LEO1, an edu-fintech company backed by Rohit Sharma, has credited 8 crore in education fee benefits through its Fee Reimbursement Model (FRM) in calendar year 2024. The model rewards parents and students for making timely and advance tuition payments with LEO1 Coins, which can be redeemed across 200+ merchant partners, including travel, accommodation, ride-hailing, food, grocery, and shopping platforms.

Rohit Sharma and Rohit Gajbhiye with Debi Prasad Baral and Naveesh Reddy

In addition to this, 1.7 crore worth of LEO1 Coins were credited to parents and students for purchases through the app, further enhancing the value they receive. So far, 55,000+ students have redeemed 50 lakh Coins for items such as power banks, AirPods, smartwatches, air coolers, snacks, and more. In January alone, around 20 lakh Coins were used, reflecting the increasing adoption of the reimbursement model.

As part of its Prime Membership, LEO1 also offers exclusive benefits, including a free consultation to support parents and students in making informed educational and financial decisions, adding to the value proposition.

The model is building an ecosystem that not only helps educational institutions streamline fee collections but also reduces the financial burden on parents. It ensures that education expenses generate value, benefiting both students and families.

The impact has been significant, with some of India’s largest educational groups experiencing improved on-time tuition payments. This is enabling institutions to expand, scale, and introduce new courses and initiatives.

Rohit Gajbhiye, MD & Founder of LEO1, said, “We are privileged to build an ecosystem that transforms expenses at the time of education into a rewarding experience for students and parents. The Fee Reimbursement Model is not just about timely fee payments-it is about creating long-term financial value in education. By incentivizing responsible financial behaviour, we ensure that every rupee spent on education delivers tangible benefits. Our model has helped students while addressing cash flow challenges for universities. We plan to expand to 22 cities, aiming to impact 1.5 million students and establish education payments as a financially empowering process for families across India.”

LEO1 continues to focus on building a sustainable and inclusive financial ecosystem for students, parents, and institutions. The Fee Reimbursement Model also offers a numberless prepaid student ID that doubles as a contactless payment card, serving both as an identity and a payment gateway. Some of the large university groups like Narayana, SAGE, and Jain, LNCT, Geetanjali University are part of LEO1’s reimbursement model, which has positively influenced students, parents, and the broader educational ecosystem.

About LEO1

LEO1 (formerly known as Financepeer) is a pioneering Edu-fintech company headquartered in Mumbai, established in 2018. Renowned as India’s first fee- fee-reimbursement card, the platform addresses long-pending cash flow issues for educational institutions.

LEO1 has partnered with over 31 large institutions, including Narayana, Jain Group, and SAGE University, benefiting around half a million students. Key modules of LEO1 include Rewards, Smart ID Cards, Fee Management, and Financial Literacy, which collectively empower institutions with simplified fee collection, enhanced transparency, and real-time insights. LEO1 incentivizes responsible financial behavior by rewarding timely fee payments with LEO1 coins. These coins can be redeemed across various brands for discounts and vouchers, aligning with the company’s broader mission to make education more accessible by potentially rebating fees for students who consistently meet payment deadlines. This initiative contributes to the larger vision of fostering a cashless ecosystem within educational institutes, enabling timely cash flow, and aligns with India’s & Digital India initiative.

Linemen are the backbone of power distribution, working tirelessly in extreme conditions to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply to homes, industries, and essential services. From restoring power during emergencies and natural calamities to maintaining and upgrading infrastructure, their role is critical in keeping the nation powered. Despite the challenging and hazardous nature of their work, linemen remain committed to their duties, often risking their lives to serve the community.

Lineman Diwas will honour linemen and their vital contributions

Technological initiatives

Technological advancements like Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) and Field Force Automation (FFA) have significantly transformed the way linemen operate. ADMS offers real-time insights into network conditions, enabling faster fault detection and more accurate load management, reducing the response time for outages. FFA ensures seamless communication and coordination among field teams, allowing linemen to prioritize and resolve issues more efficiently. These technologies not only enhance productivity but also improve safety by minimizing exposure to high-risk situations.

Focus on safety

Discoms and power producers are making relentless efforts to enhance linemen’s safety and well-being. The measures include advanced training, awareness around health, and other protective measures. In this context, VR simulations and hands-on safety drills play a critical role in better preparedness, while regular health check-ups, psychological screening, and mental wellness programs support overall well-being of linemen. They are continuously briefed about the importance of Smart PPE like shock-resistant gloves, advanced harnesses, AI-enabled helmets, and arc suits in enhanced safety protocols. Discoms and Gencos also promote a robust safety culture through awareness campaigns, reward programs for compliance, and periodic safety audits, ensuring a safer and more secure working environment. Real time incident reporting, location tracking, and rapid medical response systems are some of the other practices that help strengthen emergency protocols.

In recognition of their dedication, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), in collaboration with Tata Power Delhi Distribution Ltd (Tata Power-DDL), will organize a special event on March 4 to honor linemen and their vital contributions. The event will bring together power sector professionals from across the country and highlight the pivotal role these frontline warriors play in ensuring a seamless power supply.

This year’s event is set to be bigger. Discoms from across the country will participate, reaffirming their commitment to recognizing and honoring linemen. For the first time, the event will also acknowledge power generation companies (gencos) and power distribution companies (discoms) for their outstanding performance and adherence to safety protocols.

Gajanan Kale, CEO, Tata Power-DDL, said, “We salute the hard work and resilience of these unsung heroes. Over the years, this initiative has gained national significance, with more discoms and transcos joining in. These linemen restore power even in the harshest conditions, ensuring uninterrupted supply for millions.“

Several linemen will be felicitated for their exceptional service. Their meticulous efforts in ensuring safety and continuity in power supply underscore their vital role in the power sector. As a spokesperson from a discom noted, “Linemen are the backbone of power distribution. Their contributions are invaluable but often overlooked. This celebration is a long-overdue acknowledgment of their service to the nation.”

Beyond technological advancements, efforts to enhance linemen’s safety and well-being include advanced training, health initiatives, and protective measures. VR simulations and hands-on safety drills improve preparedness, while regular health check-ups, psychological screening, and mental wellness programs support overall well-being. Smart PPE like shock-resistant gloves, advanced harnesses, AI-enabled helmets, and arc suits enhance safety. Automated incident reporting, real-time location tracking, and rapid medical response systems strengthen emergency protocols. Discoms and gencos also promote a robust safety culture through awareness campaigns, reward programs for compliance, and periodic safety audits, ensuring a safer and more secure working environment.

Whatfix, the global leader in Digital Adoption Platforms (DAP), today introduced ScreenSense, an innovative AI technology that powers the next generations of its product suite-DAP, Mirror, and Product Analytics. Built on a Computer Use model trained to understand and interact with graphical user interfaces (GUIs) like humans, ScreenSense applies enterprise business knowledge to enhance digital workflows, making tasks more efficient and intuitive.

Khadim Batti and Vara Kumar, Co-founders, Whatfix

ScreenSense leverages patented algorithms to create next-gen digital experiences that are more intuitive to the end-user and also evolve with technology changes. Its capabilities include advanced element and context detection, precise segmentation, behavioral intelligence, and inference generation.

“At the heart of the userization approach is ScreenSense, a next-generation suite of patented technologies, that fuels Whatfix’s products to empower organizations in accelerating digital adoption, enhancing user experiences, and delivering maximum ROI from their transformation efforts,” says Sharath Hari N, Vice President at Everest Group.

“ScreenSense is the core of our AI-driven digital adoption strategy. It leverages our patented innovations to simplify enterprise technology adoption,” said Khadim Batti, CEO and Co-Founder of Whatfix. “As AI reshapes how users and enterprises interact with software, ScreenSense is enabling Whatfix to ensure digital adoption is more intuitive, scalable, and impactful in helping businesses drive productivity and ROI from their technology investments.”

Gina Smith, Ph.D., Research Director at IDC, said, “The integration of agentic AI amplifies DAP capabilities… When thoughtfully administered, DAPs can accelerate AI adoption and ensure organizations can achieve (the) full value of their software investments.”

2024 Highlights of Whatfix’s Achievements:

A Year of Milestones and Growth
2024 was marked by significant milestones that underscore the unmatched innovation at Whatfix and the trust of its customers.

• 38% YoY revenue growth, with a 150% EBITDA improvement since 2022, reflecting strong market demand and financial discipline.

• 12 new Fortune 500 customers spanning industries such as BFSI, Manufacturing, Retail, and Technology.

• 111% Net Revenue Retention (NRR) for enterprises, demonstrating deeper integration and customer trust.

As noted by Morten Rye Christensen, Vice President, Infrastructure & Operations, Semler Gruppen, “Whatfix has been instrumental in improving user adoption, engagement, and productivity across our platforms. Their AI-driven solutions and user-centric design have created a seamless experience for our users. Our collaboration with Whatfix is making digital tools accessible and intuitive for everyone – We’re transforming how our teams and customers interact with technology. Rather than wrestling with complex systems, we’re prioritizing empowerment and adoption, enabling faster, smoother processes where anyone can jump in, learn, and get more done effortlessly.”

He added, “The new AI capabilities offer smart, context-sensitive support, further simplifying workflows and making digital experiences even more engaging. We believe that when technology is as simple and intuitive as it is powerful, everyone wins-and that’s exactly what our partnership with Whatfix is delivering. Whatfixs innovative approach and commitment to user experience have made them an invaluable partner for us.”

Driving Innovation & Expanding Leadership

In 2024, Whatfix expanded its capabilities. It introduced new AI-powered features, DAP on OS, and Mobile SDK 2.0, further elevating business impact and efficiency.

• New Whatfix AI Capabilities: Whatfix introduced new AI-driven features across DAP, Mirror, and Product Analytics. “Ask Whatfix AI” – a GenAI-powered conversational analytics interface enables business users and citizen analysts to access engagement and usage insights using a simple chat interface. AI-powered sentiment analysis provides users with quicker and more actionable insights from user feedback surveys – an existing DAP feature.

• Whatfix for AI-Adoption: Whatfix is investing heavily in capabilities to enable its customers to improve their AI adoption. It empowers customers to drive AI co-pilot awareness and educate users about AI co-pilot adoption best practices within enterprises. By enabling IT stakeholders to track co-pilot usage, identify adoption challenges, and optimize AI implementation and rollout plans, it ensures that enterprises can accelerate the ROI of their AI investments.

• DAP on OS: Launched as a desktop companion, DAP on OS streamlines employee communication with desktop alerts, simplifies learning across applications, and ensures quick access to information for seamless productivity in enterprises.

• Mirror: In 2024, Mirror gained strong market traction as many of Whatfix’s existing and new customers-including several Fortune 500s across BFSI, Manufacturing, Retail, and Technology-chose it as their preferred application simulation environment.

• Product Analytics: Whatfix was recognized as a Representative Vendor by Gartner for Product Analytics. As a top choice for enterprise analytics, 25% of its new customers were Global 2000 companies. New capabilities added by the product include the Adoption Health Dashboard, which enables CIOs and Digital Transformation teams to gain a comprehensive view of their tech stack’s adoption and usage.

• DAP on Mobile: With the launch of Mobile SDK 2.0, Whatfix DAP Mobile empowers customers to resolve issues faster and deliver exceptional in-app experiences while reducing reliance on development teams for minor updates. Whatfix also gained its 6th patent for “Inspect Element Framework For Building Mobile DAP Content” from the US Patent Office.

Solidifying Category Leadership in Digital Adoption
In 2024, Whatfix cemented its category leadership with top industry accolades for AI-driven innovation, enterprise impact, and sustainability:

• ISG Paragon Awards: Innovation Award winner with Sophos.

• Gartners Voice of the Customer: The only Customer’s Choice vendor in DAP.

• Forrester Wave (Q4 2024): Leader in AI/ML, analytics, and product architecture, earning the highest Strategy score.

• IDC MarketScape: Worldwide DAP 2024: Leader, recognized for mobile, desktop adoption, AI innovation, and personalization.

• Everest Group: Leader & Star Performer for the fifth consecutive year.

• Deloitte Fast 500: Top-ranked DAP for four years running.

• EcoVadis: Bronze Medal, placing in the top 35% globally for sustainability.

Whatfix also received the 2025 G2 Best Software Awards as the Best Software Companies in India last week and was yet again recognized as a leader in Gartner’s Voice of the Customer in 2025 for DAP.

Whatfix continues to define the future of digital adoption, setting the industry benchmark for AI-powered transformation. The company is building a strong DAP community with its Whatfix University, which certified 5,500+ professionals as yet, upskilling the leaders of tomorrow.

Expanding Partnerships & Industry Reach
Whatfix strengthened its global ecosystem by adding 11 new partners, including Temenos, Deloitte (India), Capgemini, and Indra Consulting Philippines, expanding its network to 125+ partners across key industries. Strategic collaborations with GSIs like Deloitte, Wipro, and LTIMindtree, along with regional partners such as BIP, Genpact, and NNIT, further reinforced its position as a trusted enterprise partner.

Whatfix Accelerates Global Expansion, Industry Focus, and GenAI Integration in 2025
Backed by $125M in Series E funding, Whatfix is strengthening its leadership in North America, Europe, and APAC while expanding into high-growth markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The company is deepening its presence in Insurance, Pharma & Life Sciences, and Banking and Financial Services alongside a strategic push into the Public sector. With a focus on market expansion and profitability, Whatfix is driving organic growth and strategic acquisitions while advancing ‘userization’ with GenAI-powered innovations to enhance user experiences and boost productivity.

About Whatfix
Whatfix is advancing the “userization” of application technology, by empowering companies to maximize the ROI of digital investments across the application lifecycle. Powered by GenAI, Whatfix’s product suite includes a digital adoption platform, simulated application environments for hands-on training, and no-code application analytics. Whatfix enables organizations to drive user productivity, ensure process compliance, and improve user experience of internal and customer-facing applications. With seven offices across the US, India, UK, Germany, Singapore, and Australia, Whatfix supports 700+ enterprises, including 80+ Fortune 500s like Shell, Microsoft, Schneider Electric, and UPS Supply Chain Solutions. Backed by investors such as Warburg Pincus, Softbank Vision Fund 2, Dragoneer, Peak XV Partners, Eight Roads, and Cisco Investments, software clicks with Whatfix.

For more information, visit the Whatfix website.

Biesse, a global leader in the design and manufacture of integrated lines and machines for processing wood, glass, stone, plastic, and composite materials, will make a significant impact at INDIAWOOD2025, the leading trade fair for woodworking and furniture manufacturing. The event will be held from March 6 to March 9, 2025, at the India Expo Mart & Centre (IEML) in Greater Noida, Delhi NCR.

Biesse displays its latest edge-banding innovations, including the Rover Edge series, at INDIAWOOD 2025

Building on its extensive background in the woodworking sector, Biesse India is set to unveil its latest tech advancements in wood processing technology. As part of its evolution, the company will strengthen the ‘New Biesse’ mandate under the ‘Wonder’ identity, emphasizing Smart Automation and Sustainable Manufacturing. This transformation signifies Biesse as a multi-material solution provider, committed to delivering the most suitable solutions to clients, enabling them to unleash the potential within any material.

At INDIAWOOD 2025, Biesse India will highlight cutting-edge technologies, including:

• Edge banding Machines with NC Controls: Enhancing precision and automation for superior finishing.

• 5-axis CNC Machines: Enabling complex machining with high accuracy.

• SOPHIA IoT Platform: Providing real-time monitoring for predictive maintenance and optimized performance.

• Other Machines from the Rover range:

• Rover Cut Go

• Rover Multi Go

• Rover Multi Up

The key highlight of Biesse’s showcase will be machines designed and manufactured in India, underscoring the company’s commitment to “Viksit Bharat.” This includes the “Make in India” Edge banding machines, Rover Edge Go SP A13 and Rover Edge Go SP A14, which have garnered significant acclaim for their advanced automation features.

Speaking about the event, Sayeed Ahmed, CEO, Biesse India, said, “Biesse is strengthening India’s position as a global hub for advanced woodworking solutions. Biesse in India is now also equipped with a spare-parts hub catering to the entire APAC region not only for the machines made in India but also for the machines made in Italy. It is providing technical training to its subsidiaries and also providing global hotline support to all English-speaking nations. We are excited to be at Indiawood 2025. All machines on display are proudly designed and manufactured in India. Our comprehensive range of solutions supports small-scale manufacturers and large enterprises, driving innovation and competitiveness in the Indian furniture industry. With approximately 85% of its units exported to over 75 countries, Biesse India has become a strategic location for the Biesse Group.”

Biesse India’s expansion caters to the increasing demand in tier two and three cities for better furniture, kitchen designs, cabinets, and wardrobes, driving the industry towards improved technology and higher output. With its large manufacturing plant in India, Biesse is not only developing advanced products for the local market but also exporting them globally.

The company is investing in upskilling by establishing training centers and offering solutions that demonstrate return on investment (ROI) for furniture industry entrepreneurs. By providing high-value products made using advanced technology, the aim is to decrease reliance on imported premium furniture and position India as a global exporter of technological products.

The Indian woodworking market is projected to experience significant growth, reaching USD 16.07 billion in 2025 and USD 24.47 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by rapid urbanization and ongoing economic growth, and it is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2%. Biesse in India is poised to play a pivotal role in this growth, expanding its manufacturing capabilities and global reach to deliver comprehensive solutions and elevate industry standards. With state-of-the-art facilities, Biesse Indias manufacturing units are strategically located to meet the demands of countries in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

Visit Biesse India at Hall 15, Stall Q108, INDIAWOOD 2025 to experience the future of woodworking technology.

About Biesse Group

Biesse is a globally recognized company specializing in the manufacturing of integrated lines and machines for processing wood, glass, stone, plastic, composite materials, and future materials. Established in Italy in 1969 and listed on the Euronext STAR segment of the Italian Stock Exchange, Biesse supports the business evolution of its clients across the furniture, housing and construction, automotive, and aerospace industries.

Currently, approximately 80% of Biesses consolidated revenue is derived from international markets, facilitated by a growing global network that includes four manufacturing campuses and over 30 showrooms, reaching more than 160 countries.

Thanks to our expertise embodied by 4,200 employees, Biesse empowers industry-leading companies and prestigious names in Italian and international design to unleash the potential of any material.

On World Protein Day 2025, Right to Protein, now in its 6^th year announced its theme for 2025 to be #RightWayToProtein. This year’s campaign focuses on educating people to make informed, balanced, and sustainable protein choices to enhance health and well-being.

Protein Day 2025

The Right to Protein initiative, powered by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), has been a leading force in raising awareness about adequate protein consumption in India. And with each passing year, it has evolved to now become a global call to action, expanding its reach across South Asia.

The focus this year remains largely on ensuring both the right quality and quantity of protein for all. While progress has been made in addressing protein sufficiency over the past few years, the conversation now shifts to ensuring that quality protein is accessible to everyone. What lies at the core of the Right to Protein initiative is its commitment to fueling South Asia by promoting sustainable, nutrient-dense protein solutions across the region.

Manan Vora, Orthopedic Surgeon, Health & Longevity Educator, emphasized the importance of understanding protein quality, “While the world continues to understand the importance of a balanced meal and a protein sufficient diet, what continues to exist as a core problem is people not understanding that not all protein is created equal. Hence, it is essential for individuals to not only meet their daily protein requirements but also to focus on high-quality, diverse sources of protein that are sustainable and beneficial for long-term health.“

“At U.S Soy, we have always remained committed to meeting the ever-growing nutrition demand worldwide. And this year, through #RightWayToProtein, our aim is to bridge the knowledge gap around protein and inspire consumers to make informed dietary choices. Whether plant-based or animal-based, the right mix of protein sources can play a transformative role in improving overall nutrition and well-being. This year, through The Right to Protein we also want to emphasize quality protein and its accessibility for all,” said,Deeba Giannoulis, Regional Head of Corporate Affairs SAASSA at the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC).

Siddharth Ramasubramanian, CEO & Founder, Hello Tempayy, said, “At Hello Tempayy, the right way to protein starts with offering protein choices that can be incorporated into one’s daily life. Easy to cook, versatile and affordable are key elements to adoption. Tempeh is a new category and easy access for vegetarians who severely lack protein options. With #RightWayToProtein we are building awareness and driving category adoption. We believe protein consumption in India is going to exponentially grow resulting in healthier, stronger nation.”

In line with the same, SuperYou, a protein food and supplements brand co-founded by Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh and Nikunj Biyani, said, “We believe protein is for everyone-not just athletes or fitness enthusiasts, but also everyday hustlers, busy parents, students with jam-packed schedules, and yes, even the occasional weekend warriors. But let’s be real-choosing healthier options can feel anything but easy, affordable, or fun. The goal at SuperYou is to simplify healthier choices, ensuring that protein-rich foods fit seamlessly into modern lifestyles.”

As part of our commitment to spread awareness about the importance of quality protein and its accessibility, hampers have been sent to industry specialists in the food and nutrition space, journalists, influencers, and nutritionists. These hampers included products from brands like SuperYou, Hello Tempayy, Whole Truth Foods, and GoodDot.

Right to Protein is all set to celebrate World Protein Day on February 27, 2025, and through the theme of #RightWayToProtein we urge and encourage everyone to join The Right to Protein initiative or a better, sustainable and healthier life. Follow us on our social media to be part of the conversations! Stay connected on Instagram @RightToProteinSouthAsia and Facebook Right To Protein South Asia and LinkedIn at Right to Protein South Asia. Let’s make #RightWaytoProtein the global standard for good health.

About Right to Protein
Right to Protein is an awareness initiative, powered by USSEC, to educate consumers on the importance of adequate protein consumption, growing the category across regions. #RightToProtein as a community and a conversation is building knowledge on different types of protein food & feed sources, to meet larger nutritional goals.

Since its launch in 2019, the Right to Protein campaign has transcended borders, expanding its footprint to several other countries and spreading the message of role of protein in nutrition security.

Group 108, NCR’s leading real estate developer, is all set to host its first-ever Runathon, “Group 108 10K Run”, a fitness event designed for runners on March 2, 2025 at Grandthum, Greater Noida West. This exciting event will feature three categories-10 km, 5 km, and 3 km-to encourage individuals of all ages and fitness levels to come together and engage in a meaningful pursuit of health and well-being. Through this initiative, Group 108 aims to promote wellness, fitness, and a holistic approach to living. Group 108 in association with the Nefowa Foundation, aims to amplify the events impact and foster a sense of collective responsibility toward promoting health and fitness.

Group 108 “10k Run”

Dr. Amish Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, said, “Runathon – Group 108 10k Run, is an initiative to promote a balanced lifestyle that integrates physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By organizing this event, Group 108 hopes to inspire participants to take charge of their fitness journey and contribute to creating a culture of wellness in the community. We look forward to enthusiastic participation and aim to make this an annual tradition that promotes fitness and camaraderie in the region.”

All registered participants will enjoy an array of exciting elements, including a premium running T-shirt, on-route hydration and energy drinks, post-run refreshments and medals with online certificates to commemorate their achievements. The event will also ensure medical support and safety assistance throughout, along with professional photography and videography to capture memorable moments. To add to the excitement, fun-filled activities will keep the energy high, making it a truly engaging and rewarding experience for all.

The Runathon “Group 108 10K Run” is more than just a race-it is a reflection of the companys broader commitment to creating spaces that promote sustainable living and community well-being. With a focus on delivering quality and integrity, Group 108 strives to build not just structures, but thriving environments where people can live, work, and grow in harmony.

Shriram Finance Limited (SFL), the flagship company of the Shriram Group, has received the Great Place To Work Certification™ for the second consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to a people-first culture. The recognition highlights SFL’s efforts in fostering trust, pride, and collaboration among employees, driving both individual growth and business excellence.

Shriram Finance Earns Great Place To Work Certification, again – A Testament to Its People-First Culture

SFL underwent a comprehensive two-phase evaluation process including the Great Place To Work Trust Index™ Employee Survey and an in-depth culture audit. The results underscore its strong focus on employee empowerment, stability, and career progression.

Mr. YS Chakravarti, MD & CEO of Shriram Finance, said, “Being recognized as a Great Place to Work again is a testimonial of our commitment to a culture of trust and growth. Our people are at the core of everything we do. At Shriram Finance, we are not just growing our business but also uplifting thousands of families by providing financial stability and career growth opportunities.“

SFL operates 3,196 branches and an employee strength of 79,405 servicing nearly 94.36 lakhs of customers.

Great Place To Work assesses over 5 million employees across 25+ industries in India annually. Since 1992, its research covering 100 million employees across 170+ countries annually, has highlighted Trust, Pride, and Camaraderie as key workplace elements. Its recognition helps companies attract talent, enhance performance, and foster employee well-being.

As SFL expands, it remains dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering leadership, and setting new benchmarks in workplace culture within the financial sector.

About Shriram Finance Limited

Shriram Finance Limited is the flagship company of the Shriram group which has significant presence in Consumer Finance, Life Insurance, General Insurance, Stock Broking and Distribution businesses. Shriram Finance Limited is one of India’s largest retail asset financing Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFC) with Assets under Management (AUM) above Rs. 2.54 trillion. Established in 1979, Shriram Finance is a holistic finance provider catering to the needs of Small Road Transport Operators and small business owners and is a leader in organised financing of pre-owned commercial vehicles and two wheelers. It has vertically integrated business model and offers financing number of products which include passenger commercial vehicles, loans to micro and small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), tractors & farm equipment, gold, personal loans and working capital loans etc. Over last 45 years, it has developed strong competencies in the areas of loan origination, valuation of pre-owned commercial vehicles and other assets, and collections. It has a pan India presence with network of 3,196 branches and an employee strength of 79,405 servicing to 94.36 lakhs of customers.

The Union Budget 2025-26 has made bold moves in reshaping India’s insurance sector and income tax regime, ensuring broader financial inclusion, economic growth, and relief for individuals and businesses alike. With an ambitious push towards ‘Insurance for All by 2047’, the government is not just tweaking policies but laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient financial ecosystem.

Sanjiv Bajaj, Jt. Chairman & MD, BajajCapital

Here’s a deep dive into the biggest takeaways from the budget-and why they matter to you.

Insurance Sector Reforms: A Giant Leap Toward Inclusion

For years, India’s insurance penetration has lagged behind global standards. This year’s budget takes a transformative approach to change that, especially in rural areas and microinsurance markets.

1. Bigger Foreign Investments in Insurance: The government has increased the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%, ensuring greater capital inflow, innovation, and competitive pricing in the industry. This move is expected to attract billions in foreign investment, strengthening the Indian insurance market.

2. Massive Tax Benefits for Micro & Rural Insurance: To make insurance more affordable and accessible, the budget introduces tax exemptions and GST cuts:

• 100% Tax Deduction on premium income for insurers offering microinsurance (Rs. 2 lakh cover or below) in rural areas

• GST Slashed to 0% for small-ticket life, health, and general insurance policies in rural regions (previously 18%)

• Higher Tax Deductions for Rural Policyholders:

• Additional Rs. 50,000 deduction under Section 80C for policyholders in rural areas

• Rs. 25,000 extra deduction under Section 80D for health insurance

3. Direct Government Subsidies to Reduce Premiums: The government is taking bold steps to financially support policyholders:

• Viability Gap Funding (VGF): Government will cover 30-50% of premium costs for life, health, and crop insurance

• Interest-Free Loans: Insurers expanding to rural India can avail 0% interest loans

• Premium Support for New Policyholders: First-time microinsurance buyers will receive Rs. 1,500 as a government subsidy per policy

4. Revamped & New Government Insurance Schemes: Major insurance programs have expanded their coverage:

• PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) & PM Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY):

• Premium slashed by 20% for Below Poverty Line (BPL) families

• Coverage increased from Rs. 2 lakh to Rs. 3 lakh

• Kisan Suraksha Bima Yojana (NEW): Life & health insurance for farmers at subsidized rates

• Crop Insurance Expansion (PMFBY): 60% premium subsidy for small & marginal farmers, now covering post-harvest losses due to climate change

5. Digital & Distribution Boost for Rural Insurance: Technology is being leveraged to bridge the insurance gap:

• ‘One-Stop Digital Insurance Platform’ for easy access & claim processing

• Common Service Centers (CSCs) to serve as rural insurance enrollment hubs

• Higher Commission for Rural Insurance Agents (30% increase) to drive deeper market penetration

6. Special Focus on Women & Gig Workers

• Mahatma Gandhi Women Insurance Scheme: Rs. 5 lakh life & health cover for self-help group (SHG) members

• Interest-Free Microloans for women buying insurance

• Gig Workers’ Insurance: Delivery agents, drivers, and farm laborers to receive government-backed accident & life insurance

The Expected Impact

• Insurance penetration to rise from 25% to 50% in rural India by 2030

• Lower insurance costs for individuals, farmers, and small businesses

• Stronger financial security against health, accident, and livelihood risks

Income Tax Reforms: More Money In Your Pocket

This year’s budget puts more cash in the hands of individuals and businesses, simplifying the tax system while offering major relief to the middle class and MSMEs.

1. Revised Tax Slabs: Lower Rates for Higher Savings

The government has slashed tax rates, offering much-needed relief to taxpayers.

• Effectively, income up to Rs. 7 lakh remains tax-free under the new tax regime.

• Middle-class earners will save significantly with these rate cuts.

2. Standard Deduction & Tax Rebates Increased

• Standard Deduction for Salaried Individuals increased to Rs. 60,000 (was Rs. 50,000)

• Rebate u/s 87A increased to Rs. 7 lakh (was Rs. 5 lakh)

3. Relief for Home Buyers & Renters

• HRA Deduction increased by 25% for salaried employees

• Interest Deduction on Home Loan (Section 24B) raised to Rs. 3 lakh (was Rs. 2 lakh)

4. Major Benefits for Startups & MSMEs

• Corporate tax rate for new MSMEs reduced to 15% (was 22%)

• Tax holiday for startups extended till 2027

5. Digital Taxation & Compliance Made Easier

• No penalties on minor GST filing errors for small businesses

• Tax Refund Processing within 15 days for online IT returns

• Faceless Tax Assessment further simplified

The Big Picture: Why This Budget is a Game Changer

This year’s budget is not just about policy changes-it’s about empowering millions of Indians.

• Lower tax burden means more disposable income for individuals

• Affordable insurance ensures financial protection for rural India

• MSMEs & startups get major tax relief, fueling entrepreneurship

• Simplified tax processes make compliance easier for businesses

This is not just a budget-it’s a blueprint for a financially stronger, more inclusive India.