• 73% are confident of achieving financial goals in 5 years

• 65% believe affordable credit speeds up financial aspirations

• 63% of consumers believe that digital tools have made it easier to pursue their financial goals

• 57% of the respondents reported an increase in income this year

• 50% of respondents reported savings this year, down from 60% in 2024

• 12% of the respondents are borrowing to cover basic needs

• Education spending saw a 34% rise in the wallet share

• Among male consumers, 29% consider affordable credit crucial for achieving their financial aspirations

• Local travel has emerged as a key lifestyle upgrade, with 31% of consumers now exploring nearby destinations at least once a month

• 26% of Gen Z respondents place greater emphasis on improved job opportunities to achieve their aspirations faster

Home Credit India, a leading consumer finance company, today unveiled the findings of the third edition of its landmark report ‘The Great Indian Wallet 2025. This year’s study highlights a transformative shift in how lower middle-class Indians approach financial well-being. With the theme ‘Mapping India’s Aspirations: The Dreams in Every Wallet’, the study representing two-third of the country showcases a picture of a resilient, optimistic, and increasingly digital demographic that is not just surviving, but thriving to meet their aspirations.

The Great Indian Wallet 2025 by Home Credit India

The study offers a window into consumers financial lives across the nation, leveraging insights drawn from the Financial Well-Being Index alongside detailed data on income, expenses, wallet share, aspirations, and discretionary spending. According to the study, the financial pulse of the country remains strong, with consumers demonstrating pragmatic planning and an increasingly aspirational outlook as they adapt to rising costs. This spirit is especially evident in their focus on crucial areas like education, job opportunities, and the desire for affordable credit.

“When we initiated The Great Indian Wallet Study in 2023, we sought to understand the financial pulse of India. What we discovered was a nation of quiet revolutionaries – millions of households transforming constraints into steppingstones, challenges into opportunities,” said Ashish Tiwari, Chief Marketing Officer, Home Credit India. “This years findings reveal something extraordinary: despite economic headwinds, Indias lower middle class is more optimistic, more digital, and more determined than ever before. Their financial discipline, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to the next generation’s prosperity inspire us to innovate and be true partners in making their #ZindagiHit.”

Gauging India’s Financial Pulse

The report unveils a robust spirit of optimism among Indias lower middle class. Home Credit Indias proprietary Financial Well-Being Index (FWBI) reveals a generally positive consumer outlook, with the Future Expectations Index remaining high at 59 in 2025, reflecting robust confidence in future financial improvement. This optimism is supported by 57% of respondents reporting an increase in income (up from 52% last year) and gradual improvements in savings. Overall, 73% of consumers express confidence in achieving their financial goals within the next five years, with 76% hopeful that their financial situation will improve in the coming years, showcasing resilience despite a slight dip in overall optimism compared to last year.

The Balancing Act – Income, Expenses and the Indian Wallet

As per the study, 57% of the respondents reported an increase in income (up from 52% last year). Reflecting a delicate financial balance, the average monthly income for the lower middle class is Rs. 33,000 against essential expenses of Rs. 20,000, underscoring the need for accessing credit solutions. While financial responsibility is increasingly shared – with male contributions to household expenses rising to 74%, and Gen Z (61%) and Millennials (73%) increasing their household contributions – rising living costs are undeniably reshaping their ability to save. Despite a strong desire to save, only 50% of respondents reported saving this year (down from 60% in 2024), with 12% borrowing just to cover basic needs, indicating financial pressure to run the household. The consumers from most of the metropolitan cities continue to earn more (Rs. 36,000) but also bear higher costs (Rs. 23,000), while Tier-2 residents report the lower incomes (Rs. 30,000) and expenses (Rs. 17,000), underscoring regional disparities.

Wallet Priorities: Grocery Leads, Education Rises Fast

Beneath pragmatism, dreams are actively reshaping spending patterns. While groceries remain a dominant expense, consuming 29% of monthly budgets (a 12% surge), education spending has emerged as a soaring priority, rising by 34% over the past year to account for 19% of the monthly wallet share. This reflects a powerful commitment to investing in the next generations progress, with 40% of respondents actively contributing to their childrens education with Gen X, allocating 22% of their monthly spending.

Shifting Habits and Discretionary Spending Trends

India’s lower-middle class is undergoing a subtle yet significant transformation in its spending behaviour, signaling a shift from impulsive materialism to more mindful, aspiration-driven consumption. Local travel has emerged as a key lifestyle upgrade, with 31% of consumers now exploring nearby destinations at least once a month, a trend led by Gen Z contributing 44% to the share of travelers across different generations. Fashion remains popular, with 39% still shopping for clothes and accessories: however, this reflects a notable 20-point decline from previous levels, indicating a move towards more considered, need-based purchases. Emerging categories like fitness (7%) and OTT subscriptions (6%) still occupy niche segments, signifying a deeper cultural shift, where goals are defined less by visible status and more by personal enrichment and practical comfort.

The Shifting landscape of Savings

Despite a strong desire to save, rising living costs are forcing many consumers to reprioritize their finances. Only 50% of respondents reported saving this year, down from 60% in 2024. Liquidity remains key, with 38% preferring to save in cash, while formal options like bank accounts (24%), LIC (8%), property (7%), and gold (4%) see lower adoption. Alarmingly, 12% are resorting to borrowing simply to cover basic needs, pointing to a fragile financial state and an urgent need for accessible, affordable and responsible credit solutions.

Digital Tools Emerge as Critical Enablers of Financial Progress

The digital revolution is a powerful ally in their financial journey. According to the findings, 63% of consumers believe digital tools have made it easier to pursue their financial goals, with the strongest confidence coming from Tier-1 cities like Jaipur (86%), Pune, and Kolkata (80%). While physical stores remain dominant for product purchases like apparel and home appliances, online channels are rapidly gaining traction in financial transactions. Online retail payments now account for 51% of transactions (up from 42% in 2024), and significantly, the preference for online loan applications is nearing parity with offline at 50%, demonstrating growing trust in digital lenders. Online booking for transport and food ordering also shows steady growth, marking a broader digital embrace. In the realm of digital transactions, UPI (Unified Payments Interface) continues to anchor India’s digital financial evolution, with around 80% of consumers now relying on the platform for everyday transactions, as compared to 72% in 2024. Adoption is highest among men, Gen Z, and metro dwellers-especially in Hyderabad (93%) and Kolkata (87%). However, nearly half say they might stop using UPI if fees are introduced, underlining the importance of keeping digital tools affordable to maintain financial inclusion.

Surge of Online Financial Frauds

As digital adoption deepens, the lower middle class faces increasing vulnerabilities to online financial frauds. A significant 74% reported awareness of such frauds, yet concerningly, 28% admit to sharing confidential financial information with friends or family, and 25% store it on their smartphones. Alarmingly, 20% have already fallen victim to online financial fraud, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced digital literacy and secure practices to protect consumers in the evolving digital landscape.

Dreams in Every Wallet: Mapping Indias Aspirations for a Brighter Future

Despite economic constraints, Indias lower middle class harbors strong aspirations, primarily for entrepreneurship and homeownership in both short and long terms, alongside securing childrens education. Notably, 28% believe affordable credit is the most critical enabler in achieving their goals, with 65% feeling it will help them faster. While anxieties persist, especially concerning affording education (18%) and insufficient emergency savings (15%), a substantial 58% express a desire for financial advice. Women strongly correlate improved employment options with financial progress, emphasizing a growing demand for gender-sensitive economic policy.

A Call to Action for Inclusive Growth

The Great Indian Wallet 2025 surveyed consumers aged 18-55 years, across 17 diverse cities, from metros to smaller towns, offering key insights into their financial behaviors, aspirations, and digital adoption. The findings paint a picture of a dynamic segment that, despite facing pressures, remains optimistic and resilient. Their collective aspirations are a powerful engine for national progress. By fostering an environment that provides tailored financial solutions, robust digital education, and equitable opportunities, we can empower these millions to not just dream, but to truly fulfill their financial aspirations, contributing significantly to a more inclusive and prosperous India.

About Home Credit India

Home Credit India Finance Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of TVS Holdings Ltd. is a leading consumer finance company committed to driving credit penetration and financial inclusion across India. Home Credit India offers a diversified range of innovative products, supported by a superior customer experience, and continues to expand its pan-India presence. With a focus on providing simple, trustworthy, transparent, tech-driven accessible financial solutions, Home Credit India has been part of financial journey for over 1.8 Crore customers through a robust network of approximately 53,000 points-of-sale (PoS) spread across 625 cities nationwide.

For more information, visit www.homecredit.co.in

Prominent environmental specialists, policymakers, government representatives, and civil society leaders convened at a national workshop titled “Revitalizing India’s Rivers: Nature-Based Solutions and Policy Approaches for Scalable Action.” Organized by The Nature Conservancy in India, with support from the Rural India Support Trust (RIST), the one-day event saw the participation of over 70 key stakeholders. The focus of the workshop was the urgent need for integrated, nature-inspired strategies to restore Indias river systems, which are increasingly threatened by pollution, urban development, and climate change.

Group Image of the participants from the workshop

The workshop, facilitated by Nature Conservancy India Solutions (NCIS), featured insights from more than 20 esteemed speakers and panelists from the government, academic institutions, and international organizations. Distinguished speakers included Sh. Brijendra Swaroop, IFS, Executive Director (Projects), National Mission for Clean Ganga, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India, and Sh. Rajiv Ranjan Mishra (Retd. IAS), Former DG Namami Gange, and Chief Advisor, National Institute of Urban Affairs.

L -R Dr Sudipto Chatterjee, DOP, NCIS, Dr Anjali Acharya, MD, NCIS, Sh Rajiv Ranjan Mishra, Ex DG Namami Gange & Sh Brijendra Swaroop, ED, NMCG, Min of Jal Shakti, Dept of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation

Dr. Anjali Acharya, Managing Director of Nature Conservancy India Solutions (NCIS), in her address to the participants, emphasized, “India’s rivers are lifelines for over 600 million people, crucial for agriculture, drinking water, and cultural heritage. Nature-based solutions are the scalable answer to restore these vital ecosystems, boost livelihoods, and build climate resilience.”

Sh. Brijendra Swaroop, IFS, Executive Director (Projects), National Mission for Clean Ganga, stated, “Policy frameworks for nature-based solutions with scalable actions must be adapted alongside traditional methods to enhance ecology and invite broader policy support.”

Sh. Rajiv Ranjan Mishra (Retd. IAS), Former DG Namami Gange, Chief Advisor, National Institute of Urban Affairs, remarked, “Our river rejuvenation efforts have progressed significantly. Moving forward, policies and guidelines must adapt and be customized to region-specific requirements, leveraging Nature-based Solutions to meet diverse water system needs.”

According to NITI Aayog’s Composite Water Management Index (2018), approximately 600 million individuals in India are experiencing high to extreme water stress. River basins such as the Ganga, Narmada, and Godavari face increasing pressures from urbanization, pollution, deforestation, groundwater depletion, sand extraction, and climate-induced hydrological changes. It is projected that fourteen out of twenty river basins in India will experience water stress by 2030.

The workshop delved into discussions on “River Rejuvenation through Nature-Based Solutions“, examining the connections between ecological restoration and water security. The session featured insights from Dr. Archana Chatterjee, Programme Manager at IUCN-India, Sh. Gopal Kumar, Deputy Country Representative at IWMI, Dr. Ritesh Kumar, Director of Wetlands International-South Asia, Sh. Suresh Babu, Senior Director at WWF-India, Dr. Partha J Das from Aaranyak, Dr. Ranjana Ray Chaudhuri of TERI, Dr. Sandeep Behera from the National Mission for Clean Ganga, and Dr. Somnath Bandyopadhyay of the Foundation for Ecological Security.

Another session titled “Rivers of India, Stories of Renewal” highlighted the deeper connect of cultural and ecological aspects that play a crucial role in restoring the rivers as living entities bringing along community ownership in building sustainable future pathways. The session was chaired by Sh. Aseem Srivastava, PCCF-HOFF of Madhya Pradesh with contributions from Dr. D N Pandey, former PCCF of Rajasthan, Dr. Amitabh Pande from IGRMS, Bhopal, Dr. Faiyaz A. Khudsar from CEMDE, University of Delhi, Dr. Manish Kumar Goyal from IIT Indore, and Dr. Vikrant Jain from IIT Gandhinagar.

The latter part of the workshop featured discussions on “Legal and Policy Pathways“, diving deep to discuss the role of regulatory frameworks supporting conservational efforts. The session also delved in sharing insights on the interconnectedness of the role of civil society, government and community that are vital for river conservation. This session was chaired by Sh. Avi Prasad, IAS, Commissioner-NREGS in Madhya Pradesh, with notable speakers Dr. Syamal Sarkar, former Secretary at the Ministry of Water Resources, Sh. Shawahiq Siddiqui, Advocate at the Ministry of Jal Shakti, and Dr. Ombir Singh from the Forest Research Institute, sharing recommendations and their learnings.

The workshop concluded with a session on “Financing the Future“, which concentrated on unlocking the future potential and attention of corporates, multi-lateral agencies and funding institutions to strengthen Public Private Partnership, fostering innovative ways for Nature-based Solutions. Moderated by Dr. Anjali Acharya, Managing Director of Nature Conservancy India, the session featured expert insights from Nidhi Pundhir, SVP, Global CSR at HCLTech, Ishrat Jahan, South Asia Lead at 1t.org, World Economic Forum, Tushar Thakkar, Partner at The Blended Finance Company, and Dr. Sanjib Kumar Sarangi of Indian Grameen Services.

The workshop highlighted the necessity for cross-sectoral collaboration, innovative financing, and policy coherence to enhance nature-based solutions for river rejuvenation. The event stressed the importance of cross-sectoral cooperation and community involvement in promoting nature-based solutions, showcased successful pilot initiatives, and urged for stronger policy integration and financial mechanisms to ensure the long-term health of rivers.

About The Nature Conservancy in India

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is committed to creating a world where both people and nature can thrive, ensuring the conservation of our lands and waters for future generations. Established in 1951 in the United States, TNC has expanded to become one of the foremost global environmental organizations, actively operating across 79 countries.

We work across sectors and borders to tackle the dual challenges of accelerated climate change and unprecedented biodiversity loss. Our science-based approach guides both the focus of our efforts and the strategies we employ to achieve sustainable, long-term outcomes. Grounded by decades of on-ground experience, we maximize our ability to affect change by integrating nature-based solutions, scientific research, technical advisory, evidence-based practices, sustainable financing, and collaborative partnerships.

Nature Conservancy India Solutions Pvt Ltd. operates at the unique intersection of India’s natural heritage and rapidly growing population. Recognizing the importance of the country’s natural resources, we align our mission with the national vision of “developing without destruction.” We seek science-based solutions to the challenges that emerge at the nexus of conservation and development, offering nature-based approaches with an unwavering commitment to protecting the natural world, focusing on India’s diverse ecosystems.

Hong Kong
Hong Kong, a gourmand’s paradise, attracts every kind of holidaymaker- vegetarian, non-vegetarian, vegan, the discerning and even adventurous foodie with its year-round vibrant food festivals. On the cards this year are: French GourMay Festival (1 May – 8 June 2025), Hong Kong W&D Festival (22-26 October 2025) and more.

Hong Kong’s diverse culinary landscape features over 17,000 places to eat, ranging from Michelin-starred menus to street food, to casual dining and cafes & food-centric festivals

Hong Kong is an ideal food destination as the city’s diverse culinary landscape features over 17,000 places to eat, ranging from Michelin-starred tasting menus, vibrant street food, casual dining and cafe spots to the eventful food-centric festivals.

In Hong Kong, you’re one walk away from a steaming plate of wonton noodles accompanied by glistening roasted meats and a bamboo steamer filled with dumplings. The city’s multicultural culinary scene is led by its Cantonese influence. The food culture is an East-meets-West scenario where traditional Cantonese cuisine is intertwined with Southeast Asian and mainland Chinese influences.

For food steeped in heritage, a walk to Tai O Fishing Village in Lantau Island, home to the fisherfolk community, will introduce you to the dried seafood trade. Marinated cuttlefish, fish balls and tofu pudding are the highlights here. A leisurely stroll along the lanes of Temple Street Night Market takes you to the heart of Hong Kong’s street food culture. The stir fries straight out of the wok, the aroma of freshly fried snacks and sweet egg tarts remind you that the best food originates from the streets. Up for grabs are vegetarian and vegan delights across Cantonese, Indian and Pan Asian cuisines.

Intrinsic to Hong Kong’s culinary scene is its Cha Chaan Tengs or ‘tea restaurants’. At these Hong Kong-style cafes, some dating back to the 1950s, a melange of British and Chinese cultures can be seen. Think compact interiors, minimalist furniture, scrambled eggs with toast and a cup of piping hot milk tea, sweetened with condensed milk or evaporated milk.

Tea enthusiasts can seek solace in Cha Chaan Tengs while coffee lovers can lean on the city’s burgeoning love for specialty coffee. From siphon, hand drip, or espresso, grab your cuppa from Hong Kong’s cutest, pinterest-y cafes ahead of your touristy escapades.

For discerning foodies, Hong Kong’s Michelin-starred restaurants promise the ultimate dining experience. There’s Shang Palace at Kowloon Shangri-La specialising in authentic Cantonese flavours; 8 Otto E Mezzo BOMBANA, a celebration of exceptional Italian fine-dining; Caprice, where French savoir-faire harmoniously blends with global accents; and Ying Jee Club, offering an elevated dim sum experience.

Part of Hong Kong’s Michelin-starred repertoire of restaurants are CHAAT and New Punjab Club, spotlighting Indian cuisine in Hong Kong. While the former serves elevated and reimagined Indian street food in a modern setting; the latter, is a vibrant, tandoor grill house paying homage to recipes of northern India and Eastern Pakistan. The love for Indian food and Indian restaurants is not new to Hong Kong that houses many fine-dining spots like Bombay Dreams, Chaska, Woodlands and more to satiate local and global audience in the city.

What complements Hong Kong’s diverse culinary scene is its buzzing nightlife. Over the years, the city’s nightlife scene has embraced both craftsmanship and creativity, resulting in many making gaining global recognition on the Asia’s 50 Best list.

The culinary culture in Hong Kong extends beyond its usual offerings, with food festivals attracting locals and tourists alike throughout the year. From 14 June 2025 to 22 June 2025, the ARTBOX Hong Kong 2025, Asia’s largest pop-up container market, will take over the city. Held at Kai Tak Sports Park, festival-goers can expect neon light-themed installations, high-energy entertainment, plenty of F&B brands, local and global retail names and more.

‘A Movable Feast: The Culture of Food and Drink in China’, ongoing till 18 June, 2025 lets you immerse yourself in the traditional Chinese food culture through an exhibit at The Palace Museum featuring over 110 exquisite works. The event takes you on a journey of eating practices, the evolution of food vessels and the lifestyle of ancient Chinese people, an important demographic in Hong Kong.

The festival ends on a sweet note with a series of dining promotions across the city in November. To stay up to date about more such culinary events in Hong Kong, check DiscoverHongKong’s calendar of cultural events.

Hong Kong’s culinary scene promises to be a feast for the senses and the soul. It beckons travellers to go on a mirage of flavours, textures and stories steeped in heritage.

About Curly Tales
Curly Tales is India’s leading food, travel and lifestyle platform founded by Kamiya Jani in 2016 after her decade-long experience as a finance, sports and lifestyle journalist and TV anchor. Curly Tales is a platform that offers content to inspire and inform viewers with a focus on celebrating food, travel and unique experiences across India and the globe.

BlinkX, the high-performance digital stockbroking platform by JM Financial, has launched its Silver Subscription Plan – Free for 2 Months, aimed at giving traders an affordable gateway into its powerful, feature-rich trading ecosystem. The Silver Plan, priced at ₹249, is now available at zero cost for a limited period. This offer allows traders to execute up to 50 lots per day without any brokerage fees, offering significant savings and empowering them with a premium trading experience. This strategic offering reaffirms BlinkX’s trader-first approach and commitment to reducing the cost of trading for India’s growing community of DIY traders.

BlinkX Launches Free Silver Subscription Plan to Empower Options Traders

This launch is a part of BlinkX’s broader mission to democratize access to sophisticated trading tools and promote an environment of empowered, data-driven trading. The free plan allows users to explore advanced features and trade with zero brokerage, opening doors to more cost-efficient strategies for options traders.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Gagan Singla, Managing Director at BlinkX, said, “We are excited to offer the Silver Plan for free to empower more traders to experience our platform. Trading is a serious craft, and our goal is to remove friction while delivering performance, intelligence, and flexibility. This free plan will help traders of all levels to explore our tools and unlock new levels of efficiency.”

BlinkX is currently offering the Silver Plan worth ₹249, free for 2 months. This allows new users to place up to 50 free lots every trading day, bringing significant savings. For example, an active options trader placing 10 orders a day typically incurs around ₹200 (assuming Rs.20 per order) in daily brokerage. Over 2 months (assuming 20 trading days per month), this amounts to nearly ₹8,000 – savings now accessible at zero cost through this plan.

The Silver Free Plan not only removes the brokerage barrier but also offers access to BlinkX’s advanced suite of features such as F&O Research Calls for strategic decision-making, advanced Option Chains for comprehensive data analysis and order Slicing for executing large trades seamlessly.

With a design tailored specifically for professional traders, BlinkX’s robust mobile and desktop platforms offer reliability and speed even during peak market hours. Traders can access these features at zero cost during the trial and experience the platforms true value.

BlinkX has recently introduced a new pricing innovation – subscription-based trading – with three tailored plans to meet varying trader needs:

• Silver Plan: Trade up to 50 lots/day; available at ₹249 for 2 months – now free for a limited time

• Gold Plan: Trade up to 500 lots/day

• Platinum Plan: Trade up to 1000 lots/day

All plans are available in durations of 2, 6, and 12 months, making them flexible for different trader profiles.

To know more and explore subscription plans, visit: blinkx.in/charges

About BlinkX
BlinkX by JM Financial is a zero-brokerage trading platform designed to offer a seamless trading experience for advanced traders. With zero brokerage across Equity, NSE F&O, IPOs, and Currency segments, BlinkX is redefining affordability through its innovative subscription-based pricing models. With its focus on high-volume options trading, BlinkX uses a trader-first mindset, offering premium features and fast execution. The App was launched in April 2023, and has now crossed 1M downloads in December 2024 with an App Store rating of 4.7. With an aim to deliver speed and precision, BlinkX is reimagining the future of trading in India.

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Vingroup is redefining how businesses integrate sustainability into their core operations, positioning it as a key differentiator in today’s competitive market, especially among aging conglomerates in Southeast Asia. As part of its green mobility strategy, the group is now setting its sights on India, a land full of potential, with VinFast at the forefront, introducing premium electric vehicles to the market.

Vingroup is now setting its sights on India with VinFast at the forefront, introducing premium electric vehicles to the market

In recent years, the world has witnessed a growing trend: Consumers are willing to spend more on sustainably produced or sourced goods, even as cost-of-living and inflationary concerns weigh on purchasing decisions, according to studies.

As technology advances, enabling consumers to connect with and learn more about companies, their expectations have shifted. Sustainability in business operations has emerged as a key factor in purchasing decisions, with consumers demanding more transparency and responsibility from the brands they support.

Amid that context, Vingroup has built its name in Vietnam by putting sustainability into action, not just words. Across housing, tourism, and transport, the group takes a hands-on approach to green development. Vinhomes installs energy-saving systems in modern buildings. Vinpearl runs eco-resorts designed to blend into the landscape. VinFast fills a crucial gap in the local EV market, offering accessible, locally made options at a time when charging infrastructure was still limited.

These moves are not isolated. They reflect Vingroup’s larger strategy of working with local governments and partners to build complete ecosystems rather than offering standalone products or services. After years of refining this model in Vietnam, the group is now taking it overseas.

VinFast, the most global part of the business, is leading the way. In India, the company has made a bold entry with a $2 billion investment in an EV plant in Tamil Nadu, which is set to open later this year. With an annual capacity of 150,000 vehicles, the facility is expected to employ thousands and serve as a regional production and export hub.

The young car company has already introduced two premium all-electric SUV models, the VF 6 and VF 7, tailored as right-hand drive vehicles for India. These models are scheduled to reach customers ahead of the 2025 festival season, reflecting VinFast’s intention to meet local preferences with modern, smart EVs.

However, Vingroup, via VinFast, is not entering India to sell cars. It’s working to build an entire electric vehicle ecosystem from the ground up, the same way it did in Vietnam. That means the introduction of EVs and the $2 billion EV plant in Tamil Nadu mark only the beginning. Behind the product launch is a broader plan: grow a network of sales and service centers, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where EV adoption is picking up speed.

Vingroup is also exploring ways to support this growth with reliable infrastructure. A potential partnership with charging solutions provider V-GREEN, which is owned by Vingroup Chairman Pham Nhat Vuong, could support a nationwide charging network tailored to India’s needs.

The company is thinking long-term. Vingroup wants to be part of India’s shift toward cleaner transportation by offering not just vehicles, but a full support system around them. That’s the model that worked in Vietnam. Now, the company is applying it in one of the world’s fastest-growing EV markets.

Operation Sindoor has come to symbolize more than just a successful military campaign-it represents India’s emerging confidence in its own defence ecosystem, powered by years of innovation, foresight, and collaborative development. At the centre of this transformative moment stands the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), whose ability to translate research into deployable combat systems has become a cornerstone of India’s modern military capability.

Precision Strike with Missile Systems:

The operation demonstrated India’s readiness across multiple domains. Akash missile systems and Supersonic cruise missiles like BrahMos played a decisive role, delivering precision strikes with speed and accuracy. These missiles not only offered a tactical edge but also showcased how indigenous missile programs have matured into globally benchmarked platforms. This progress is a direct outcome of the visionary leadership of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who laid the foundation and build the institutional structure through the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), and the continued dedication of successive generations of leaders, scientists and engineers who transformed that vision into reality.

Electronic Warfare and Radars

Electronic warfare systems developed by DRDO further ensured that Indian forces could dominate the electromagnetic spectrum. These systems enabled the disruption of enemy communications and surveillance infrastructure, a critical factor in neutralizing early threats and maintaining battlefield advantage. DRDO’s integration of spectrum analysis tools with advanced signal processors created a robust shield that was both adaptive and field-proven.

Complementing these were high-performance surveillance systems and multi-mode radars that gave Indian forces complete situational awareness, even in complex operational theatres. From long-range battlefield surveillance units to electro-optical payloads, these systems ensured that the flow of real-time intelligence remained uninterrupted, enabling rapid and coordinated decision-making across command structures.

Counter-Dronesystems:

The growing threat of unmanned aerial systems was countered with equal foresight. DRDO developed a comprehensive countermeasure-the D4 system. This advanced, vehicle-mounted counter-drone solution is designed to neutralize the growing risk from rogue UAVs through an integrated multi-layered architecture. The D4 system synergizes key subsystems, including RF-based drone detection, radar tracking, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) identification, and a combination of soft-kill and hard-kill capabilities. It effectively employs RF jammers to disrupt hostile communication links, while electro-optical tracking ensures visual confirmation and precision targeting. For kinetic neutralization, the system incorporates hard-kill mechanisms capable of engaging and destroying the aerial threat, ensuring a robust and adaptive response across diverse operational scenarios.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) marked a significant achievement in 2020 by swiftly developing and deploying an indigenous anti-drone system during the challenging peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This system was operationally deployed near Delhis Red Fort on August 15, 2020, to safeguard the 74th Independence Day celebrations, including Prime Minister Narendra Modis address .

Anti drone system

These systems neutralized some of the hostile drone incursions, protecting both frontline troops and strategic assets. Developed as part of a Development cum production partnership initiative under the leadership of DRDO’s DG, Electronics Cluster, the D4 project has emerged as a powerful case study in co-development and battlefield relevance.

Visionary leadership:

Long before drone warfare captured international focus, the Electronics Cluster at DRDO had initiated the development of modular, scalable counter-drone systems. The D4 system was the result of this proactive strategy-designed for multi-sensor integration and rapid deployment across various conflict zones. The path adopted by visionaries is to have the PSUs and Indian private companies as key development partners in the program.

DRDO – industry ecosystem:

Unistring Tech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (UTS) a Subsidiary of Zen Technologies is one of the key private sector partners involved in the D4 program. The company was entrusted with the supply of Key RF and digital sub systems. This collaboration was marked not just by technical delivery, but by deep engagement with DRDO throughout the lifecycle of the system-from early design reviews to live field trials.

Dr Nagendra Babu Samineni, & K Srinivasa Raju

The experience of being involved in co-development efforts, backed by strong institutional mentorship, allowed UTS to not only deliver state-of-the-art systems but to shape and adapt them based on frontline realities and evolving threat scenarios. As drone threats continue to evolve, so must the system-reflecting the dynamic nature of electronic warfare, which demands constant innovation and adaptability.

A word of appreciation:

Operation Sindoor is more than just an operational milestone-it stands as compelling evidence that India’s defence capabilities are increasingly being shaped and realized within its own borders. The journey from lab to battlefield has become shorter, more collaborative, and significantly more impactful. Under the leadership of DRDO, we have seen what becomes possible when a strong national vision is matched by the innovation and commitment of India’s Public and private sector.

Nearly every Indian private enterprise engaged in defence today has, in some form, drawn foundational learnings through its association with DRDO. For many, DRDO served as the first door into the world of defence technology-providing guidance, opportunities, and critical early-stage support. The invaluable and often quiet contributions of DRDO’s scientific community have now yielded tangible results, delivering strategic advantages precisely when the nation needed them most.

A Message to the youth of INDIA:

To the bright young minds of India, In a world driven by technology and marked by evolving challenges, there lies an extraordinary calling-one that goes beyond personal achievement, beyond headlines and awards. It is the call to contribute to the defence of our nation, not just with courage on the frontlines, but with innovation, intellect, and integrity.

Defence technology is not just about machines, missiles, or metal. It is about protecting lives. It is about giving our soldiers the edge to come home safely. It is about ensuring that India’s borders are guarded by systems designed, developed, and delivered by Indians who believe in something greater than themselves.

Imagine working on technologies that can track enemy drones in real-time, develop radar systems that scan the skies for threats, or build secure communication networks that operate even in the harshest conditions. Imagine the excitement of turning theoretical physics into battlefield-ready electronics, or algorithms into life-saving decisions. Every day brings a new challenge. Every breakthrough can shift the balance of national security.

And then imagine the satisfaction-the unmatched pride-of knowing that your work helps protect a billion dreams. That because of your code, your circuit, your design, a threat was neutralized, a life was saved, a mission was accomplished.

India needs not just soldiers in uniform, but scientists, engineers, developers, and thinkers who stand behind them. This is your chance to serve, to build, and to defend-not with a gun, but with a pen, a tool, a keyboard, and a vision.

Join the mission. Be a part of the next generation of defence innovators. Because when you choose to work on technologies that secure our borders, you choose a life of purpose, excitement, and deep national pride

Way ahead:

Every conflict presents an opportunity to both learn and unlearn-to reassess existing practices, identify what proved effective, and recognize what fell short. This is the time to review, reflect, and address deficiencies with clarity and purpose. While certain systems and features performed as intended, others highlighted critical gaps. These insights are not setbacks but essential learnings that will strengthen future capabilities and drive more resilient, adaptive solutions. The lessons from Sindoor serve as both a validation and a roadmap. India is not just defending itself-it is building the future of defence, indigenously and intelligently. As former DRDO scientists, it gives us immense pride to have contributed to this meaningful and transformative journey.

HuntVastuHomes.com, India’s pioneering platform for Vastu-compliant property search, proudly announces its entry into Mumbai, one of the most dynamic and aspirational real estate markets in the country. With this launch, users can now explore the Vastu compliance ratings of flats and apartments in Mumbai – empowering them to make well-informed decisions based on time-tested architectural principles.

Co-founders of Hunt Vastu Homes – Raj Kumar Narang (CEO) and Dr. Smita Narang (Vastu Expert)

Mumbai has consistently been the most searched city on HuntVastuHomes.com, indicating a strong demand for Vastu-aware home buying. In a city where land is scarce and property prices continue to skyrocket, buying a home is more than a transaction – it’s a lifetime investment. Given the stakes, today’s buyers are not only looking for modern amenities but also for homes that promise Peace, Progress, and Prosperity – the core goals of Vastu-compliant living.

Raj Kumar Narang, Co-founder & CEO of HuntVastuHomes.com, shared, “Mumbai was always on our radar, but the consistent volume of searches and interest from this city made the decision inevitable. When people are investing crores into a home, they naturally want every aspect to be right – including the Vastu. We’re excited to help Mumbai homebuyers evaluate their options with our platform and will continue to expand the listings here in the weeks ahead.”

Dr. Smita Narang, Co-founder and Vastu Expert, added, “Mumbai is a city where people come with big dreams – hoping for success, stability, and a better future. But the energy of the space you live in plays a significant role in supporting those aspirations. A property with good Vastu can become a foundation for that journey. Every home listed on HuntVastuHomes.com is evaluated using our proprietary Vastu algorithm, ensuring users receive a clear and insightful rating. Our guiding mantra is ‘Jitni Acchi Rating, Utna Accha Vastu’ – ‘The Higher the Rating, The Better the Vastu.’ It’s not just a score, it’s a step toward fulfilling your dreams.”

About HuntVastuHomes.com

HuntVastuHomes.com is India’s first tech-enabled real estate platform that combines ancient Vastu principles with modern technology to deliver Vastu compliance ratings for residential properties. Designed by Dr. Smita Narang, a globally recognized Vastu expert, the system allows users to upload or browse property floor plans and receive a detailed Vastu analysis – helping them confidently navigate their home-buying journey.

When you think of comfort-tech in India, The Sleep Company is leading the revolution – blending science, innovation, and deep consumer understanding to transform sleep into an elevated experience. The brand has now marked a major milestone with the opening of its 150th store, located in Mumbai, with Indian actor Raashii Khanna gracing the launch as the guest of honour. As it deepens its presence in over 45 cities, The Sleep Company continues to build one of India’s most immersive and accessible comfort-tech networks.

The Sleep Company’s 150th store opens in Mumbai – Raashii Khanna joins Co-Founders Priyanka Salot & Harshil Salot in celebrating the growing comfort-tech revolution!

From a digital-first startup in 2019 to a household name in just five years, The Sleep Company has reimagined the sleep category with its patented SmartGRID technology, fast-growing omnichannel presence, and a loyal base of over 10 Lakh+ customers. With an ARR of Rs. 600 crore and a strong foothold across metro and emerging cities alike, the brand has firmly established itself as one of India’s fastest growing mattress and comfort-tech players.

Driven by real consumer insights, The Sleep Company’s expansion is rooted in one clear trend – today’s consumers want more than convenience; they want experiential buying. In a high-involvement category like sleep, where comfort is subjective and nuanced, people increasingly seek the ability to touch, feel, and try before they trust. This need has shaped the brand’s premium Experience Centre format, where every store is designed not just to sell, but to demonstrate the science behind great sleep.

The newly launched store brings to life the brand’s signature Sleep Labs, featuring interactive demos like Pressure and Heat Mapping Tests that compare SmartGRID with traditional memory foam. These aren’t just product trials – they’re transformative experiences that educate consumers on the future of comfort.

Priyanka Salot & Harshil Salot, Co-founders, The Sleep Company said, “The 150th store marks a meaningful milestone in our journey – not just in terms of numbers, but in the growing shift we’re seeing in how India approaches sleep and comfort. When we started The Sleep Company, our goal was to make cutting-edge comfort technology available to every household – not just online, but in a way people could truly experience. With each store, we’re bringing that vision closer to reality.”

They further added, “Consumers today are more informed, more curious, and more willing to invest in products that improve their everyday lives – and we see that reflected in the way they engage with our SmartGRID innovation. This expansion is a response to that demand. It allows us to meet people where they are – in cities big and small – and give them the confidence to choose better sleep, through spaces designed around experience, education, and trust. We’re excited about what lies ahead as we continue to build the future of comfort-tech in India.”

Raashii Khanna, Indian Actor, also shared her experience, “Good sleep isn’t a luxury – it’s essential to how we show up in life every day. That’s why I’m so excited to be part of this milestone with The Sleep Company. Their focus on science-backed comfort, is something I genuinely admire. It’s a brand that blends elegance with purpose – just like how I approach my craft – and I’m proud to be associated with a mission that’s helping people across the country rest better, live better, and dream bigger.”

With a bold vision to expand over 1 lakh sq. ft. of premium retail space by FY25, and a growing presence in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, The Sleep Company is solidifying its position as India’s most trusted comfort-tech brand. As the lines between wellness and lifestyle continue to blur, the brand aims to meet the evolving needs of a new generation – one that prioritizes both innovation and well-being.

About The Sleep Company

The Sleep Company is Asia’s first and only provider of SmartGRID technology, revolutionizing sleep and sitting solutions. As one of India’s fastest-growing brands, it is reshaping both the direct-to-consumer (D2C) and omnichannel landscapes while driving innovation in the mattress industry. Founded by the visionary couple Priyanka and Harshil Salot, The Sleep Company began as a pursuit of scientifically supported mattresses and has evolved into a brand dedicated to enhancing consumers’ sleeping and sitting experiences.

The company offers premium products in diverse comfort categories resulting from meticulous research that stands light years ahead of competitors, with technology rooted in cutting-edge developments in material science and sleep science. Initially adopting a purely D2C model, The Sleep Company has since transitioned into an omnichannel powerhouse. In June 2022, the company marked its foray into offline retail with the launch of its first store in Bangalore, and currently has over 150+ stores.

By enhancing discoverability and streamlining supply chains, The Sleep Company consistently delivers a distinctive value proposition with accessible premium products. After securing INR 13.4 crore in pre-Series A, and INR 177 crore in a Series B round led by Premji Invest and Fireside Ventures, the Company has now secured INR 184 crore in Series C funding.

HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers and Digamber Capfin Ltd. have come together with the aim of covering micro loans, thereby enhancing financial inclusion. This partnership would enable expanding access to life insurance across underserved regions of India.

HDFC Life and Digamber Capfin Ltd. Collaborate to Cover Micro Loans and Make Life Insurance Accessible for All

This association will leverage Digamber Capfin’s extensive network across 120 districts in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, thus enabling deeper penetration of life insurance into semi-urban and rural markets.

This will give further impetus to the common objective of both organisations – to bridge the financial inclusion gap by reaching diverse and previously untapped communities. The initiative aligns with HDFC Life’s commitment to making life insurance accessible to every Indian, thus contributing to the larger goal of financial security and empowerment for all.

Speaking on this, Vineet Arora – Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, HDFC Life said, “We are pleased to collaborate with Digamber Capfin Ltd. The life insurance industry has set out to achieve the goal of ‘Insurance for all by 2047’. At HDFC Life, we are endeavouring to achieve this collective goal by enhancing our footprint across geographies. We believe this association will play an important role in insuring individuals, especially those belonging to the economically weaker section of the society, thus securing the future for them and their families.”

Speaking on the partnership, Rajiv Jain – Chairman and Managing Director, Digamber Capfin Ltd. said, “We are extremely delighted to partner with HDFC Life to ensure that every loan extended to underprivileged entrepreneurs gives them social security. This collaboration will provide financial protection to their families in the unfortunate event of the borrower’s demise. HDFC Life’s strong focus on customer centricity and its simplified, end-to-end processes will enable Digamber Capfin Ltd. to effectively extend insurance coverage to low-income individuals at the bottom of the pyramid.“

Krombacher, Germany’s largest privately owned brewery, launched its premium Cola Variant in Dec 2024, SPEZI, in India in partnership with Heimat Beverages (Nirmaan Group). The Distribution is gaining lot of traction and currently is getting distributed Across Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Goa and Gujarat. While talking to the Founder of Heimat Beverages, Padmanabh Shah, he said “The Demand from General Trade, Modern Trade, Amazon and HoReCa is highly encouraging and the repeat orders are a testament to the same. We are also getting lot of corporate orders for Gifting purpose.“

Mr. Padmanabh Shah

Mr Shah added, “SPEZI is a sparkling, fresh mixed drink made from cola and orange soda. The fizzy cola mix is non-alcoholic. Flavor plays an important role in soft drink selection, and expanding flavor variety is what is creating the add-on demand. SPEZI is a Fun Drink and India is Loving it.”

To amplify awareness, Heimat has rolled out an all-India campaign inside PVR INOX cinema lobbies, matching Spezi’s bright visual identity with high-footfall movie nights. Parallelly, a digital-push is given to consumers in immersive ways to share the cola-orange experience online. The dual approach-for reach and performance marketing for precision-reinforces Heimat’s data-led philosophy while building Spezi’s as a playful drink.