• Conducts more than 40 training workshops, engaging over 1,500 women nationally

• Through investments in tech-driven supply chain and emerging technologies Flipkart is enabling sellers to seamlessly reach customers across India

Flipkart, Indias homegrown e-commerce marketplace, is enabling small businesses, rural entrepreneurs, and women-led enterprises to thrive in the digital economy through dedicated interventions. It has hosted numerous training, capacity-building and onboarding workshops in particular enabling sellers, entrepreneurs from marginalized sections, areas where in digital literacy, ecommerce awareness has been lacking to ensure through market across & linkages leading to livelihood generation. Flipkart has collaborated with various government bodies, North Eastern Handloom, Handicrafts Development Corporation, National Rural Livelihood Mission, One District One Product initiative, also as partners of Government of Uttar Pradesh participated at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, to educate, orient, sellers under the One District One Product initiative and conducted training sessions for rural entrepreneurs.

Exhibition booth at Prayag Maha Kumbh 2025 showcasing Flipkart and One District One Product’s (ODOP) collaboration

In 2024 alone, Flipkart has conducted over 40 workshops across India covering rural belts supporting over 1500 rural women entrepreneurs, self help groups and micro, small entrepreneurs, sellers across India. Through strategic collaborations with NSDC, DPIIT, and the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), Flipkart has hosted orientation and training programs across India, in Jammu Kashmir, West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Goa and more. These further equip rural women, artisans, and micro-entrepreneurs with digital skills and marketplace access. By leveraging technology, partnerships, and financial inclusion, Flipkart continues to fuel the growth of India’s MSME ecosystem, fostering self-reliance and economic empowerment at scale.

Rajneesh Kumar, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Flipkart Group, said, “Flipkart remains committed to strengthening India’s e-commerce ecosystem, enabling millions of MSMEs, entrepreneurs, and SGHs to scale through technology, innovation, and a robust marketplace. Through our PAN-India workshops, we are enabling small businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive, driving self-reliance and inclusive growth. As we innovate constantly, we continue to explore new ways to leverage e-commerce to uplift and empower all sections of society, ensuring MSMEs play a key role in Indias journey towards a leading economy.”

The company is committed to driving MSME growth through technology-driven solutions, financial inclusion, and digital empowerment. Programs like Flipkart Samarth enable artisans, small businesses, and rural entrepreneurs to scale, while Flipkart’s commitment to ‘Made in India’ products strengthens local industries. The Flipkart Samarth initiative, launched in 2019, has positively impacted over 1.8 million livelihoods across 28 states & union territories in India, preserving over 100 traditional art forms and fostering growth among thousands of sellers. The program has expanded its seller base by 300%. By leveraging AI, supply chain innovation, and deep marketplace insights to help MSMEs grow, Flipkart is driving inclusive economic growth and shaping the future of India’s digital commerce landscape.

The month of love is here, inviting us to celebrate connections that are deep, real, and enduring. It’s a time to honour love that transcends doubt, shifting from the uncertainty of ‘Could this be‘ to the excitement of ‘This is it.’ It’s found in the laughter that lingers, the comfortable silences, and the certainty of knowing you’ve found the one. When moments spent together evolve into plans for a lifetime, you know you’ve discovered a love that is eternal, precious, and rare.

Lasting Promises

This month, as you celebrate love in its truest and rarest form, make it memorable, and #SealItWithPlatinum – the only metal worthy of capturing its essence. Crafted from 95% pure and exceptionally rare platinum, which is found in only a select few locations worldwide, and 30 times rarer than gold – Platinum Love Bands are not just jewellery; they are the ultimate symbol of love. A love that’s one of a kind!

With their contemporary designs Platinum Love Bands celebrate modern relationship values-cherishing each other’s individuality, celebrating mutual successes, and equally sharing life’s responsibilities. Platinum’s unparalleled strength ensures it doesn’t change form or lose its natural white, mirroring the resilience and constancy of a love that is truly one of a kind. Just as platinum endures without fading, so does the love it symbolizes-unwavering and eternal.

Through distinctive textures, fluid lines, and elegant motifs – Platinum Love Bands are designed to capture stories of love beautifully. Whether you prefer a minimalist and chic style or timeless elegance, the diverse collection of Platinum Love Bands offers something that deeply resonates with all couples committed to the journey of love. Opting for Platinum Love Bands is embracing an enduring symbol of love – one that you can wear every day and cherish, and is crafted to remain beautiful throughout your shared future.

This Valentine’s Day, when love speaks, #SealItWithPlatinum, and choose from an array of Platinum Love Bands to celebrate this special occasion:

Lasting Promises
The moment you realise that your love is a steady rock on which you can rely on in the face of uncertainty, you know you’ve found a love that’s truly rare. These love bands, designed with repeating forms, serve as a reminder of your unshakable trust in each other. No matter how many times life alters its course, your love remains steadfast. Cast in platinum, a metal with unmatched strength that makes it so rare, these Platinum Love Bands perfectly match the strength of your love. A love so rare. A love so platinum.

Hearts in Harmony
The moment you realise that you mirror each other’s dreams and beliefs, you know you’ve found a love that’s truly rare. These love bands are mirror images of each other, reflecting how you grow together, backing each other all the way. Cast in 95% pure platinum, one of the highest standards of purity in precious jewellery, platinum is truly one of a kind. Let these Platinum Love Bands be enduring symbols of your unbreakable bond. A love so rare. A love so platinum.

Blissful Balance
The moment you realize that your unique journeys have seamlessly united to forge a harmonious haven, you know you’ve found a love that’s truly rare. These love bands embody the essence of duality. They combine brushed and glossy textures on his ring, and plain studded finishes on hers, merging into beautiful central motifs that symbolize your love. They perfectly represent your two paths that merge into one cherished space. Cast in a celestial metal that arrived on earth through a meteorite crash billions of year ago, platinum is truly rare. Let these Platinum Love Bands serve as a testament to your unique journey together. A love so rare. A love so platinum

Platinum Love Bands by PGI India are available across leading jewellery retail stores in the country, for more details visit: www.platinumdaysoflove.com.

About Platinum Guild International (PGI)
Platinum Guild International (PGI) is a marketing organisation with the vision to develop the global platinum jewellery market as a new demand source for platinum. It was formed in 1975 with specialist teams dedicated to growing the global platinum jewellery market through consumer and trade-facing programmes in the four key jewellery markets of China, India, Japan and USA. Since then, jewellery development has demonstrated a strong track record in delivering results. Through various programmes, both direct-to-consumer and in collaboration with jewellery retailers and manufacturers, PGI creates consumer ounce demand by first identifying opportunities for platinum in jewellery, and then developing them with partners. It also aims to build an enduring commitment to platinum in jewellery. PGI’s consumer marketing and educational programmes are focused on developing awareness and an appreciation for platinum’s unique properties as a precious metal for fine jewellery. In addition, PGI works globally with collaborative partners running extensive marketing programmes in the four main platinum jewellery markets of China, Japan, USA and India. These markets are staffed with experts in strategic planning, marketing, retail, design and business development.

PGI is funded by the leading platinum producers of South Africa, as well as through co-funded programmes with the jewellery industry.

Purity Assurance Program
PGI has partnered with TUV India Pvt Ltd to implement a robust audit programme to ensure the purity of platinum under its programme. TUV is one of the country’s first certification bodies and has been closely associated with the quality revolution in India. Under Platinum Guild India’s quality assurance programme, each individual piece of jewellery has an assured purity as high as 95%. And as a proof of this assurance, every piece is stamped ‘Pt950’ and comes with a tamper-proof quality assurance card that distinguishes authentic platinum from other jewellery.

A Unique Identification Number is also stamped on the jewellery in addition to the detailed description of the piece you choose for yourself. Our quality assurance programme is in place to ensure transparency and that the platinum the consumer buys is of the highest quality. After all, that is what true value is all about.

Wow! Momo, India’s leading QSR chain, has launched a poignant Valentine’s Day campaign that celebrates the truest form of unconditional love – the bond between a mother and her child. The new film showcases a young boy surprising his mother on Valentine’s Day, declaring her as the most special person in his life.

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate the one who taught you what unconditional love truly means #WowValentinesDay #WowMomo #WowChina #WowChicken #WowKulfi #WowEats

By breaking away from conventional portrayals of Valentine’s Day as being solely about romantic relationships, the campaign redefines love as something pure, selfless, and deeply rooted in everyday moments. The ad captures the essence of celebrating extraordinary emotions in the seemingly ordinary connections we often take for granted.

Valentine’s Day Brand Film | Wow! Momo #WowValentinesDay

YouTube link: www.youtube.com/watchfeature=shared&v=Xmuk7sFBL0g

Commenting on the campaign, L. Muralikrishnan, Co-founder and CMO of Wow! Momo, said, “This film reinterprets the real celebration of love and reimagines extraordinary moments in ordinary relationships. Through this story, we wanted to challenge the stereotypical definition of Valentine’s Day and shine a light on the love that truly matters – unconditional, timeless, and selfless.”

This campaign is part of Wow! Momo’s commitment to sharing meaningful and relatable stories under the banner of “Wow Stories“, Known for its innovation in both food and storytelling, the brand continues to connect with audiences emotionally while creating unforgettable experiences.

The Valentine’s Day film is set to strike a chord with viewers across generations, reminding everyone that love is not bound by societal definitions or expectations-it’s found in the simplest yet most profound moments of life.

About Wow! Momo

Founded in 2008, Wow! Momo is India’s leading quick-service restaurant chain, renowned for its innovative approach to traditional momos. With over 670+ outlets across 60+ cities in India, Wow! Momo has expanded its culinary footprint nationwide, winning the hearts of millions of momo lovers.

With Uttar Pradesh (UP) embarking on an ambitious journey to become a hub for AI and Information Technology (IT) in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of positioning India at the forefront of AI innovation, Chandigarh University Lucknow organised two-day “UP AI Synergy Conclave 2025” bringing together policy makers, global AI experts, academia and industry stalwarts – for a synchronized synergy among all stakeholders for making India global AI Hub.

Kapil Dev Aggarwal Minister of Skill Development, UP Govt along with AI Experts, Satnam Singh Sandhu MP & Chancellor Chandigarh University inaugurating UP AI Synergy Conclave at Lucknow

Besides UP Minister of State (independent charge) for Vocational Education, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Kapil Dev Agarwal and Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chandigarh University Chancellor, the UP AI Synergy Conclave 2025 was attended by over 30 CEOs, Founders, Presidents and Vice Presidents of various companies, AI experts, academia, industry stalwarts, angel investors and students from higher educational institutions.

They included Varun Agarwal, Founder, Change Engine, Shailesh Kumar, Chief Data Scientist at the Centre of Excellence in AI/ML, Reliance Jio, Abhilasha Gaur, CEO of Nasscom’s IT-ITeS sector skill council, Maya Sherman, AI Literacy Project Co-lead at the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence, Umesh Kataria, AVP at EXL Digital, Rishabh Nag, Co-founder at Humanli.AI, Aman Singal, Head of Digital & Analytics (DnA CoE) at JK Tyre & Industries Ltd., Suchit Mujumdar, Co-founder, Accredian, Nirmal Vatsyayan, Head – Research and AI, Nandan Mishra, CEO & Co-founder Algo8, Abhishek Srivastava, Co-founder and CEO of MBAtrek Pvt. Ltd., CP Joshi, Co-founder and CEO at ixamBee, Saumya Shukla, Co-founder of Dectrocel Health Care and Research Pvt. Ltd., Shailendra Nath Jha, Co-founder and Director of Product & Strategy, Change Engine, Varun Agarwal, Founder, Change Engine, Kuldeep Yadav, Director, SHL Labs, Alok Tiwari, Country Head, group.one, Ashish Vyas, Head Cloud Infra Strategy and Modernization, TCS.

During the Conclave, Chandigarh University Lucknow signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading tech companies for skill training, campus placement opportunities, technology transfer, setting up technology laboratories and practical training for students in the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

On the occasion, CEOs, Founders, Presidents and Vice Presidents of various companies said even before the starting to provide education to its first batch of students during the upcoming 2025-26 academic session, Chandigarh University Lucknow has taken the right step by involving key stakeholders in academic planning along with industries.

They said this AI Conclave will create a strong link between education and industry in order to prepare students for new futuristic jobs related to AI. Assuring support.

The industry experts said the MoUs will also facilitate curriculum development, workshops, and offer mentorship from industry experts, ensuring that students are equipped with real-world experience. They said Chandigarh University Lucknow has showcased its vision through the AI ​​Conclave.

UP Minister Kapil Dev Agarwal says Rs. 2500 Crore Investment at Chandigarh University Lucknow will give opportunity to students, especially those from Uttar Pradesh, to move forward.

UP Minister of State for Vocational Education, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Kapil Dev Agarwal said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a wonderful presentation on AI in France and America, which shows how fast we, the Government of India and the whole world are moving forward at the global level, which is also very much needed at present. Despite many problems in the country like terrorism, anti-social forces, separatism and poverty, the way PM Modi is leading India in front of the world, inviting the whole world to come to India and assuring cooperation wherever India can, is commendable. Conditions in India are different from other countries. PM Modi is making India compete with America, Japan, China with great pride. PM Modi believes that to move forward, the thinking should be big. To become big, the vision should be big.”

The Minister said, “UP government has entered into a collaboration with Tata to give skills to the children so that the industry can get a skilled workforce in various streams. There are many opportunities in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh as well, an AI hub is being built in Lucknow in 170 acres.”

“PM Modis aim is to make India a US$5 Trillion economy, and for this we have to compete with countries like China and Japan. To achieve this goal, we are equipping our youth with skills as per the requirement of the industry. The governments aim is that the youth should not only become job seekers but also job providers and a skilled workforce. Chandigarh University Lucknow will play an important role in this direction. Todays AI Conclave is an important step in this direction, in which many important ideas have emerged, which will shape the future of AI,”Agrawal said thanking MP and Chancellor of Chandigarh University, Sandhu for establishing the new campus of Chandigarh University in Lucknow with investment of Rs. 2500 Crore which, he said, is giving opportunities to students, especially those from Uttar Pradesh, to move forward.

“Chandigarh University Lucknow to transform India’s education landscape with AI-Augmented multidisciplinary education,” says MP & Chandigarh University Chancellor Satnam Singh Sandhu.

In his welcome address, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chancellor of Chandigarh University, Satnam Singh Sandhu, said, “The entire world is looking at India today as a record 40 crore people from different corners of the world have converged at Mahakumbh Mela in UP to take holy dip in holy water. The arrangements made by UP government for this world’s largest gathering are commendable. We promise that in the next Maha Kumbh, we will use AI for all the arrangements and the biggest contribution in this direction will be made by Chandigarh University Lucknow. AI is the need of today, I believe that whoever invests in AI, will do the best tomorrow; be it any nation, government or company. When I look at the India AI Mission, an investment of Rs. 10,000 crore has been made by the Government of India. When I look at the Uttar Pradesh government, the government is going to build an AI hub here with an investment of Rs. 1,000 crore. I would like to thank Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and the UP government for this.”

Sandhu further said, “It is a matter of great pride that PM Modi co-chaired the AI Action Summit in Paris. This is further exemplified by the acceptance of Modi ji’s vision by the Vice President of the United States, who also urged the world to learn from it. It is an honour that PM Modi has brought the Presidency of the Global AI Summit to India which will host the global summit. For filling PM Modi’s IndiaAI Mission, together we will create India AI Foundation. With this, we all will work together so that Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of Viksit Bharat can be realised.”

“India, with one of the world’s largest AI talent pools, must focus on skilling and re-skilling its workforce for an AI-driven future. In line with this, Chandigarh University Lucknow has established Indias first AI-integrated campus and is pioneering AI-augmented multidisciplinary education in India,” he added.

Change Engine Founder, Varun Agarwal says India must think ahead, make strategic investment in Next-Gen AI Technologies for nation’s global competitiveness.

“UP AI Synergy Conclave 2025 Will Give New Vision for Advancing Chandigarh University Lucknow, Government, and Indias Future,” says Change Engine Founder, Varun Agarwal.

In his address, Varun Agarwal, Founder, Change Engine, said, “This is a great Conclave to discuss. There is a huge transformation in the field of AI and there is opportunity as well as challenges for India in the field because are moving toward a world where every nation is becoming hyper competitive to take a lead in AI. In this scenario, what should India do In this context, the discussions in this AI Conclave we will get solutions for India. We already know about ChatGPT and recently discussions have also started about DeepSeek AI model of China. So there are suggestions that India should also make its AI model. We should certainly do this (make AI model), but we should be forward thinking. The AI foundational model were made two years back and now we should think what will be next leap (in AI) because if we were to do the work people have done two years back, we will always be catching up with others. So, we have to think what will be future technological advancement. For instance, those who use AI models like ChatGPT have lots of drawbacks because there is hallucination, they fabricate facts and gives answers which are difficult to understand, it’s power consuming so not good for energy. So we have to prepare future vision for India. So, whenever there is technological revolution in the world, India should be where US, China or other countries are today. So we have to invest in such technologies for now on. So, we have to think which technologies will make an impact in next five or ten years. We have to build capacity in that from now on. So, the first point is that we should make foundational model but we want that the countries which have made such a model should say that India has made a model and they too will build such a model.

“So, the Conclave in UP is contextual to that because we want the AI to expand everywhere in the country. In education, the Chandigarh University Lucknow has taken an initiative for this and the government has brought digital revolution with UPI which has become an example for the entire world. So likewise, the government can bring AI in its working. We will have to do this because it can be our competitive advantage that we made our processes efficient quickly with the use AI. Today’s youth doesn’t want to take only but also wants to give back to the society. So need the experience for that. It’s called diffusion in policy language. How fast can this AI diffusion in our society that start-ups start make use of AI, it gets started to be used in education and by the government also. We have to see what new vision can be derived from this Conclave which will be beneficial for Chandigarh University, government and whole of India,” he added.

India Shaping AI Roadmap; other Nations Trying to Understand How Responsible AI Shaped in India can be Scaled-up in other places: Maya Sherman, renowned Science & Technology Diplomat and AI policy expert.

AI-Augmented Chandigarh University Lucknow campus will enable the future generation of students to be better prepared for tomorrow: Maya Sherman, renowned Science & Technology Diplomat and AI policy expert.

Maya Sherman, renowned Science and Technology Diplomat who is AI Literacy Project Co-lead at the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) said, “In the last few years, under the pioneering leadership of PM Narendra Modi, India has made significant strides in deployment of responsible AI across sectors, the understanding of how it should be implemented across education sector, health care, understanding how community can benefit from AI.”

Sherman said, “So many things are happening in the country from India’s presidency of G-20, discussions around GPAI and India Chairing Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence; these things impacting the way other nations are addressing AI today. AI safety institute that is about to come in India, the regulation that are being shaped up are all leading us to a much more vibrant and stronger ecosystem led by very strong and pioneering startups in the country. The fact that India will be chairing the AI summit is already a testament and a proof of the role that India is taking today when it comes to the AI landscape and the road map,” she said.

On UP AI Synergy Conclave 2025, Sharman said, “Thanks to this kind of initiatives and Conclave that were able to think together on the future of AI. I am quite excited to be part of this pioneering initiatives by Chandigarh University Lucknow which will enable students to learn on the different facets of AI, enable the future generation of students to be better prepared for tomorrow. Not all universities offer that and thats something incredibly special in pioneering is being offered now here.”

“Union government investing heavily for Skill Development in country,”says Abhilasha Gaur, CEO of Nasscom’s IT-ITeS sector skill council.

Engaging Industry Professionals for Academic Collaborations Before First Session is a praiseworthy step by Chandigarh University Lucknow, will pave way for nurturing future-ready workforce: Abhilasha Gaur, CEO of Nasscom’s IT-ITeS sector skill council.

Abhilasha Gaur, CEO of Nasscom’s IT-ITeS sector skill council said, “India will be a global leader in the workforce in 2047. In order achieve this vision, India is not only developing skills for the domestic market but also building capabilities to serve the global workforce, particularly in areas like AI and technology. India is already a global IT power and it won’t take much for the country to become global leader in AI. As per reports from the World Economic Forum indicate, India is expected to be 2nd largest player in the future workforce after USA. This progress can be furthered by institutions like Chandigarh University Lucknow, which plays a key role in aligning education with industry requirements.”

Lauding Chandigarh University Lucknow for proactively engaging with industry professionals for establishing academic collaborations even before staring the session, Gaur said, “Engaging with industry professionals even before starting the institution is a praiseworthy move by Chandigarh University Lucknow especially when AI has become a buzzword across all sectors, this early collaboration will surely benefit students in the future.”

“Chandigarh University Lucknow Students to Get Futuristic AI Education & Skills for Becoming Part of Global Workforce in AI driven world,”says Chandigarh University MD Jai Inder Singh Sandhu.

While sharing the details of the MoUs signed with tech industry during the AI Conclave, Jai Inder Singh Sandhu, Managing Director, Chandigarh University said, “The collaborations between the industry and Chandigarh University Lucknow will play an important role in promoting education and industry and providing skill development, placement, practical training to students in AI fields. Apart from this, it will also prove to be a milestone in providing AI skill training, technology transfer, setting up of technology laboratories, organizing workshops, curriculum development and providing mentorship by expert. With these MoUs, we will ensure that our students will get real world experience for becoming part of the global workforce in the AI driven world.”

Lucknow – the city known for its hospitality to become city of AI Revolution; Chandigarh University will be pivotal in realizing this vision: Manoj Joshi, Advisor, Chandigarh University Lucknow.

Manoj Joshi, Advisor Chandigarh University Lucknow said, “Lucknow has long been known as the city of hospitality, but now, it is on the verge of becoming the city of the AI revolution. Chandigarh University is going to make this long-term vision laid out by the state government and the Prime Minister a reality. It will steer it into technological revolution that is poised to transform the entire mind-set altogether. The big question is, can AI truly revolutionize education and propel India at the forefront of the technological revolution Yes, that’s exactly going to happened. Over the next few months, we will demonstrate what AI can achieve. This is about to transform the educational landscape and bridge several gaps between industry and academia.”

• myTrident, the domestic home furnishing brand of Trident enters the luxury home furnishings market with the launch of LUXEHOME

• myTrident eyeing growth in the East and South India, with plans to add 500 premium retail points by 2025

Trident Group, a global conglomerate and a leading name in the home textiles industry, today announced ambitious plans at Bharat Tex 2025, targeting a threefold growth by 2027. This aggressive growth is fueled by an INR 1000 crore capital expenditure plan for FY25-26, focusing on sustainability, modernization, and asset enhancement across its home textiles, yarn, and energy businesses.

Hon’ble Union Minister of Textiles, Sh. Giriraj Singh, alongwith Padma Shri Dr. Rajinder Gupta, Chairman Trident Group & Rajneesh Bhatia, CEO myTrident at Bharat Tex 2025

A cornerstone of the growth is the expansion of its domestic home textile brand, myTrident, into the luxury segment with the launch of LUXEHOME by myTrident. This exclusive new line caters to discerning customers who appreciate the finest craftsmanship and unparalleled quality in home textiles. The collection includes a curated selection of premium bedding and exquisitely crafted towels renowned for their superior softness, absorbency, and durability. With a price range of INR 4,000 to INR 40,000, LUXEHOME by myTrident offers a touch of refined elegance for the most discerning homes. This strategic move positions myTrident to capture a significant share of the burgeoning luxury home furnishings market in India.

Padma Shri Dr. Rajinder Gupta, Chairman, Trident Group, shared his vision, stating, “At Trident, we are committed to shaping the future of the textile industry by integrating innovation and sustainability. Our growth is driven by our unwavering focus on modernization, value creation, and global expansion. Bharat Tex 2025 is a landmark event that highlights Indias immense potential as a textile powerhouse, and Trident is proud to contribute to this journey. By investing in advanced technology, sustainable practices, and market-driven solutions, we are not just strengthening our leadership position but also redefining the standards of excellence in the home textile industry.”

Neha Gupta, Chairperson, myTrident, highlighted the brand’s expansion and luxury market entry, saying, “LUXEHOME represents a transformational step for myTrident as we elevate our presence in the luxury home furnishings segment. By leveraging our heritage of craftsmanship and manufacturing excellence, we are bringing world-class luxury to discerning Indian customers. Our focus is on redefining home elegance with meticulously designed, high-quality products that cater to the aspirations of modern Indian homes. We’re thrilled to showcase this collection which aligns with Bharat Tex’s focus on a futuristic and responsible textile industry.”

Commenting on myTrident’s growth plans, Rajneesh Bhatia, CEO of myTrident stated, “We are increasing our retail touch points from the current 7,000 to 10,000. This expansion will solidify our position as a leading home furnishings brand in India and broaden our footprint across the domestic market. To drive further growth, were focusing on key opportunities in HORECA and institutions, aiming to increase our market share in these sectors. Additionally, were exploring opportunities in corporate gifting, recognizing the immense potential in this sector. Speed and agility in serving the consumer remain a core focus for the brand, and thus we are collaborating with all major e-commerce and quick commerce portals.”

Bharat Tex 2025 marked the debut of myTridents Spring Summer 25 collection, which drew inspiration from Indias rich textile heritage. The collection took a journey through four eras – Puratan Yug , Veer Yug, Poorv Aaduhnik Yug, and Unnati Yug- blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques and innovative materials to create a forward-looking vision for the future of textiles.

About Trident Group
Trident Limited is the flagship company of Trident Group, an Indian business conglomerate and global player. Headquartered in Ludhiana, Punjab, Trident Limited is a vertically integrated textile (Yarn, Bath & Bed Linen) and Paper (Wheat Straw-based) manufacturer. Tridents towels, yarns, bedsheets, and paper businesses have earned global recognition and are delighting millions of customers across India and the world. Trident is one of the largest players in home textiles in India.

Supplying national, captive, and retailer-owned brands; the organization is highly decorated with awards from its customers, vendors, and various government entities in recognition of advancing the highest standards in product quality, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship.The company operates in three major business segments: Textiles, Paper, and Chemicals, with its manufacturing facilities in Punjab and Madhya Pradesh.

About myTrident
myTrident is a leading brand specializing in luxurious and premium home furnishings. The company caters to all segments, from luxury and premium to everyday needs. With a focus on design, innovation, and sustainability, the brand has been setting benchmarks in the home textile industry. Understanding customer demands, myTrident offers a range of exquisite products, including bed sheets, towels, pillows, top-of-bed articles, bathrobes, and much more. Each item is crafted with precision and attention to detail to offer customers an unparalleled sense of comfort, style, and elegance. myTrident products are available in all leading hotels across the country. The brand is also available on major e-commerce and quick commerce portals and offers a convenient online shopping experience at: www.mytrident.com

Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA) successfully concluded the 14th edition of its flagship event, the IVCA Conclave 2025, in Mumbai. The two-day event brought together policymakers, global and domestic investors, private equity and venture capital leaders, and industry experts to discuss key investment trends, regulatory developments, and growth opportunities in Indias evolving financial ecosystem.

IVCA Conclave 2025 Concludes with Key Discussions on Secondary Markets, Private Credit, and Growth Investing

The first day of the conclave set the stage with critical discussions on Indias investment climate, regulatory developments, and capital allocation strategies. Dr V Anantha Nageswaran, Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India, provided a macroeconomic perspective on India’s transformation into a global investment hub, while Shri Jayant Sinha, Senior Advisor, IVCA Climate and Sustainability Council, emphasised the importance of long-term strategic planning in India’s evolving investment landscape.

The second day of the conclave opened with an insightful discussion led by Shri K Rajaraman, Chairperson, International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), on the evolution of GIFT City into a global financial hub. He highlighted how regulatory reforms since 2019 have unified governance across financial sectors, enabling seamless capital movement and reducing reliance on foreign jurisdictions for bond issuance and credit access. The ecosystem now hosts over 30 international banks with assets exceeding $78 billion, offering specialised financial products such as acquisition financing and infrastructure funding.

This was followed by a presentation by Dr Dipesh Shah, Executive Director (Development), IFSCA, highlighting the role of GIFT City in positioning India as a global financial hub.

One of the key highlights of the day was the Panel Discussion: Navigating the Secondary Surge – Unlocking Value in India’s Evolving Investment Landscape, where industry leaders explored the growing momentum of secondary transactions. The discussion focused on LP and GP-led secondaries, valuation strategies, and regulatory considerations shaping this burgeoning market. The panel provided valuable insights into how secondaries are increasingly becoming a preferred liquidity avenue in a constrained deal-making environment.

The day also saw the launch of the IVCA-Praxis Report on Growth Investing, which revealed that private investments in India reached $60 billion across 1,595 deals in 2024, with an average deal size of $38 million. Growth stage investments accounted for $10 billion across 388 deals, marking a record high volume with 150+ additional growth deals compared to 2023. The report highlighted that $600 billion in growth funding is required for Indian companies, presenting a massive opportunity for investors. While fundraising from growth-focused funds declined to $3.2 billion, its share of overall fundraising reached a five-year high of 29%. Public market exits drove 60% of overall exit value, emphasising the growing role of IPOs in unlocking value for investors.

With alternative investment structures gaining prominence, the Panel Discussion: CAT III Funds – Navigating the Investment Landscape examined the role of hedge funds and structured products in India’s financial ecosystem. The panel discussed regulatory frameworks, innovation in fund strategies, and the risk-return profile of these vehicles. Bhautik Ambani, CEO, AlphaGrep Investment Management, stated, “One of the things that CAT III funds offer, which PMS or mutual funds cannot, is superior risk-adjusted returns. No other asset class in India today provides the flexibility to generate better returns with the level of risk taken. CAT III funds provide solutions that other platforms simply cannot.”

Another significant discussion revolved around India’s private credit landscape. The Panel Discussion: Private Credit – Expanding from Niche to Norm in India highlighted the surge in private credit investments, evolving deal structures, and the increasing role of domestic and global investors in this space.

Rubin Chheda, Managing Director, Neo Asset Management, stated, “Private credit in India remains niche, accounting for just 1.3-1.4% of total bank and corporate debt exposure-far behind the U.S., where it constitutes 11-12% of the overall debt market. While the U.S. sees highly structured deals with leverage up to 6x, in India, leverage is typically limited to 3-4x. Unlike global markets where leveraged buyouts (LBOs) dominate, Indias private credit landscape is constrained by regulatory structures that limit capital movement across entities, making deal structuring more complex.”

Anant Khatri, Executive Director (Private Credit Investments), Avendus, emphasized, “Private credit plays a crucial role in sectors where traditional lending models don’t work. Real estate, for instance, requires custom financial solutions based on location, sales velocity, and pricing viability. Over the past 15 years, private credit has transitioned from being dominated by specialized NBFCs to large alternative investment funds. It provides much-needed short-term capital to bridge funding gaps.”

Monu Jain, Partner, Credit, Aavishkar Capital, remarked, “Blended finance is emerging as a powerful tool to attract private capital at lower risks and costs. Public capital, including funds from development finance institutions and multilateral agencies, acts as catalytic capital through grants, concessional loans, and guarantees. ESG-focused private credit remains niche within a niche. While over $700 billion has been allocated globally to sustainability finance in the past decade, private credit makes up just $50 billion. The biggest challenge is the perception that sustainable private credit investments compromise either risk or return.”

As capital markets continue to evolve, the Panel Discussion: Balancing Liquidity and Market Dynamics – The Exit Equation examined exit strategies, IPO trends, and consolidation within sectors as key drivers shaping liquidity. Experts discussed the role of public markets in enabling investor exits and the challenges posed by market volatility.

The conclave concluded with the IVCA Alternate Capital Excellence Awards 2025, recognising outstanding contributions and achievements in the private capital industry.

Supporting IVCA Conclave 2025 as the Lead Sponsors were Aavishkar Capital, Cooley, IC Universal Legal Advocates & Solicitors, Iron Pillar, Nishith Desai Associates, Nuvama Asset Management, and Sundaram Alternates. The Co-Sponsors included Madison India Capital, Neo Asset Management, Oman India Joint Investment Fund, and Playbook.

Over two days, the IVCA Conclave 2025 facilitated in-depth conversations on India’s investment landscape, regulatory shifts, and emerging financial trends, reaffirming its position as a leading platform for stakeholders in the alternative investment space.

About the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA)
The Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA) is a not-for-profit, apex industry body promoting the alternate capital industry and fostering a vibrant investing ecosystem in India. IVCA is committed to supporting the ecosystem by facilitating advocacy discussions with the Government of India, policymakers, and regulators, resulting in the rise of entrepreneurial activity, innovation, and job creation in India and contributing towards the development of India as a leading fund management hub. IVCA members are the most active domestic and global VCs, PEs, funds for infrastructure, real estate, credit funds, limited partners, investment companies, family offices, corporate VCs, and knowledge partners. These funds invest in emerging companies, venture growth, buyout, special situations, distressed assets, and credit and venture debt, among others.

Eros Innovation, a multi-billion-dollar entertainment powerhouse revolutionizing the media business with artificial intelligence, and OxValue.AI, an Oxford University spin-out specializing in AI-driven technology valuation, are pleased to announce a strategic joint venture aimed at transforming the landscape of technology valuation in India.

Eros Innovation and OxValue.AI come together to announce a Joint Venture to Revolutionize Technology Valuation in India

This collaboration seeks to leverage OxValue.AI’s proprietary Valuation of Early Stage Technology (VEST) Tool, which utilizes advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence to provide accurate and objective valuations of early-stage technologies and start-ups. By integrating this innovative tool with Eros Innovation’s extensive network and industry expertise, the joint venture aims to support India’s burgeoning technology sector by facilitating informed investment decisions and fostering innovation.

Key Objectives of the Joint Venture:

1. Empowering Start-ups and SMEs: Provide accessible and affordable valuation services to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups across India, enabling them to attract investment and scale their operations effectively.

2. Facilitating Technology Transfer: Assist in the seamless transfer of technology by providing precise valuations, thereby promoting collaboration between innovators and investors.

3. Supporting Policy and Decision-Making: Offer valuable insights to policymakers and stakeholders to inform strategies that nurture the growth of the technology ecosystem in India.

Kishore Lulla, Chairman of Eros Innovation, commented on the partnership, “We are excited to join forces with OxValue.AI to bring cutting-edge technology valuation services to India. This joint venture aligns with our commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the growth of the technology sector in emerging markets.”

Professor Xiaolan Fu, Founder of OxValue.AI, added,“Our mission has always been to make technology valuation more objective, accurate, and accessible. Partnering with Eros Innovation allows us to extend our reach and impact, particularly in a dynamic and rapidly growing market like India.”

The joint venture will be headquartered in Mumbai, with plans to establish regional offices across major technology hubs in India. Operations are slated to commence in the second quarter of 2025, with an initial focus on sectors such as information technology, biotechnology, and renewable energy.

This partnership underscores a shared vision to drive technological advancement and economic growth in India by providing essential tools and services that empower innovators and investors alike.

Industry leaders have also recognized the potential of OxValue.AI in shaping the future of technology valuation.

“OxValue.AI represents a transformative step forward in the valuation profession. I hope it is an indispensable tool for professionals navigating the Fourth Industrial Revolution.” Said from Nick Talbot, CEO, International Valuation Standards Council.

“OxValue.AI is a game-changer for businesses managing intellectual property offering enterprises a robust tool to drive investment and competitive advantage in the global knowledge economy.” said Ben Llewellyn-Jones, Director, Business and International Policy, UK Intellectual Property Office

About Eros Innovation

Eros Innovation is a multi-billion-dollar entertainment powerhouse, revolutionizing the media business with artificial intelligence. With over a trillion AI tokens powering intellectual property across text, images, and video, the company is pioneering the future of entertainment and digital innovation.

About OxValue.AI

OxValue.AI is an Oxford University spin-out company founded by Professor Xiaolan Fu. The company specializes in utilizing data and AI technology to assess the monetary value of technology and technology-rich start-up companies. Their primary tool, the Valuation of Early Stage Technology (VEST) Tool, leverages various variables, including patent data, to provide objective, accurate, affordable, and accessible valuations. This approach aims to support innovation, assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and facilitate technology transfer to developing countries.

Bajaj Markets, a digital financial marketplace, has partnered with CRIF High Mark to help individuals gain deeper insights into their credit behaviour. In accordance with this, individuals can get their credit score on Bajaj Markets from CRIF High Mark for free. This can help borrowers understand their eligibility for various credit products better and choose options that best suit their needs.

Boost to Credit Reach for Indian Consumers

The CRIF High Mark score ranges between 300 – 900. A higher score signifies better creditworthiness, leading to a lower lending risk being associated with the individual. Some of the major elements taken into consideration to determine an individual’s CRIF Highmark credit score include the following:

• Credit utilisation ratio

• Credit applications

• Credit mix

• Credit payment history

• Number of open and closed credit accounts

• Total outstanding debt

Checking the CRIF High Mark score on Bajaj Markets results in a soft credit check which does not impact the score. This makes it easier for individuals to regularly access and monitor their score without having to face any significant impact. Such frequent checks can help individuals understand their credit status and plan for future loan or credit card applications accordingly.

After checking the credit score on Bajaj Markets, individuals can use the score to assess their eligibility for various credit products on the financial marketplace. They can get secured and unsecured loans from over 45 leading loan providers in India. If required, they can choose a credit card which suits their financial needs from over 30 different options.

Individuals can also explore various investment and insurance offers on the digital financial marketplace. For this, they simply need to visit the Bajaj Markets website or download the official app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

About Bajaj Finserv Direct

Bajaj Finserv Direct, a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv, is one of the fastest-growing fintech companies in India. It has two primary arms, Bajaj Markets, a financial marketplace, and Bajaj Technology Services, a techfin service provider.

Bajaj Markets is a marketplace that offers multiple financial products across all categories – Loans, Cards, Insurance, Investments, Payments, Pocket Insurance, and VAS. Bajaj Markets has partnered with trusted financial brands to offer “India ka Financial Supermarket.” A one-stop destination where its customers can explore a host of products that can help them achieve their financial life goals.

Having started its journey as a fintech, Bajaj Finserv Direct has also built a very strong business as a techfin. Through Bajaj Technology Services it offers a wide gamut of digital technology services which span Custom Applications, Enterprise Applications, Data & Analytics, Gen AI, Cloud Services and Digital Agency.

Visit the Bajaj Markets website or download the Bajaj Markets’ app from the Play Store or App Store to experience “India ka Financial Supermarket.”

The used car market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by factors like increasing affordability, technological advancements, and changing consumer preferences. As the demand for used cars surges, understanding the nuances of interest rates on used car loans becomes crucial for potential buyers.

Insights into Used Car Loan Interest Rates Variation

Banks, NBFCs, and other financial institutions offer lucrative used car loan features, with low interest rates often being one of the key benefits of these loans.

Shriram Finance, one of the headliners in the NBFC (Non-Banking Financial Company) sector, offers Shriram Used Car Loan with an interest rate starting at 10%* p.a. This makes this reputed NBFC one of the top choices in the used car financing segment.

Factors Influencing Interest Rates on Used Car Loans

Several factors contribute to the variation in interest rates on used car loans, some of which are mentioned below:

• Credit Score: A higher credit score, usually 700+, often translates to lower interest rates.

• Loan Amount: Larger loan amounts may attract higher interest rates, as they pose a greater financial risk to lenders.

• Loan Tenure: Longer loan tenures typically result in higher interest rates, as the lenders exposure to risk increases over a longer period.

• Vehicle Age and Condition: Newer vehicles in excellent condition often qualify for lower interest rates.

• Margin Money: A substantial down payment or margin money can reduce the loan amount, potentially leading to lower interest rates.

• Financial Institutions Policies: Different financial institutions have varying interest rate policies. Comparing offers from multiple lenders can help you secure the best deal.

• Economic Factors: Economic indicators like inflation, interest rates set by the RBI, and overall market conditions can impact the interest rates offered on used car loans.

Tips for Securing the Best Interest Rate on a Used Car Loan

There are a few things that borrowers can do to enjoy lower interest rates on their used car loan:

• Improve Your Credit Score: Pay bills on time, maintain a low credit utilisation ratio, and avoid excessive debt. A higher credit score can significantly improve your chances of securing a lower interest rate.

• Shop Around for the Best Deal: Compare offers from multiple lenders to find the most competitive interest rate. Reputed NBFCs may offer lower interest rates than traditional banks.

• Consider a Larger Down Payment: A larger down payment can reduce the loan amount and potentially lower the interest rate. Try to arrange for a larger margin money to enjoy lower rates.

• Opt for a Shorter Loan Tenure: A shorter loan tenure can lead to lower interest payments over the long term.

• Negotiate with the Loan Provider: Do not hesitate to negotiate with your chosen loan provider to secure a better interest rate, especially if you have a strong credit history or an ongoing relationship with the bank or NBFC.

What Makes Shriram Used Car Loan a Compelling Choice

Shriram Finance provides a comprehensive range of features and benefits for its used car loan, designed to make the car-buying experience seamless and financially manageable for customers.

• Attractive Interest Rates: With interest rates starting as low as 10%* p.a., borrowers can finance their used car purchases without incurring excessive costs.

• Higher Financing: Customers can secure financing of up to 85%* of the used cars value.

• Flexible Repayment Tenures: With a repayment tenure of up to 48 months*, Shriram Finance provides flexibility that caters to individual financial situations.

• Easy Application: A simple online process helps prospective borrowers reduce the time and effort required to secure financing for their used car.

• Minimal Documentation: Shriram Finance simplifies the borrowing experience by requiring minimal paperwork.

• Fast Approval: Customers benefit from rapid loan approvals and disbursements, allowing them to access funds swiftly.

• User-Friendly EMI Calculator: The availability of an online EMI calculator empowers potential borrowers to estimate their monthly payments easily.

Conclusion
By understanding the factors that influence interest rates on used car loans and implementing effective strategies, prospective borrowers can significantly reduce their borrowing costs and accelerate their journey to automotive ownership. Shriram Finance, with its compelling used car loan features, including rates starting from 10%* p.a. stands out as one of the top choices in the market, ensuring borrowers can finance a used car of their dreams without a hassle.

*Above mentioned rates and tenure are as per the company’s Digital Used Car Loan Policy

About Shriram Finance
Shriram Finance is a leading diversified financial services company in India, offering a wide range of financial products and services across consumer, wholesale, and business finance segments. The company has a strong presence pan India with a network of 3,196 branches and an employee strength of 79,405 with an AUM of Rs. 254,469 crores. With a focus on financial inclusion and customer-centricity, Shriram Finance continues to empower individuals and businesses to achieve their financial goals.