Archives 2025

Welcome to Lexi’s Gourmet Sandwiches, where every bite is an adventure, and every sandwich is a masterpiece. Now available on Zomato, Lexi’s brings unapologetic indulgence to Gurgaon with bold flavors, gourmet ingredients, and a playful twist on your favorite comfort food.

Lexi’s isn’t just about sandwiches—it’s about creating unforgettable moments with every dish. Here are a few of our crowd-favorites that have foodies raving:

Truffle Shroom Melt: A love letter to mushroom lovers—truffle-infused mushrooms, gooey mozzarella, garlic aioli, and a kick of chili oil layered on toasted ciabatta, finished with fresh arugula for the ultimate indulgence.

Chili Burrata Bomb: Creamy burrata meets crispy onion rings, drizzled with chili oil and topped with grated parmesan and fresh arugula, all tucked into a crusty ciabatta. The perfect balance of creamy, crispy, and spicy.

Nashville Fried Chicken Sando: Our spicy fried chicken, drenched in ghost pepper oil and hot honey, topped with Lexi’s apple slaw and pickles, and tucked into a buttery brioche bun. This one’s for the heat seekers!

The Stoner (Dessert): Layers of rich chocolate fudge and gooey salted caramel served in a jar, crafted to satisfy your deepest dessert cravings. It’s the ultimate sweet escape.

Lexi’s isn’t just about food; it’s about bold flavors, vibrant vibes, and unforgettable dining moments. From our artisanal bread to our unexpected flavor combinations, every detail is designed to wow your taste buds. Whether you’re indulging on a busy weekday or treating yourself on the weekend, Lexi’s delivers comfort food with a gourmet edge.

Mumbai, 11 February 2025: EY released its latest edition of the ‘PE/VC Agenda: India Trend Book 2024’, at the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA) in Mumbai, highlighting a strong year for private equity and venture capital deal activity in India. Despite global challenges, 2024 marked the second highest-ever investment of US$56 billion, driven by an all-time high in deal volume, with 1,352 deals—a 54% year-on-year surge. This growth demonstrates India’s resilient economic framework, the increasing depth of its capital markets, the long-term growth potential of sectors investors find attractive, and an expanding and resilient startup ecosystem.

Vivek Soni, Partner and National Leader for Private Equity Services, EY India said, “Despite the backdrop of geopolitical uncertainties, depreciating currency, stretched valuations and market volatility, the resilience of India’s economic expansion has driven an increase in PE/VC activity. The 2024 PE/VC activity—marked by rising investment volumes and exits—underlines investor confidence in India’s growth trajectory, with sectors like infrastructure, real estate, e-commerce, technology, and financial services leading the way. As we navigate the challenges and uncertainties that will come our way in 2025, our GDP growth, political and policy stability, favorable macroeconomic environment and the quality of Indian entrepreneurs will continue to offer significant opportunities for long-term investors. The declining interest rate curve combined with correction in public market valuations will hopefully reduce the bid-ask spread in private deals and lead to an increase in value and volume of PE/VC deal closures. “

Commenting on the launch of the report, Rajat Tandon, President, IVCA said, “India’s alternate capital landscape has matured significantly over the past decade, demonstrating resilience and adaptability amid evolving global dynamics. The surge in buyout transactions and private credit investments signals a shift towards long-term value creation and strategic growth. At the same time, the rise of new sectors—driven by innovation and sustainability—underscores the expanding horizon of investment opportunities. As capital markets evolve and exit strategies become more sophisticated, India continues to solidify its position as a global investment hub. The road ahead will be shaped by collaboration, policy certainty, and the ability to harness emerging opportunities in a rapidly changing world.”

Key trends of 2024

1. Overall rise in investments: PE/VC investments saw a 5% year-on-year increase in 2024, driven by a surge in buyout investments, particularly in the infrastructure, technology, and financial services sectors. The number of deals experienced a

significant 54% year-on-year growth. While the buyout, start-ups, and credit segments

experienced an increase in value terms, growth, and PIPE investments declined

compared to the previous year.

2. Shift in investment approach: A resurgence was observed in pure-play PE/VC investments, which saw a 10% year-on-year increase. PE/VC activity in the infrastructure and real estate asset class declined by 3% year-on-year.

3. Churn in sectoral allocation: Infrastructure was the leading sector, attracting US$12.1 billion in PE/VC investments. Among the traditional favorites, financial services, e-commerce, and technology recorded a growth, whereas life sciences experienced a year-on-year decline. The real estate sector witnessed a record high of US$8.8 billion in investments.

4. PE/VC exits rise: PE/VC exits surged to a record third-highest total of US$26.7 billion, across the second highest-ever number of exits, with 282 deals. Exits via the open market dominated this year’s exit activity with an all-time high of US$12.9 billion, accounting for 48% of overall exits during the year.

5. Decline in fundraising activity: Fundraising activity declined in 2024 to reach US$10.4 billion, down from US$15.9 billion in the previous year. The number of fundraisers also dropped to 95 from an all-time high of 102 in 2023.

PE/VC Investments by Sector

In 2024, private equity and venture capital investment activity exhibited significant trends

across various sectors. Infrastructure, financial services, real estate, e-commerce, technology, and life science recorded more than 100 deals each, compared to just two sectors reaching this milestone in 2023, collectively accounting for 80% of total

investments by value and 66% by deal volume. Like last year, 2024 also witnessed 12 sectors receiving over US$1 billion in investments.

The infrastructure sector maintained its dominance and, as in the previous year, remained the top sector in this year. In 2024, the real estate and financial sectors swapped positions. Real estate, which held the second spot in 2023, slid to third, while the financial sector moved up from third to secure the second spot. The technology sector, previously ranked fifth in 2023, moved to the fourth spot.

Traditionally favored sectors such as e-commerce, technology, and financial services grew by 87%, 56%, and 41%, respectively. Meanwhile, sectors like telecommunications, chemicals, media, and entertainment experienced exceptional growth of 711%, 472%, and 108%, each surpassing the 100% growth mark. These dynamics underscore the evolving landscape of PE/VC investments, reflecting shifts in investor preferences as per the market dynamics.

Eying the Future: Positive outlook for 2025 and beyond

PE/VC investments in 2025 began on a strong note, with January’s investments 37% higher than December 2024, despite a 9% dip compared to January 2024. The outlook for India’s PE/VC ecosystem remains positive, driven by a favorable macroeconomic environment, strong fiscal health, and stable government policies. As volatility in mid-cap and small-cap indices declines, we anticipate increased deal activity and closures.

The recent market correction signals more balanced conditions ahead, reinforcing India’s attractiveness as a leading PE/VC destination. International General Partners (GPs) will continue to shape the landscape, while the pullback in the startup segment presents unique opportunities, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, known for their untapped markets and cost advantages.

With improving corporate earnings, a narrowing gap between buyer and seller expectations, and an increasing number of IPOs, India offers substantial opportunities to PE/VC investors. Sectors like Infrastructure, Real Estate, Financial Services, Technology, e-commerce, and Healthcare combined with opportunities in Green Energy Transition and Renewables, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals will continue to attract PE/VC investor interest

Hyderabad: Ashoka One Mall in collaboration with Amor Hospital, successfully organized a Free Health Campaign from February 3rd to 5th, commemorating World Cancer Day. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about the significance of early cancer detection and preventive healthcare, offering visitors complimentary health check-ups.

The health camp provided a range of free medical services, including consultations with General Physicians, Ophthalmologists, and Dental specialists, along with Eye Examinations, Blood Pressure, and Blood Sugar Tests. The campaign saw active participation from individuals across different age groups, emphasizing the growing need for accessible healthcare and regular screenings.

The World Cancer Day Free Health Campaign served as a reminder of the power of awareness and timely medical intervention, inspiring individuals to take proactive steps toward their health. Ashoka One Mall remains dedicated to fostering a healthier and more informed community through meaningful initiatives.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. N Jaideep Reddy, Managing Director, Ashoka Developers and Builders Limited, said “At Ashoka One Mall, we believe in contributing to the well-being of our community by promoting health awareness and preventive care. This initiative, in association with Amor Hospital, reinforces the importance of regular health check-ups and early detection, which can play a crucial role in saving lives. We are committed to hosting more such impactful programs in the future.”

This Valentine’s Day, Malaka Spice, known for its culinary excellence and commitment to sustainability, invites couples to experience a romantic evening like never before. Presenting Lights Out! – the Valentine’s Day Edition, an enchanting celebration that combines sustainability with love.

On the 14th of every month, Malaka Spice transforms its ambiance by switching off all non-essential lights and embracing the warm glow of re-used candles, creating a luminaria-inspired atmosphere. In the spirit of sustainability, the restaurant not only saves on electricity but also repurposes wax from used candles for this special night.

On February 14th, Malaka Spice takes this eco-friendly romance to the next level. The restaurant will be exclusively illuminated by candlelight, providing an intimate setting for couples to celebrate their love. The evening features delectable desserts crafted from produce sourced directly from Malaka Spice’s Cherish Farm, as well as tantalizing cocktails made with meads from Moonshine Meadery.

Indulge in a specially curated Valentine’s Day menu, featuring exquisite dishes like Malay Yum Curry Puffs, Sambal Olek Fish, Chicken Malay Curry, Nasi Bhokari Rice, Ayam Goreng Kunit Wings paired with fine wine, all set against a breathtaking, candlelit backdrop. For all the sweet cravings we have got Coconut Pandan Tres Leches and Peanut Butter Jelly Kachang. It’s the perfect way to celebrate love and create unforgettable memories.

So, head to Malaka Spice to celebrate love sustainably and romantically this Valentine’s Day. Create memories that are as enduring as the glow of candlelight.

• What: Valentine’s Day Celebration
• Where: Malaka Spice, Koregaon Park and Kharadi
• When: 14th February, 07:00 pm onwards

February 11, 2025 | Bengaluru: In a defining moment of transformation, BEML Ltd. unveiled its new brand identity, ‘Infinix,’ at the prestigious Aero India 2025. Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi PVSM, AVSM, NM, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), unveiled the new logo at the BEML stall, alongside Shri Shantanu Roy, CMD, BEML Ltd., Functional Directors of BEML and senior officers from Defence Forces, in a grand display featuring motion graphics that traced BEML’s remarkable 60-year evolution. This landmark event showcased BEML’s growing prowess in Aerospace and Defence through a fully digital and immersive experience.

BEML’s Infinix logo represents more than a rebranding—it is a profound transformation. The freed Phoenix, breaking out of its circular boundary, symbolizes limitless aspirations and an unyielding commitment to innovation, agility, and excellence. Its outstretched wings embody BEML’s relentless pursuit of breakthrough solutions across Air, Land, and Sea. The name ‘Infinix’—a fusion of ‘Infinity’ and ‘Phoenix’—draws inspiration from aerodynamic precision, mirroring BEML’s expertise in cutting-edge engineering, mobility solutions, and future-ready technologies. Its fluid, dynamic form represents power, speed, and a forward-thinking vision that drives BEML to redefine industries.

Congratulating BEML on this transformative journey, Admiral Tripathi, shared: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the leadership and entire team of BEML on this historic occasion. The unveiling of ‘Infinix’ reflects your bold vision to emerge as one of India’s most valuable companies, both nationally and globally. As BEML ventures into futuristic sectors, driving national progress and technological excellence, I do not doubt that even greater milestones lie ahead.”

This rebranding marks a new era for BEML—not just a visual shift but a powerful declaration of ambition, innovation, and impact. The ‘Infinix’ identity underscores BEML’s mission to shape the future, delivering next-generation solutions that empower India and the world.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Shri Shantanu Roy, CMD, BEML Ltd., shared: “The new logo symbolizes our evolution from a legacy-driven enterprise to a global force in engineering, leading the way in key sectors. This transformation mirrors our aspirations to expand into new markets, explore emerging technologies, and embrace the challenges of tomorrow with unmatched vigor and determination. It carries with it the collective dreams and ambitions of BEML’s people—employees, partners, stakeholders, and customers. It is a symbol of our shared purpose to create value, drive progress, and leave an indelible mark on the world.”

At Aero India 2025, BEML Ltd. will showcase its latest advancements in Aerospace, Defence, and Strategic Engineering, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and indigenous manufacturing. The spotlight will be on its cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), including Vihangam-35, a high-performance reconnaissance and surveillance UAV developed in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, and Abhinandan HNX50, a next-generation RPAS.

In the realm of Space and Missile Technology, BEML will present ISO Grid Panels designed for ISRO’s LVM3 launch program, along with Light Alloy Structures for advanced launch vehicles. The company is also displaying its expertise in missile casings, which play a critical role in India’s defence programs, including Akash and Kusha.

BEML’s contribution to Aircraft and Helicopter Components will be demonstrated through its precision-engineered airborne parts and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) for the LCA Mk1, reinforcing its role in India’s aerospace advancements. Additionally, in Maritime Defence, BEML will highlight its Marine Gas Turbine Flame Tubes, engineered to enhance naval propulsion efficiency, and the Universal Bomb Pallet, designed to strengthen India’s airforce armament systems.

With its diverse portfolio and continuous innovation, BEML remains at the forefront of India’s aerospace and defence ecosystem, driving technological advancements that contribute to national security and global competitiveness.

About BEML- BEML Limited is a leading multi-technology ‘Schedule A’ company under the Ministry of Defence, which plays a pivotal role in serving India’s core sectors like Defence, Rail, Power, Mining and Construction by offering world-class products. BEML Limited, a committed player in the field of manufacturing earthmoving, transportation, and construction equipment, celebrates a rich legacy spanning six decades of relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation.

Mumbai: ICRALimitedannounceditsresultsforthethird quarter, and nine months ended December 31, 2024,onFebruary10th,2025.

Consolidated revenue from operations increased 5.5% to Rs. 120.9 crore for the third quarter ended December 2024, compared to Rs.114.6croreinthecorrespondingquarterofthepreviousyear.The PAT increased 30.3 Rs. 42.2 crore from Rs. 32.4 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

Consolidatedrevenuefromoperationsincreased12.3%toRs.361.8crorefortheninemonthsendedDecember2024, compared to Rs. 322.2 crore in the corresponding previous year. The PAT for the nine months ended December 2024 increased 9.5% to Rs.115.2 crore from Rs.
105.2croreinthecorrespondingpreviousyear.

The previous year’s corresponding quarter and nine months’ financials include the impact of the amount provided towards the arbitration award.

Commenting on the results, Ramnath Krishnan, MD, and Group CEO, ICRA Limited, said: “ICRA continues to demonstrate resilience, withsustainedgrowthinRatings,whereastheAnalyticssegmentrecordedmodestgrowththisquarter, reflecting the evolving market dynamics. We continue to remain focused on expanding our analytical capabilities, strengthening research offerings, and enhancing client value through data-driven insights. We remain steadfast in delivering high-quality analytics and ratings while adapting to market shifts”.

In Q3FY2025, ICRA reinforced its position as a knowledge powerhouse by hosting market events across India, covering sectors such as structured Finance, Specialty Chemicals, Microfinance, Real Estate, and the Automotive segment. ICRA also organized a media roundtable in Mumbai, sharing insights on emerging credit trends in the Banking and NBFC sectors. Additionally, ICRA conducted 13 webinars, participated in 19 external events as an industry thought leader, and published 147 high-impact research reports spanning 60 sectors to empower stakeholders with reliable insights and industry expertise.

Amidtherelatively favorable trend in high-frequency indicators, India’s Domestic Product(GDP) growth is expected to improve to
~6.8% in Q3 FY2025from the seven-quarter low of 5.4% in Q2 FY2025. However, the outlook for economic activity for Q4 FY2025 appears mixed, with the threat of tariffs and exchange rate volatility souring sentiment. Overall, ICRA estimates the GDP growth to print at 6.5% in FY2025 and maintain that pace in FY2026.

Ratings & ancillary services revenue growth for the quarter was up by 9.6%; Nine months up by 14.1%
In Q3FY2025, bond issuances continued their surge as seen in the previous quarter to grow 35% year-on-yearhelpingthe9MFY2025growthto land at 16% year-on-year. Bond issuances by the NBFCs saw a sharp growth of 65% year-on-year as bank credit to this segment was curtailed. Banks and corporates too saw a spike in bond issuances supported by softening yields. Continuing challenges in deposit inflows, mainly in retail deposits, for banks led to a lower bank credit growth in Q3 as well as in 9M FY2025 from the highs seen in the previous two fiscal. These securitization segments saw strong growth as the NBFCsleanedon this segment due to ower availability of bank funding following the banks’ offloading a part of their books to correct their credit-deposit ratio.

Research & Analytics revenue growth for the quarter up by 1.0%; Nine months up by 10.4%
Research and analytics revenue was impacted by lower inter-national order flows but saw strong domestic growth, particularly in debt capital markets and banking. The business strengthened its market position by implementing a market abuse detection solution and expanding data offerings to meet rapidly evolving market and regulatory needs. It remains well-positioned in risk solutions and early warning systems, adapting to growing regulatory requirements, especially in the NBFC sector.

The University of Manchester is a world-renowned institution committed to fostering academic excellence and innovation. Its scholarship programs reflect its dedication to empowering students from around the globe to achieve their full potential. The University has announced substantial scholarships to support ambitious and talented students from India in their pursuit of higher education. With over 230 merit-based master’s scholarships available for 2025, this initiative aims to foster academic excellence and provide financial assistance to deserving candidates.

Aspiring scholars can participate in world-class education and research opportunities through the scholarships, which demonstrate the university’s dedication to developing international academic talent and advancing cultural diversity. For various scholarships on offer, a student’sacademic merit will serve as the foundation for assessment. Students who get an offer while meeting the qualifications, will get a scholarship in the form of a decrease in tuition fees.

The Scholarships available are as follows:

1. Global Futures Scholarship

The Global Futures Scholarship is available to students worldwide, including those from India. This scholarship reflects Manchester’s commitment to global engagement and innovation. It is available for both Undergraduate and Postgraduate students.

• Undergraduate: The University of Manchester is proud to offer more than 100 merit-based undergraduate scholarships of up to £24,000 (£8,000 per year over three years) to international students from a selection of countries across the globe.

• Eligibility Criteria:

•  Applicants must be fee-paying and domiciled in India.
•  Candidates must hold a conditional or unconditional offer to study at The University of Manchester.
•  Scholarships are available for various schools, including the School of Social Sciences, School of Environment, Education and Development, School of Arts, Languages and Cultures, and Alliance Manchester Business School.

• Timeline: Prospective students must submit their scholarship applications online by 10 April 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by 30 April 2025.

• Postgraduate: The University of Manchester offers international students 230 merit-based scholarships. The value of The Global Futures Scholarships for South Asian students is £8,000. Scholarships will be awarded in the form of a discount on published overseas tuition fees.

• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants will be considered for the award based on academic merit and the quality of their scholarship application.

• Timeline: Please note the application form will only be made available to students once they have applied and been made an offer (either conditional or unconditional).

2. GREAT Scholarship 2025:
The University of Manchester is offering qualified students a GREAT scholarship of £10,000 towards tuition fees for the majority of one-year master’s programs in collaboration with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign. Additionally, students from India who will enroll in the 2025–2026 academic year are eligible to receive a GREAT scholarship specifically for taught master’s programs in the School of Arts, Languages, and Cultures.

Timeline:Indian students must apply by 24 April 2025, with results announced by 30 May 2025.

3. Humanities Postgraduate Scholarships:
Designed for future leaders, these scholarships provide £10,000 in funding and are granted based on academic merit without the need for a separate application.

Eligibility:

•  1 year of funding only
•  Applicants domiciled in India
•  Applicants must be paying international tuition fees

4. Manchester Humanities International Excellence Scholarship:
Available to self-funded Indian applicants, this scholarship offers up to £5,000 based on the programme’s tuition fees.

Eligibility:

•  Be domiciled in India
•  Hold an offer to study with us on an eligible programme*
•  Meet or exceed specified academic entry criteria for the programme applied to
•  Be self-funded (not sponsored)

Availability:

•  For programmes with tuition fees below or equal £28,000: £2,500
•  For programs with tuition fees above £28,000 and all listed programmes within the Manchester Institute of Education: £5,000

5. Humanitarian and Conflict Response Institute Taught Masters Scholarships:

Offering £14,000 for select programs, this scholarship supports students commencing their studies in September 2025.There will be one scholarship available for each of the following programmes:

•  MA Humanitarianism and Conflict Response
•  MSc International Disaster Management

Eligibility:

•  Applicants may be of any nationality.
•  Students who have already accepted full scholarships or bursaries for September 2025 entry are ineligible to apply.

Mumbai, 11 February 2025: Riding high on its commitment to nation-building through skilling and career development, upGrad, one of Asia’s largest integrated skilling and forever learning majors—has announced a unique partnership with the Army Welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO). It aims to empower military veterans and their dependents, including wives, young graduates, and widows of martyrs, with career opportunities to seamlessly transition into India’s corporate workforce.

In a first, the strategic partnership will enable a stronger last mile upskilling through bespoke training programs in essential domains like AI, Digital Marketing, Data, and vocational courses that prepare veterans and their families with core capabilities for both white-collar and blue-collar roles as per requirements, driving a very strong economic and social inclusion.

The Army Welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO) is a welfare initiative under the Adjutant General’s Branch of the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army). Established in May 1999, AWPO is a non-profit organization dedicated to facilitating second career opportunities for retiring and retired Army personnel, their widows, and dependents. It assists in job placements across government, semi-government, and corporate sectors. Up until January 2025, AWPO has successfully placed over 1.3L veterans, including Officers, JCO, OR, and wards/widows, building one of the strongest placement ecosystems in India for ex-army officials.

Major Gen Ajay Singh Chauhan, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal (Retd) and Head of AWPO, commented, “The Army Welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO) aims to provide second career opportunities for army veterans, who often retire between ages 35-40, at a crucial stage in their lives. Many face challenges supporting their families with pensions, making career transitions vital. The partnership with Upgrade is key in helping us understand the skill sets and shortcomings of these veterans. While they bring valuable experience, the needs of the industry vary, and upGrad’s role in upskilling them makes them industry-ready. This partnership helps bridge the gap, ensuring they are fully prepared to take on any opportunity that arises, significantly advancing AWPO’s mission of placing retired army personnel. AWPO operates across 17 regional offices, including in J&K, and has placed over 16,000 JCOs, 450 officers, and 300 widows/wards across diverse sectors in corporate India in the last year. We believe in proactively hunting for opportunities, with regional offices tasked to match profiles and ensure seamless transitions.”

“It’s a matter of great pride for upgrade to work closely with AWPO and contribute meaningfully and literally towards nation-building. Our partnership is a powerful response to the growing organic demand we are witnessing from all over the ecosystem – not just corporate India,” said Srikanth Iyengar, CEO of upGrad Enterprise. “It comes at a time when the Indian Government is making stronger strides within skilling and forever learning and building the right infrastructure to support our economic progress. It’s incredible to see the opportunity at hand—enabling AWPO with the right resources – for example, while this group of army officials, JCOs, and veterans who retire every year, brings unmatched discipline, leadership, and resilience honed through military service, we will build bespoke training to enhance their soft skills and capabilities for a smoother transition from a military environment to a job corporate/service environment. We are both honored and excited by the trust placed in us by AWPO, and we remain committed to delivering impactful outcomes.”

Sri City, February 11, 2025 – IFMR and Krea University hosted Synergy 2025, an annual flagship event designed to bring together leading academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to shape data-driven solutions for pressing developmental challenges. Through interdisciplinary dialogue, the event catalyzed action to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthen governance mechanisms in India.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Krea University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nirmala Rao, noted that “Synergy is a unique platform for the academic community to engage, debate, and critically analyze some of the most pressing issues in development, focusing on solutions and action.”

A key highlight of the event was the inaugural N Vaghul Memorial Lecture, honouring the legacy of the late Shri Narayanan Vaghul. Delivering the inaugural lecture, Mr. S. Krishnan, Secretary, of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, highlighted the transformative impact of AI and the tectonic shifts in this space. He emphasized the role of foundational research and evidence in developing inclusive AI solutions rooted in the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity.

In line with the event’s focus on data-driven development, Synergy 2025 also marked a key milestone in strengthening government-academia collaboration. The Government of Meghalaya and IFMR signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance data systems, foster innovation, and drive efficient policy implementation. The agreement, signed by Dr Sampath Kumar, Principal Secretary and Development Commissioner, Government of Meghalaya and Mr Kapil Viswanathan, President, IFMR, builds on Meghalaya’s pioneering initiatives in data-driven governance and underscores the importance of evidence-based policymaking.

The event also featured a keynote lecture by Dr Karthik Muralidharan, Tata Chancellor’s Professor of Economics, UC San Diego and a panel discussion on enhancing state capacity including dignitaries: Dr Sampath Kumar, Government of Meghalaya; Ms Arti Ahuja, Former Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment; Dr Veena Srinivasan, Executive Director, WELL Labs, Dr. Karthik Muralidharan, and Ms Deepthi Reddy, Chief – Women Empowerment, Reliance Foundation.

Padma Shri Dr. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Founder & Former President, of IIT Madras Research Park, delivered a special address that emphasized research and industry collaborations. Stressing the inherent risks involved in research, he underscored the need for mechanisms that encourage risk-taking, enabling breakthroughs that can redefine industries and improve lives.

A Unique Research Ecosystem Driving Change

The IFMR and Krea ecosystem is a hub for innovative thinking and action with a portfolio of eight interdisciplinary research centres: WELL Labs, LEAD at Krea University, JPAL South Asia, Centre for Digital Financial Inclusion (CDFI), Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre, Inclusion Economics India Centre, IWWAGE, and Sapien Labs Centre for the Human Brain and Mind, including partnerships with institutions such as Yale University, MIT, and policy entities such as NITI Aayog, Ministry of Rural Development, and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, IFMR Graduate School of Business and the School of Interwoven Arts and Sciences.

The event featured an Ecosystem Showcase, where the research centres presented cutting-edge work across diverse themes, including financial inclusion, climate action, digital access, education, and public health. Faculty and students engaged with policymakers and thought leaders to explore solutions that can address India’s most pressing developmental challenges. The discussions set the stage for future collaborations, reinforcing the need for data-driven solutions and interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex challenges.

New Delhi, 11th February 2025: Eastman Auto and Power Ltd, (“EAPL”) a market leader in the Indian energy storage sector through its subsidiary, Eastman New Energy Private Limited Ltd. has announced a strategic partnership with MTOW Mobility Private Limited, (“Urja Mobility”), a leader in Battery leasing in the Electric Three-Wheeler segment. The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development and deployment of advanced lithium-ion battery technology for the electric vehicle (EV) sector in India. As part of the collaboration, URJA Mobility has decided to engage Eastman to supply 20,000+ lithium-ion batteries to execute the battery leasing solution across the country. Eastman will integrate Urja Mobility’s IoT and software solutions into its lithium battery products to enable remote monitoring and analytics.

This collaboration is set to drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of electric mobility in the country, contributing significantly to the nation’s sustainability goals. By combining Eastman’s expertise in lithium-ion batteries with Urja Mobility’s solution of battery leasing for electric three-wheelers, the partnership is poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle market and provide more efficient and eco-friendly transportation options for consumers.

Eastman being the market leader in E-Rickshaw batteries, this partnership will further bolster the strong position for Lithium batteries in the Electric Three-Wheeler Market.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Shekhar Singal, Managing Director, of Eastman Auto and Power Ltd said “This partnership marks a significant milestone for Eastman as we join forces with Urja Mobility to accelerate the growth of electric mobility in India. Our cutting-edge lithium-ion battery technology, combined with Urja Mobility’s innovative battery leasing solution for electric three-wheelers, will play a crucial role in making sustainable transportation a reality for millions of people across the country. We are proud to contribute to India’s vision of reducing carbon emissions and advancing renewable energy solutions.”

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Pankaj Chopra, Co-Founder & Director, of Urja Mobility said “We are thrilled to partner with Eastman in this transformative collaboration. As a company committed to advancing electric mobility, we believe that, by providing a cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable battery solution, we aim to empower drivers and contribute to India’s vision for a greener future. This MoU is a big step forward in our mission to revolutionize transportation in India.”

This collaboration between Eastman and Urja Mobility represents a significant step forward in India’s transition to sustainable transportation, and both companies are excited to work together to create a greener, more energy-efficient future.