV segment.