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Apollo Heart Valve Clinic at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital (New Delhi) Combines Innovation and Expertise for Better Patient Outcomes

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals proudly announces the launch of its Heart Valve Clinic, a dedicated facility designed to provide world-class care for heart valve disorders. This advanced clinic combines cutting-edge technology, comprehensive diagnostic tools, and the expertise of a multidisciplinary team to deliver personalized and effective treatment solutions.

The Apollo Heart Valve Clinic includes a panel of renowned specialists, including interventional cardiologists (Dr Gautam Naik, Dr Pradeep Jain, Dr S K Modi, Dr Vipul Roy, Dr N N Khanna, Dr Vanita Arora, Dr Vivek Kumar, Dr Vivek Gupta), imaging cardiologists (Dr P K Ghosh, Dr Rekha Mishra, Dr Birendra Pawar), cardiac surgeons (Dr Mukesh Goel, Dr Niranjan Hiremath, Dr Varun Bansal), consultant cardio-thoracic radiologist (Dr Nidhi Goyal) and valve clinic coordinator (Dr Neha Wadhera) – all of whom bring decades of experience in their respective disciplines. Their collaborative approach ensures that every patient receives a thorough evaluation and the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.

The clinic offers a range of services, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive procedures, and traditional surgical options. By leveraging innovative techniques such as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), MitraClip, and advanced surgical methods including minimally invasive and robotic cardiac surgery, the clinic is equipped to handle even the most complex heart valve conditions with precision and care.

Dr. Gautam Naik, Senior Consultant Interventional and Structural Cardiologist, Clinical Lead – Structural Heart Intervention Program, stated, “The Apollo Heart Valve Clinic represents a significant step forward in addressing heart valve disorders. Our integrated approach, supported by state-of-the-art technology, ensures that patients receive top-tier care, improving both outcomes and quality of life. The revolutionary and unique multi-disciplinary team meeting (MDT) approach, wherein very complex valvular heart disease cases are discussed comprehensively and with a patient-centric approach, is the strength of the Apollo Heart Valve Clinic. This MDT meeting helps us address even the most complex heart valve disorders, and is a one of its kind in the region. This elevates our hospital’s heart center to a ‘center of excellence’ for treating patients with heart valve disease, comparable to other similar centers worldwide.”

Since its inception about a couple of months ago, the Heart Valve Clinic has successfully leveraged the power of the MDT approach, and so far, has had a 100% success rate in terms of clinical outcomes. This highlights the clinic’s expertise in providing exceptional care and treatment for heart valve disorders.

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals has consistently been at the forefront of healthcare innovation, and the launch of the Heart Valve Clinic further underscores its commitment to providing excellence in cardiac care. The clinic’s patient-centric model ensures a seamless and supportive experience from diagnosis to recovery.

Notable cases

Case 1: A 66 year-old male patient with diabetes and hypertension for over 20 years sought a second opinion for coronary artery disease on the basis of a CT coronary angiogram. He had visited other reputed hospitals in the region, where he was recommended an invasive coronary angiogram. On detailed evaluation which included detailed physical examination, echocardiography and CT aortogram, it was revealed that he had severe calcific bicuspid aortic valve stenosis and a dilated ascending aorta. The very first Apollo Heart Valve MDT meeting recommended surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) with aortic root replacement and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) as the best option. This culminated in him undergoing the country’s first Resilia Konect (Edwards LifeSciences) composite tissue Bentall implantation. He is doing very well on clinical follow up.

Case 2: A 65 year old diabetic gentleman with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on CPAP (breathing machine) and high BMI (36), who had diffuse coronary artery disease, underwent TAVR with a 29 mm balloon expandable Edwards Life Sciences S3 Sapiens valve after extensive Apollo Heart Valve MDT discussion. His breathing had significantly improved soon after TAVR, and he has been doing well on follow up.

These 2 cases showcase the strength of the ‘Apollo Heart Valve Team‘, and how world class expertise and teamwork can translate in to better clinical outcomes for patients.

About Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Indias first JCI accredited hospital, is a joint venture between the Government of Delhi and Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited. Commissioned in July 1996, it is the third super-specialty tertiary care hospital set up by the Apollo Hospitals Group. Spread over 15 acres, it houses 57 specialties with more than 300 specialists and more than 700 operational beds, 19 operation theatres, 138 ICU beds, round-the-clock pharmacy, NABL accredited laboratories, 24-hour emergency services and an active air ambulance service. Apollo Hospitals Delhi has the leading programme in kidney and liver transplant in the country. The first successful paediatrics and adult liver transplants in India were performed at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals. The hospital is at the forefront of medical technology and expertise. It provides a complete range of latest diagnostic, medical and surgical facilities for the care of its patients. The Hospital has introduced the most sophisticated imaging technology to India with the introduction of 64 slice CT and 3 Tesla MRI, Novalis Tx and the integrated PET Suite.

In a groundbreaking advancement, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals has recently introduced the ZAP-X Gyroscopic Radiosurgery Platform, revolutionizing brain tumor treatment across South Asia. This state-of-the-art technology offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional brain surgery, promising improved patient outcomes and comfort. Backed by the experience and expertise of Radiation Oncologists and technical team, Indraprastha Apollo also brings the revolutionary RADIXACT – X9 that combines imaging and treatment delivery to precisely target a wide variety of Cancers.

Indraprastha Apollo has pioneered the concept of preventive health check programmes and has created a satisfied customer base over decades. The Hospital has been consistently ranked amongst the best 10 hospitals in India by The Week survey for the past few years.

Hospital website – www.apollohospdelhi.com | Twitter: @HospitalsApollo.

Modulus Alternatives’ India Credit Opportunities Fund II Awarded CARE AIF 1 Grading

  • CARE AIF 1 is the highest grading assigned to AIFs and denotes that the asset selection ability and asset management capabilities of the scheme is expected to be Excellent

  • India Credit Opportunities Fund II is the second performing private credit fund of Modulus Alternatives

India Credit Opportunities Fund II (ICOF II), the second performing private credit fund of Modulus Alternatives has been awarded CARE AIF 1 grading by CareEdge Analytics & Advisory, a subsidiary of CARE Ratings Ltd.

This recognition underscores the Fund’s robust investment processes, asset management capabilities, and commitment to delivering value to its investors. The grading further reinforces ICOF II as an investment opportunity for institutional and individual investors seeking risk adjusted returns and steady income generation.

A CARE AIF 1 is the highest grading assigned to AIFs by CareEdge. It reflects that the asset selection ability and asset management capabilities of the scheme is expected to be Excellent across key parameters, including the sponsor’s financial and business strength, portfolio monitoring, and risk management capabilities, amongst others.

ICOF II is a Category II AIF and is the second private credit fund of Modulus Alternatives. Currently in fund raise period, the Fund is targeting a fund size of INR 750 crore and a green shoe option of INR 500 crore. ICOF II is focussed on performing private credit opportunities in sectors with tailwinds, such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, industrials and clean energy. With a residual tenor of ~ 4.5 years (ending in August 2029), the Fund has deployed more than INR 800 crore across six investments.

In January 2025, Modulus Alternatives successfully exited its maiden private credit fund, Centrum Credit Opportunities Fund (Fund I), which invested INR 1,790 crore across 15 investments. The Fund consistently delivered mid-teen returns, maintained stable credit quality, and provided regular income distributions with zero delinquencies, achieving a Gross IRR of 17.01%.

About Modulus Alternatives Investment Managers Limited

Modulus Alternatives is an established private credit platform currently managing it’s second private credit fund – India Credit Opportunities Fund II. Since its inception in 2018, the firm has deployed over INR 2,500 crore across 21 investments.

Modulus Alternatives is held by Centrum Group and Alok Agarwal, former CFO of Reliance Industries Limited. The Board of Modulus is chaired by Mr. Vinod Rai, former Finance Secretary and CAG of India and includes independent Director, Mr. Raman Uberoi, a senior advisor for Government & Regulatory Relations at CRISIL Limited and is a member of SEBI’s Market Data Advisory Committee.

Disclaimer

CareEdge Advisory’s AIF Grading is not a recommendation to purchase, sell, or hold a security / fund. It neither comments on the current market price, suitability for a particular investor nor on the prospective performance of the fund with respect to appreciation, volatility of net asset value (NAV), or yield of the fund. The AIF grading does not address the fund’s ability to meet the payment obligations to the investors.

The AIF Grading is based on current information furnished to CareEdge Advisory by the fund or obtained by CareEdge Advisory from sources it considers reliable. CareEdge Advisory does not, however, guarantee the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. CareEdge Advisory does not perform an audit in connection with any grading and may, on certain occasions, rely on. The grading may be changed, suspended, or withdrawn as a result of changes in, or unavailability of, such information, or based on other circumstances. Funds graded by CareEdge Advisory have paid a grading fee.

Budget 2025 A Game-Changer for India’s Economy: Sudha Reddy Lauds Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

The Union Budget 2025, presented today by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has received widespread appreciation from industry leaders, including philanthropist and business leader Sudha Reddy. She hailed the budget as a game- changer for India’s economy, emphasizing its focus on infrastructure, clean energy, industrial expansion, and MSME growth.

Mrs. Sudha Reddy, Director, MEIL – Leading with Vision, Inspiring with Action

The budget has allocated Rs. 1.5 lakh crore in loans for state governments to accelerate capital expenditure. This is expected to drive massive growth in roads, water supply, and energy projects, areas where Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Limited (MEIL) has played a significant role. The extension of the Jal Jeevan Mission until 2028 further reinforces the government’s commitment to water supply projects.

“This budget reflects a strong push toward infrastructure-led economic growth. The increased capital allocation will unlock new opportunities for industries, creating jobs and enhancing the nation’s development,” said Sudha Reddy.

A major highlight of the budget is the Nuclear Energy Mission, which aims to generate 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, marking a significant leap in India’s clean energy transition. Additionally, the government has introduced policy support for solar, wind, and EV battery production, ensuring a stronger push for sustainable manufacturing.

“The emphasis on clean energy is a testament to India’s commitment to a greener future. Incentives for clean technology manufacturing will drive innovation, attract investments, and contribute to a sustainable economy,” Sudha Reddy stated.

With a focus on improving urban infrastructure, the finance minister announced:

  • Rs. 1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund to develop growth hubs in cities.

  • 120 new airports to enhance connectivity across the country.

  • Rs. 25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund to boost the port and shipping industry.

Sudha Reddy highlighted that these initiatives would accelerate urbanization, improve logistics, and enhance India’s global competitiveness.

Recognizing the role of MSMEs and start-ups in economic growth, the government has doubled the loan limits for:

  • MSMEs from Rs. 5 crore to Rs. 10 crore

  • Start-ups from Rs. 10 crore to Rs. 20 crore

These measures are set to enhance financial support and create a thriving ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.

A Progressive and Growth-Oriented Budget

Sudha Reddy stated that Budget 2025 is a bold step toward a self-reliant and future- ready India.

“This budget is a well-balanced mix of economic expansion, sustainability, and industry support. With increased investments in infrastructure, clean energy, and technology-driven sectors, India is poised for long-term growth and global leadership,” she said.

The Union Budget 2025 sets a strong foundation for Indias economic transformation, positioning it as a leader in industrial innovation, sustainability, and global trade.

BSNL Launches BiTV for Mobile Users in Partnership with OTTplay

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), in collaboration with OTTplay, Indias leading streaming platform aggregator, has introduced BSNL Intertainment-an innovative Internet TV service. This service provides BSNL mobile users all over India with free access to over 450+ live TV channels, including premium channels.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/30984_OTTPlay_x_BSNL_4.jpg

L to R: CGM BSNL Maharashtra – Mr. Harinder Kumar, Ishwak Singh – Actor, Robert J Ravi I T S – CMD BSNL, Avinash Mudaliar – Co-founder & CEO, OTTPlay

Following the launch of pilot in Pondicherry, BiTV is now being launched pan India as part of BSNLs vision to bring world-class entertainment to its users. With BSNL Intertainment, BSNL customers can access OTTs like Bhaktiflix, Shortfundly, Kanccha Lannka, STAGE, OM TV, Playflix, Fancode, Distro, Hubhopper and Runn Tv along with 450+ live TV channels, blockbuster movies, and web series.

Speaking at the launch event, BSNL CMD Robert J Ravi I T S, stated, “With BiTV, through our partners, BSNL is giving every customer the power to access entertainment on the go, ‘anytime, anywhere’, free of cost, irrespective of the plan they are on. BiTV is a testament to BSNL’s commitment to digital inclusion and BSNL will be one of the first telecom service provider to revolutionize through this groundbreaking service.”

Echoing this vision, Avinash Mudaliar, Co-founder & CEO of OTTplay, shared, “We are incredibly excited to announce our partnership with BSNL for the launch of BiTV. Through this partnership, BSNL users will gain exclusive access to an extensive library of premium content, offering a truly elevated viewing experience. Whether its movies, TV shows, or exclusive content, were committed to delivering world-class entertainment. Together with BSNL, we aim to set a new standard for entertainment services in the region, ensuring that users can enjoy high-quality, on-demand content anytime, anywhere.”

Why Choose BSNL Intertainment

  • Unlimited Entertainment – Apart from live TV, enjoy movies, web series, and documentaries in multiple languages, all at no cost.

  • Seamless Streaming – Powered by BSNL’s secure mobile internet, BiTV ensures uninterrupted streaming with exceptional video quality.

  • Ultimate Combo – BSNL users now enjoy high-speed internet plus a complete entertainment package.

How it works for BSNL Mobile users

  • Login to FMS portal – www.fms.bsnl.in/iptvreg

  • Select your state, select BiTV provider (OTTplay).

  • Enter your Registered Mobile No. (RMN) and submit the OTP received on RMN to activate your service.

  • Download OTTplay app from the link received in your SMS or directly from Google playstore or App Store

  • Login using your registered mobile number and enjoy endless entertainment.

Through this partnership, BSNL and OTTplay are driving digital inclusion by making quality entertainment accessible to all, irrespective of location or financial constraints. By combining BSNL’s extensive telecom network with OTTplay’s vast content library, this initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and revolutionize entertainment consumption in India.

About OTTplay
OTTplay is India’s OTT super app and a pioneering OTT aggregator that uses AI-based recommendations to revolutionize content discovery and consumption. With the introduction of OTTplay Premium, the platform now offers a curated selection of content from 40 premier OTT platforms which are personalized based on each user’s unique preferences.

GI Outsourcing’s Managing Director, Vikas Chadha, Honored with the ‘Glory of India’ Award 2024-25

GI Outsourcing proudly announces that our Managing Director, Mr. Vikas Chadha, has been awarded the prestigious Glory of IndiaAward 2024-25 by the Indian Achievers Forum. This recognition celebrates his outstanding professional achievements and significant contributions to nation-building.

Mr Vikas Chadha – MD GI outsourcing winsGlory of India Award 24-25

Under Mr. Chadha’s visionary leadership, GI Outsourcing has experienced transformative growth, achieving an impressive 200% increase in organizational performance over the last three years. The company has expanded its service portfolio to address evolving client needs and significantly broadened its geographical presence, establishing a strong foothold not only in India but also in South Africa. These strategic advancements have created numerous opportunities and jobs for talented accountants, empowering them to deliver best-in-class services on a global scale.

Mr. Chadha’s commitment to innovation and excellence has been instrumental in advancing the fields of automation and training, ensuring GI Outsourcing’s talent pool remains competitive and future-ready. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, GI Outsourcing has equipped its team to meet the dynamic demands of the global Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) and Global Capability Center (GCC) industries.

Beyond business excellence, GI Outsourcing has upheld its responsibility to society under Mr. Chadha’s stewardship. Through impactful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, the company has extended its support to marginalized communities by aiding street children, blind schools, orphanages, and old age homes. These efforts reflect the organization’s deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

Mr. Chadha is not just a leader but a thought pioneer, advocating for the growth and recognition of the KPO and GCC sectors. As an active contributor to industry forums such as Assocham and as a member of the Regional Council at Nasscom, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s future.

Expressing gratitude for this honor, Mr. Chadha remarked, “This award is a testament to the collective effort of the entire GI Outsourcing team, whose dedication and passion drive our success. I am deeply humbled by this recognition and remain committed to advancing our mission of delivering excellence, creating opportunities, and contributing to society.”

As GI Outsourcing continues its journey of growth and innovation, the recognition of Mr. Vikas Chadha’s leadership reinforces the company’s position as a trailblazer in the global outsourcing industry.

GI Outsourcing has entered strategic partnerships with renowned accounting institutes such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. It already holds gold partnerships with ACCA, UK, and the Chartered Institute of Management accountants and CPAs. GI Outsourcing is renowned for its best employee practices, ensuring a positive work environment, the highest levels of customer satisfaction, and a strong commitment to training and skill development for its employees.

GI Outsourcing has been recognized as the “Dream Company to Work For” by Times of India publications for three consecutive years and Mr. Vikas Chadha personally received the prestigious “Udyog Bharti Award.” Vikas Chadha expressed his confidence that these strategic endeavors will solidify GI Outsourcings position as a preferred employer and continue to drive the companys success in the UK Accounting Knowledge Process Outsourcing industry.

About GI Outsourcing

Based in the UK, GI is an outstanding outsourcing solution for accountants and business owners. Drawing from a wide range of industry experts and accounting specialists to fill in the gaps and help businesses transform unprofitable clients into profitable ones. With over 25 years of experience, they are one of the most trusted leading financial services & and accountancy firms to deliver the highest quality of work, on time, every time. They provide all aspects of financial services including Management Accounting, Bookkeeping, taxation, cloud computing, virtual CFO, and controllerships. GI has a presence in India, South Africa, and the UK with offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Johannesburg, and London and a pool of nearly 400 plus finance and accounting professionals working diligently to provide impeccable service to valued customers across the UK, Ireland, USA, UAE, and Canada and planning to further expand into Australia working diligently to provide impeccable service to valuable customers. GI Outsourcing today works with all the major cloud accounting software suppliers, including Xero, Sage, QuickBooks, CCH, CaseWare, and Iris as well as many of the large ERP systems, such as Dynamics, SAP, and Oracle.

For more information, please visit us at: (www.gioutsourcing.com)

Tathastu Institute of Civil Services Launches Residential Campus in Greater Noida for UPSC Aspirants with Integrated University Degree Programmes

Tathastu Institute of Civil Services (Tathastu ICS) is proud to announce the opening of its cutting-edge residential campus in Greater Noida, designed to support UPSC aspirants in their pursuit of India’s topmost civil services positions. Founded by Dr. Tanu Jain, an ex-civil servant, renowned motivator, and social media influencer, the institute introduces its innovative BA + UPSC programme tailored specifically for students fresh out of 12th standard. This programme uniquely combines academic education with professional coaching, empowering students to simultaneously complete their undergraduate degree while preparing for the Civil Services Examination.

Tathastu ICS is setting new benchmarks in UPSC preparation by offering a 3-year residential coaching programme that not only focuses on academic excellence but also emphasizes the holistic development of students through sports, yoga, and mental wellness activities. The comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the UPSC exam, as well as equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in high-pressure government roles like IAS, IPS, IRS, and IFS.

Dr. Tanu Jain (Ex Civil Servant), Founder Tathastu ICS

Dr. Tanu Jain, Founder of Tathastu ICS, shares her vision for the programme, “The BA + UPSC programme is a game-changer for students who are uncertain about their career path but aspire to serve the nation through civil services. By offering this unique residential coaching model, we not only enable students to complete their degree but also guide them through their UPSC preparation, ensuring they grow intellectually, physically, and mentally. We plan to prepare kids for more than 80% of government jobs while completing their degree programme.“

The residential campus in Greater Noida offers a stress-free environment where students can focus entirely on their studies, with all aspects of their accommodation, food, and daily needs taken care of. This eliminates the distractions and challenges often faced by UPSC aspirants, allowing them to give their full attention to preparing for India’s toughest examination.

Rohit Jain, CMO of Tathastu ICS, adds, “For years, UPSC aspirants have struggled with managing their education, living arrangements, and civil services preparation all at once. Our residential campus addresses these issues, helping students to focus fully on their future while preparing for the examination and simultaneously completing their degree. This unique approach will save valuable time, improve efficiency, and help students achieve their ultimate goal of serving the nation. The hostels are well ventilated & offer spacious rooms with a fully secured environment to the aspirants. A functional library with a seating capacity of more than 300 students will be an add-on.”

Advanced Technology-Driven Coaching
Tathastu ICS is pioneering the future of UPSC coaching with its advanced, technology-driven methods. The institute offers flexible coaching options in three modes:
Offline Classroom Mode, Online Live and Recorded Sessions, delivered through an App. This adaptability ensures that students can access high-quality education no matter their location or schedule.

Using a blend of the latest learning tools, including AI-powered assessment platforms and personalized learning paths, Tathastu ICS provides a dynamic and interactive educational experience. Students can track their progress, receive real-time feedback, and have access to a wide range of resources through the institutes mobile app. This combination of in-person interaction and technological support enhances the learning process, providing students with the best of both worlds.

A Holistic Approach to UPSC Preparation
In addition to its academic curriculum, Tathastu ICS emphasizes mental and physical well-being as an integral part of UPSC preparation. The 3-year residential programme includes activities such as yoga, fitness training, meditation, and sports to help students maintain a balanced lifestyle and remain focused on their goals.

Tathastu ICS’s innovative BA + UPSC model eliminates the need for a gap year, allowing students to complete their degree while preparing for the Civil Services Examination. Moreover, the institute offers other specialized programmes such as MA + UPSC and MBA + UPSC for graduates, as well as evening batch options for students enrolled in other colleges. This flexibility ensures that every student, regardless of their academic background or schedule, can receive world-class coaching to pursue a career in public service.

Civil Services Examination: The Path to Nation-Building
Each year, more than 1 million candidates appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, which is regarded as one of the toughest competitive exams in the world. The exam comprises three stages: Prelims, Mains, and the Interview. Only about 0.1% of candidates make it to the final list. However, with the right guidance, mentorship, and preparation, success becomes achievable.

The Tathastu ICS approach significantly increases the likelihood of success by combining focused coaching with holistic development, ensuring students not only succeed in the exam but also in their career and personal lives.

Aiming for the Highest Ranks
Tathastu ICS believes that a young officer selected at the age of 21 has the highest chances of reaching the esteemed position of Cabinet Secretary, the highest rank in the Indian Administrative Service. By providing a structured pathway that combines academic learning, practical coaching, and personalized mentorship, the institute is setting its students up for long-term success in the civil services.

In addition to its flagship BA + UPSC programme, Tathastu ICS also provides coaching for a variety of UPSC optional subjects including Philosophy, Political Science & International Relations (PSIR), Geography, Sociology, Anthropology, and more. This makes Tathastu ICS a one-stop solution for all UPSC aspirants.

Website:tathastuics.com.

About Tathastu Institute of Civil Services (Tathastu ICS)
Founded by Dr. Tanu Jain, a former civil servant, Tathastu ICS is dedicated to transforming the lives of UPSC aspirants by providing a well-rounded and future-ready educational experience. With advanced technology-driven coaching, expert faculty, and a focus on holistic development, Tathastu ICS is redefining the way civil services coaching is delivered. The institute is committed to empowering students to succeed not only in their academic journey but also in their personal growth, ensuring they are equipped to serve the nation in top administrative roles.

Driving Growth, Boosting Investment and Long-Term Economic Stability for a Stronger India: Budget 2025

The Union Budget 2025 is a commendable example of prudent financial planning, addressing both immediate needs and long-term growth. The emphasis on capital expenditure and infrastructure development is a positive step in stimulating economic growth, especially in a challenging macroeconomic environment.

Masala King Dr. Dhananjay Datar, CMD, Adil Group of Super Stores, UAE

By allocating resources to agriculture and the middle class, the government is ensuring that key sectors receive much-needed support, promoting inclusivity and broader economic well-being.

Moreover, the strategic focus on infrastructure development will not only create jobs but also lay the foundation for improved connectivity, logistics, and overall productivity, benefiting various sectors in the years to come.

Once interest rates begin to ease, the manufacturing and MSME sectors are poised for significant capital expenditure and expansion, leading to increased domestic consumption and a boost in exports.

This holistic approach reflects a clear understanding of the need for both short-term resilience and long-term growth. With a well-balanced mix of fiscal stimulus and structural reforms, this Budget has the potential to position India for sustained economic progress in the coming years.

However, successful implementation and monitoring of these initiatives will be crucial to ensure that the benefits are fully realized.

IPMA Welcomes Growth-Oriented Union Budget 2025-26: A Boost for Agriculture, Water Infrastructure, and Indigenous Industry

The Indian Pump Manufacturers Association (IPMA) has hailed the Union Budget 2025-26 as a progressive and forward-looking financial plan that will significantly benefit the pump manufacturing sector.

K.V. Karthik, President of IPMA

Mr. K.V. Karthik, President of IPMA, emphasized that the government’s strong focus on agriculture, water infrastructure, and indigenous industrial development presents substantial growth opportunities for Indian pump manufacturers.

“The increase of Kisan Credit by Rs. 2 lakh will directly spur demand for agricultural pumps, benefiting farmers and the industry alike,” said Mr. Karthik. “Additionally, the extension of the Jal Jeevan Mission to 2028 will create sustained business opportunities, ensuring a continued push for water accessibility across the nation.”

Further strengthening India’s industrial landscape, the government’s commitment to the Nuclear Power Mission with a strong emphasis on indigenization is set to open new avenues for Indian industries, including the pump manufacturing sector.

“With these visionary initiatives, we anticipate increased investments, technological advancements, and greater self-reliance in critical sectors,” Mr. Karthik added.

IPMA remains committed to supporting these national objectives by delivering world-class pump solutions to meet India’s growing demands across agriculture, water infrastructure, and energy sectors.

For more details, please visit: www.indianpumps.org.

Discounted Flight Rates for Tourists Travelling to Selangor From India Throughout 2025

In a bid to attract more tourists from India, Selangor has introduced an exclusive flight discount of up to 30% for travellers flying from India to the state, in conjunction with the Visit Selangor Year 2025. This initiative stems from a strategic partnership between Tourism Selangor and Batik Air Malaysia, forged during their participation in the Outbound Travel Mart in Mumbai, as well as a sales mission covering Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Kochi from 28 January to 8 February 2025.

Participated by several other tourism product operators and travel agents, such as GL Play by Gamuda Land and the Malaysian Indian Tour and Travel Association (MITTA), this collaboration is expected to specially curate a travel package for tourists from India visiting Selangor.

Chua Yee Ling, the Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Selangor in a statement said, according to records, Selangor experienced a remarkable 54.13% increase in tourist arrivals from India, welcoming 1.13 million Indian tourists in 2024. Tourism Selangor is confident that our collaboration with Batik Air Malaysia will further support the state’s goal of attracting 8 million tourists and generating RM11.7 billion in tourism revenue this year.

“As one of Malaysia’s leading airlines, Batik Air Malaysia has played a crucial role in strengthening air connectivity. To date, the airline has operated 2,392 flights from India to Malaysia, selling 387,504 seats in 2024. We believe this strategic partnership will further enhance Selangor’s accessibility and solidify its position as a top travel destination in 2025,” she added.

Suresh Vanan, Head of Communications and Promotions of Batik Air Malaysia, stated that with their established network and strong connectivity, they are confident that the collaboration with Tourism Selangor will reinforce their commitment to elevating travel experiences for tourists from India. He added that with expanded flight operations and enhanced services, this partnership will not only contribute to the growth of tourism in Selangor but also solidify Malaysia’s standing as a top destination for travellers from India in 2025 and beyond.

About Tourism Selangor

Tourism Selangor is Selangor State’s Official Tourism Promotion Agency established to increase the number of local and international tourists to Selangor by enhancing and developing the known as well as the undiscovered beauty of the State.

Spanning over nine districts, including Petaling, Gombak, Klang, Sepang, Hulu Langat, Sabak Bernam, Kuala Selangor, Kuala Langat and Hulu Selangor, the area is known as an extraordinary holiday and event destination.

Many initiatives are taken to achieve this, such as organising local and international campaigns, events, overseas tourism trade missions, local roadshows and many more.

Learn more at selangor.travel or follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

OfBusiness Connectivity Reaches 26 States + 7 UTs in India, Delivering 170,000 Consignments to SMEs in 2024

  • OfBusiness engaged with over 4000 transporters from across India, for small and big trucks, that travelled 65 million kilometers, delivering about 7 million tonnes of material.

  • The materials were delivered across India and to about 15 foreign countries, including the US, Australia, UK, Dubai, France, Germany, Brazil, Malaysia and Vietnam.

  • An AI-enabled monitoring system that does real-time tracking of all consignments and such live updates are shared with SMEs.

  • The Company’s AI enabled platform – Nexizo.AI, processes 25 million data points annually for more than 50 million Government Tenders and documents – helping SMEs

OfBusiness (OFB) is India’s leading and most efficient B2B commerce platform, specializing in the metals, chemicals, Agri-products, and apparel businesses.

OfBusiness Connecting India for SMEs

OfBusiness engaged with over 4000 transporters from across India, for small and big trucks, that travelled 65 million kilometers, delivering about 7 million tonnes of material. The materials were delivered across India and to about 15 foreign countries, including US, Australia, UK, Dubai, France, Germany, Brazil, Malaysia and Vietnam – the Company said.

In the process, the Company facilitated indirect jobs for more than 350,000 people, in addition to the labours engaged in loading and unloading of materials, the company said.

“Connectivity is one of the key functions at OfBusiness being a B2B commerce platform. Since our businesses are spread across metals, chemicals, Agri-products and apparel, it has always been our priority to ensure safe and timely delivery of all our consignments. In the year 2024 we delivered 170,000 consignments in 26 States & 7 UTs covering over 500 cities to SMEs. Through our AI enabled robust network, we are also exporting our material to about 15 countries. To ensure safe delivery of all consignment, we have an AI-enabled monitoring system that does real-time tracking of all consignments, and such live updates are shared with SMEs we are catering to. We are also able to reach a larger base of transporters across India through our AI-enabled, transparent, bidding platform. In the process, we do engage with large transporters but extend preferential opportunities to small transporters for their sustainable livelihood“, said Vikram Singh, Business Head – OfBusiness.

In about 10 years, OfBusiness has created two unicorns, the other being – Oxyzo, established in 2016 – the financial services arm of OfBusiness, which supports over 2 million SMEs with working capital. The Company’s AI enabled platform, Nexizo.AI, processes 25 million data points annually for more than 50 million Government Tenders and Documents – helping SMEs in business growth.

OfBusiness has recently announced its expansion of the steel business, infusing about Rs. 3000 crores in the next three years. The company supplies steel to companies such as L&T, Adani, J Kumar, Dilip Buildcon, Ashoka Buildcon. OfBusiness also plans to get into new categories such as pre-painted galvanized iron (PPGI) adding onto thermo-mechanically treated (TMT) bars and structures.

The expansion of business would also enhance engagement with transporters for additional trucks and create more employment opportunities.

OfBusiness is USD 2.5 billion in revenues.