Archives August 2025

Gurugram, India, August 5 2025: Beyond Key’s sourcing automation software, ProcureKey, was recognized with the Technology Innovation Award at the 14th Procurement Excellence Summit & Awards 2025 held in Gurugram.

The summit brought together leaders and practitioners from procurement and supply chain functions across industries including manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and infrastructure. The event served as a forum to discuss current challenges and emerging solutions shaping the future of enterprise sourcing and procurement.

The Technology Innovation Award was presented to ProcureKey in acknowledgment of its contribution to digitizing and structuring procurement workflows through AI and automation. Purpose-built for procurement teams, the software supports end-to-end sourcing—from purchase requisition to bid evaluation and award—while enabling configurable approval processes, real-time collaboration, and traceability. Its AI-led capabilities assist in supplier identification, automated bid comparisons, and data-backed decision-making across sourcing scenarios.

Several organizations have reported process improvements such as shorter sourcing cycles, better governance, and reduced manual effort after adopting ProcureKey. The software has been used across diverse procurement environments, including indirect, services, and CAPEX sourcing.

Speaking on the recognition, Piyush Goel, Founder & CEO of Beyond Key, said, “This award reflects the practical value ProcureKey has delivered in simplifying sourcing processes and supporting procurement teams in meeting their goals. We have been investing heavily in AI-led transformation to help organizations move beyond manual workflows toward smarter, more accountable sourcing.”

The Procurement Excellence Summit included expert-led sessions and panel discussions focused on procurement transformation, supplier collaboration, and the role of technology in enabling strategic sourcing.

Mumbai, August, 05, 2025: Jio BlackRock Asset Management Private Limited (JioBlackRock Asset Management), a 50:50 JV between Jio Financial Services Limited (JFSL) and BlackRock*, has announced the launch of its first suite of five Index Funds through a New Fund Offering (NFO). The NFO will commence on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, and close on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

This marks a pivotal moment in the organisation’s mission to deliver diversification, cost efficiency, reliability, transparency, and digitally empowered investment solutions to Indian investors.

Sid Swaminathan, MD & CEO, JioBlackRock Asset Management says: “JioBlackRock aims to cater to the full range of investors at all stages of their investment journey. The NFO is an invitation to the people of India to experience our digital-first and data-driven customer proposition, in order to access the many benefits of index investing, leveraging BlackRock’s many decades of experience as a leading provider of Index Funds. To truly democratise access to investing in India, we are also launching a series of educational initiatives, with engaging content aimed at all types of investors, from those just starting out to experienced investors.”

Details of the new funds on offer are in the table below:

Name of the Fund What It Offers

• JIOBLACKROCK NIFTY 50 INDEX FUND Exposure to India’s 50 largest and most traded companies by free float market capitalisation
• JIOBLACKROCK NIFTY NEXT 50 INDEX FUND Invest in the next wave of Large-cap leaders
• JIOBLACKROCK NIFTY MIDCAP 150 INDEX FUND Capture growth from India’s Mid-sized enterprises
• JIOBLACKROCK NIFTY SMALLCAP 250 INDEX FUND Tap into emerging small-cap innovators
• JIOBLACKROCK NIFTY 8–13 YR G-SEC INDEX FUND Add portfolio stability through long-term government bonds

These funds offer simple, affordable investment solutions to both first-time investors looking to build a well-balanced portfolio, as well as experienced investors looking to scale their existing portfolio.

Nation-wide access through leading digital platforms

JioBlackRock’s Index Funds are now live and investment-ready on the JioFinance app during the ongoing NFO). These funds will also be available across major digital finance platforms in India, including Groww, Zerodha, Paytm, INDmoney, Dhan, Kuvera along with other SEBI Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs). This expansive presence empowers investors with greater choice and reach.

Bengaluru, India, 5 August 2025: VST Tillers Tractors Ltd, a pioneer in compact agricultural machinery in India, proudly announces the launch of its highly anticipated FENTM Tractor Series, a revolutionary range of fuel-efficient, high-torque compact tractors designed for the evolving needs of modern farmers.

FENTM, which stands for Fuel Efficient and Torque Max, represents a bold leap forward in compact farming. Merging advanced engineering with VST’s renowned FRUGAL Innovation principles, the series delivers unmatched performance, agility, and durability, all within a compact footprint.

The company announced that the FENTM series will feature 5 fuel efficient powerful tractor models including 180 FENTM, 224 FENTM, 225 FENTM, 270 FENTM &929 FENTM. Ranging from 18.5 to 29 HP with 2 Wheel Drive and 4 Wheel drive options, the new models deliver unparalleled productivity, comfort, and long-term value.

Positioned as compact farming solutions built for productivity, comfort, and long-term value, the FENTM series engineered for versatility across terrains and tasks, each model provides the right balance of power, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency for small to mid-sized farms.

Antony Cherukara, CEO, VST Tillers Tractors Ltd said, “the launch of the FENTM Tractor series marks a significant stride in our mission to deliver compact yet powerful solutions tailored for today’s progressive farmers. Built on our FRUGAL engineering philosophy, the FENTM range offers maximum torque with minimum fuel consumption, all while ensuring comfort, durability, and performance in every field condition. This series is a true testament to VST’s commitment to smart innovation and farmer-first design”.

“As India strides toward a future of smart and sustainable agriculture, the tractor industry stands at the forefront of this evolution. With the fusion of technology, precision, and farmer-centric innovation, we are not just building machines, we are shaping the future of farming for generations to come. The FENTM series tractors built with the strength of innovation and the spirit of Bharat, will be a partner in progress for Indian farming community, We’re proud to launch a product that empowers our farmers and drives India’s agricultural future forward.” he added

Core Features Powering the FENTM Advantage include:

· Torque Max: Superior pulling power at lower RPM

· CC Max: High-capacity engine for improved load handling

· Speed Max: Rapid field coverage for greater productivity

· Turn Max: Shortest turning radius in its class for precision in tight spaces.

· Compact Max: Smart design with minimal wheelbase, best combination of weight and power.

· Flow Max: Enhanced cooling for optimized temperature and fuel economy.

· Comfort Max: Ergonomic seating and controls for fatigue-free operation.

· Performance Max: Consistent output across varied farming applications.

With the launch of the FENTM Tractor series, VST Tillers Tractors reaffirms its commitment to empowering farmers through innovation, efficiency, and farmer-centric design. The launch marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to drive the future of sustainable and smart farming.

About VST Tillers Tractors Ltd.

Established in 1967 by the VST Group of companies, VST Tillers Tractors Ltd has been at the forefront of driving farm mechanization and empowering Indian farmers for over 56 years. With a strong focus on research and development, the company offers a wide range of products including power tillers, compact tractors, engines, transmissions, power reapers, and precision components. VST Tractors are not only dominant in the Indian market but also exported to European, Asian, and African markets, meeting the latest EU standards.

With a commitment to continuous innovation and growth—driven by strategic initiatives, new business prospects, global ventures, and brand initiatives, the VST team aspires to achieve 2X growth in its Tractor Business Segment.

Every alternate month, the Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meets to assess the country’s macroeconomic conditions and decide on key policy rates aimed at maintaining inflation within target and supporting economic growth.

Various sectors of the economy keep a close watch on the MPC’s decisions, as shifts in policy rates influence borrowing costs, investment sentiment, and overall demand. For the real estate sector, in particular, changes in interest rates directly affect home loan affordability and consumer confidence.

The housing sector has witnessed renewed momentum following the cumulative 1% reduction in the repo rate between February and June 2025, according to real estate experts. The decline in home loan rates has improved affordability and revived buyer sentiment across key markets.

With borrowing costs coming down, industry leaders expect housing demand to remain strong. Many believe that with inflation under control, the RBI may have room to provide further support to boost the real estate sector.

Mr. Pradeep Aggarwal, Founder & Chairman, Signature Global (India) Ltd., said, “With inflation staying well below the RBI’s target, there is still room for a consecutive fourth cut in the repo rate to boost consumption in the economy. A 25-bps cut in the repo rate would definitely give a further boost to the real estate market, as it would bring the repo rate down by 125 bps from the previous year. With several commercial banks already offering loans below 8 percent, an additional repo rate cut would further ease credit and prompt end-users to advance their home buying decisions.

Having said that, it would be important for the RBI to carefully assess overall economic conditions before making a decision. Even if the RBI decides to keep the rates unchanged, the current low-interest rate environment is already providing strong support to housing demand. Positive buyer sentiment, better affordability, and easy loan availability are together helping the real estate market maintain its growth momentum.”

Mr. Jash Panchamia, Executive Director, Jaypee Infratech Limited, said, “The RBI had adopted a neutral stance in its previous policy review, and it remains to be seen whether the central bank will go for a rate cut or maintain the status quo. With inflation currently at a six-year low, a 25-basis-point cut in the repo rate would be encouraging for the overall economy. The real estate sector, having already benefited from the previous three consecutive rate cuts, would see a further boost in demand and buyer confidence if another cut is announced.

Such a move would reinforce the current growth momentum in the housing market. It would support end-users and first-time homebuyers by lowering borrowing costs and making home ownership more accessible across segments. Overall, the real estate sector remains well-positioned to benefit from a supportive rate regime.”

Mr. Ashok Kapur, Chairman, Krishna Group and Krisumi Corporation, said, “The housing sector has already been benefiting from the cumulative 100 bps cut in the repo rate, as reflected in the rising consumer demand driven by lower home loan interest rates. If the RBI decides to further reduce the repo rate by 25 bps in its upcoming policy review, it would give an overall boost to the economy and further support demand across sectors, including real estate.

Lower home loan rates always give an impetus to housing demand by improving affordability and encouraging more buyers to enter the market. With positive consumer sentiment prevailing, the housing sector is well-positioned to maintain its growth momentum, driven by strong end-user interest and improved access to credit.”

Mr. Raoul Kapoor, Co-CEO, Andromeda Sales and Distribution Pvt Ltd, said, “So far this year, the RBI has cumulatively reduced the repo rate by 100 basis points across the last three policy reviews. While the first two meetings each saw a 25-basis point cut, the central bank surprised the market in the last MPC by delivering a sharper-than-expected 50 basis point reduction.

Looking ahead, it is unlikely that the RBI will opt for another aggressive rate cut in the upcoming review. However, with inflation remaining below expectations, geopolitical tensions easing, and the domestic economy showing signs of resilience, a moderate 25 basis point cut remains a strong possibility. If implemented, such a move could provide a further boost to retail borrowing—especially timely with the festive season on the horizon, traditionally a high-demand period for consumer spending and housing purchases.”

Mr. Vikas Bhasin, MD of Saya Group, said, “We are hopeful that the RBI will continue the rate cut cycle and may opt for another reduction of 25–50 basis points in the repo rate in the upcoming MPC meeting.

The cumulative rate cut of 100 basis points this year has already led to a significant reduction in home loan rates for borrowers. A further rate cut will make home loans more affordable and enhance the loan eligibility of home buyers. This will benefit buyers across all segments—from affordable to luxury—throughout the country. We expect this to further boost the demand for homes in the coming months.”

Mr. Sushil Bedarwal, CMD, Bedarwal Group, said, “The RBI’s cumulative repo rate cut of 100 basis points so far this year has brought substantial relief to homebuyers, particularly in the affordable and mid-income housing segments. These categories are largely driven by end-users with limited budgets, making lower interest rates a critical factor in improving affordability.

Given the commentary in recent MPC meetings—where the RBI Governor has clearly indicated room for further easing—we anticipate another 25-basis point rate cut in the upcoming review.

We also hope that banks will promptly pass on the benefits of any further reduction to borrowers. Lower home loan rates directly enhance the purchasing power of aspiring homeowners, helping many take a decisive step toward owning their dream home.”

04 August 2025: TreeHouse Hotels is pleased to announce the launch of TreeHouse- LinkD, a new boutique collection brand designed to provide hotel owners with a flexible, future-ready platform based on cooperation, innovation, and long-term success while connecting independent, design-forward hotels with discerning modern travellers.

TreeHouse-LinkD, a special offering in TreeHouse Hotels’ expanding portfolio, is designed for independent hoteliers who want to maintain the distinctive character of their establishment while obtaining the legitimacy, operational assistance, and market access of a reputable hospitality brand. Offering a smooth fusion of uniqueness and brand-backed confidence, the brand will select a number of independently spirited hotels in urban and leisure destinations across India and South Asia.

Owner empowerment and flexibility are the cornerstones of TreeHouse-LinkD Hotel Collection with minimal investment and where Owners get to keep their own brand identity too. It enables properties to maintain their distinct charm while taking advantage of TreeHouse’s Hotels & Resorts reliable operational framework and devoted clientele. Partner hotels will benefit from increased market visibility, data-driven pricing strategies, and higher occupancy rates thanks to access to a strong technology stack, centralized revenue management systems, and a wide distribution network.

“We are excited to launch TreeHouse-LinkD – a brand built for the future of boutique hospitality in India. As we engage with potential partners across the country, we see a strong desire for brand-backed independence with Owners wanting to keep their own brand identity too – and TreeHouse-LinkD is our answer to that,”— Jayant Singh, Managing Partner, TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts

Unlike traditional models, TreeHouse-LinkD places more emphasis on strategic cooperation than control, in contrast to conventional models. While receiving carefully chosen assistance in areas like marketing, training, and business development, owners retain control over their operations, design, and visitor experience. In order to ensure mutual growth and a shared commitment to success, the brand’s variable fee structure is specifically tailored to reflect the operational realities of independent hotels and supports hotel owners during down-turns creating a win-win model.

THE POWER OF A SECOND ACT: WOMEN OF REINVENTION TAKE CENTER STAGE AT THE SECONDACT × INK WOMEN AWARDS 2025

New Delhi, August 4, 2025 – In a world that celebrates constant success, few spaces truly honour the courage it takes to begin again. The SecondAct × INK Women Awards 2025, held on August 3rd at PVR Home, Ambience Mall, did just that-bringing together women of bold reinvention and the allies who’ve supported them-to spotlight a different kind of power: the power of choosing purpose over convention.

Co-curated by SecondAct, a platform helping people find their ‘next chapter,’ and INK Women, a movement championing women’s voices and leadership, the awards were not just a ceremony-they were a manifesto. A gathering rooted in reflection, resilience, and the quiet revolutions that often go unnoticed.

Archana Dutta, Founder of SecondAct and CEO of INK Women, opened the afternoon with a stirring reminder:
“These awards aren’t about glittering resumes, they’re about gritty reinvention. Every woman here has made a radical choice: to rebuild on her own terms. That deserves not just recognition, but reverence.”

Joining her was Shweta Rajpal Kohli, President & CEO of the Startup Policy Forum, who shared how reinvention, when done with courage, becomes the most authentic act of leadership,and how women need each other to stand tall.

This year’s honorees were trailblazers from across industries:

• Shukla Bose – Founder & CEO, Parikrma Humanity Foundation
• Dr. Vinnie Jauhari – Director, Education Industry, Microsoft
• Radhika Bharat Ram – Founder, KARM for Young Indian Women
• Swati Bhargava – Co-founder & CEO, CashKaro
• Arpana Shahi – Founder, Gabit
• Shilpa Sharma – Founder & Curator, QuietRoads
• Nandita Das – Actor, Director
• Sushma Jain – Artist
• Dilshad Master – Founder, Bull’s Adventures; Director, Outward Bound India Himalaya
• Vishesh Chandiok – CEO, Grant Thornton Bharat
• Prashant Mehra – Partner & CPCO, Grant Thornton Bharat
• Shreya Krishnan – Managing Director – India, AnitaB.org

Each story echoed a shared theme: refusing to stay in spaces that no longer serve you,and finding the courage to start again.

A powerful highlight was the fireside conversation between Lakshmi Pratury, Founder, INK, and Kirthiga Reddy, Co-founder & CEO, Verix. Their dialogue stripped away professional titles and explored identity, alignment, and the inner work of true reinvention.

“Every reinvention begins with a letting go,” said Reddy. “It’s about aligning who we are with how we live and lead.”

They also shared reflections on AI Kiran-a joint initiative by INK Women and Verix aiming to engage 1 million women in AI by 2028. The initiative reflects the spirit of the Awards: merging innovation with inclusion and purpose.

With over 100 changemakers in the room, from founders and creatives to educators and investors, the event felt more like a warm salon than a formal show. The intimacy was intentional, made possible through the support of partners like Pedal On (SecondAct’s social impact arm) and allies who champion the vision.

Our Main Sponsors Narayana Health deserves a huge shout out.

For the first time, the Awards introduced a new category: The Ally Award, recognising men who actively support gender inclusion, not as performative gestures but as meaningful acts of leadership.

Lakshmi Pratury closed with a message that lingered long after the applause:
“When one woman rewrites her story, she gives others permission to do the same. The second act isn’t just a personal leap; it’s a cultural reset.”

As the lights dimmed and conversations sparked, one truth stood tall: reinvention isn’t a detour-it’s the destination.

Mumbai, August 4th,2025: The Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE), marking 25 years of its impactful journey, celebrated its Silver Jubilee by felicitating leading Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) for their exceptional contributions to MSME financing, credit risk management, and institutional excellence. The event, held in Mumbai, underscored CGTMSE’s continued commitment to empowering India’s micro and small enterprises through expanded access to collateral-free credit.

Awards were presented by Shri Manoj Mittal, Chairman, CGTMSE; Shri Prakash Kumar, DMD, SIDBI and Shri Manish Sinha, CEO, CGTMSE. The event saw active participation from senior banking leaders, including Shri Surender Rana, DMD, SBI and Shri Anindya Sunder Paul, CGM, SBI.

State Bank of India led with top honours in Guarantee Coverage (Amount) and Year-on-Year Growth. Union Bank of India and Punjab National Bank secured top positions in Guarantee Coverage (Number), while HDFC Bank stood out among private banks. Bajaj Finance, Jana Small Finance Bank, Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank, and Saraswat Co-operative Bank were recognised as top performers in their respective categories. Awards were also presented for digital innovation and special outreach initiatives.

Among NBFCs, Bajaj Finance Ltd. secured the top spot in Guarantee Coverage (Amount), followed by Tata Motors Finance and SMFG India Credit. Other key recognitions included Bank of India for Best Digital Adoption, IndusInd Bank for outreach under the Informal Micro Enterprises (IME) provision, Punjab & Sind Bank for Fastest Growth, and Bank of Baroda for Steady Performance. Yes Bank, Indian Bank, Axis Bank, and SBI were also acknowledged for their continued support to CGTMSE’s initiatives.

The celebration reaffirmed CGTMSE’s ongoing mission to build a stronger credit guarantee ecosystem and support the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

New Delhi, 4 August 2025 – Nawgati, India’s pioneering fuel-tech platform, has been selected to join the prestigious Google for Startups Accelerator: Apps Programme. As one of only 20 startups chosen from across India, Nawgati is proud to represent the mobility and fuel-tech sector in this exclusive cohort focused on AI-led app innovation.

This recognition marks a significant milestone in Nawgati’s journey to transform the refuelling experience for millions of daily commuters. As the only mobility-focused app in the cohort, Nawgati’s inclusion highlights the rising importance of consumer-first, real-time digital solutions in India’s transport ecosystem.

Over the next three months, Nawgati will receive dedicated mentorship and support from Google’s global teams, specialising in artificial intelligence, product development, user experience, business growth, and leadership. This collaboration will help Nawgati further refine and scale its app, which is already being used by thousands of drivers and two-wheeler riders across the country.

“We’re honoured to be part of the Google for Startups Accelerator: Apps Programme. This opportunity will not only accelerate our technological evolution but also sharpen our ability to create value for fuel station owners, fleet operators, and everyday consumers,” said Mr Vaibhav Kaushik, CEO and Co-founder of Nawgati.

Nawgati’s app empowers users with real-time data on fuel station availability, discovery, and route-based recommendations, making refuelling more predictable and efficient. By integrating AI into its core, the app helps reduce waiting times and removes the guesswork from daily commutes.

Backed by notable institutions such as GAIL (India) Ltd., MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), Department of Science and Technology (DST), All in Capital, and the Deepak Bhagnani Family Office, Nawgati’s selection by Google reaffirms its growing relevance and impact in India’s fuel-tech sector.

Mumbai, 4^th August, 2025: Procter & Gamble Health Limited today announced its financial results for the First Quarter ended June 30, 2025. The company delivered a strong performance with sales of ₹333 crores, up 20% versus a year ago, owing to broad-based growth in domestic and exports business. Profit After Tax (PAT) stood at ₹ 66 crores, versus ₹ 17 crores a year ago, due to strong sales growth and one-time impact of impairment in the base period.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Milind Thatte, Managing Director, P&G Health India, said, “We are pleased with the continued momentum and strong start to the Financial Year 2025-26. These results are a reflection of our commitment towards addressing the evolving needs of our consumers and healthcare professionals, via superior brand building and go to market initiatives while improving supply chain capabilities.

He further added, “Our strategy, centered on a focused portfolio of quality, trusted, and highly recommended brands where performance drives brand choice; superiority (across product, package, brand communication, retail execution and value), constructive disruption and an agile accountable organization, is delivering balanced and sustainable growth results. We continue to drive engagement for our consumers and healthcare professionals alike, through innovation backed by science and meaningful interventions to make life a little better every day”.

Bangalore, August 4, 2025 — Haircare gets a sleek upgrade as 3TENX, the clean, performance-first haircare brand, spotlighted its hero product the Hydrify Gloss Mist through an immersive salon experience in Bangalore. Held at one of the city’s top salons, the event brought together leading stylists and beauty insiders for a hands-on deep dive into the cult-favourite product that delivers glass-like shine, frizz control, and 10+  benefits in a single spray.

Born in India’s leading salons, 3TENX is a brand rooted in real-world performance. Loved by professional stylists, every 3TENX product is designed to deliver visible results with no compromise. The name “3TENX” stands for three times the efficacy and ten amazing benefits–  a promise that defines the brand’s approach to high-functioning, fuss-free haircare.

With its science-backed formulations and clean beauty credentials, 3TENX Gloss Mist is an ultra-light, multi-tasking hair mist that does it all: from giving instant shine and controlling frizz to protecting hair from heat (up to 232°C), UV exposure and even color protection. Infused with the goodness of raspberry seed oil and jojoba seed oil, the Gloss Mist is vegan, cruelty-free and free from sulfates, parabens, mineral oil and drying alcohols. The result is hair that looks sleek, feels soft and remains healthy.

Bangalore continues to be a key market for 3TENX, thanks to its beauty-forward, trend-savvy audience. The city’s climate, particularly its humidity, presents unique haircare challenges making it a perfect setting to showcase the multi-benefit power of the Hydrify Gloss Mist and one of its 10 benefits that includes working against humidity, keeping your hair sleek and frizz-free even in damp conditions. With a thriving community of stylists, content creators, and early adopters, Bangalore salons offered the ideal platform for an experiential introduction to this high-performance solution tailored for modern hair needs.

 “The 3TENX Gloss Mist is more than just a styling product,” said Aankith Aroraa, CEO & Founder of 3TENX. “It’s our answer to the everyday need for glass-like shine, frizz control, ultimate protection and, in total, more than 10 benefits. Made for all hair types, it captures the heart of what 3TENX stands for: real results, for real people with no fuss. The 3TENX Hydrify Gloss Mist will help you flaunt hair that feels as good as it looks.”

Clinically proven to reduce frizz by 83%*, reduces dryness by 80%*,boost shine by 71%*, and improve manageability and smoothness by over 61%*, Gloss Mist is already being hailed as a must-have for anyone who wants effortless, salon-like results at home. It is suitable for all hair types, including colored, treated, or damaged hair and can be used any time of the day!

3TENX Gloss Mist is now available for purchase on Nykaa, Amazon, Tira, and the official 3TENX website, and all leading salons priced at ₹1,800 for 150ml.