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Mumbai, 28 March 2025: upGrad, one of Asia’s largest integrated online skilling and lifelong learning majors, has partnered with State University of New York (SUNY) Delhi to expand its footprint in India. SUNY is the largest public university system in the United States, with 64 campuses through its initiative, Global Academy, to enable Indian learners to pursue undergraduate education in some of the leading Top 100 American schools at a significantly lower cost, including Cornell University, an Ivy League school.

For study abroad aspirant, largely coming out of from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, studying abroad often feels out of reach due to high costs, cultural unpreparedness, and complex credit transfers. With limited seats and intense competition, these hurdles block countless talented students from accessing global education.

This exclusive partnership offers transfer opportunities to prestigious institutions like Stony Brook University, University of Buffalo, and University of Albany and introduces an innovative pathway model for India’s high school graduates. It allows learners to pursue Year 1 credits from SUNY GA Online and transfer them to any of the 64 campuses within the SUNY system.

Some of the broad areas of study include the most sought-after domains like Computer Science, Business, Engineering & Tech, Nursing and Health, Architecture, Economics, Law, and Liberal Arts, among others. Learners receive academic support, transfer advisory, and career guidance from SUNY advisors and upGrad coaches to ensure a tailored experience from the beginning.

The curriculum entails both academics and experiential leadership development, offering Harvard Business Review case studies, leadership modules, research opportunities, and academic mentorship from SUNY advisors to ensure learners are set up for success in academics and culturally in the U.S. From career advisory to a seamless integration in the U.S., every step has been designed to set learners up for a successful global migration. The shortlisting process involves an entrance exam and two interview rounds to assess academic aspirations.

Talking about the expansion and opportunity, Sarah Bjorks, Executive Director, SUNY, said:
“We are excited to introduce this prestigious partnership, a collaboration rooted in our shared commitment towards undergraduate studies for students in India. Together, we aim to develop academic readiness, provide pastoral care, and ensure students are holistically supported

throughout before they transfer on-campus. This partnership with upGrad will allow students to transfer to SUNY campuses with an advanced academic standing and empower them to make an informed decision on which major to choose. This partnership is dedicated to helping students develop a sharper career foresight and a deeper understanding of their academic goals, positioning them for long-term success. We are confident that our collaboration will play a critical role in shaping not only their educational path but also their personal and professional future in the United States.”

Mayank Kumar, Co-founder, upGrad, added:
“It is very interesting to witness the internationalisation of India’s higher education space—the increasing scale and size of student mobility to some of the world’s leading universities. There’s a significant rise in affluence levels among Indian households and a growing aspiration for world-class education among families to send their children overseas. We are one of the largest and most favorable talent platforms for global universities looking to expand into hybrid modalities, and this collaboration will drive that opportunity. It is an enabler that will empower Bachelor’s aspirants in India with access to high-quality American education while also elevating our global standing as the talent capital.”

New Delhi, March 28, 2025: L&T Finance Limited (LTF), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), today, has named renowned Indian cricketer Jasprit Bumrah as its brand ambassador. This partnership marks an exciting chapter for LTF in its ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen its brand presence and engage its diverse customer base spread across the length and breadth of the country.

Jasprit Bumrah will feature prominently in LTF’s comprehensive Above The Line (ATL) and Below The Line (BTL) marketing campaigns, spanning a variety of channels. These campaigns are strategically designed to elevate brand awareness and drive customer engagement, highlighting the diverse portfolio of financial products and services currently offered by LTF.

Speaking on this occasion, Ms. Kavita Jagtiani, Chief Marketing Officer at L&T Finance said, “We are delighted to welcome Jasprit Bumrah, one of India’s most iconic sports figures, to the LTF family as our brand ambassador. This partnership directly aligns with one of our core pillars, i.e., heightened brand visibility. Bumrah’s stellar performance has propelled him to household name status, making him an instantly recognizable and respected figure. His unwavering discipline and commitment to cricket, fostering deep trust, make him an ideal persona for the LTF brand.”

“His humbleness and relatable nature are visible both on and off the field. This universal appeal extends to his versatility and enables us to connect seamlessly with people from all walks of life. Bumrah perfectly embodies the values of our company, reflecting our dedication to excellence and customer-centricity. Therefore, this collaboration is not just a partnership but a powerful alignment of values and vision, driving us towards greater success,” added Ms. Jagtiani.

Mr. Jasprit Bumrah, exclusively managed by RISE Worldwide, said, “I am excited to associate with L&T Finance, a brand renowned for its strong legacy, excellence, and commitment. I look forward to being a part of this wonderful journey.”

LTF is one of the leading financiers in Rural Business Finance, Farm Equipment Finance, and Two-wheeler Finance. LTF’s significant presence in urban finance is particularly noteworthy. By providing accessible and tailored financial solutions to urban and rural communities, LTF empowers individuals and families to achieve their financial goals.

As per data for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, the Company’s market leadership is underpinned by its extensive reach into approximately 2 lakh villages, facilitated by a strong retail franchise that includes 2,028 rural branches, 185 urban branches, and over 12,500 distribution touch points.

Delhi | March 28th, 2025: The 5th edition of ROTTO PGIMER Transplant Games 2025 concluded on an inspiring note, bringing together over 300 transplant recipients and organ donors in a spectacular celebration of resilience and determination at Sector 7 Sports Complex, Chandigarh. Organized by PGIMER Chandigarh in collaboration with Organ Transplant Trust, ORGAN India, ROTTO North, and Indian Society of Transplant Surgeons, this two-day sporting extravaganza not only championed the cause of life after transplantation but showcased the extraordinary skills of transplant athletes.

 Many participants, who once battled life-threatening organ failure, exhibited extraordinary grit and passion.
From high-energy sprints and badminton duels to precision javelin throws, endurance-testing race-walks, the Games witnessed awe-inspiring performances across two age categories—under 40 and over 40 years. The Games, an annual fixture at PGI, went a step further this year and partnered with ORGAN India to introduced competitive events for elite athletes, many of whom have participated in the World Transplant Games for the past few years. The Games served as a stepping stone for transplant recipients aiming to compete in the World Transplant Games, offering them a platform to gain experience and build motivation. Badminton, athletics and Petanque were introduced in the competitive sports matches to prepare athletes for the next World Transplant Games to be held in Germany in August 2025. In fact, this is the first time that there is a national level Petanque competition in North India.

 “We were delighted when ROTTO and PGI suggested that we hold competitive games in partnership with them. It will give athletes going to Germany a chance to hone their skills, build confidence, and prep for the stiff competition they will face in Dresden in August.” Says Sunayana Singh, CEO ORGAN India and Country Representative at the World Transplant Games Federation.

 It was an electric atmosphere as the police band played and athletes from different states marched past the dignitaries.
“We are so excited that there was so much participation from across the country.” says Anika Parashar, Chairperson, Parashar Foundation. There was representation by athletes across India. Participants came from nearly 15 states, including Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Goa, UP, Uttarakhand, J&K, Jharkhand, Pondicherry, Maharashtra, Bihar, Manipur, Delhi and Odisha.

 “We thought we knew most of the good transplant athletes in India. But we found several players whom we never knew about, who are fantastic at their sport. These Games give all transplant athletes a chance to shine and be noticed” says Shankar Arora, ORGAN India Team Manager for the Indian team going to Germany in August 2025.

The highlight of the event was the felicitation of donor families, whose magnanimous gesture amid their grim tragedy gave a second chance at life to those counting their days through transplant.

 Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, Mr. Rajpal, Former Captain, Indian National Hockey Team, drew a powerful parallel between relay races and organ donation, stating: “Just as a relay race thrives on the seamless passing of the baton, organ donation embodies the profound exchange of life. When our time comes to step back, we should pass on a precious gift, ensuring that our legacy continues, and others can race forward with newfound hope.”

 Echoing similar sentiments, Dr. Anil Kumar, Director, NOTTO, lauded PGIMER’s unwavering commitment to organ donation, stating: “The ROTTO PGIMER Transplant Games are not just a competition; they are a movement—one that instils hope, encourages organ donation, and proves that life after transplantation is not only possible but full of potential.”

 The event also saw the presence of eminent dignitaries, including: Dr. Harsha Jauhari, President, Indian Association of Transplant Surgeons, Prof. Mukt Minz, Ex-Head, Dept. of Renal Transplant Surgery , Mr. Vivek Atray, Ex-IAS & motivational speaker, Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent cum Head, Dept. of Hospital Administration cum Nodal Officer, ROTTO , Prof. Ajay Duseja, Head, Dept. of Hepatology , Prof. Ranjana Minz, Former Head, Dept. of Immunopathology, Prof. Ashok Kumar, Dept. of Hospital Administration, PGIMER.

 Many participants have proudly represented India internationally and have won medals at World Transplant Games, reinforcing the message that organ transplantation is not a limitation but an opportunity for a renewed life.

 Among the many inspiring stories was that of kidney recipient Digvijay Singh from Jabalpur, now a professional bodybuilder and silver and bronze medallist at previous World Transplant Games. Digvijay shared his remarkable journey from a terminal kidney patient to a champion, stating: “Never give up. Trust in your instincts—that’s the mantra to overcome any hurdle in life.”

 Another inspiring story was of Preeti who had a heart transplant at Delhi 25 years ago and won a bronze medal in badminton. And of Swati Kapre 60 yrs who has had a liver transplant 22 years ago and won silver in badminton.

 Ankit, a student from Rajasthan who has had a kidney transplant, stunned everyone with incredible talent in all sports, and Ramdev and Satbir, two farmers from Haryana and Rajasthan floored all with their speed and skill. And the largest contingent, which was from Rajasthan had Harsha Sharma, Amit Sharma, Hitesh Sharma, Bhawani Singh, all medalists from the World Transplant Games 2023, who are incredibly talented at Petanque and are responsible for this French game to be introduced in North India.

Chennai – March 28, 2025: T-Pro, a global leader in AI-powered speech recognition and clinical documentation solutions, has announced the opening of its new offices in Chennai and Bangalore, reinforcing its commitment to leveraging India’s rich talent pool to drive healthcare innovation worldwide. The expansion was inaugurated during the visit of Ireland’s Minister for Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, James Lawless, on the occasion of Ireland’s National Day – St. Patrick’s Day.

This strategic move further solidifies T-Pro’s presence in India, allowing it to better serve its growing customer base across India, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, T-Pro’s solutions streamline clinical documentation, reduce the administrative burden on healthcare professionals, and improve patient outcomes.

With a workforce of over 350 employees and contractors in India, T-Pro has experienced a steady 20% year-on-year growth since 2021. The newly established offices in Chennai and Bangalore will initially house more than 20 full-time professionals across software development, helpdesk support, and operations, with further expansion plans in the pipeline. These modern workspaces are designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and efficiency, reinforcing T-Pro’s position as a pioneer in AI-driven healthcare solutions.

Speaking on the expansion, Nigel Wyman, Managing Director of T-Pro India, stated, “Expanding our presence in India is a strategic move that strengthens T-Pro’s global growth trajectory. Our new offices enhance our operational capabilities, enabling us to drive efficiency, scale our services, and deliver greater value to our clients. We remain committed to investing in top talent, fostering innovation, and reinforcing our position as a leader in AI-driven healthcare solutions.”

T-Pro’s continued expansion in India is supported by Enterprise Ireland (EI), the Irish government’s agency responsible for helping Irish businesses scale globally. Ross Curran, Director – India & South Asia, Enterprise Ireland, commented, “T-Pro’s growth in India exemplifies the strength of Ireland’s world-class medtech sector and the incredible opportunities available in India’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. This expansion highlights the increasing demand for AI-driven solutions, and T-Pro is well-positioned to support digital transformation in healthcare. By investing in Indian talent and innovation, T-Pro is playing a pivotal role in enhancing clinical efficiency and patient outcomes across the region.”

Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, 28 March 2025 – Garuda Aerospace CEO Agnishwar Jayaprakash met the Chief Minister Shri Chandrababu Naidu to accelerate the development of the Andhra Pradesh Drone City in Kurnool. Garuda Aerospace reaffirmed its INR 100 crore investment, focusing on strategic land allocation near ports and airports to attract global aerospace companies and boost exports. The state government’s support will be crucial in streamlining approvals, building robust infrastructure, and providing essential amenities. This initiative aims to establish Andhra Pradesh as a leading global drone innovation hub.

The Andhra Pradesh Drone City is poised to become a world-class center for drone technology, with the potential to generate approximately 20,000 jobs while training 25,000 drone pilots. This initiative will contribute to the development of a highly skilled workforce, essential for the future of the aerospace sector. India’s commercial and consumer drone market is projected to grow 2.5 times, reaching INR 60 billion by 2030. The Drone City will establish a comprehensive ecosystem encompassing drone manufacturing, a research and development center, a drone pilot training academy, maintenance and repair facilities, and an incubation hub for UAV startups. The Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Rama Mohan Naidu Ji, also discussed the ‘Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra’ and its significance in national development, along with the company’s ongoing contributions to the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ initiative, which empowers rural women through drone technology.

The project is expected to foster the establishment of over 500 drone-related companies and attract foreign investments worth approximately USD 5 billion. The potential economic impact includes significant export revenues, with India’s drone industry poised for expansion into more than 15 international markets by 2030. The demand for drones is rapidly increasing across industries, including agriculture—where India has 350 million acres of farmland—and industrial applications such as solar panel cleaning, thermal inspections, and large-scale mapping. Notably, over 3.3 lakh villages still require mapping under the Svamitva scheme.

Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, stated, “The Andhra Pradesh Drone City is more than just an infrastructure project; it is a catalyst for innovation, job creation, and technological leadership. By fostering a dynamic ecosystem for drone research, manufacturing, and training, we aim to position India as a global powerhouse in drone technology. This initiative will not only accelerate economic growth but also empower entrepreneurs, attract global investments, and shape the future of the industry on a massive scale.”

With India’s drone market projected to reach INR 60 billion by 2030, the development of the Andhra Pradesh Drone City will not only accelerate Garuda Aerospace’s growth but also drive significant economic expansion and job creation at both state and national levels. Garuda Aerospace and the Andhra Pradesh government remain committed to collaborating on this groundbreaking initiative, reinforcing India’s position as a leader in drone technology and innovation. Garuda Aerospace’s revenue surged 2.3X to INR 110 crore in FY24, while net profit jumped 2.7X to INR 16 crore despite a 128% rise in expenses. The company earned INR 68 crore from surveillance services and INR 42 crore from drone sales. Backed by $31 million in funding, CEO Agnishwar Jayaprakash holds a 77% stake.

The Indian real estate market is witnessing a significant shift, with tier 2 and 3 cities emerging as key players. Fueled by comprehensive infrastructure development, improved connectivity, and an expanding urban ecosystem, these cities are no longer mere alternatives to metros but strong contenders in their own right. Developers and investors who once focused on metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are now diversifying into Lucknow, Indore, Jaipur, and Dehradun among others. These cities offer superior quality of life, lower cost of living, and expanding commercial prospects, making them ideal for both end-users and investors.

 A report released by CREDAI-Liases Forum stated that 44% of the 3,294 acres of land acquired by real estate developers in 2024 were concentrated in the emerging hubs of India’s Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. The housing sales in 2024, reached 681,138 units across 60 cities, recording a 23% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) increase.

 Besides, one of the key advantages of investing in Tier 2 and 3 cities is affordability coupled with high ROI potential. Compared to metro cities, these regions offer significantly lower land acquisition and construction costs, making real estate investments more accessible. Additionally, as urbanization accelerates and infrastructure improves, property appreciation rates in these emerging cities are witnessing a steady rise. The growing demand for residential and commercial spaces, driven by expanding businesses and a rising workforce, is also leading to higher rental yields, making these cities lucrative for investors seeking long-term gains.

 Manit Sethi, Director, Excentia Infra, says, “Tier 2 & 3 cities are witnessing a transformation with improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and rising disposable incomes. Cities like Dehradun are emerging as prime real estate destinations, as they evolve into a thriving economic hub with premium residential and commercial opportunities. With affordability, strong rental demand, and government-backed initiatives like smart city projects, the city presents an unparalleled investment opportunity. As urbanization accelerates, we believe its real estate market is set for sustained growth, making it an ideal choice for investors.”

 The report further highlights that luxury and ultra-luxury housing emerged as key drivers of demand across 60 cities, contributing 71% of the total sales value, driven by larger ticket sizes and a balanced supply-demand dynamic in premium markets. While metro cities continue to dominate luxury and premium housing sales, the rise of Tier 2 and 3 cities has introduced a more balanced market dynamic, where mid-range and affordable properties play a crucial role in driving demand.

 Piyush Kansal, Executive Director, Royale Estate, says, “The demand for luxury housing is no longer confined to metro cities. Tier 2 & 3 cities are experiencing a surge in high-end residential developments due to rising incomes and an expanding base of affluent buyers. Besides, investors are recognizing the long-term growth potential, making it a strategic move to invest in these cities now. Amidst this surge, we look forward to capitalizing on this trend by introducing projects that offer world-class amenities, sustainability, and superior design. The charm of spacious homes at competitive prices, combined with improving social infrastructure, is making these regions the next big destination for luxury living.”

 Moreover, tier 2 and 3 cities are witnessing a surge in luxury and branded real estate developments, driven by increasing demand for premium housing and mixed-use projects. Developers are capitalizing on this trend by launching gated communities, high-rise apartments, and integrated commercial hubs that cater to the aspirations of a growing affluent class. The hospitality and retail sectors are also expanding rapidly, with premium malls and lifestyle-centric developments reshaping urban landscapes. This shift not only enhances the overall real estate ecosystem but also makes these cities attractive for both homebuyers and investors seeking high-end properties.

 Yash Miglani, Managing Director, Migsun Group, says, “India’s real estate boom is expanding beyond metro cities, with Tier 2 markets emerging as key hubs for luxury housing. Increasing disposable incomes, large-scale infrastructure projects and a new wave of aspirational buyers are driving demand for high-end residences. Hence, we see immense potential in these cities and plan to strategically introduce premium developments featuring world-class amenities, smart homes, and a vibrant community lifestyle.”

 Tejpreet Singh, Managing Director, Gillco Group, says, “Tier-2 and 3 cities are redefining luxury by offering the perfect balance between affordability and exclusivity. Unlike metros, where space is a constraint, these cities provide the opportunity to develop expansive projects featuring larger residences, world-class amenities, and lush green landscapes. This allows developers to create premium spaces that offer privacy, grandeur, and a superior lifestyle at a more accessible price point. Thus, the growing demand for high-end living in these cities makes them a lucrative market for luxury real estate.”

 Therefore, with infrastructure upgrades, business expansions, and a rising affluent class, Tier 2 and 3 cities are set to become India’s next real estate goldmine. Investors looking for long-term capital appreciation and stable rental income should recognize the massive opportunity these cities present. As metros become saturated and expensive, smart investments in emerging tier 2 and 3 cities could yield unmatched returns in the coming years.

March 28, 2025; New Delhi: India-based deep IP platform BUSINESSNEXT has been named a Leader in the latest Forrester Wave™: Customer Relationship Management Software for Financial Services, Q1 2025. Outperforming global tech giants such as Microsoft and Salesforce, BUSINESSNEXT secured the highest score for its offerings among all evaluated CRM providers in financial services, underlining its industry expertise and AI-driven innovations.

The Forrester Wave™ is one of the most trusted and widely referenced industry reports, providing financial institutions with in-depth insights to guide technology investment decisions. BUSINESSNEXT’s position as a ‘Leader’ in the report is based on several key factors, including:

• AI-Powered Autonomous Financial Journeys: A market-leading vision that seamlessly integrates AI-driven customization with human intervention, prioritizing AI-powered analytics, financial services AI agents, and a custom AI-enabled app builder.
• Received highest rating for AI capabilities AI Capabilities: A blend of predictive, generative, and agentic AI tailored to enhance contextualized customer engagement and automation in financial services.
• Exceptional Customer Feedback: BUSINESSNEXT received the highest user adoption rating among all vendors, praised for its out-of-the-box financial services workflows, ease of customization, and responsive account management.

 Commenting on this achievement, Nishant Singh, Founder and CEO, BUSINESSNEXT, said, “The global CRM landscape is evolving rapidly, with AI and automation reshaping the financial services industry. The Forrester Wave™ for Financial Services CRM is the most competitive benchmark in this space, and it is remarkable to see an Indian company securing the top position. This recognition is not just a win for BUSINESSNEXT but a testament to India’s deep-tech capabilities, proving that we are ready to develop world-class products that outperform global players.”

Rahul Sheth, Head of Marketing at, BUSINESSNEXT, added, “The feedback highlighted in the report indicates that customers today expect more than just digital banking—they demand hyper-personalized, and seamless experiences across all channels. The BFSI sector is at a pivotal moment where AI, automation, and data-driven insights are no longer optional but essential to delivering real-time, contextual engagement. Therefore, financial institutions must go beyond traditional CRMs to anticipate needs, enable faster decisions, and support autonomous journeys. This recognition reinforces our commitment to empower financial services with technology that meets these evolving expectations”.

28th March 2025-Reach 3Roads organized a two-day event in Gurugram to celebrate and empower women through impactful activities. The event featured a powerful Nukkad Natak highlighting gender equality, a live performance by an all-women band, and a thrilling bike rally in collaboration with Iron Horses Academy. Engaging activities and inspiring stories further amplified the spirit of the celebration, making it a memorable tribute to women’s achievements.

The celebration commenced with an engaging Nukkad Natak that delivered a powerful message on women’s rights and empowerment. The thought-provoking street play captivated the audience, reinforcing the significance of gender equality and sparking meaningful conversations. The energy continued to build with a dynamic live performance by an all-women band, creating an uplifting atmosphere and setting the tone for an empowering experience.

A major highlight of the event was the Women Biker’s Event, organized in association with Iron Horses Academy. Women riders embarked on an exhilarating journey from Pratap Dwar to Reach 3Roads, symbolizing freedom, strength, and resilience. The grand flag-off was led by distinguished women leaders, including Prachi Chopra from Insia, Shreyansi Gupta from Fat Tiger, and Neetu Sodhi from Sodhi’s, who cheered on the bikers and shared words of encouragement. Women riders took center stage to share their inspiring journeys, highlighting their passion for biking and breaking societal stereotypes. Throughout the event, the anchor engaged the audience with fun-filled activities, ensuring enthusiastic participation. The celebration concluded with a delightful dinner at Bon Mama and indulgent desserts from Dolche, our esteemed event partners, bringing the festivities to a perfect close.

Ms Nandini Taneja, Regional Director – Leasing, Reach Group said “This celebration was a testament to the strength, resilience, and spirit of women who continue to break barriers and redefine possibilities. At Reach 3Roads, we are proud to create a platform that not only honors their achievements but also inspires many more to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Through engaging performances and empowering activities, we aimed to foster a sense of unity and encouragement, reinforcing the message that every woman has the power to shape her own destiny,”

Mumbai, March 28 – The National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) inaugurated a comprehensive two-day event aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, strengthening the business ecosystem, and enabling digital market integration for small businesses and startups. The event, held at NIESBUD, brought together key dignitaries, policy leaders, and industry experts to discuss the future of entrepreneurship in India.

NIESBUD recently held a two-day workshop titled “Catalyzing Entrepreneurial Growth: Enhancing Financial Inclusion, Market Access, and Digital Competence.” The event attracted over 100 entrepreneurs from Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh, primarily those trained under the SANKALP program.

Ms. Hena Usman, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) during her address mentioned, “The workshop serves as a valuable platform for participants to engage with entrepreneurs within the ecosystem, providing budding business owners with essential insights into the skilling landscape. The government has launched numerous initiatives designed to maximize benefits for those starting new ventures or scaling up existing businesses. As our Hon’ble Prime Minister highlights, entrepreneurship is more than a mere trend—it’s a key driver of our economy.

Two critical components of entrepreneurship are digital linkages and marketing connections, both of which are necessary to gain comprehensive understanding of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

The event hosted various panel discussions which provided insightful information, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The first panel discussion of the day, “Building a Strong Entrepreneurial Ecosystem – Challenges & Opportunities,” delved into the key barriers faced by entrepreneurs and explored policy interventions and collaborative efforts necessary for success. Panellists, including Shri Yamini Bhushan Pandey, MD and CEO of IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre; Shri Naveen Gaur, COO of Indian Institute of Information Technology, Delhi; and Shri Rakesh Kumar from SIDBI, engaged in a thought-provoking discourse on creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurial growth in India.

In a session dedicated to sharing best practices, entrepreneurs from Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh presented their journeys, highlighting the challenges they overcame and the strategies they employed to establish successful ventures. This was complemented by startup founders, including Shri Arvind Kumar of Xmonies and Shri Gaurav Gupta of Bill Clap, who offered insights into their innovative business models and digital-first approaches to scaling enterprises.

The afternoon session transitioned into a critical discussion on “Overview of Digital Growth Strategies: Leveraging GeM, ONDC, and Meta for Market Expansion.” This segment explored how entrepreneurs can optimize digital platforms for business growth, branding, and social commerce. Industry leaders, including Shri Anuj Kumar and Shri Tushar Agarwal from GeM, Ms. Rachita Gupta from ONDC, and Shri Shahnawaz Khan from Meta, shared their expertise on integrating small businesses into large-scale digital marketplaces.

Practical demonstrations followed, allowing participants to gain hands-on experience in on boarding and selling through key digital platforms. Experts from GeM facilitated an interactive session on marketplace integration, followed by ONDC’s insights on expanding market reach, and Meta’s deep dive into leveraging social media for business growth and digital marketing strategies.

India, Bangalore– March 28, 2025 – Cloudera, the only true hybrid platform for data, analytics, and AI, today announced the appointment of Leo Brunnick as Chief Product Officer. With more than 30 years of experience leading technology teams, Brunnick will work closely with CEO Charles Sansbury and the entire Cloudera leadership team to oversee the company’s product and technology direction.

“Not many companies today understand that enterprises require flexibility to successfully deploy new solutions, but Cloudera clearly has that down,” said Brunnick. “Cloudera is the only data platform provider that offers both robust on-premises and cloud-native data and AI services to enable a truly hybrid experience behind customer firewalls. These capabilities, combined with the incredible AI talent and growing ecosystem of partners, are what drew me to the company.”

Brunnick recently served as the Chief Operating Officer of Naviga, a software provider for content development in media. During his six years there, Brunnick led a team of more than 600 product, marketing, engineering, and customer support professionals. Prior to his time at Naviga, he held several leadership roles at Vignette, including EVP of Engineering, Chief Product Officer, and Chief Marketing Officer, until the company’s sale to OpenText in 2008. Brunnick also served as an officer in the Marine Corps and earned his MBA from Georgia State University after graduating from Harvard University with his bachelor’s degree in general engineering.

“Leo’s experience guiding high-performing teams and translating customer needs into platform excellence will be invaluable to Cloudera as we continue to lead the data, analytics, and AI markets,” said Sansbury. “With Leo officially onboard, Cloudera is set to continue accelerating product innovation to provide our customers with the most robust hybrid solution on the market.”