Category business

Collaboration to power 500+ budding entrepreneurs with cloud communication tools, mentorship, and on-spot funding opportunities worth ₹18 lakh

New Delhi, 13th September 2025: CallerDesk, India’s leading cloud telephony solutions provider, has partnered with the Entrepreneurship Cell of IIT Kanpur as the official Service Partner for UpStart 2025, the flagship business model competition of E-Summit, one of India’s most prominent platforms for nurturing entrepreneurial talent.

Since its inception, UpStart has empowered over 500+ budding entrepreneurs across India, sowing the seeds of innovation and helping ideas evolve into scalable businesses. The 2025 edition aims to expand this impact, offering startups a platform to test, refine, and accelerate their ventures with the right mentorship, exposure, and resources.

This year’s UpStart promises an impressive lineup of opportunities for participating startups:

Prizes worth ₹18 lakh to be won

On-spot funding opportunities with marquee investors and VCs

One on One Mentorship sessions from industry leaders across diverse sectors

Access to startup services, incubation and acceleration programs

Networking avenues with founders, VCs, HNWIs, and global investors

Exposure through the Startup Expo, featuring product launches and investor showcases

The summit will host sector-focused panel discussions across tracks such as Fintech, Healthtech, Deeptech, Web3, Cybersecurity and UpStart Socha (Social Entrepreneurship), UpStart Campus (College Founders), and UpStart Biz

The previous edition of UpStart helped raise over ₹2 crore in spot funding with participation from 15 high-potential startups and collaboration with top 7 VCs under IIT Kanpur’s C3i Hub.

The 2025 edition is set to surpass this benchmark, with events kicking off on October 11th, 2025 in Delhi, November 1st, 2025 in Bangalore, Hyderabad and December 6th, 2025 – Mumbai.

Registrations are open for 2025, go and register now by visiting the official website

As Service Partner, CallerDesk will extend its flagship Cloud IVR and scalable telephony tools to participating startups, enabling them to simplify customer communication, enhance engagement, and build investor-ready businesses without infrastructure bottlenecks.

Himanshu, Head of Events at E-Cell IIT Kanpur, added: “We’re excited to welcome CallerDesk as our official Service Partner. Their platform solves a major pain point for growing startups — reliable and trackable customer communication. This partnership reflects our mutual goal of nurturing innovation and equipping entrepreneurs with the best resources.

Speaking about the partnership, Kaushal Bansal, Co-Founder of CallerDesk, said: “At CallerDesk, we understand that communication is the backbone of growth. By joining hands with IIT Kanpur’s UpStart, we aim to empower deserving founders with the right technology and insights, so they can focus on innovation and scaling their ideas into sustainable, global businesses.”

With this collaboration, CallerDesk reinforces its role as a catalyst in India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem—bridging technology, mentorship, and opportunity to help startups thrive.

EdCIL and British Council Unveils Capacity Building Programme to Strengthen Internationalisation in Universities in North India

12 September 2025, New Delhi: Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL), the only Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the British Council, the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, launched the Capacity Building for International Officers programme in North India. With this support, 32 participants from 21 public and private universities across North India have participated in the workshop, which is designed to strengthen internationalisation initiatives within Indian higher education institutions.

This initiative aims to enhance the capacity of Indian universities to engage in internationalisation efforts while leveraging UK’s expertise in this area. Aligned with the goals of India’s (NEP) 2020, the programme aspires to position India as a global hub of education by fostering cross-border collaborations and promoting excellence in higher education. 

The programme will also offer modules to develop the skills and effectiveness of international officers, promoting knowledge sharing and practical outcomes to support the overall internationalisation agenda of participating institutions. 

Dr B Chandrasekar, Executive Director, EdCIL (India) Limited talks about the “Study In India Programme which is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Education, aimed at enhancing student mobility and attracting talented international learners, in line with the vision of NEP 2020. International collaboration efforts provide an opportunity to understand diverse learner perspectives at a global level. This capacity-building programme with the British Council is designed to provide valuable insights to international officers of HEIs, including professional services staff and faculty. It will strengthen their ability to identify and disseminate best practices in teaching and learning, thereby enhancing the global profile of Indian institutions. The diversity brought into the classroom by the international students enriches the learning ecosystem with inclusivity and global appeal. Aligned with NEP 2020, the SII programme will foster trust, credibility, and stronger global partnerships for Indian Higher Education Institutions.

Rittika Chanda Parruck, Director Education India, British Council says, “This programme reflects our long-term commitment to building sustainable collaborations between the UK and India in higher education. By sharing global best practices on internationalisation, we aim to enable Indian higher education institutions to strengthen their s expertise in internationalisation in line with the vision of NEP 2020. Together with EdCIL, we are working to seed the skills, knowledge, and partnerships that will help position India as a leading global hub of education.”

In the past, the Capacity Building for International Officers programme was successfully implemented with the Governments of Karnataka and Maharashtra. In Karnataka, supported by the State Higher Education Council, 58 participants from 28 universities went through the capacity building programme and were certified through a dedicated workshop, strengthening the role of international offices in fostering research collaborations and enriching student experiences. Similarly, in Maharashtra, with support from the Department of Higher and Technical Education, 34 participants from 19 universities took part in the initiative, aimed at building institutional capacity for internationalisation and advancing India–UK partnerships in higher education.

Bengaluru – September 12, 2025: Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, is playing a pivotal role in shaping a new era of consumer technology adoption. As the country gears up for a high-demand festive season, Flipkart’s latest insights (June to August as compared to March to May 2025) highlight how users across age groups and regions are embracing devices that are not only functional but also expressive and lifestyle-enabling. Flipkart’s initiative to democratize premium products along with its value segments has driven this change in adoption across regions.

From AI-enabled laptops and desktops to gaming consoles, digital cameras, smart wearables, smart home solutions, and even two-wheelers – Flipkart is witnessing strong, multi-fold growth across its diverse and technology-forward selection. This transformation reflects a powerful shift: Indian consumers are no longer just using technology; they are personalising it to learn, create, express identity, and adopt sustainable living solutions. With features like video assistance and Gen-AI-powered chatbots, Flipkart enables customers to make informed buying decisions that help improve the overall shopping experience. 

Sujith Agashe, Vice President, Electronics at Flipkart, said, “India’s electronics market is no longer defined by just urban demand or access to devices. We are witnessing a dynamic shift across all tiers and consumer cohorts as we approach the festive season. From students in small towns to creators in Tier 1+ cities and families in major metros, demand for consumer electronics is clearly rising. This is driven by advances in tech and AI, and increasingly shaped by how people personalize their usage, preferences, and perceived value.”

He further added, “What’s clear is that the future of electronics is not just about access- it’s about aspiration, personalization, and performance. At Flipkart, we are partnering with brands to stay ahead of emerging trends – enabling access to advanced, sustainable, and lifestyle-enhancing technology for every Indian consumer.”

Reimagining Consumption: Rise of Computing and Creator Gear

India’s digital acceleration is reshaping how essential electronics are perceived and used. Compared to March-May, in June-August 2025, laptops and desktops have witnessed 1.4X growth in metro markets like Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Mumbai and others, with Tier 1 and Tier 2 

cities close behind. The momentum is being driven by a growing base of digital-native users engaging in hybrid learning, freelance work, and creative projects. Among 16–25-year-olds alone, usage of computing devices rose by 1.3X, underscoring their role in shaping the future of digital adoption.

Meanwhile, digital cameras and storage devices are also gaining ground, especially in non-metro cities, reflecting a rise in content creation and a growing need for data storage at the local level. 

Youth as Catalysts: Electronics That Enable Expression and Aspiration

For Gen Z and Gen Alpha, technology is deeply personal –  a tool to learn, play, and express themselves. Gaming devices recorded a 1.15X increase during June to August 2025 vs March to May 2025, propelled partially by engaging discovery formats, which are allowing younger users to explore devices hands-on and understand how technology fits into their daily lives. This deeper engagement is directly influencing purchase decisions, with younger consumers and their families actively investing in devices that align with their interests and lifestyles. 

Additionally, two-wheelers saw strong uptake among consumers between June to August 2025, as the demand for scooters rose by 1.7X and electric vehicles surged by 1.2X in comparison with March to May 2025. 

Regional Momentum: Tech is Thriving Everywhere

Technology adoption in India is no longer confined to urban centres- it’s a nationwide movement. Again, between June to August 2025, in comparison with March to May 2025, North India has recorded a rise in demand for electronics at 1.22X followed by South India at 1.17X, reflecting strong digital appetite across these geographies.

While Tier 1 cities led computing category growth at 1.35X, Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets are fast emerging as growth engines for creator-focused tools like cameras and storage devices. This evolving landscape points to a dual-track growth model: metro markets are driving innovation and early adoption of premium technologies, even as Tier 2+ cities fuel value-driven demand for accessible, everyday tech.

As digital lifestyles continue to deepen and diversify, Flipkart is ramping up its efforts ahead of the festive season to empower consumers across India. With an expansive assortment, competitive prices, enhanced regional accessibility, and immersive consumer experience,  Flipkart is enabling every user to engage, create, and thrive through technology.

Mumbai, 12TH September 2025- Metro Shoes, India’s leading footwear destination, announces the launch of METRO CROSSOVER, a first-of-its-kind menswear collection that creates a new space between sneakers and formals. Designed for the modern Indian man who is always on the move, METRO CROSSOVER becomes a symbol of self-assurance and confidence, standing tall in spaces traditionally reserved for formal attire.

With “A Sneaker. Dressed Up.” as its statement, the collection makes one clear promise: men no longer must compromise. CROSSOVER blends ease with polish, giving every step the comfort of a sneaker and the confidence of a dressed-up shoe.

This is footwear engineered for modern life. Each style fuses premium materials with sneaker-inspired innovation to deliver what today’s man values most:

• All-Day Comfort: Strobel construction and ultra-cushioning that adapts to your foot.
• Lightweight Ease: EVA soles that keep every step effortless.
• Performance Durability: High-traction TPR outsoles for grip and movement.
• Climate Control: Breathable knits and moisture management for India’s conditions.
• Refined Craft: Premium leather and trims, balancing polish with ease.

The collection spans loafer-sneaker hybrids, knit slip-ons, knit lace-ups, and elevated sneakers- a shoe for every occasion, without compromise.

And without compromise clarity of vision comes. Speaking on the launch, Alisha Malik, President, Metro Brands, said:

“At Metro, we’ve always believed that footwear should evolve with the way people live. With CROSSOVER, we are not just launching a new line, we are redefining an entire category. The modern Indian man no longer separates boardroom from after-hours and CROSSOVER is built exactly for that fluid lifestyle. By combining sneaker-level comfort with the refinement of formal design, we’ve created a shoe that adapts as seamlessly as our customers do. For over seven decades, Metro has been synonymous with quality and innovation, and CROSSOVER is the next step in that journey- setting new benchmarks in how India walks with style and confidence.”

The METRO CROSSOVER collection is now available across Metro Shoes stores nationwide, and online https://www.metroshoes.com/crossover

Step into CROSSOVER and experience the future of men’s footwear.

September 12, 2025, Surat – Ganga Fashions, a textile brand with over two decades of legacy, has launched its first-ever concept store, at Nomads, on Dumas Road, Surat. Established in 1990 as an export house with a presence across London, Indonesia, and Dubai, the brand entered the Indian market in 2007. Known for seamlessly blending India’s cultural richness with contemporary design, Ganga has consistently championed innovation, craftsmanship, and comfort.

Spread across 2,000 sq. ft., the store captures the essence of Ganga, anchored in tradition yet contemporary in its expression. Conceived as more than just a retail destination, it offers an immersive space of discovery where design, culture, and nature come together in harmony. Surrounded by tranquil greenery and serene ponds, the layout unfolds like a narrative, inviting visitors to journey through moods and stories rather than simply browsing racks and aisles. Every detail, from lighting to material finishes, has been thoughtfully curated to embody Ganga’s philosophy of balance, refinement, and craftsmanship.

Beyond its signature womenswear, the store also introduces menswear, home linens, accessories, and skincare essentials, with kidswear soon to follow. This carefully curated mix positions the store as a true lifestyle destination, offering something meaningful for every member of the family.  

“The launch of our first concept store marks an important milestone in Ganga’s journey,” said Sanjay Gangwani, Owner of Ganga Fashions. “For over two decades, our endeavor has been to bring together culture, comfort, and contemporary style in every creation. This new space is more than just a store, it is an immersive experience that embodies the essence of Ganga, where each detail has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate our craft, connect with our community, and carry forward our culture.”

With this launch, Ganga Fashions strengthens its commitment to reimagining Indian textiles for today’s world, creating experiences that are as enduring as they are contemporary.

Delhi-NCR, 12th September 2024: Nirala World, a prominent real estate developer in India, announced that it sold studio apartments worth INR 275 crore at its Nirala Gateway project in Sector 12, Greater Noida West. Following the soft launch, all 400 studio apartment units released for sale were sold out.

The project spans 10,400 sq. meters and is accessible by 3 sides via 130-meter, 80-meter, and 24-meter-wide roads and is situated  at Sri Rajesh Pilot Chowk with sector 12 and adjoining sector 10 in Greater Noida West which is a rising  hub of premium residential projects .

The  USP of the Project  is its location which is  in a prime corner of Sector 12, surrounded by a dense catchment of residents from established societies, institutional area, data centre and 150 acre IT hub  The Project also enjoys excellent connectivity to Noida, Gaur Chowk, the upcoming metro station in the area, the FNG Expressway, Delhi–Meerut National Highway, and is just a 40-minute drive from the upcoming Jewar Airport.  Nirala Gateway offers excellent connectivity, visibility and footfall.

The Nirala Gateway includes studio apartments ranging from 612 to 1,122 square feet in size. Prices start at INR 65 lakh, with delivery expected by 2029. The studio apartments feature a double-height lobby, restaurant, gym, steam room, sauna, and jacuzzi, lending them a premium and ambient appeal.

Nirala Gateway is a comprehensive commercial project located in Sector 12, Greater Noida West, Uttar Pradesh. It is designed as a five-stage high-street shopping mall, featuring retail shops, anchor stores, restaurants, offices, and studio apartments. The project will include high-speed elevators and escalators, CCTV surveillance, and a modern gymnasium. The building will also be equipped with high-performance glazing and LED lighting.

According to Suresh Garg, CMD of Nirala World: “We are delighted with the tremendous response received during the soft launch of the studio apartments in Nirala Gateway. This project represents our inaugural large-scale commercial venture in Greater Noida West. It is expected to incur a construction cost of approximately ₹300 crore, with completion anticipated around 2029. We are confident that the project will become a landmark in Greater Noida West once completed.”

Since its inception in 1996, Nirala World has set new benchmarks in the real estate sector and earned a leading name among elite developers. Over nearly three decades, the company has successfully delivered more than 7,000 residential units. Committed to quality, timely delivery, and innovation, Nirala World continues to shape the real estate landscape with a rich portfolio of completed projects and a strong pipeline of future developments—consistently striving to exceed customer expectations.

India, 2025: India’s beauty industry is about to experience a seismic shift with the launch of K Formula, the country’s first peptide-powered molecular haircare brand. Founded by entrepreneur Anoushka Adya, the brand introduces a science-driven, six-step repair ritual that promises visible transformation in as little as five minutes.

K Formula introduces a science-first, six-step ritual that doesn’t just coat hair but rebuilds it from within, at the molecular level. Powered by cutting-edge peptide technology, the range promises visible transformation in as little as five minutes. The brand’s bold claim? “New Hair in 5 Minutes.” For years, Indian haircare has been defined by oils, masks, and cosmetic quick-fixes. K Formula disrupts this narrative with what it calls the “Peptide Revolution”, reconnecting broken keratin chains to deliver lasting repair, resilience, and shine.

Anoushka Adya is an accomplished entrepreneur, the Founder of Relier Media Group. With a graduate degree in Marketing & Strategy from Warwick Business School, UK, Anoushka brings both academic rigor and creative flair to her ventures. She has built highly effective teams, driven innovation in content and design, and launched initiatives that merge purpose with impact. At the core of her mission is a desire to elevate Indian narratives while incorporating global standards.

“K Formula is deeply personal to me. For years, I searched for solutions that went beyond cosmetic quick fixes, and I knew Indian consumers deserved better. With peptides, we finally have the science to deliver true repair transformation you can see and feel in minutes. For me, this isn’t just about products; it’s about shifting the way we think about hair health in India,” says Anoushka Adya, Founder and CEO of K Formula.

Adding to its credibility, Delhi’s top celebrity hairstylist, Sahib Mongia, who has joined K Formula as the brand’s first official ambassador, calls it a game-changer: “As a stylist, I’ve tested every major global product on my clients over the years, but nothing has excited me like K Formula,” says Sahib Mongia, Hair Stylist, Ranked in Top 5 Best Hair Stylists and Founder of NOIR SALON. “The results are instant, visible, and lasting. This is the first Indian brand that genuinely competes with global science-backed products, and I believe it’s going to transform how Indians approach haircare.”

The brand makes its debut with a curated six-product collection, including a Peptide Hair Corrector (pre-shampoo), Peptide Shampoo, Peptide Conditioner, Molecular Leave-In Magic Mask, Molecular Repair Hair Oil, and a Peptide Dry Shampoo. Designed as a complete molecular repair system, each formula is vegan, sulphate-free, cruelty-free, and color-safe, priced between ₹700 and ₹1,500, making advanced peptide-powered haircare both premium and accessible.

In consumer trials, over 90% of participants reported that their hair felt softer, smoother, and healthier-looking after just one wash. The brand’s claim of “New Hair in 5 Minutes” is rooted in this data, reflecting its unique approach of molecular repair rather than cosmetic masking. Consumers today demand transparency, efficacy, and performance. With its science-first ethos and strong focus on education, K Formula is poised to lead this change. With a promise that’s both aspirational and accessible, K Formula positions itself as the brand India didn’t know it was waiting for. The first of its kind, it’s set to ignite conversations, spark a new wave in haircare, and put India at the forefront of the global peptide revolution.

This is the first Indian brand that genuinely competes with global science-backed products, and I believe it’s going to transform how Indians approach haircare.” Anoushka’s vision extends beyond bottles and boxes. “We’re not just selling formulas; we’re reimagining haircare for a new generation. It’s about creating a culture of hair health in India, where repair, strength, and longevity matter as much as beauty,” says Adya.

With a promise that’s both aspirational and accessible, K Formula positions itself as the brand India didn’t know it was waiting for. The first of its kind, it’s set to ignite conversations, spark a new wave in haircare, and put India at the forefront of the global peptide revolution. K Formula isn’t just another brand. It’s science. It’s culture. And it’s haircare, redefined.

Pune, September 12, 2025: Force Motors Limited, a key automotive player and India’s largest van manufacturer, today announced revised prices across its entire range of vehicles including Traveller, Trax, Urbania, Monobus, and Gurkha, effective 22nd September 2025. Coinciding with the onset of the festive season, the company will be passing on the full benefit of the revised 18% GST to its customers.

Making this announcement, Mr. Prasan Firodia, Managing Director of Force Motors Limited said, “The proposed GST rate rationalization is a landmark reform for the automotive industry and we at Force Motors welcome the reduction of GST rates from 28% to 18%, a move that will make a meaningful difference across critical mobility segments. Mass mobility solutions such as the Traveller, Urbania, and Trax will become more accessible, enabling safer and more reliable public transport, while ambulances too will benefit from the relaxation, easing the financial burden on healthcare providers and strengthening critical care infrastructure.

Moreover, the removal of Compensation Cess is a step in the right direction as it would help in bringing down the total incidence of GST taxation. This structural change is expected to further stimulate demand across the sector and provide a timely boost to festive season buying sentiment. The iconic Force Gurkha too stands to gain from the rate rationalization, making purpose-built, rugged mobility more attainable. Additionally, lower rates on engines, parts, and components will strengthen the supply chain and provide a strong impetus to the Government’s ‘Make-in-India’ vision”, he concluded. 

With demand rising in the festive period, customers are encouraged to confirm their bookings early to ensure on-time delivery of their vehicle.

Men’s Dinner event to feature keynote speaker Pro Football Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw. 

(St. Louis, Mo., September 12, 2025) St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer (STLMGAC) – a leading nonprofit dedicated to funding cancer research, prevention, and care activities in the St. Louis region – will hold its 54^th annual Men’s Dinner on Thursday, November 20, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Ritz-Carlton located at 100 Carondelet Plaza in Clayton, Mo.

Tickets are $425 per person with proceeds directly benefiting local cancer-related organizations. The evening will feature an open cocktail bar, hors d’oeuvres, a gourmet dinner, and both live and silent auctions. This year’s keynote speaker will be Pro Football Hall of Famer and Emmy Award-winning broadcaster Terry Bradshaw.

Bradshaw is a four-time Super Bowl champion quarterback with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a two-time Super Bowl MVP, and a multi-Emmy and award-winning broadcaster for FOX NFL Sunday. An accomplished motivational speaker and New York Times bestselling author of five books, Bradshaw brings inspiration and recognition to the Men’s Dinner event.

St. Louis beneficiaries of this year’s STLMGAC fundraiser include the American Cancer Society-Hope Lodge, The Bennet Project, BJC Healthcare, The Breakfast Club, Camp Rainbow, The Cancer Support Community, The December 5^th Fund Friends of Kids with Cancer, Gateway to Hope, HavenHouse St. Louis, Make A Wish Foundation – Missouri, Mercy Cancer Center, Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis, SSM Health Foundation St. Louis, Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation, Valeda’s Hope, and Washington University School of Medicine.

Since its inception in 1969, STLMGAC has raised more than $6 million for over 40 charities serving the St. Louis cancer community. The independent nonprofit provides vital support to individuals facing a cancer diagnosis and is committed to advancing scientific research in the search for a cure.

For information about the Men’s Dinner sponsorship opportunities and purchasing tickets, call (314) 786-5950 or visit their website.

INDIA,11TH SEPTEMBER 2025‘Designed for the evolving needs of today’s households, the Celesia BLDC Cookerhood series by Hindware Smart Appliances is a premium, wall-mounted chimney that combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek, modern design. Available in 60 cm, 75 cm, and 90 cm variants, it seamlessly integrates into contemporary kitchens while offering unmatched performance.

With an impressive MaxX Suction capacity of 1600 m³/hr, the chimney ensures rapid and efficient removal of smoke, odour, and grease, creating a clean and fresh cooking environment even during heavy frying and grilling. The advanced Turbo Speed with 8+1 levels allows users to adjust suction power as per their cooking needs, offering both flexibility and efficiency.

Designed for ultimate convenience, the Celesia BLDC features Motion Sensor Technology, enabling hands-free operation with a simple wave of the hand, perfect for hassle-free and hygienic use while cooking. Its Filterless Technology eliminates the need for frequent cleaning while ensuring consistent suction, and the Thermal Autoclean function automatically takes care of sticky oil and residue, making maintenance effortless.

Backed by a 3-year comprehensive warranty and an industry-leading 12-year warranty on the motor, it delivers long-term reliability and peace of mind. Priced at INR 40,990 for the 60 cm model, INR 42,990 for the 75 cm model, and INR 44,990 for the 90 cm model, the Celesia BLDC is the perfect solution for today’s modern kitchens.