Tally Launches Startup Challenge to Boost Manufacturing Tech

New Delhi, August 05, 2025: Tally Solutions, India’s leading technology company providing business automation software, has announced the launch of ‘Tally Startup Challenge’ under the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, in partnership with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The challenge was officially launched by Sri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, alongside senior representatives from Tally Solutions at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi.

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The challenge invites DPIIT-registered startups to develop innovative solutions that address core capacity planning and productivity issues faced by MSME manufacturers in India. Following the launch, Tally Solutions hosted a masterclass for participating startups on “Effective Marketing Strategies,” designed to help them craft impactful go-to-market approaches.

The challenge aims to empower the Indian startup ecosystem by encouraging the development of affordable, scalable, and adaptive solutions that can be readily deployed across MSMEs. Under the theme of ‘Smarter Planning, Better Productivity,’ there is a clear emphasis on the urgent need for smarter capacity utilization, predictive maintenance, and dynamic scheduling tools in a highly volatile and resource-constrained manufacturing landscape. This initiative reflects Tally’s deep commitment to fostering innovation in the startup ecosystem and its continued collaboration with DPIIT to enable tangible impact at scale.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Nabendu Das, Chief of Engineering & Product at Tally Solutions Pvt Ltd., said: “At Tally, our mission is to empower MSMEs through technology-led products that are powerful, simple, and practical. Our partnership with DPIIT underscores our shared vision to create a lasting impact through technology-led enablement. The ‘Tally Startup Challenge’ is an invitation for startups to design intelligent, India-ready solutions that address longstanding pain points for manufacturers. The objective is to achieve a significant shift in capacity planning and manufacturing efficiency. We encourage startups to innovate and leverage cutting-edge technologies to build a winning solution! Through this initiative, we hope to nurture innovation and generate breakthrough ideas that will simplify manufacturing operations for MSMEs and accelerate their journey towards efficiency, competitiveness, and growth.”

Sri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, DPIIT said, “India’s startup ecosystem continues to unlock solutions tailored to the unique needs of our startups. The ‘Tally Startup Challenge’ is a step in that direction, an opportunity to channel entrepreneurial innovation towards enhancing capacity optimization across small businesses. With support from platforms like Startup India and enablers such as Tally Solutions, we aim to foster scalable, India-first solutions that can power the next leap in startup productivity and growth.”

The challenge will unfold in two key stages: application and solution development. Startups will first submit a concept note detailing their proposed solution, and shortlisted applicants will then have 30 days to build and submit the final prototype. The application window opened on 04th August 2025 and closes on 03rd September 2025.

The winning startup will be awarded INR 3 lakhs, while the first runner-up will receive INR 2 lakhs. In addition to the cash rewards, the winning solution will be further developed and tested by the Tally team as a three-month collaborative project with the winning team, before being scaled for market use.
Participating startups will receive extensive mentorship, visibility, and opportunities to pilot their solutions across a wide range of MSMEs.

Beyond Key’s ProcureKey Recognized with Technology Innovation Award at 14th Procurement Excellence Summit 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nawgati Selected for Google for Startups Accelerator: Apps Programme

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

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

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

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

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

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

Microfabrication and Semiconductor Characterisation Lab Inaugurated at IIIT Hyderabad

31st July 2025, Hyderabad: Prof. P J Narayanan, Director, IIIT Hyderabad, inaugurated the “FabLab” at IIIT Hyderabad campus today. The lab has been made possible by the support from the Department of Science and Technology, under the Promotion of University Research and Scientific Excellence (PURSE) scheme.

fablab

IIIT Hyderabad has been granted the project for the development of biosensors and bio-actuators focused on healthcare applications. Some of the microfabrication tools available in the facility include UV lithography, sputtering, spin coater and vacuum chamber, along with material characterisation tools such as Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and optical profilometer.

The facility also consists of semiconductor IC Characterisation tools such as a probe station, Vector Network Analyser (VNA), Vector Signal Generator (VSG), signal analyser and oscilloscope, with the capability of supporting measurements in the millimetre wave (mmWave) band.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Aftab Hussain, Coordinator for the PURSE grant for IIITH, said, “We are very excited to have this state-of-the-art facility at IIITH. This will be a major boost for material science and VLSI research in IIITH and will provide a platform for external users in the region to have access to specialised tools. Given that the Government of India has recognised indigenous semiconductor chip fabrication as an important step towards reducing dependence on imports, one of the objectives of this facility is to train skilled manpower in the domain of semiconductor fabrication and characterisation. With the inauguration of this lab, we are now looking forward to conducting courses and workshops to that end.”

ZF Group to Supply Electric Park Brake for Major EV Platform

ZF Group to supply its Electric Park Brake System to a leading Pass Car OEM for its recently launched EV platform

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Pune, India, August 31, 2025 : ZF, a global leader in driveline and chassis technology has announced the start of production of its Electric Park Brake (EPB) system in India. This debut comes through its integration into a recently launched all-electric vehicle, for a leading Indian OEM, marking a significant milestone for ZF’s e-mobility and innovation strategy in the Indian passenger car segment.

This start of production is the first ever for ZF’s EPB in a passenger vehicle in India, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering advanced mobility solutions tailored to regional markets. The EPB system supports India’s growing shift towards electrification, safety, and next-generation vehicle technologies. It also aligns with ZF’s strategy of “Make in India for India and the World”.

ZF’s EPB is engineered to provide class-leading performance in low drag and noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), contributing with its ability to improve fuel economy. Additionally, it represents a significant step in the electrification of mechanical systems, and when integrated with other vehicle systems, it enables advanced functions.

The EPB also enhances driver safety by allowing two-wheel anti-lock emergency stops and providing convenient activation with a simple touch of a button. The EPB isn’t just about parking — it is fully integrated into the brake system. It features dynamic actuation and brake pad wear sensing, while minimizing degradation associated with traditional mechanical systems.

Its modular architecture enables scalability across vehicle segments, from passenger cars to light commercial vehicles and light trucks – offering Indian OEMs both performance and flexibility in vehicle design.

Speaking on the development Akash Passey, President ZF Group in India said, “The SOP of ZF’s first Electric Park Brake in India, on a product like the all-new EV car platform, embodies ZF’s commitment to offer leading mobility solutions for local requirements. With advanced systems like the EPB, we are not only enhancing vehicle safety and performance but also supporting Indian auto makers in providing world class and safe products in India.”

As an industry leader in braking technology, ZF offers a range of park brake solutions including the integrated park brake through to full EPB systems. ZF continues to be on the cutting edge of innovation, with more than 250 million EPB callipers on world roadways, while offering the most comprehensive portfolios of purely electronically controlled steering, brakes and damping systems for software-defined vehicles

The EPB system enables ZF to continue to deepen its presence in India, bringing globally benchmarked technologies to the country’s evolving mobility landscape.

Majority of Indians Embrace Home Lockers amid Rising Gold Prices, Reveals Survey by Godrej

India, July 30, 2025: The Security Solutions Business of Godrej Enterprises Group has unveiled findings from its Happiness Survey, which revealed that 83% of respondents place increased importance on securing personal belongings. This growing sense of responsibility highlights how the idea of protection evolves from mere caution to conscious preparedness. As investments in gold continue to be a preferred choice, this shift reflects a deeper understanding of both emotional and financial security.

Interestingly, over 51% of respondents expressed a preference for trusted home lockers, with gold cited as a key factor in their decision. As families look to secure what matters most, the demand for home lockers has grown stronger, underpinned by trust, reliability, and design that blends seamlessly into modern living spaces.

Commenting on the insights, Mr. Pushkar Gokhale, Business Head of the Security Solutions Business, Godrej Enterprises Group, said, “As gold continues its upward trajectory, it is shaping consumer preferences and driving a new era of responsibility towards protecting one’s assets. Our survey findings reaffirm a growing mindset shift where individuals are not only investing in wealth, but also in its preservation and protection. This emerging trend presents a unique opportunity for brands like ours to bridge aspiration with assurance, offering solutions that evolve with consumer needs. Aligned with this, we are committed to capturing 85% of the home locker category by innovating with purpose and designing with empathy. As custodians of trust, our goal is to ensure every Indian household can protect what truly matters, peace of mind, dignity, and legacy.”

Supporting this shift, India’s Smart lockers’ market has been growing steadily and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.8%, projected till 2030, according to 6Wresearch. This growth is being driven not just by advancements in technology, but also a result of the broader consumer shifts including the rapid rise of e-commerce. It reflects a growing awareness around secure storage solutions within the home environment.

At the consumer level, personal security is being redefined. Lockers are no longer just security tools they are becoming a part of the modern home, especially in urban and tier-2 cities, where design-conscious consumers seek a balance between aesthetics and assurance. From space optimisation to emotional reassurance, families today are actively investing in lockers that meet their evolving needs, blending seamlessly into everyday life.

Through its consumer-first lens, Godrej’s Security Solutions Business continues to expand the home locker category with a wide portfolio of offerings tailored for modern homes combining strength, design, and innovation. With a continued focus on accessibility and trust, the company remains committed to protecting what matters most to Indian households.

AI Adoption Surges in Life Sciences Manufacturing as Talent, Risk, and Quality Pressures Intensify

July 30, 2025— Rockwell Automation, Inc. , the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, today announced the results of the 10th annual “State of Smart Manufacturing Report: Life Sciences Edition.” The study encompasses the responses of 143 leaders from life sciences manufacturers across 15 of the leading manufacturing countries, including India.

Life sciences manufacturers are working to keep up with growing demand, rising costs, growing cybersecurity threats, and complex compliance requirements, all while navigating ongoing workforce challenges. Many are turning to advanced technologies to help them become more agile and adapt to constant change.

Smart manufacturing is a clear area of focus with 95% of life sciences manufacturers saying they are using or evaluating smart technology. Specifically, companies are using artificial intelligence (AI) to help improve product quality, protect systems and support employees where skilled labor is hard to find. Leaders are also thinking beyond quick wins and investing in technologies that will help them expand capacity and build more secure operations over time.

Highlighting the key insights from the report, Dilip Sawhney, managing director, Rockwell Automation India, said: “The life sciences sector in India is experiencing significant transformation due to evolving global tariff scenarios, supply chain challenges, and the dual imperatives of patient-centric innovation and operational resilience. The findings of this year’s report reaffirm that technologies like AI, digital twins, and smart manufacturing are no longer optional—they are essential to addressing talent shortages, regulatory compliance, supply chain constraints, and scaling with resilience and agility.”

Key global findings include:

  • Smart manufacturing is nearly universal. 95% of life sciences manufacturers are using or evaluating smart technology.
  • Top use cases for AI are clear. Most companies use AI to improve quality (53%), streamline operations (50%) and strengthen cybersecurity (48%).
  • Hiring remains a major challenge. 26% of leaders say finding skilled workers is the biggest barrier to growth in 2025.
  • Tech helps fill talent gaps. Nearly half of life sciences manufacturers are turning to AI (48%) and automation (46%) to support their workforce.
  • Emerging tech is gaining traction. 36% plan to invest in generative or causal AI, and 35% are exploring digital twins and simulation tools.
  • Investments are focused on long-term value. Leaders are prioritizing growth (66%), expanding capacity (62%) and protecting operations (50%).

Although most manufacturers collect large volumes of data, only 46% say they are using it effectively. As digital tools scale, the ability to turn insights into action will be key to unlocking smarter, faster decision-making.

Nothing launches first-ever “Nothing Incubator”, competition for India’s young innovators to build the future

New Delhi, July 30, 2025 : London-based technology company Nothing has launched its first-ever student competition in India – Nothing Incubator – a bold initiative to unlock raw, unfiltered ideas from the country’s brightest young minds and spotlight India’s growing influence on the global tech scene.

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Open to students from over 60 top institutions – including IIM Ahmedabad, IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, BITS Pilani, FMS Delhi, XLRI Jamshedpur, SPJIMR Mumbai, and more – the program invites participants to break conventions, challenge assumptions, and reimagine what’s possible.

The competition unfolds in three phases:

Round 1: Idea Submission (now live) – Teams submit a one-slide pitch that brings to life the theme “Making Tech Fun Again.”

Round 2: Strategic Roadmap – Shortlisted teams build a three-year vision and go-to-market plan

Grand Finale – Finalists will pitch their ideas in a live three-minute presentation to a jury of industry leaders, venture capitalists, and startup mentors

Winners will receive a ₹2 lakh cash prize, a winner’s certificate, and the latest Nothing Phone (3). Runners-up will also take home Nothing products and certificates. Finalists showing exceptional promise may be considered for career opportunities with the company.

“India is no longer just a growth market – it’s becoming a creative and innovation powerhouse with global impact,” said Akis Evangelidis, Co-founder and India President of Nothing. “We see a generation that is not only tech-savvy but unafraid to challenge the norm. With the Nothing Incubator, we’re tapping into that mindset – giving young talent a platform to shape the future of technology, not just for India, but the world.”

Open to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students (BE/BTech, dual-degree, MBA/PGDM), teams must consist of 1 to 3 members from the same college, with interdisciplinary teams encouraged.

Registrations are now open on Unstop. More than just a competition, the Nothing Incubator is a call to India’s next wave of innovators to step forward — and show the world what happens when bold ideas meet real opportunity.

Antica Ceramica Unveils ‘StoneEtch’… A Groundbreaking Fusion of Technology and Timeless Stone Elegance

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In the ever-evolving world of architecture and interior design, the use of natural materials continues to remain a powerful symbol of authenticity and refinement. Among these, natural stone stands out for its durability, organic charm, and unmatched versatility. Antica Ceramica, a pioneer in the tile and surface solutions industry, proudly introduces its latest design innovation — StoneEtch, a sophisticated stone wall collection that seamlessly merges state-of-the-art CNC technology with the timeless appeal of natural stone.

StoneEtch reimagines how stone is used in contemporary spaces, taking a giant leap forward in decorative surfaces. Crafted using high-precision CNC (Computer Numerical Control) engraving techniques, the collection transforms raw stone into works of art — with intricate detailing, sculptural textures, and artistic motifs rendered flawlessly across every slab. From symmetrical patterns and modern geometric lines to organic textures inspired by nature, StoneEtch panels bring a tactile and visual richness that elevates any space.

“At Antica Ceramica, we’ve always believed in the beauty of materials and the power of innovation,” says Mr. Rahul Bhugra, Director of Antica Ceramica. “With StoneEtch, we’re giving designers and architects an unprecedented opportunity to transform natural stone into a storytelling medium — an artistic expression rooted in precision, sustainability, and sophistication.”

A defining strength of the StoneEtch collection lies in its limitless customizability. With CNC-enabled technology, designers can translate virtually any creative concept into the surface of stone. Whether the brief calls for minimalist elegance, contemporary boldness, or traditional grandeur, StoneEtch offers the freedom to create bespoke walls that align seamlessly with the desired aesthetic of residential, commercial, or hospitality spaces.

Versatile in application, StoneEtch is designed for both indoor and outdoor environments. Within interiors, the stone panels serve as striking feature walls in living rooms, bedrooms, luxury bathrooms, and lobbies — adding depth and drama to otherwise flat surfaces. Outdoors, they adorn façades, garden walls, patios, and entryways with enduring elegance. The natural resilience of stone, paired with CNC craftsmanship, ensures that these installations are as durable as they are beautiful, retaining their character over time even in high-traffic or exposed areas.

StoneEtch also speaks to the increasing importance of sustainability in design. As Mr. Bhugra highlights, “Natural stone is a renewable material, harvested responsibly and with minimal processing. The long life cycle of stone reduces the need for replacements, making StoneEtch not just a beautiful choice, but also an environmentally responsible one.” The collection aligns with the growing demand for high-performance, sustainable materials in contemporary architecture and interiors.

With the launch of StoneEtch, Antica Ceramica reinforces its reputation as a forward-thinking brand committed to innovation, craftsmanship, and environmental consciousness. For over three decades, the company has helped shape India’s design landscape, offering a broad and curated portfolio of surfaces that balance aesthetic vision with technical excellence.

StoneEtch marks the next chapter in this journey — a celebration of the meeting point between natural beauty and digital precision. Whether featured in high-end homes, boutique hotels, designer offices, or curated public spaces, StoneEtch leaves a lasting impression, elevating surfaces into sculptural statements of style.

HYSEA, 3AI Announce GCCX Hyderabad with IT Minister

HYSEA and 3AI set to host GCCX…Hyderabad

Poster unveiled by IT Minister, Shri Sridhar Babu Duddilla

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Hyderabad, India – The Hon’ble Minister for IT, Industries & Commerce, Government of Telangana, Shri D. Sridhar Babu, unveiled the poster for GCCX…Hyderabad 2025, a landmark summit co-hosted by HYSEA and 3AI, scheduled for Friday, August 1st at The Westin, Mindspace, Hyderabad.

“GCCX…Hyderabad: Reimagining the New Next in GCCs with AI,” this first-of-its-kind summit will spotlight the rapid rise of Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in Telangana and celebrate innovation and leadership excellence in the AI era.

Speaking at the launch, the Hon’ble Minister Shri D Sridhar Babu remarked: “Telangana has rapidly emerged as India’s fastest-growing GCC hub, now home to 355+ Global Capability Centers, with 70 established in the past year alone. Together, they employ over 3 lakh skilled professionals. The time has come to move beyond service delivery, towards value creation and innovation, as Hyderabad continues to strengthen its position as a strategic global tech hub. I congratulate HYSEA and 3AI for curating this important summit and look forward to engaging with leaders at GCCX… Hyderabad.”

The GCCX… Hyderabad Summit will bring together over 500 senior professionals, including 200+ GCC leaders, MDs, CXOs, and experts in AI, analytics, and technology.

The summit will feature 60+ speakers across curated sessions focused on key themes such as Generative AI, Agentic AI, future-ready operating models, talent and leadership development, and innovation through ecosystem collaboration.

Thanking the Hon’ble IT Minister, Prashanth Nandella, President, HYSEA, said: “GCCX… Hyderabad brings together leading minds from technology companies, GCCs, AI startups, academia, and government to exchange ideas, forge meaningful connections, and shape future-ready organizations. It serves as a dynamic platform to accelerate AI-led innovation and talent transformation. A must-attend for leaders driving change.”

The Hon’ble IT Minister is cordially invited to join the Leaders Exclusive Evening at the summit and interact with conference speakers, accomplished CXOs and felicitate key contributors to Hyderabad’s GCC growth. He will be accompanied by Mr. Sanjay Kumar, IAS, Special Chief Secretary ITE&C, Industries & Commerce. This exclusive evening is presented by GRAVA, a My Home Group company.

The prestigious GCC-ONE Awards will be presented to the winners by Mr. Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Special Chief Secretary, CEO, SPEED and Industry & Investment Cell.

Participants will gain valuable insights through a variety of formats – keynotes and spotlight talks by industry leaders, solution showcases from top tech platforms tailored for GCCs, roundtable discussions, rapid masterclasses in the Transformation Zone, and live demos, best practices, and startup pitches in the Innovation Zone.

Sameer Dhanrajani, President of 3AI, thanked partners and sponsors: “The HYSEA–3AI collaboration offers unparalleled visibility for brands engaging with India’s fastest-growing GCC landscape. We’re grateful to Cognizant, McDonald’s, ProHance, Evernorth, PwC, Ascent Health, AuthBridge, Metlife, GRAVA, T-Hub, IIITH-CIE and others for recognizing the strategic value of this summit.”

Other notable speakers include:

  • Lalit Ahuja, ANSR
  • Rajesh Varrier, Cognizant
  • Deshant Kaila, McDonald’s
  • Prashanti Bodugam, Evernorth India
  • Rajesh Kumar Ojha, PwC
  • Ranga Pothula, Infor
  • Jaideep Agarwal, Warner Bros.
  • Sheenam Ohrie, Broadridge India
  • Lalitha Indrakanti, Jaguar Land Rover TBSI
  • Amit Kalra, SwissRe
  • Dinesh Murugesan, DSM-fermenich
  • Madhuri Duggirala, Google
  • Sailaja Josyula, Cognizant
  • Megha Chawla, Bain & Co.
  • Rajesh Dhuddu, PwC
  • Durga Prakash, McDonald’s
  • PJ Narayanan, IIIT Hyderabad
  • Ram Chandani, CBRE
  • Kavikrut, T-Hub
  • And many more…