Archives 2025

59 Percent of HR Leaders Cite Lack of Trust as Top Barrier to AI Adoption

Bengaluru, Nov 19th : Biz Staffing Comrade Pvt Ltd, a renowned name in the HR realm which provides a wide range of recruitment and selection services to diverse companies released the results of its survey held at the HR Conclave recently. As artificial intelligence moves to the core of enterprise transformation, 59.1 percent of HR leaders believe that lack of trust in AI-driven decision-making is the single biggest barrier to its adoption. 27.3 percent pointed to insufficient communication and change management, indicating that many organisations are struggling to articulate the purpose, impact and expected outcome of AI adoption. 9.1 percent stated leadership hesitation or lack of clarity reflecting uncertainty at the top level around how to steer AI initiatives. While only 4.5 percent cited fear of job loss – challenging the popular belief that resistance to AI is driven by job insecurity.

L-R_Jasvinder Bedi & Puneet Arora,Managing Partner, Biz Staffing Comrade Pvt Ltd

The insight emerged from Biz Staffing Comrade’s HR Leaders’ Roundtable on “The Human Enterprise in an AI World” moderated by Achyuta Ghosh, Executive Research Leader at HFS Research, which convened more than 30 senior HR and Talent Acquisition leaders from India’s leading product and technology organisations. During the event, several questions were posed to the HR leaders to gain insights into their views on various strategic topics. The dialogue revealed that while Indian enterprises are keen to embed AI into their operations, trust and transparency – not technology – are emerging as the true markers of readiness.

This data challenges a long-held assumption that employee resistance to AI stems from anxiety about automation. Instead, the barrier appears to lie in opacity and unclear communication – a pattern reflected in global studies showing that while AI capability has accelerated, confidence in its governance and explainability still lags behind.

AI Ambition Is High, But Execution Still Trails

While optimism around AI adoption runs high, readiness to scale AI transformation remains limited. Only 8 percent of HR leaders said their organisations were fully prepared and already scaling human + AI collaboration. Around 40 percent described themselves as partially prepared, experimenting in select functions, while 44 percent said they were at the pilot stage with limited adoption. Another 8 percent admitted they had not yet started and were still evaluating possibilities.

These findings place India’s readiness curve close to the global average, where most organisations remain in early or partial stages of adoption. While global enterprises are investing heavily in automation, true differentiation increasingly lies in human capability. For India, this presents an opportunity to convert its demographic and digital strengths into sustainable AI maturity.

Jasvinder Bedi, Managing Partner at Biz Staffing Comrade, said that the focus must now move from intent to implementation. India’s AI opportunity is massive, but it needs speed, structure, and leadership clarity to translate ambition into real adoption.

Building Capability, Not Just Hiring Talent

A key shift highlighted during the roundtable was the move from hiring for skills to building them internally. 38 percent of leaders said upskilling existing employees on AI, related competencies had become their top workforce priority. 25 percent were focused on hiring AI or data specialists, while 21 percent said they were restructuring roles to promote deeper collaboration between humans and machines, and a minority of 16 percent suggested that it is still too early to determine the impact of AI on talent priorities. 

This marks a clear reorientation in talent strategy – from “buying capacity” to “building capability.” As AI continues to redefine work, organisations are realising that learning agility has become their strongest competitive edge. Globally, enterprises are shifting from one, off training programs to continuous learning ecosystems that keep pace with constant change.

Puneet Arora, Managing Partner at Biz Staffing Comrade, said

“the shift reflects a deeper evolution in leadership mindset. “Upskilling is no longer an HR initiative – it’s a core business priority. The key to success lies in building a resilient and adaptable workforce, equipped with the skills and mindset to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

Legacy inefficiencies threaten transformation

The discussion also underscored how enterprise debt, the accumulated inefficiencies of legacy systems and siloed processes, continues to slow AI adoption. Many organisations are finding that automation exposes structural weaknesses rather than eliminating them. Globally, such inefficiencies are estimated to represent trillions of dollars in lost productivity each year.

The roundtable concluded that AI may redefine the structure of work, but humans will continue to define its purpose. Technology can deliver efficiency, but enduring value will come from trust, adaptability, and inclusion. Participants agreed that the next decade will not be defined by how fast machines learn but by how wisely humans adapt. Organisations that combine transparency with technological capability, and empathy with efficiency, will lead this new phase of human + machine collaboration.

Choice International Expands Infrastructure Advisory Capabilities with acquisition of Ayoleeza Consultants

Mumbai, November 19, 2025: Choice International Limited, one of India’s leading diversified financial services and consulting group, announced that its subsidiary, Choice Consultancy Services Private Limited (CCSPL), has acquired 100% shareholding in Ayoleeza Consultants Private Limited.

Ayoleeza Consultants Private Limited is a two decades old reputed consultancy firm engaged in providing specialized advisory consultancy services in areas such as Railways & Metros, Road & Highways, Bridges, Tunnels and Urban Infrastructure in India and neighbouring countries.

The company currently manages live orders exceeding ₹200 Crores alongwith their Partners. Notably, about 69% of these projects are time-based payment contracts, ensuring consistent monthly revenue. Ayoleeza has recently secured several key assignments in the railway sector, driven by its strong technical capabilities and deep understanding of India’s transport infrastructure landscape. Additionally, the firm has bid for consultancy tenders worth ₹350+ Crores in Railway projects and ₹150+ Crores in Roads & Highways, which are presently under evaluation—indicating strong potential for future order wins.

Backed by a team of over 200+ qualified engineers, planners, and consultants, Ayoleeza Consultants brings strong technical expertise and multidisciplinary project experience under the leadership of Mr. Abhishek Kumar, Founder of Ayoleeza Consultants. The team’s capabilities span across detailed project reports (DPRs), design and supervision, project management consultancy (PMC), and quality assurance for both public and private sector clients. Their experience across national and state-level assignments further complements CCSPL’s growing infrastructure consulting portfolio.

This acquisition is strategically aligned with Choice Group’s vision to expand its Public Sector Consulting vertical and strengthen its capabilities across project advisory, design, supervision, and implementation monitoring services in Infrastructure domain. The integration of Ayoleeza’s strong technical expertise, diversified client base, and proven execution track record will enhance CCSPL’s ability to deliver large-scale infrastructure mandates across India.

Mr. Arun Poddar, Group CEO of Choice International Limited, added:

“We are delighted to welcome Ayoleeza Consultants into the Choice family. This acquisition reflects our continued commitment to scale our Public Sector Consulting business, create long-term value, and contribute to the nation’s growth through participation in key public sector development projects globally.”

With this transaction, CCSPL further consolidates its position as a comprehensive Public Sector consulting and advisory platform, leveraging a strong pipeline of ongoing and upcoming projects across transport segment specially Railways & Metro.

Survey : 59% of HR Leaders Cite Lack of Trust as Top Barrier to AI Adoption

Bengaluru, Nov 18 : Biz Staffing Comrade Pvt Ltd, a renowned name in the HR realm which provides a wide range of recruitment and selection services to diverse companies released the results of its survey held at the HR Conclave recently. As artificial intelligence moves to the core of enterprise transformation, 59.1 percent of HR leaders believe that lack of trust in AI-driven decision-making is the single biggest barrier to its adoption. 27.3 percent pointed to insufficient communication and change management, indicating that many organisations are struggling to articulate the purpose, impact and expected outcome of AI adoption. 9.1 percent stated leadership hesitation or lack of clarity reflecting uncertainty at the top level around how to steer AI initiatives. While only 4.5 percent cited fear of job loss – challenging the popular belief that resistance to AI is driven by job insecurity.

L-R_Jasvinder Bedi & Puneet Arora,Managing Partner, Biz Staffing Comrade Pvt Ltd

The insight emerged from Biz Staffing Comrade’s HR Leaders’ Roundtable on “The Human Enterprise in an AI World” moderated by Achyuta Ghosh, Executive Research Leader at HFS Research, which convened more than 30 senior HR and Talent Acquisition leaders from India’s leading product and technology organisations. During the event, several questions were posed to the HR leaders to gain insights into their views on various strategic topics. The dialogue revealed that while Indian enterprises are keen to embed AI into their operations, trust and transparency – not technology – are emerging as the true markers of readiness.

This data challenges a long-held assumption that employee resistance to AI stems from anxiety about automation. Instead, the barrier appears to lie in opacity and unclear communication – a pattern reflected in global studies showing that while AI capability has accelerated, confidence in its governance and explainability still lags behind.

AI Ambition Is High, But Execution Still Trails;

While optimism around AI adoption runs high, readiness to scale AI transformation remains limited. Only 8 percent of HR leaders said their organisations were fully prepared and already scaling human + AI collaboration. Around 40 percent described themselves as partially prepared, experimenting in select functions, while 44 percent said they were at the pilot stage with limited adoption. Another 8 percent admitted they had not yet started and were still evaluating possibilities.

These findings place India’s readiness curve close to the global average, where most organisations remain in early or partial stages of adoption. While global enterprises are investing heavily in automation, true differentiation increasingly lies in human capability. For India, this presents an opportunity to convert its demographic and digital strengths into sustainable AI maturity.

Jasvinder Bedi, Managing Partner at Biz Staffing Comradesaid that the focus must now move from intent to implementation. India’s AI opportunity is massive, but it needs speed, structure, and leadership clarity to translate ambition into real adoption

Building Capability, Not Just Hiring Talent;

 A key shift highlighted during the roundtable was the move from hiring for skills to building them internally. 38 percent of leaders said upskilling existing employees on AI, related competencies had become their top workforce priority. 25 percent were focused on hiring AI or data specialists, while 21 percent said they were restructuring roles to promote deeper collaboration between humans and machines, and a minority of 16 percent suggested that it is still too early to determine the impact of AI on talent priorities.

This marks a clear reorientation in talent strategy – from “buying capacity” to “building capability.” As AI continues to redefine work, organisations are realising that learning agility has become their strongest competitive edge. Globally, enterprises are shifting from one, off training programs to continuous learning ecosystems that keep pace with constant change.

Puneet Arora, Managing Partner at Biz Staffing Comrade,;said the shift reflects a deeper evolution in leadership mindset. “Upskilling is no longer an HR initiative – it’s a core business priority. The key to success lies in building a resilient and adaptable workforce, equipped with the skills and mindset to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

Legacy inefficiencies threaten transformation;

The discussion also underscored how enterprise debt, the accumulated inefficiencies of legacy systems and siloed processes, continues to slow AI adoption. Many organisations are finding that automation exposes structural weaknesses rather than eliminating them. Globally, such inefficiencies are estimated to represent trillions of dollars in lost productivity each year.

The roundtable concluded that AI may redefine the structure of work, but humans will continue to define its purpose. Technology can deliver efficiency, but enduring value will come from trust, adaptability, and inclusion. Participants agreed that the next decade will not be defined by how fast machines learn but by how wisely humans adapt. Organisations that combine transparency with technological capability, and empathy with efficiency, will lead this new phase of human + machine collaboration.

Abhay Prabhavana Museum Introduces a Chowpatty

Abhay Prabhavana Museum Introduces a Chowpatty-Themed Street-Food Experience, Celebrating India’s Beloved Culinary Traditions

food

On the occasion of its first anniversary, Abhay Prabhavana Museum and Knowledge Centre, near Pune, unveiled CHOWPATTY – The Outdoor Food Court, near the riverside, offering an array of Indian snacks and beverages, overlooking breathtaking natural views.

The outdoor food court was inaugurated by renowned entrepreneur Shri Indraneel Chitale, Managing Partner of the iconic Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale.

With this addition, Abhay Prabhavana further enriches its role as a family-friendly destination, where visitors can experience India’s cultural depth through art, philosophy, and a variety of food options

Novo Holdings Invests in Blue Planet’s Zero Waste Mission

Nov 18: Blue Planet Environmental Solutions, a Singapore-headquartered sustainability company pioneering technology-driven, IP-based waste management and upcycling solutions, today announced a strategic investment from Novo Holdings, a leading global investor focused on advancing planetary health, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.

blueplanet

Founded in 2017, Blue Planet has developed an integrated platform for circular waste management that combines proprietary technologies, data analytics, and operational expertise to convert waste into valuable resources. Its group portfolio includes Zigma (India), Wah & Hua (Singapore), Smart Environmental (New Zealand) and few others delivering end-to-end solutions across landfill remediation, recycling, biofuel generation, and e-waste processing.

The investment from Novo Holdings strengthens Blue Planet’s technology-driven model and supports its commitment in building a circular, low-carbon economy in high-growth markets. The partnership will enable the company to expand sustainable infrastructure across India, Southeast Asia, New Zealand, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets, deepen operational synergies across its regional network, and continue strategic, M&A-driven growth in identified segments. It will also reinforce initiatives in carbon credit generation, circular resource management, ESG-linked innovation, and development of environmentally friendly products from landfill waste.

Madhujeet Chimni, Founder and Chairman, Blue Planet Environmental Solutions, said:
“We are excited to partner with Novo Holdings, whose global sustainability expertise aligns with our vision of building scalable, responsible waste solutions. This investment strengthens our strategic expansion into Southeast Asia and GCC markets, and enables continued M&A-driven growth in priority segments. It positions Blue Planet to deliver measurable social and economic impact while advancing Zero Waste to Landfill across the regions we serve.”

Prashant Singh, Co-Founder and CEO, Blue Planet Environmental Solutions, said:
“This partnership empowers us to continue our strong focus on innovation across our platform and deploy advanced waste valorisation technologies, including converting landfill materials into high-value products such as pellets and cladding. It also supports our mission to expand sustainable infrastructure and develop data-driven circular models that reduce environmental footprints, drive resource efficiency, and create long-term value for industries and cities.”

Deepa Hingorani, Partner and Head of Asia, Planetary Health Investments, Novo Holdings, commented:
“The rapid pace of urbanisation across Asia is intensifying the need for sustainable and context-specific waste solutions. Blue Planet exemplifies the type of knowledge-driven, impact-oriented platform that promotes resource efficiency and circularity. We are impressed by the company’s vision and execution and look forward to supporting its continued growth.”

PVV Infra Plans 1 GW Solar Manufacturing Unit in Vizag

Hyderabad, Nov,18: PVV Infra Limited, a leading Infrastructure Company mainly into solar power rooftop installations is pleased to announce the signing of a landmark ₹650 crore Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (APEDB) for setting up a 1 GW N-Type TOPCon Solar Cells Manufacturing Facility. The MoU was formalized on November 15, 2025.

This state-of-the-art manufacturing Facility in Visakhapatnam, near the airport project represents, reinforcing PVV Infra’s mission to contribute to India’s renewable energy ambitions and support the growth of advanced solar technology within the country.

The project will be developed on a 30-acre industrial site within a rapidly emerging Solar Cells manufacturing cluster. The investment is expected to create 350 direct jobs and over 450 indirect jobs, significantly contributing to industrial growth and local skill development in Andhra Pradesh.

PVV Infra Limited will leverage its strengths in investment, technology, planning, design, and equipment sourcing to establish and operationalize the advanced TOPCon solar cell manufacturing unit. This initiative aligns with the company’s commitment to supporting India’s renewable infrastructure while fostering sustainable industrial development in Andhra Pradesh

Axis Mutual Fund Launches Industry-First Micro-Investment™ Feature

Chennai:  Nov,18: For millions of Indians, taking the first step toward investing can feel daunting. Questions like “Where should I invest?”, “Which scheme is right for me?”, “Should I diversify or stick to one fund?” often lead to hesitation and inaction. Axis Mutual Fund is addressing this challenge with Micro-Investment™, an industry-first innovation designed to make investing accessible, educational, and empowering.
Why Micro-Investment™ Matters | Breaking Barriers for New Investors
Investing is often perceived as complex and risky, especially for first-time investors. This fear leads to procrastination or speculative decisions. Micro-Investment™ changes that narrative by allowing investors to start small—just ₹100 per scheme—and learn by doing. With ₹1000, investors can diversify across 10 different schemes, track performance, and understand how markets work without the fear of losing big. This approach is like sampling multiple sachets before buying a full-size pack. By monitoring their portfolio, investors gain practical insights into risk, expected returns, and diversification, making financial literacy a hands-on experience.
“Axis Mutual Fund believes investing should be accessible and educational. With ₹100 per scheme, we’re giving every Indian the power to start their financial journey without fear. Micro-Investment™ is not just about small amounts—it’s about consistency, discipline, and big learning where you start small and aim to achieve big – the foundation for long-term wealth creation. With Micro-Investment™, Axis Mutual Fund reinforces its position as a pioneer in simplifying and educating India’s investing community,” said B Gopkumar, MD & CEO, Axis AMC.
Axis Mutual Fund’s Micro-Investment™ feature is built on three pillars:
  • Accessible: Start with small amounts, eliminating the fear of large losses.
  • Educational: Learn by doing—understand diversification, risk, and market behaviour.
  • Empowering: Build confidence gradually and scale up when ready.
In just three clicks on the Axis Mutual Fund website, investors can explore multiple schemes, diversify their portfolio, and begin learning the fundamentals of investing. This feature will be available at a monthly frequency, exclusively for SIP investments, and will apply only to eligible schemes. Axis Mutual Fund is committed to democratizing investments through innovative solutions that empower investors to make informed decisions.

DOMS Celebrates Children’s Day with a 10-Day Nationwide Movement Championing Creativity and Skill-Building

Mumbai, Nov, 18: DOMS Industries, one of India’s leading stationery and creative tools brands, marked Children’s Day with a unique 10-day nationwide celebration designed to inspire creativity, imagination, and mindful skill-building among young learners. Guided by the belief that creativity is the foundation on which every ambition is built, the brand transformed Children’s Day into a powerful movement that encouraged children across India to rediscover the joy of traditional, hands-on creative expression.

Image 3

Using the brand slogan “Every Ambition Needs Preparation,” DOMS invited children to return to the timeless practices of writing, sketching, and colouring—activities proven to strengthen fine motor skills, cognitive development, concentration, and creative confidence. In a world increasingly shaped by digital screens, DOMS aims to remind families that the simple act of holding a pencil or brush builds essential lifelong skills.

DOMS activated its vibrant community;encouraging participation from children nationwide through creative and interactive content developed by traditional pencils & colours, posted on DOMS social media page. Also, the Company hosted engaging experiences at experiential destinations like KidZania, where children immersed themselves in hands-on creative activities using DOMS pencils, pens, colours, and artist tools.

The response was overwhelming; Children across the country showcased inspiring artwork, thoughtful handwritten pieces, and heartfelt creative submissions. Each entry reflected not just artistic talent, but also the deeper values of preparation, discipline, and joyful creativity.

“Children’s Day this year became more than an occasion—it became a movement;” said Mr. Saumitra Prasad, Chief Marketing Officer at DOMS industries. “When children engage with creativity, they build essential skills and unlock confidence that shapes their future. At DOMS, we’re committed to nurturing these young creators, one idea at a time.”

Through this initiative, DOMS reaffirmed its commitment to empowering the next generation of creators . By championing traditional forms of creative expression, the brand continues to support children in developing the foundation they need to pursue their ambitions with confidence and imagination.

Shakti Energy Launches ‘Shakti On Roof’ Rooftop Brand

Shakti Energy Solutions Rebrands Rooftop Portfolio with ‘Shakti On Roof,’ Strengthening Its Leadership in Smart Energy

rooftop

Nov 18: Shakti Energy Solutions Pvt. Ltd., announced the launch of ‘Shakti On Roof,’ its new-generation Solar Rooftop Systems designed for superior performance, durability, and smart energy efficiency. The unveiling marks a pivotal step in the company’s journey to reinforce its leadership in India’s renewable energy sector and align with its vision for AI-led sustainable innovation.

Previously known as Shakti Solar Rooftop Solutions, the refreshed brand identity ‘Shakti On Roof’ will bring a stronger, more unified commitment to the “Make in Bharat, Made for Bharat” philosophy, emphasizing indigenous innovation and engineering excellence tailored to Indian climatic conditions. Starting its rollout from Maharashtra, ‘Shakti on Roof’ solar rooftop systems are tailored for every state, which will enable the company to accelerate solar adoption across the state of Maharashtra and beyond.

Speaking at the announcement, Mr. Ramkrishna Sataluri, CEO, Shakti Energy Solutions, said, “The core idea behind the refreshed name ‘Shakti On Roof’ is that every Indian roof should generate clean energy. Shakti On Roof’s superior quality solutions are designed under the philosophy of ‘Make in Bharat, Made for Bharat.’ Built specifically for Indian weather conditions, these rooftop systems provide better generation, higher durability, and superior performance even in extreme climate conditions. With an advanced monitoring system, customers will now be empowered to track energy generation in real-time, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and smart energy management.”

The ‘Shakti On Roof’ systems integrate next-generation materials and intelligent monitoring technology, making them ideal for homes, businesses, and institutions seeking reliable and efficient solar solutions. This launch underscores Shakti Energy Solutions’ commitment to advancing India’s renewable energy landscape through innovation, quality, and sustainable growth.

Building on the trusted legacy of Shakti Pumps, Shakti Energy Solutions is rapidly emerging as the trusted brand in the industry to provide a complete Solar rooftop solution — Solar Panels, Inverters, and Module Mounting Structures under one roof.

A standout highlight of the solar rooftop solutions is the SunShakti Inverter, an AI-powered solar inverter featuring remote connectivity, advanced digital controls, and simplified installation. Its neural-network-based intelligence adapts to voltage variations and power fluctuations, ensuring higher efficiency and uninterrupted power generation for Indian homes.

Adding about the initiative, Mr. Ramakrishna Sataluri further emphasized, “At Shakti Energy Solutions, our goal is not just to provide cutting-edge technology, but to empower communities with clean, reliable, and intelligent superior quality energy solutions. In a world driven by change, our rebrand symbolizes resilience and readiness to lead India’s energy transformation. With the support of our partners, we are confident of leading this clean energy revolution for Bharat.”

Swiggy Partners with upGrad to Boost Delivery Partner Skills

Swiggy signs MoU with upGrad to enhance skill development for Delivery Partners

Mumbai, Nov 18: Swiggy (Swiggy Ltd, NSE: SWIGGY / BSE: 544285), India’s leading on-demand convenience platform announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to upskill delivery partners in collaboration with upGrad – one of Asia’s leading integrated skilling and lifelong learning majors today. The initiative will provide Swiggy’s delivery partners access to university-certified higher education programs and professional development certifications, tailored specifically for India’s frontline workforce.  

Many delivery partners are unable to pursue higher education and learning opportunities due to financial or personal constraints. With this collaboration, Swiggy and upGrad bring credible academic pathways at reduced costs, supported by need-based scholarships. In addition to this, Swiggy’s delivery partners can also learn from a curated Career Udaan Pack – a soft skills module covering communication, digital fluency, and workplace readiness and confidence, designed by upGrad for last-mile delivery professionals.

Saurav Goyal, Senior Vice President- Driver and Delivery Org, Swiggy shared,

“Our delivery partners are one of the key pillars of the Swiggy business, and we are deeply committed to creating opportunities that support their professional growth. With this partnership with upGrad, we aim to enable growth of our delivery partners by providing them quality and relevant learning opportunities. We believe that by combining formal upskilling opportunities with emerging tech certifications and soft skills training, this initiative empowers Swiggy’s 6.9 lakh-strong frontline executives with access to credible, sustainable career pathways. By bringing credible, job-relevant skills and certifications to this critical workforce, we are moving beyond just convenience. We are creating a sustainable ladder of opportunity that strengthens our partners’ careers and fundamentally elevates India’s collective skilled advantage.”     

The initiative is built on upGrad’s tech-led online learning ecosystem and robust LMS infrastructure. More than a business collaboration, it reflects a national imperative – to make job-relevant learning and upskilling accessible at scale, and to recognise last-mile workers as a critical part of India’s formal skilling revolution.

Adding to the development, Anuj Vishwakarma, CEO – Higher Education at upGrad, said,

“India’s demographic advantage can translate into true economic strength only if every section of the workforce – not just white-collar professionals, is empowered with access to quality education and job-relevant skills. Delivery executives, like millions of frontline workers across sectors, have long been excluded from formal upskilling 

Pathways despite playing a vital role in the country’s growth engine. This partnership with Swiggy isn’t just about bringing missed learning opportunities back, it’s about recognising the untapped potential of a workforce that’s ready to rise. By equipping them with credible qualifications and essential workplace skills, we’re not only helping them move closer to formal employment opportunities, but also contributing to the making of a stronger, more future-ready economy. It’s time we shift the conversation from demographic advantage to skilled advantage.”