By-Gopal Jain, Managing Partner, Gaja Capital & Co-Chair, Regulatory Affairs Committee, IVCA.
“SEBI’s decision to formalise co-investment schemes under the AIF framework marks a pivotal shift in how capital can be mobilised for India’s private markets. By allowing fund managers to launch a dedicated co-investment vehicle for each deal, this move brings much-needed clarity, structure, and operational ease to a practice that’s long been in demand by institutional and accredited investors. It aligns well with global norms and reflects SEBI’s responsiveness to industry feedback.
The announcement of a settlement scheme for legacy venture capital funds is also a welcome step, providing a pragmatic path forward while ensuring accountability. Together, these reforms underscore the regulator’s balanced approach to deepening the ecosystem while addressing legacy bottlenecks.”
Big Egos and even Bigger Fights: Sufi and Uorfi’s Doubts on Raftaar Lead to an Explosive Showdown in Prime Video’s The Traitors
In the treacherous world of Prime Video’s The Traitors, alliances may be temporary, but grudges? Almost forever! Sometimes even after the game moves on.
This week on the reality series, things get personal and loud. What starts as simmering tension between players quickly spirals into a full-blown confrontation between Uorfi Javed, Sufi Motiwala, and Raftaar. Accusations are hurled, egos are bruised, and no one’s holding back.
During a set of heated arguments in the episodes, Uorfi declares, “Raftaar pagal ho gaya hai, baukhla gaya hai.” And while defending herself against suspicion, she makes a bold promise: “I’m not the traitor. If I turn out to be the traitor, I’ll shave my head.” Raftaar, refusing to back down, hits back with a sharp one-liner of his own: “If I turn out to be the traitor, I will stop rapping.” Sufi Motiwala doesn’t mince words either. Putting Raftaar squarely in the spotlight, he says: “He is scared and giving away that he is a Traitor! Dude, he is spiralling, he has lost it.”
As expected in this game of trust and betrayal, players turn on each other and tensions boil over, as the upcoming episodes promise the most intense face-off yet, where words cut deeper than strategy, and the blame game takes centre stage.
Produced by BBC Studios India Productions, Prime Video brings the Indian adaptation of IDTV’s BAFTA and Emmy award-winning global format, The Traitors, in collaboration with All3Media International. The first three episodes of The Traitors are now streaming exclusively on Prime Video, with new episodes dropping every Thursday at 8 PM.
Rise and Shine… It’s Dhokha Time!
The Future of EV Charging Infrastructure: Trends and Innovations in 2025
The global shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) has created a surge in demand for robust, efficient, and widespread EV charging infrastructure. As countries worldwide push for cleaner, more sustainable transportation solutions to combat climate change, the electric vehicle market has been experiencing exponential growth. According to a recent report by Persistence Market Research, the global EV charging infrastructure market is projected to grow from a substantial US$ 31.1 billion in 2025 to a massive US$ 113.4 billion by 2032, reflecting a staggering CAGR of 20.3%.
As we approach 2025, the landscape of EV charging is undergoing rapid transformation, fueled by a combination of technological advancements, regulatory incentives, and evolving consumer needs. Let’s explore the trends and innovations that are set to shape the future of EV charging infrastructure.
Fast Charging Technology
One of the key developments in the EV charging sector is the advancement of fast charging technology. While charging an EV at a conventional public charging station can take several hours, new ultra-fast charging stations are drastically reducing this time. The introduction of DC fast chargers and 350 kW charging stations promises to charge EV batteries from 20% to 80% in under 20 minutes. By 2025, many major cities and highways will be equipped with fast-charging networks, allowing for seamless long-distance travel with minimal charging downtime.
Innovations like the 150 kW and 350 kW ultra-fast charging systems will become more widely available, offering consumers the convenience of getting back on the road quickly. As automakers continue to develop larger battery capacities for EVs, these ultra-fast chargers will be critical in enabling mass adoption of electric vehicles.
Wireless Charging Systems
Another exciting frontier in EV charging technology is wireless or inductive charging. While still in its developmental phase, wireless charging is gaining traction as an alternative to traditional plug-in methods. By using electromagnetic fields to transfer energy, wireless chargers allow EV owners to charge their vehicles without needing to physically connect them to a charging station.
This could revolutionize charging for urban drivers, offering the potential for in-motion charging on highways or during parking, eliminating the hassle of plugging and unplugging cords. By 2025, we could see the first commercial-scale deployments of wireless charging systems in strategic locations such as public parking lots, airport terminals, and highway rest stops.
Smart Charging Solutions & Grid Integration
The smart grid and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration are set to play a critical role in the future of EV charging. As more electric vehicles populate the roads, their interaction with the power grid will need to be carefully managed. Smart charging systems that can communicate with the grid will help balance the load, optimize charging times, and reduce strain on the infrastructure.
Incorporating smart algorithms and AI-based systems, EV chargers will be able to determine the most cost-effective times to charge based on electricity demand and availability. This will also allow consumers to charge their EVs during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper and more abundant.
V2G technology, which enables EVs to feed energy back into the grid, will become increasingly important in stabilizing the energy supply and facilitating the integration of renewable sources like solar and wind. This technology has the potential to create a two-way energy flow, where vehicles act as mobile energy storage units that can be tapped into during periods of high demand.
Charging Networks and Strategic Partnerships
As the demand for EV charging infrastructure continues to rise, major charging network providers will increasingly collaborate with automakers, utilities, and governments to build more expansive and interoperable charging networks. Partnerships between major players like Tesla, Shell, ChargePoint, and BP will help expand the availability of charging stations across urban and rural areas.
In 2025, we can expect to see more roaming networks that allow drivers to access different charging stations with a single subscription or mobile app. This will eliminate the need to manage multiple accounts and improve the overall convenience for EV owners. Additionally, highway corridors and popular tourist destinations will be prioritized to ensure that charging stations are available on long trips.
Renewable Energy Integration
The EV charging infrastructure of the future will not only be powered by the grid but also by renewable energy sources. By 2025, it is expected that a significant number of EV charging stations will be integrated with solar panels and wind turbines. This trend aligns with the push toward sustainability, as solar-powered EV chargers can reduce carbon footprints and ensure that the electricity used for charging is green.
Additionally, energy storage systems (such as batteries) will allow charging stations to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night, when solar power production is low. This integration of renewable energy sources with charging infrastructure will also reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-based grid electricity, further enhancing the environmental benefits of EVs.
Charging as a Service (CaaS)
The rise of Charging as a Service (CaaS) models will also revolutionize the way EV charging is delivered to consumers. Under this model, consumers will pay for EV charging on a subscription basis, paying a fixed monthly fee for access to a network of charging stations. This could be particularly attractive to fleet operators and urban dwellers who may not have easy access to private charging points.
CaaS platforms will leverage smart technology to offer additional services such as predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and personalized charging schedules. This would create a seamless, user-friendly experience for both individuals and businesses using EVs.
Urban Charging Infrastructure and Public-Private Partnerships
As urbanization continues, urban EV charging infrastructure will become an essential component of sustainable cities. Governments and private companies will collaborate to install charging stations in strategic locations such as parking garages, shopping malls, and apartment complexes.
In 2025, we can expect to see more on-street charging stations that are integrated into city grids, along with innovations like pop-up charging stations for temporary events or mobile charging units for emergencies. Public-private partnerships (PPP) will play a key role in ensuring widespread accessibility, especially in underserved or rural areas where charging infrastructure is sparse.
Conclusion
The future of EV charging infrastructure in 2025 looks poised for monumental growth, driven by fast-charging innovations, wireless technology, smart grids, and sustainability initiatives. The global EV charging market, projected to reach US$ 113.4 billion by 2032, will be shaped by a blend of cutting-edge technologies and collaborative efforts between governments, automakers, utilities, and consumers.
For EV owners, this means an increasingly seamless, fast, and convenient charging experience. For society at large, it represents a critical step toward a greener, cleaner future, where electric vehicles play a central role in reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to a more sustainable global energy landscape. With investment and innovation pushing the boundaries, the EV charging ecosystem of 2025 will be a transformative chapter in the electric revolution.
AirAsia triumphs as the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for 16th consecutive year at Skytrax 2025
PARIS, 19 June 2025 – AirAsia has been named the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2025, reaffirming for the 16th year running its legacy as the global gold standard in low-cost travel.
This achievement reflects AirAsia’s unmatched reach across Asean and beyond, underpinned by a vast network connecting over 130 destinations, affordable fares, and a strong commitment to operational excellence. AirAsia continues to redefine connectivity, making travel accessible, affordable, and seamlessly integrated across Asia leveraging its multi-hub strategy across Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia.
In accepting the award at a ceremony at the Paris Air Show 2025 in France on Tuesday, Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, Chairman of Capital A and Co-Founder of AirAsia said: “Sixteen years on, this recognition remains just as meaningful as ever. We started with a simple dream to make flying affordable for everyone. To be recognised for the 16th time reaffirms that we have stayed true to that mission and continue to soar high in the minds of the many millions of passengers who choose to fly with us each year. While this award is truly another fantastic achievement, we never rest on our laurels and it inspires us to go even further.”
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Co-Founder of AirAsia said: “This is a deeply emotional win for me. From flying just 200,000 guests in our first year to aiming to welcome our one billionth guest this year, this journey has been made possible by the unwavering support of our guests, and the tireless dedication of our incredible Allstars. Every challenge we have faced, every comeback we have made, was made possible by their trust and effort. We thank the Skytrax team for recognising our work, and I would like to share the award with my Allstars – it belongs to them. Thank you for believing in the dream.”
Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax said: “We congratulate AirAsia on this fabulous achievement at the 2025 World Airline Awards. This success for a record sixteenth time is a clear reflection of their dedication to providing quality, affordable travel options to customers. This is a most competitive and fast growing market for low cost airlines, and this award demonstrates AirAsia success.”
The award also serves as a testament to the airline’s contribution to connecting both primary and underserved secondary and tertiary cities. This model has enabled the launch of unique and strategic routes such as Kuala Lumpur-Labuan Bajo, Bangkok-Narathiwat, Manila-Tagbilaran, Jakarta-Silangit, and others expanding access to emerging travel corridors and tourism growth areas. Looking ahead, the airline is set to deepen its connectivity across Central Asia and the Middle East, marking a significant step forward in its ambition to become the first truly global low-cost network carrier.
At the same time, AirAsia’s continued emphasis on guest experience sets it apart. Having flown close to one billion guests, the airline maintains high levels of customer loyalty and brand advocacy across its key markets. Ranked as the 24th most valuable airline brand globally with a value of USD1.93 billion, AirAsia reflects both strong regional roots and global appeal.
The Skytrax World Airline Awards is one of the most prestigious accolades in the global aviation industry. The online survey operated from September 2024 to May 2025, and more than 100 customer nationalities participated, with 22.3 million eligible entries counted in the results. Over 325 airlines were featured in the survey results. All costs of the Survey and Awards event are borne by Skytrax, and airlines do not pay any entry or registration fee.
Alternativa Film Festival 2026 welcomes submissions from India
India, June 19, 2025 – Alternativa has announced that the 3rd edition of the Alternativa Film Festival will take place in Colombia in Q2 2026, with an expanded prize fund of 120,000 USD (an increase of 20,000 USD from the previous edition) and a new award category for a feature film from the focus region, bringing the total number of awards to seven. The open call for submissions runs from June 10 to October 10, 2025. Feature-length films of all genres are accepted from India, Latin America and Asia.
Alternativa Film Festival honors films that bring positive change to the world and society, combining artistic excellence with the potential for significant social impact. Last year, in 2024, two Indian films, Mikka Bannada Hakki(Bird of a Different Feather-Kannada) directed by Manohara K and Kottukkaali (The Adamant Girl-Tamil) directed by Vinothraj PS won Spotlight Award and Nativa Award, respectively at the Alternativa Film Project.
A message from Arsen Tomsky, CEO and founder of inDrive and the visionary behind Alternativa, was shared during the press conference: “At inDrive, we believe that talent and powerful stories should never be limited by borders — and that art has the power to create meaningful change for millions of people around the world. It can also help advance inDrive’s mission of challenging injustice — both through our business and beyond. That’s why we founded and support Alternativa and its festival that gives impact filmmakers from the Global South a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated”.
The Alternativa Film Awards recognise films with artistic excellence that also address important social and cultural topics, and which have an ambition to positively affect the lives of people and local communities and to challenge injustice in line with the mission of inDrive. In 2024, the festival received over 1,000 submissions from 33 countries. India was among the 25 shortlisted films.
The open call for the Alternativa Film Festival 2026 begins on June 10 and will remain open until October 10, 2025. Fiction films, documentaries, animations, and hybrid works of all genres completed after January 1, 2025, are eligible. For films with a world premiere before August 1, 2025, the submission deadline is September 1, 2025, at 23:59 (UTC -5). For films with a world premiere after August 1, 2025, the deadline is October 10, 2025, at 23:59 (UTC -5). A full list of eligible countries and detailed film requirements can be found in the Rules & Regulations, available on the official Alternativa website: alternativa.film.
Veranda IAS Unveils Residential Mains Programme for CSE 2025 Prelims Qualifiers
CHENNAI, 19TH JUNE 2025: Veranda IAS, a Veranda Learning enterprise, has announced the launch of the first fully residential and intensive Mains Answer Writing Programme for UPSC CSE 2025 aspirants. Tailored specifically for candidates who have cleared the Prelims, the programme will offer a focused and immersive environment that sharpens answer-writing skills, crucial to cracking the Mains stage of the Civil Services Examination.
With over 600+ high-quality questions, daily practice of 15+ model questions, and focused sessions on Essay, Ethics, and Current Affairs, the programme offers an academically rigorous and result-oriented path for serious aspirants. Participants will also receive interview preparation support in case they qualify for the Personality Test round.
All selected students will benefit from completely free residential accommodation and meals until the Mains exam, allowing them to concentrate fully on preparation. Additionally, a stipend of ₹25,000 will be provided to each selected candidate as financial support during the programme.
Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Bharath Seeman, CEO of Veranda IAS, said, “This initiative reflects our commitment to serious UPSC aspirants who need not just guidance but an environment of discipline, focus, and expert support. We believe answer writing is both an art and a skill that can be sharpened with the right mentorship and consistency. This residential programme is our way of investing in the potential of every determined candidate.”
QNET India Celebrates International Yoga Day with Curated Wellness Essentials
Hyderabad, June 19, 2025: International Yoga Day is more than a celebration of asanas, it’s a reminder to embrace mindful living, holistic nutrition, and inner balance. As yoga continues to gain global recognition for its power to heal and harmonise the body and mind, QNET India presents a thoughtfully curated range of wellness products designed to complement every yogic journey.
From ancient superfoods to modern supplements, these selections are ideal for individuals across all age groups who seek strength, flexibility, and vitality, both on and off the mat.
Here’s a thoughtfully curated line-up of QNET’s wellness essentials that align perfectly with a yoga-centric lifestyle:
Nutriplus Virgin Coconut Oil
This cold-pressed oil is rich in Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), a rare compound also found in mother’s milk, making it one of the healthiest cooking oils available. It naturally boosts metabolism and provides sustained energy, making it a great pre-yoga supplement. Its clean, pure composition also supports gut health and cognitive clarity, important for staying focused and active through every yoga session.
Nutriplus Monofloral Honey
100% raw and unprocessed, this natural superfood serves as a gentle digestive aid, immunity booster, and instant source of energy. Ideal before or after yoga, it helps replenish the body and support overall vitality. Its antioxidant-rich composition also makes it a daily wellness staple, especially for those seeking balance through natural nutrition.
Nutriplus Celesteal Herbal Infusions
Blends like Slimming, Sleepy Time, and Skin Glow are tailored for various needs, whether it’s aiding detox, promoting restful sleep, or enhancing skin health. These caffeine-free herbal teas are perfect for winding down after a session, staying hydrated, and complementing your mindful lifestyle with soothing botanicals.
Nutriplus BoneHealth
Formulated to support bone density, strength, and flexibility, BoneHealth is a must-have for those engaging in sustained yoga practice. It helps protect joints, prevent fatigue, and maintain mobility, especially important for practitioners of asanas that challenge posture and stability.
Nutriplus ImmunHealth
Over prolonged consumption, this supplement enhances the body’s natural defense mechanisms and helps manage seasonal shifts, travel fatigue, or exposure in group classes or retreats. It offers plant-based immune support that complements a yoga lifestyle rooted in inner strength and balance.
Lava Storm Lite 5G Goes on Sale Today with Best-in-Segment MediaTek Dimensity 6400 Performance
New Delhi, June 19th, 2025: Lava International Limited, the leading homegrown smartphone manufacturer, announced the launch of the latest additions in the Storm series designed for the tech-savvy youth. The Storm Series features two high-impact, powerful smartphones aimed at revolutionizing the experience in the sub-10k category: Storm Play 5G and Storm Lite 5G.
The Lava Storm Lite 5G goes on sale starting today exclusively on Amazon. Recently launched as part of the new Storm Series, the Storm Lite 5G is engineered to deliver best-in-segment 5G performance, sleek design, and all-day reliability.
Powering the Storm Lite 5G is the MediaTek Dimensity 6400 processor, making it the first smartphone in its segment in India to offer a 5G-ready chipset with impressive performance. With an AnTuTu score of 410K+, users can expect smooth everyday usage, quick app launches, and reliable connectivity—ideal for young, dynamic users on the move.
The device features a large 6.75” HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate for fluid scrolling, a 50MP rear camera with Sony IMX752 sensor, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a 5000mAh battery with 15W fast charging. It runs on clean, ad-free Android 15 and includes 4GB physical RAM + 4GB virtual RAM, paired with up to 128GB internal storage.
Following the brand’s consumer-first philosophy, Lava will be offering Free Service@Home for Storm users across India, alongside support through retail outlets. To avail home service, users can visit: https://www.lavamobiles.com/lava_service_at_home/. The Storm Series comes with Lava’s promise of a bloatware-free, ad-free experience and clean Android 15.
Both Storm Play and Storm Lite will receive 1 Android upgrade and 2 years of security updates, and will be available exclusively on Amazon. The Storm Series embodies Lava’s commitment to innovation, local manufacturing, and empowering the next generation with affordable technology that performs.
| Specification | Storm Lite |
| Display | 6.75” HD+ Notch Display, 120Hz Refresh Rate |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 6400 Octa-core (410K + AnTuTu score) |
| Rear Camera | 50MP (Sony IMX752) |
| Front Camera | 5MP |
| RAM Options | 4GB+4GB# |
| Storage (ROM) | 64GB / 128GB |
| Battery | 5000mAh |
| Charging | 15W Charger (Type-C) |
| Operating System | Android 15 |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted |
| Durability | IP64 Rating (Dust and Water Resistant) |
| Speaker | Single Speaker |
VDart of Trichy Makes Minority Investment in US-Based CSCS, Launches AI-Powered Global Supply‑Chain Alliance
Trichy-based VDart announces strategic partnership and investment in US-based CSCS to deliver AI-led global supply chain solutions
Trichy, TN, India, June 19, 2025 – VDart, a global leader in digital technology consulting, system integration, and talent solutions, has recently partnered with Cloud Supply Chain Solutions (CSCS), an AI-driven supply chain software company based in Atlanta. As part of the partnership, VDart is making a strategic investment in CSCS and launching a joint go-to-market strategy to deliver AI-powered, end-to-end supply chain solutions to enterprise customers worldwide.
“Today’s supply chains demand agility, transparency and intelligence like never before,” said Sidd Ahmed, Founder and CEO of VDart. “By partnering with CSCS, we’re combining our strength in digital transformation and talent with their best-in-class intelligent supply chain solutions to help clients drive real impact.”
Through this partnership, VDart clients will now have access to the CSCS Intelligent Supply Chain Platform, a next-generation SaaS platform that provides real-time visibility across complex, fragmented supply chains. The platform uses AI-powered optimization to close operational gaps and create seamless end-to-end supply chain intelligence — transforming what were once cost centers into strategic profit engines.
“This partnership allows CSCS to expand into new markets through VDart’s extensive enterprise network,” said Mansoor Khan, Founder and CEO of CSCS. “Together, we’ll help organizations evolve their supply chains from operational burdens into competitive assets.”
In addition, VDart customers will gain access to CSCS’s comprehensive implementation services for leading supply chain platforms, including Manhattan Associates, Blue Yonder, SAP and Oracle. CSCS has a proven track record of delivering customized integrations and enhancements that address the limitations of legacy supply chain systems.
“Distribution and logistics systems — including TMS, WMS and OMS — are the backbone of modern global supply chains,” said Mohamed Irfan Peeran, Managing Director of VDart Digital. “When implemented strategically, these platforms do more than optimize operations they drive topline growth through better customer experiences and improve the bottom line through greater efficiency, real-time visibility and intelligent decision-making. We see this investment as a clear extension of our mission to deliver value across every dimension of our customers’ operations.”
Kevin Nicholas, Chief Revenue Officer of CSCS, added: “Our combined strengths will empower clients to reduce costs, eliminate inefficiencies and finally make their supply chains work as assets, not liabilities.”
Noida International University Organizes Educator’s Meet and Felicitation Ceremony in Azamgarh
June 19, 2025 — Noida International University (NIU) successfully hosted an impactful Educator’s Meet and Felicitation Ceremony at Hotel Grand SR, Azamgarh, with educators, academic leaders, and students to celebrate & felicitate the achievements and contributions in their respective fields.
The event was graced by Mr. Shiv Govind Singh, Chairman of Vedanta International School, Baukat, Azamgarh, as the Chief Guest, who graced the event with his auspicious presence and said, “Educators are the true architects of our nation’s future. Their dedication, guidance, and vision empower budding minds to dream big and achieve greater heights. In every classroom, they lay the foundation for a stronger, more enlightened society. Today, I’m honored to be a part of this event where Noida International University is encouraging educators and students with awards to educate themselves and have a bright future.”
Mr. Avaneesh Kumar Rai, Manager of Naval’s National Academy, Dohrighat, served as the Guest of Honor, shared his valuable insights on the evolving role of educational institutions in today’s world. He said, “Educational institutions today are more than centers of learning; they are catalysts for innovation, inclusivity, and global readiness. In a rapidly changing world, they must nurture critical thinking, adaptability, and values, preparing students not just for jobs, but for life.
Over 400 educators and counselors from across the region participated in the ceremony, where several distinguished teachers and mentors were felicitated for their commitment to academic excellence and student development. Also, Dr. Vinay Kumar, the Director Academics, Naval’s National Academy Group of Schools, Gorakhpur, Coordinator, Bar Council of India (cell), shared his valuable presence, which served as a platform for academic exchange, collaborative opportunities, and insights into NIU’s progressive initiatives in higher education.
NIU officials highlighted the university’s mission to bridge the gap between regional talent and global opportunities through inclusive and quality education. The meeting reaffirmed NIU’s dedication to building strong relationships with schools and educators across Uttar Pradesh and beyond.