VidyaAI Makes Its Official Debut at IIT Bombay’s Prestigious E-Summit
Mumbai, February 4, 2025 – In a landmark moment for the future of education, VidyaAI, the world’s first AI-powered personalized learning platform, was officially launched today at the prestigious IIT Bombay E-Summit 2025. The event, known as Asia’s largest entrepreneurial platform, provided the perfect stage for VidyaAI to unveil its transformative potential in revolutionizing education.
A Revolutionary Step in Education:
VidyaAI, proudly conceptualized and developed in India, is a personalized and adaptive learning platform designed to cater to the diverse learning needs of students, educators, and institutions. By combining Generative AI, real-time analytics, and multi-language accessibility, VidyaAI delivers tailored learning experiences, making education more inclusive, efficient, and impactful.
“This is not just a product launch; it’s the beginning of a new chapter in education where every learner, regardless of their background, can access personalized and quality education,” said Dr. Utpal Chakraborty, Co-Founder of VidyaAI. “We are proud that VidyaAI is not only Made-in-India but is also a tool for nation-building, empowering students and educators to achieve their fullest potential.”
Transforming Education, One Learner at a Time:
Key features of VidyaAI include:
- Personalized Learning Paths:Tailored to each student’s unique strengths and needs.
- AI Buddy:Real-time support available 24/7 for clarifying doubts and enhancing understanding.
- AI-Generated Notes and Summaries:Simplifying complex topics for better retention.
- Gamified Learning:Making education interactive, engaging, and fun.
- Multi-Language and Offline Support:Bridging the gap for learners in remote and underserved areas.
Bringing Global Innovation, Rooted in India’s Values:
Speaking at the launch, Sanjay Salil, Co-Founder of VidyaAI, said, “Education is the backbone of any nation. VidyaAI is our commitment to making India a global leader in ed-tech innovation while addressing the diverse needs of learners across geographies. This platform is a testament to India’s growing influence in the technology space, powered by world-class AI.”
A Grand Launch at IIT Bombay E-Summit 2025:
The event was graced by eminent personalities, including Nandan Nilekani, Co-Founder and Chairman of Infosys, Sonam Wangchuk, renowned innovator and education reformist, and Dr. Prakash Chauhan, Director at NRSC ISRO. Other distinguished speakers such as Bharat Desai, Co-Founder of Syntel, Viraj Bahl, Shark Tank India personality, Pulkit Jain, Co-Founder of Vedantu, and Sandeep Jain, Founder of GeeksforGeeks, added to the event’s prestige.
This grand unveiling showcased VidyaAI as a first-of-its-kind personalized learning platform, empowering education through AI-driven solutions and setting the stage for a brighter, more inclusive educational future.
IIT Bombay as the Launchpad for Innovation:
The E-Summit provided the ideal platform for the launch of VidyaAI, reflecting IIT Bombay’s legacy as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurial excellence. Prof Biplab Banerjee, a distinguished professor at the Centre of Machine Learning and Data Science at IIT Bombay, remarked, “IIT Bombay E-Summit is proud to be part of VidyaAI’s journey. This platform not only represents a technological breakthrough but also highlights how innovation can address critical challenges in education and contribute to nation-building. VidyaAI is a shining example of what India can achieve when education meets technology.”
Empowering Nation-Building Through Education:
VidyaAI aligns closely with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes personalized and technology-driven learning. By bringing adaptive education to millions, VidyaAI is expected to play a significant role in equipping India’s youth with future-ready skills while bridging the educational divide across rural and urban regions.
ISF’s GCC & CEO Summit Aims to Cultivate a Robust Ecosystem for New Ventures
Hyderabad: The International Start-up Foundation (ISF) organized the GCC & CEO Summit at ITC Kohinoor, Hyderabad. The summit brought together global leaders from Global Capability Centres (GCCs), government representatives, and industry pioneers to discuss corporate innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration.
Distinguished guests included Shri D. Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics, Communications, Industries and Commerce, Government of Telangana; Shri J. A. Chowdary, Chairperson & Convenor of ISF; U.S. Consul General Ms. Jennifer Larson, Sadhguru Sri Madhusudan Sai,Founder of the Shri Madhusudan Sai Global Humanitarian Mission.
The ISF GCC & CEO summit had the participation of 50-60 leaders of Global Capability Centres (GCCs), underscoring their critical role in advancing innovation and entrepreneurship. The summit discussed the policy framework and government support required to attract GCCs to the city. It also discussed how GCC’s can actas catalysts for start-up growth by providing mentorship, market access, and funding, thereby fostering a dynamic ecosystem for emerging ventures. The summit hosted roundtable discussions focused on removing entry barriers for GCCs, deepening engagement with start-ups and universities, and leveraging technology for risk mitigation with the objective of positioning Hyderabad as a premier hub for GCC-driven innovation, leveraging their global expertise to accelerate the success of start-ups in high-impact sectors.
Shri D. Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics, Communications, Industries and Commerce and Legislative affairs, Govt. of Telangana highlighted the Telangana government’s commitment to establishing a world-class hub for GCCs, backed by progressive policies, cutting-edge infrastructure, a thriving innovation ecosystem and availability of trained manpower. He emphasised the government’s focus is on nurturing an environment that drives innovation, accelerates digital transformation, and contributes to the state’s economic growth with an favourable policy framework.
Shri J. A. Chowdary, Chairperson & Convenor, ISF, remarked “At the International Startup Foundation we are committed to provide platforms that help to identify and facilitate the opportunities of collaboration with startups. The ISFGCC & CEO Summit serves as a critical platform, bringing together key stakeholders—start-ups, global corporations, and government leaders—to foster impactful collaborations. Hyderabad’s ecosystem is evolving rapidly, and ISF is committed to fostering knowledge-sharing and helping businesses scale globally.”
The International Startup Foundation (ISF) Founder Team, led by Dr. Siva Mahesh Tangutooru, Co-Founder and Managing Trustee of ISF, along with other Co-Founders M. Satyendra Kumar, Atluri, and SeshadriVangala, spearheaded this initiative. The ISF GCC & CEO Summit aimed to bring together key leaders from Global Capability Centers (GCCs) to discuss and shape a policy framework that positions Telangana as a premier investment destination by fostering a robust ecosystem.
With the rapid evolution of new-age technologies reshaping certain functions within GCCs, the summit also focused on developing a strategic framework to leverage these advancements effectively while enhancing skill development to create new employment opportunities. “A comprehensive report outlining the panel’s recommendations will be submitted to facilitate the development of a forward-looking policy framework, further strengthening Hyderabad’s position as India’s GCC hub,” stated Mr. Prakash Bodla, Founder & CEO of Aarohan Consulting and Leader for the GCC Vertical at the International Startup Foundation.
A fireside chat was held on the side-lines of the summit with Sadhguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, Founder of the Shri Madhusudan Sai Global Humanitarian Mission, in conversation with Ms. Sirisha Voruganti. CEO & MD, Lloyds Technology Centre. The discussion focused on leadership, philanthropy, and social impact, offering practical insights for business leaders.
The summit concluded with a high-impact networking session, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore potential collaborations. The ISF GCC & CEO Summit 2025 reaffirmed Hyderabad’s position as a premier global business hub, paving the way for further advancements in corporate innovation, global entrepreneurship, and social impact.
Ambuja Cements Supports Women’s Dairy Co-op in Darlaghat
Shimla/Solan, 4 February 2025: Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is committed to facilitating sustainable livelihoods and empowering rural women. The Company through its CSR efforts, has lent support for the Amrit Dhara Milk Cooperative Society, a women-members only co-operative society, in the installation of a milk pasteurisation and packaging unit in Darlaghat. This unit has enabled its women members to earn an additional income between Rs. 9,000 and Rs. 30,000 per month, significantly improving their livelihoods.
The Amrit Dhara Milk Cooperative, established over a decade ago by Ambuja Cements’ CSR arm, along with NABARD and the community animal health volunteers, began by mobilising Darlaghat-based women who practised dairy farming at the household level. Today, the cooperative involves 305 women members and collects 1,000 litres of milk per day. With a production capacity of 500 litres per hour, the newly acquired pasteurisation unit marks a significant milestone for the cooperative.
Ambuja Cements’ commitment to empowering rural communities and supporting sustainable livelihoods continues to drive impactful initiatives like the Amrit Dhara Milk Cooperative, showcasing the potential of collective effort and innovation.
Anil Agarwal Focuses on Value Creation Production & Critical Minerals
Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal highlighted the company’s earnings, views on critical minerals, and future roadmap in his letter to shareholders for the third quarter of FY25. He also emphasized on the company’s commitment to financial discipline, sustainability, the proposed demerger and commitment to shareholder value.
Speaking on the importance of natural resources and how it can help in Indian economic growth, Agarwal said “The mining and natural resources sector has played an extremely valuable role in the growth and development agendas of all the world’s major economies: North America, Europe, the Middle East, China and Australia are all testimony to this. With less than 20% of our mineral resources explored to date, and with increasing focus on the sector both at home and overseas, India’s time is now.”
For the third quarter, Vedanta reported its highest EBITDA in 11 quarters at ₹11,284 crore and a Profit After Tax of ₹4,876 crore—a 70% jump from the previous year. The company also recorded its lowest net debt to EBITDA ratio in seven quarters at 1.4x.
In the third quarter of FY25, Vedanta’s Aluminium production witnessed robust growth, with production increasing to 614kt in the third quarter and 1,819kt over nine months, up 3% YoY. Alumina production jumped 16% to 1,543kt over nine months, while Zinc India achieved its highest-ever refined metal output during this period.
“Vedanta’s commitment to optimizing its production reflects our recognition of the rising demands of such metals in India and the role they will play in supporting our nation’s progress toward a low-carbon future.”, Agarwal said.
Anil Agarwal also discussed Vedanta’s commitment to value creation delivering exceptional value to the shareholders.
“Anyone who had invested in Vedanta at the start of the past five-year period would have seen their investments multiplying over 4.7 times during this time, both in terms of capital appreciation and cash dividends returned, where Vedanta has the strongest track record – a dividend yield of 81%” he said.
Agarwal also highlighted the Vedanta’s focus and role in meeting India’s growing demand for critical minerals while expressing confidence about the company’s proposed demerger.
Air India’s Namaste World Sale 02-06 February
Chandigarh, 04 February 2025: Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced the rollout of ‘Namaste World’, a worldwide sale to offer attractive promotional fares across cabin classes on domestic and international routes.
Air India’s ‘Namaste World’ sale is open from 0001 Hrs of 02 Feb 2025 until 2359 Hrs of 06 February 2025, for travel between 12 February and 31 October 2025. Bookings under the sale are available at international points of sale bookings made in foreign currencies, in addition to Indian points of sale.
“Our ‘Namaste World’ sale comes at the perfect time, enabling customers to make their upcoming summer holiday travel plans for domestic or international destinations. With a wide booking window, we are confident that our customers will benefit from this special promotion, and experience Air India’s transforming products and services across our worldwide network” said Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India.
Special fares for premium cabins
‘Namaste World’ sale offers unmissable fares in premium cabins such as Business Class and Premium Economy, making luxurious flying experiences accessible to more travellers. In addition to the premium cabins, the sale fares are also available for Economy Class.
All-inclusive, one-way domestic fares start from INR 1,499 for Economy Class, INR 3,749 for Premium Economy, and INR 9,999 for Business Class. On international routes, Economy return fares start from INR 12,577, Premium Economy from INR 16,213, Business Class from INR 20,870.
Web-Exclusive Day 1
The ‘Namaste World’ sale is exclusively available on Air India’s website and mobile app on 02 February 2025. Subsequently, bookings under the sale will be available across all channels, including Air India’s website, mobile app, airport ticketing offices, customer contact centre, and travel agents.
Extra benefits on website and mobile app bookings only
During this sale, Air India customers can enjoy extra benefits on bookings made via the airline’s official website and mobile app. These benefits include:
- Zero Convenience Fee: From 02-06 February 2025, Air India will not levy any convenience fee. This enables travellers to enjoy further savings of INR 999 on international bookings and INR 399 on domestic bookings, in addition to the promotional fares offered as part of the sale.
- Bank Offers: Air India has also enabled more discounts via multiple payment offers in association with bank partners for travellers to choose from, helping them to unlock further savings.
BANK | OFFER | PROMO CODE |
Domestic (Round Trip): Flat ₹750 off | ICICI750 | |
International: Flat ₹2,500 off | ICICI2500 | |
Business Class: Flat ₹3,000 off | ICICI3000 | |
Domestic (Round Trip): Flat ₹750 off | AXISDOM | |
International: Flat ₹2,500 off | AXISINT | |
Business Class: Flat ₹3,000 off | AXISBIZ | |
Domestic (Round Trip): Flat ₹750 off | FED750 | |
International: Flat ₹2,500 off | FED2500 | |
Business Class: Flat ₹3,000 off | FED3000 | |
BOBCARD | Domestic (Round Trip): Flat ₹500 off | BOBDOM500 |
International: Flat ₹2,000 off | BOBINT2000 |
Air India’s website and mobile app also accept other modes of payment without the additional discount, including all major debit or credit cards issued by banks in or outside of India, RuPay cards, and payment wallets.
- Exclusive Promo Code: Customers can avail an instant discount of up to INR 1,000 on the base fare, using promo code ‘FLYAI’. This promo code is applicable on both domestic and international points of sale (in applicable foreign currencies).
Anant Raj Limited Achieves Robust Q3 FY25 Performance, Fueled by Growth in Key Areas
Anant Raj Limited has announced its financial and operational performance for Q3 FY25, showcasing remarkable growth across all key metrics.
The company reported a 36% year-on-year (YoY) increase in revenue from operations, reaching INR 544 crores, while EBITDA surged by 45% YoY to INR 143 crores. Profit Before Tax (PBT) grew by 53% YoY to INR 132 crores, and Profit After Tax (PAT) jumped 55% YoY to INR 110 crores. Notably, 9M FY25 revenue, EBITDA, and PAT have already surpassed the full-year performance of FY24, demonstrating sustained business momentum.
Anant Raj Limited has also made significant strides in debt reduction, with net debt declining to INR 54 crores in Q3 FY25 from INR 96 crores in Q2 FY25.
On the data center front, the company has operationalized a 6 MW IT load facility at Manesar, with plans to scale up to 28 MW IT load across Manesar and Panchkula. In a strategic move, Anant Raj launched ‘Ashok Cloud’, Bharat’s own sovereign cloud platform, in collaboration with Orange Business. Initially offering Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), the company aims to expand into colocation services, tapping into the growing demand for data localization and AI-driven cloud solutions.
In the real estate segment, the company has begun construction of The Estate Residences and Anant Raj Ashray – 2, Tirupati, with work progressing at full speed. Additionally, the handover process for Birla Navya Phase 1 has commenced, while Birla Navya Phase 4 is set for launch in Q4 FY25.
Anant Raj remains committed to delivering excellence across real estate and digital infrastructure, reinforcing its position as a leader in India’s evolving business landscape.
Alembic Pharma Reports 4% Revenue Growth; Net Profit at ₹138 Crores in Q3FY25
4 February 2025, Mumbai: Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited reported its consolidated financial results for the third quarter ended 31st December, 2024.
Financial Highlights
- Net Sales increased by 4% to Rs.1693 Crores.
- EBITDA up 1% to Rs. 271 Crores
- EBITDA Margin at 16% of Sales
- Net Profit at Rs.138 Crores
Mr. Shaunak Amin, MD, Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited said. “In the current quarter, we faced market headwinds in the acute segment. However, other key therapies in our specialty business continued to outpace the market growth. To strengthen field force efficiency, we have enhanced Automation and AI, to upscale execution. This Transition has partly impacted quarter growth. We are confident to show a robust growth trajectory going forward. The US Business posted significant volume growth and the Ex-US markets continued to expand steadily. API Business is still under significant pricing pressure.”
India Branded Business
- India Branded Business grew 3% to Rs. 614 crores for the quarter.
- Animal Health business grew 22% for the quarter with basket of strong brands driving outperformance.
- Specialty therapies recorded growth of 6%.
- 3 launches during the quarter. New launches continue to do well along with promising future launches across key segments.
International Business
- US Generics grew 10% to Rs. 521 Crores for the quarter.
- 2 Launches in the US market during the quarter.
- Ex-US International Generics grew 10% to Rs. 299 Crores for the quarter.
- 7 ANDA approvals received during the quarter, 219 Cumulative ANDA approvals.
API Business
Particulars | Q3 FY25 | Q3 FY24 | % Change | 9M FY25 | 9M FY24 | % Change |
Formulation | ||||||
India | 614 | 596 | 3% | 1795 | 1697 | 6% |
USA
Ex- US |
521
299 |
474
272 |
10%
10% |
1449
868 |
1308
790 |
11%
10% |
API | 259 | 289 | (10%) | 791 | 916 | (14%) |
Total | 1693 | 1631 | 4% | 4902 | 4712 | 4% |
InKo’s ‘Limits of Change’ Brings Indo-Korean Artistic Collaboration to Life
Chennai, February 2025 – InKo, the Indo-Korean Cultural Centre,is delighted to present Limits of Change, an extraordinary immersive art and storytelling experience that unveils an untold chapter of Indo-Korean history. This evocative blend of art installation and theatrical performance transforms Lalit Kala Academy into a living museum from 8th to 20th February 2025. It is an Invited project in association with Chennai Photo Biennale Edition 4 and with the support from HYUNDAI MOBIS.
Curated and conceptualized by celebrated visual artist Parvathi Nayar and playwright Nayantara Nayar, Limits of Change blurs the lines between fiction and history, exploring themes of identity, home, violence, and forgiveness. Audiences will embark on a guided journey through nine interconnected spaces, each featuring objects, installations, videos, artworks, and archival material that collectively unfold a poignant Indo-Korean narrative.
At the heart of Limits of Change lies a powerful story that bridges personal and geopolitical realities. The narrative follows the life of General N, who served as part of the Custodian Force India (CFI) dispatched to Korea after the Korean War Armistice in 1953. His journey, intertwined with his daughter, Curator P, forms the emotional core of the performance.
Through her father’s archives—letters, journals, and photographs—Curator P unravels hidden layers of history while grappling with her own questions of identity and forgiveness. The narrative juxtaposes the personal loss of an absent father with the broader struggles of displaced prisoners of war (POWs), raising thought-provoking questions about home, duty, and reconciliation.
Set in the fictional Story Museum, this unique performance unfolds across nine rooms, with each space offering an experiential dive into the intertwined histories of India and Korea. Guided by a narrator, groups of 25–28 visitors will explore these spaces where visual art, storytelling, and archival elements converge to create a visceral journey.
- Infographic Walls and Timeline Installations offering historical context.
- A visually rich bedtime story video, Miss P and the Princess of Ai, blending myth with history.
- Artifacts and installations inspired by Tamil-Korean legends such as the Princess of Ay who travelled to Korea centuries ago.
- A thematic use of the turtle motif, symbolizing connection and reconciliation.
This project is a testament to the enduring cultural and historical ties between India and Korea. The performances emphasize the pivotal role played by Indian soldiers of the Custodian Force India (CFI) in post-war Korea. It delves into their journey of safeguarding displaced POWs, navigating cultural and emotional complexities, and returning home with a transformed sense of self.
“As the Indo-Korean Cultural Centre, committed to a sustaining a meaningful intercultural dialogue between India and Korea, we wholeheartedly supported this project which mixes the personal and the geo-political realities in a manner that unveils a vital but forgotten aspect of Indo-Korean history. The connection with Chennai, the unmistakable autobiographical elements; the creative fictional layers complemented with photo, video, object, artwork and storytelling provide a compelling framework within which histories unfold, memories are shared and the past and present meld to create what will hopefully be an unforgettable experience.” says Dr Rathi Jafer, Director, InKo Centre.
“Limits of Change is not just an exhibition; it is an immersive, performative exploration of how history shapes identity. It asks profound questions: What does it mean to call a place ‘home’? How do we reconcile personal loss with historical trauma? And how can art act as a conduit for understanding, healing, and hope?” adds Artist Parvathi Nayar.
Yog Japee, Director of Limits of Change, shares, “This project is a mosaic of narratives that invites audiences to discover hidden histories and forge personal connections through collective memories. It is an artistic exploration of the human spirit and its ability to forgive, heal, care and hope.”
This limited engagement offers audiences an opportunity to connect deeply with a story that is as relevant today as it was seven decades ago.
Details at a Glance:
- What: Limits of Change, presented by INKO
- Where: Lalit Kala Akademi, Chennai
- When: 8th–20th February 2025
- Performance Timings: 11:30 AM, 3:30 PM, and 6:30 PM daily
Sourav Ganguly Shifts from Cricket to Finance in Olyv’s Bold New Ad Campaign
New Delhi, 3rd February 2025: Building on its recent partnership with cricket icon Sourav Ganguly, Olyv,a pioneering digital lending platform committed to ensuring financial inclusion and democratization of credit access across India, has rolled out a new campaign with a series of powerful ad films. The ad films spotlight the everyday challenges faced by Indian borrowers while highlighting the company’s comprehensive financial solutions.
The campaign features Sourav Ganguly addressing three critical pain points in the lending ecosystem: lengthy processes, lack of transparency, anxiety and mental stress involved with traditional processes and the complexities of credit score management. Through these narratives, the ad films encourage financial inclusion, while showcasing the brand’s robust suite of financial products and services. Sourav Ganguly’s pan-India appeal effectively communicates the brand’s message of financial empowerment to a diverse audience.
The first film tells the relatable story of Mr. Radheshyam, representing countless salaried professionals in urban India who face the familiar strain of stretching their monthly income. Through a casual conversation at a local store, Sourav Ganguly learns how a stable salary often falls short of meeting growing expenses by mid-month. Olyv’s hassle-free lending solutions are showcased as a vital resource for hardworking professionals, including self-employed individuals, who strive to maintain their lifestyles without compromise, overcoming common financial hurdles with ease.
The second film cleverly uses the doctor-patient dynamic to draw parallels between physical health and financial health. Ganguly, as the physician, emphasizes on how understanding and maintaining one’s credit score is as crucial as monitoring vital health parameters. Through its surreal yet relatable storyline, the film effectively communicates Olyv’s role in helping users maintain their financial wellness through regular credit score monitoring and management.
The third film presents a powerful commentary on the challenges faced by Self-employed individuals. With Ganguly’s characteristic wit comparing outdated inventory to prehistoric times, the narrative skillfully addresses the working capital crunch that prevents many small businesses from staying competitive. The film effectively portrays how Olyv’s business lending solutions can help local entrepreneurs transform their businesses from surviving to thriving, enabling them to stock quality products and expand their operations.
Each ad film concludes with Sourav encouraging viewers to download the Olyv app, making financial solutions more accessible to millions of Indians.
Rohit Garg, co-founder and CEO of Olyv said, “Much like how Dada transformed Indian cricket by fearlessly taking on challenges, our ad films reflect our approach to tackling the real obstacles faced by millions of Indians in their financial journeys. This campaign is a natural extension of our partnership with Sourav Ganguly, who perfectly embodies our vision of being a ‘Partner to the Aspirations of Emerging India.’ The stories we’re telling through these films aren’t just advertisements, they’re real situations that we encounter every day, where hardworking Indians struggle with loan disbursals, complex credit systems, and the constant threat of financial fraud. Empowering emerging India, our cutting-edge technology and strategic partnership with Sourav enable us to deliver comprehensive financial services and a reliable route to achieving financial freedom. We believe in standing beside our users as they navigate their financial challenges and aspirations.”
The campaign emphasizes Olyv’s key offerings, including loans up to INR 5,00,000 with competitive interest rates starting at 1.5% per month and EMIs as low as INR 512 per month. The platform also provides essential services such as monthly credit score monitoring, fraud protection, and timely payment reminders for loans and credit cards.
Union Budget 2025: Gopal Srinivasan of TVS Capital Funds Offers His Perspective
03-February-2025: Gopal Srinivasan, Chairman & Managing Director of TVS Capital Funds, lauded the Union Budget 2025 for its balanced and forward-looking approach, emphasising its role in strengthening India’s investment ecosystem through regulatory clarity, deeper capital markets, and expanded capital access for entrepreneurs and investors.
“The Hon’ble Finance Minister has once again delivered a balanced and forward-looking Budget, skilfully addressing diverse economic priorities. Managing the competing demands of various stakeholders—whether foregoing ₹1 lakh crore in personal tax revenue to boost consumption, maintaining fiscal discipline at 4.4%, or ensuring stable borrowing levels to enable lower interest rates—demonstrates a strategic approach to inclusive growth.
For startups and investors, this Budget builds on the July 2024 tax reforms, including LTCG alignment and Angel Tax removal, by providing greater regulatory clarity, deeper capital pools, and stronger business enablers. The capital gains treatment of Category I and II AIF investments is now legally codified, removing ambiguity and ensuring stability. A revamped Central KYC Registry will reduce onboarding time across financial institutions, while the incorporation deadline for tax benefits has been extended by five years, covering startups founded before April 1, 2030. Raising the FDI limit from 74% to 100% will unlock capital and accelerate the government’s ‘Insurance for All’ mission.
Expanding capital access and innovation remains a key focus. The ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds for Startups strengthens the ₹90,000 crore capital pool created since 2016, ensuring a fresh infusion that will accelerate domestic capital flow for growth-stage startups. A new entrepreneurial scheme for SCs, STs, and first-time founders, inspired by Stand-Up India, will further expand grassroots entrepreneurship. The Deep Tech Fund of Funds will support next-gen startups, complementing the ₹20,000 crore R&D Innovation Initiative. The introduction of SWAMIH Fund 2 for affordable housing, structured as a blended finance facility, will enable the completion of another one lakh homes, building on the success of the first SWAMIH fund. Additionally, the provision for partial credit enhancement for infrastructure bonds will strengthen the corporate bond market, attracting retail investors and deepening capital markets.
As a representative of the Indian Venture Capital Association (IVCA), I sincerely thank the Hon’ble Finance Minister for addressing critical industry requests. This Budget is a major boost for India’s investment ecosystem, ensuring regulatory clarity, deeper capital markets, and greater access to funds for high-impact entrepreneurs,” added Srinivasan.
TVS Capital Funds remains committed to supporting India’s next generation of entrepreneurs and playing a role in the country’s journey towards becoming a $10 trillion economy.