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  • 10 Indian AI Startups Chosen for IndiaAI Global Expansion Initiative

    Apr 17 (BNP): The IndiaAI Mission under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has selected 10 Indian artificial intelligence startups for the second cohort of its global acceleration programme. The initiative is designed to support Indian AI companies in scaling their operations internationally and strengthening their presence in global technology markets.

    The programme is being implemented in partnership with Station F in Paris and HEC Paris as part of a broader government strategy to boost innovation, international collaboration, and market access for Indian startups in the artificial intelligence sector.

    Selected startups will receive structured support including mentorship, access to global industry networks, and exposure to international innovation ecosystems. Each cohort consists of 10 startups chosen through a multi-stage evaluation process focused on innovation potential and scalability.

    The startups selected in the second cohort include AI Health Highway, Awiros, Cognecto, Flaunt, GreenFi.ai, Climateforce Technologies, Infiheal Healthtech, InLustro Learning, PredCo, SkyServe (Hyspace Technologies), and TestAIng Solutions.

    The programme will begin with a three-week online preparatory phase, followed by a three-month residency in Paris. During this period, participants will engage with global experts, industry leaders, and venture ecosystem stakeholders to support their international expansion plans.

    The initiative aligns with India’s National AI Strategy, which emphasizes building global partnerships, enhancing research and development capacity, and integrating Indian startups into leading technology ecosystems worldwide.

    Officials also noted that under the wider IndiaAI Mission, significant computing infrastructure has been developed, including large-scale GPU deployment and approval of multiple AI projects, while parallel semiconductor initiatives continue under the Semicon India Programme to strengthen domestic chip manufacturing capabilities.

     

  • Tragic Crash in Andhra Pradesh: 8 Karnataka Devotees Killed in Bolero–Lorry Collision

    Kurnool, April 16(BNP): In a tragic road accident, eight people from Karnataka lost their lives in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district on Thursday.

    The incident occurred near Chilakaladona village under Mantralayam mandal when a Bolero vehicle, carrying devotees en route to the Guru Raghavendra Swamy Temple in Mantralayam, collided with a ready-mix tanker lorry.

    According to reports, five persons died on the spot due to the impact of the collision, while three others succumbed to their injuries during treatment.

    Around ten passengers were reportedly injured in the accident and were immediately shifted to the Government Hospital in Yemmiganur for medical care.

    Police and emergency teams rushed to the spot and initiated rescue operations. An investigation has been launched to ascertain the exact cause of the accident.

    The incident has cast a pall of gloom among the victims’ families and raised concerns over road safety.

  • Asit Tripathy Elected First President of Odisha Steel Producers’ Association

    Bhubaneswar, Apr 17 (BNP): Former Odisha Chief Secretary Asit Tripathy has been elected as the first president of the newly formed Odisha Steel Producers’ Association (OSPA), which brings together leading steel companies operating in the state.

    Tripathy, currently serving as an advisor at Jindal Steel, brings extensive experience in governance, public policy, and industrial development to the role. His appointment is seen as an effort to strengthen coordination between the steel industry and the state government.

    The formation of OSPA is aimed at enhancing collaboration among steel producers and supporting Odisha’s position as one of India’s key steel manufacturing hubs.

    Industry stakeholders believe the leadership move will help streamline engagement on policy, investment, and sectoral growth in the state.

     

  • Faith Peaks in Prayagraj as Devotees Perform Ritual Bath on Vaishakh Amavasya

    Apr 17 (BNP): Thousands of devotees gathered in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on the occasion of Vaishakh Amavasya on Friday, performing ritual bathing at the sacred Triveni Sangam.

    From early morning hours during Brahma Muhurat, pilgrims arrived at the riverbanks to take a holy dip, which is considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition. The atmosphere across the city remained deeply devotional, with chants, prayers, and ritual practices marking the occasion.

    Faith Peaks in Prayagraj as Devotees Perform Ritual Bath on Vaishakh Amavasya

     Pic Credit: Pexel

    Along with the holy dip, devotees participated in charitable activities, including distribution of food and offerings to the needy. Many also performed prayers seeking peace for their ancestors and well-being for their families.

    Vaishakh Amavasya is regarded as an important day in the Hindu calendar. Religious beliefs hold that bathing in sacred rivers and performing charity on this day brings spiritual merit and blessings.

    Scriptural references describe the month of Vaishakh as highly sacred, with traditions stating that virtuous acts performed during this period carry amplified spiritual significance.

    The Amavasya Tithi began on the evening of April 16 at 8:14 pm, with rituals continuing into the following day.

    The event once again highlighted Prayagraj’s importance as a major center of pilgrimage and spiritual observance in India.

  • Shyam Metalics Strengthens Value-Added Steel Portfolio with Commissioning of Phase II CRM Facility at Jamuria; Scales Up

    April 18: Shyam Metalics and Energy Limited announced the successful commissioning of Phase II of its Cold Rolling Mill (CRM) facility for colour coated sheets at its Jamuria plant in West Bengal. The facility, operated by its wholly owned subsidiary, Shyam Sel and Power Limited (SSPL), has commenced commercial production effective 16th April 2026.

    Shyam Metalics Strengthens Value-Added Steel Portfolio with Commissioning of Phase II CRM Facility at Jamuria; Scales Up

    Phase II comprises an advanced processing Dual Pot GI cum Galvalume (GL) line with a capacity of 0.15 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), significantly enhancing the Company’s product range and technical capabilities. This expansion marks a critical step towards catering to more demanding and precision-driven applications across industries. With this incremental capacity, the total installed capacity of the CRM facility reached to 0.40 MTPA. This includes the existing Phase I capacity of 0.25 MTPA and the newly commissioned Phase II capacity, further strengthening the Company’s footprint in the value-added steel segment.

    With this development, Shyam Metalics is now strategically positioned to cater the solar energy sector, particularly in the manufacturing of mounting structures for solar panels, an area that was previously heavily dependent on imports. By addressing this gap, the Company is actively contributing to India’s vision of self-reliance and domestic manufacturing excellence.

    The Phase II expansion also aligns with the Government of India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme – PLI 2, reinforcing Shyam Metalics’ commitment to national initiatives aimed at boosting advanced manufacturing and reducing import dependency.

    In addition to renewable energy applications, the enhanced facility will cater to a broader spectrum of high-growth sectors, including automotive and consumer durables/appliances, where demand for high-quality, precision-engineered steel continues to rise and has been primarily import-dependent.

    This strategic expansion not only deepens Shyam Metalics’ presence in downstream value-added products but also strengthens its integrated manufacturing ecosystem. With improved product diversification and market reach, the Company is well-positioned to unlock new revenue streams while supporting India’s industrial and infrastructure growth trajectory.

    The expanded facility, strategically located in the eastern region of India, offers significant logistical advantages, enabling Shyam Metalics to efficiently serve key demand centres while addressing the region’s supply gap in value-added flat steel products. This Phase II expansion further strengthens the Company’s downstream capabilities and reinforces its position as a leading player in the steel value chain.

    Commenting on the expansion, Mr. Brij Bhushan Aggarwal, Chairman and Managing Director, of Shyam Metalics and Energy Ltd., stated:

    “The commissioning of Phase II of our Flat Products project is a strategic step towards strengthening our value-added product portfolio and improving overall realizations. With this expansion, we are further strengthening our ability to cater to high-growth, high-margin segments such as solar, automotive and consumer durables.

    This phase is expected to drive a better product mix, support margin expansion, and contribute meaningfully to incremental EBITDA over the medium term. Our inclusion under the Government’s PLI Scheme further enhances the overall return profile of the project.

    We remain focused on disciplined capital allocation, with a strong pipeline of value-accretive expansions under evaluation and expect optimal ramp-up within the next 10–12 months.”

    Business News For Profit

  • India’s logistics sector poised for rapid expansion on the back of infrastructure and digital reforms

    Apr 17 (BNP): India’s logistics industry is expected to witness strong, sustained growth over the coming decade, with estimates placing its value at around $800 billion by 2030 and close to ₹120 trillion by 2035. The expansion is being driven by large-scale infrastructure development, policy reforms, and increasing digital adoption across supply chains.

    A key factor behind this growth is the ongoing capital investment push in transport infrastructure, including highways, rail networks, and dedicated freight corridors. These projects are designed to improve connectivity, reduce transit time, and lower overall logistics costs across regions.

    Government initiatives such as the National Logistics Policy (NLP) and PM Gati Shakti programme are also reshaping the sector by improving coordination between departments and streamlining freight movement. India’s logistics cost, currently estimated at 13–14% of GDP, is targeted to gradually decline toward around 8%, enhancing global competitiveness.

    At the same time, digital transformation is accelerating efficiency and transparency in supply chains. Platforms like the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP), e-way bill systems, and RFID-enabled tracking are helping improve real-time visibility, reduce delays, and formalize operations. Industry expectations suggest that up to 60% of the sector could become formalized by 2035.

    Demand-side growth is also strengthening the sector, supported by the rise of e-commerce, manufacturing expansion under “Make in India,” and the development of export logistics hubs. These trends are increasing the need for modern warehousing, cold chain networks, and efficient last-mile delivery systems.

    With India’s economy projected to expand from around $4.2 trillion in 2025 to nearly $10 trillion by 2035, the logistics sector is expected to play a central role in enabling trade, industrial growth, and consumption across the country.

  • Paytm Foundation launches second mobile learning bus to expand digital education in Odisha

    Apr 17 (BNP): Paytm Foundation has launched its second “Wisdom on Wheels” mobile learning bus in Odisha, expanding its effort to bring digital and computer education directly to rural and school communities.

    Paytm Foundation launches second mobile learning bus to expand digital education in Odisha

     Pic Credit: Pexel

    The initiative is designed to reach students in remote areas where access to computer labs and digital infrastructure is limited. The specially equipped mobile bus will travel across villages and schools, offering hands-on training in basic computer skills, digital literacy, and financial awareness.

    The bus functions as a fully functional mobile classroom, equipped with computers, internet connectivity, and learning tools, allowing students to practice real-world digital skills during sessions.

    According to officials, the programme aims to:

    • Improve digital literacy among government school students
    • Bridge the urban–rural technology gap
    • Promote basic coding and computer skills
    • Support financial and internet awareness in rural communities

    This is the second such bus in Odisha, indicating an expansion of the programme after earlier success in reaching students through mobile learning units.

    The initiative was showcased at an event at VSS University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla, as part of broader collaborations between industry and educational institutions in the state.

  • Herbalife India and IIT Madras Sign Agreement to Establish Centre of Excellence

    Apr 17 (BNP): Herbalife International India Private Limited and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras have entered into a partnership to set up a Centre of Excellence on Plant Cell Fermentation Technology at IIT Madras Research Park.

    The centre will focus on advanced research in plant cell fermentation, a biotechnology process used to grow plant cells in controlled environments to produce useful compounds such as herbal ingredients and bioactive substances.

    The initiative aims to:

    • Promote research in plant-based biotechnology and fermentation science
    • Support development of scalable and sustainable production methods
    • Encourage collaboration between academia and industry
    • Provide training and innovation opportunities in bio-manufacturing

    This facility is intended to strengthen translational research, helping move scientific discoveries from the lab toward practical applications in health, nutrition, and wellness industries.

  • Parle Magix Unveils ‘Masti Ka Fix’, Bringing Everyday Masti to Life

    Mumbai, April 17: Parle Products, has unveiled its latest campaign for Parle Magix, titled ‘Masti Ka Fix’. Designed to celebrate imagination and a light-hearted spirit, the campaign brings alive the playful essence of the brand, turning everyday moments into fun, memorable experiences.

    The film showcases a young boy and his friend as they embark on a fun-filled journey powered by the “magic” of Parle Magix. What begins as a simple question whether Magix truly has magic quickly unfolds into a series of imaginative, larger-than-life moments. From parting crowds on a busy street to playfully disrupting a gym scene and even fast-forwarding school time, the narrative captures the sense of wonder, exaggeration, and everyday mischief that resonates universally.

    Rooted in fun, spontaneity, and exaggeration, the campaign highlights how Parle Magix transforms everyday moments into exciting experiences. It reinforces the brand’s positioning as a playful, tasty treat that adds a dash of “masti” to daily routines whether at work, during breaks, or while sharing moments with friends and family.

    With this campaign, Parle Magix aims to deepen its emotional connect with a wider audience while strengthening its position as a go-to cream biscuit for fun and indulgence. Its unique flavours and affordable pricing further enhance its appeal as an accessible treat for everyday enjoyment.

    Commenting on the campaign, Mayank Shah, Chief Marketing Officer, Parle Products, said,

    “Parle Magix has always stood for adding joy to everyday moments. With ‘Masti Ka Fix’, we have built on a simple insight, people naturally bring imagination and fun into the ordinary. This theme allowed us to create a campaign that is both relatable and memorable, using storytelling to drive stronger brand recall and engagement. Through this, we aim to deepen our connect with consumers and reinforce Magix as a playful, affordable treat that fits seamlessly into everyday snacking moments.”

    Adding to this, Carlos Pereira, CCO & Founder, Carlos Creatives, said,

    “The idea was to bring alive the exaggerated imagination that people experience every day. We wanted to create a world where a simple biscuit could unlock moments of magic and mischief. ‘Masti Ka Fix’ captures this beautifully, blending relatability with playful storytelling that resonates widely.”

    Launched in 2010, Parle Magix is a cream biscuit range known for combining crunchy biscuits with smooth, flavourful cream. With popular variants such as Chocolate, Orange, Elaichi, Strawberry, and unique dual flavours like Mango-Pineapple and Mango-Coconut, Magix has steadily built a strong presence, becoming a favourite for everyday snacking.

    As part of a comprehensive 360-degree rollout, the campaign will be launched across television and digital platforms to maximise reach and engagement among a wide consumer base.

    Campaign Credits:

    • Client: Parle Products Private Limited
    • Brand: Parle Magix
    • CMO: Mayank Shah
    • Product Manager: Nivesh Gupta
    • Deputy Brand Manager: Suraj Kaul
    • Creative Agency: Carlos Creatives
    • Production House: Bubble Wrap Films
    • Director: Arjun Chakradhar
     Business News For Profit

  • Strong Credit Momentum in FY26, Deposit Growth Also Rises: RBI

    Apr 17 (BNP): Bank lending in India picked up strong momentum in FY26, with credit expanding by 16.08% year-on-year, marking its fastest growth since FY24, when growth had crossed 20%, according to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data.

    Deposits also showed healthy traction, rising 13.47% YoY—its strongest pace in the same period. Total bank credit stood at ₹213.61 trillion, while deposits reached ₹262.30 trillion.

    In the fortnight ended March 31, credit rose sharply by 2.8% (₹5.92 trillion), compared with a marginal 0.1% increase in the previous fortnight. Deposits grew even faster during the same period, up 4.87% (₹12.18 trillion). However, analysts noted that year-end figures may appear elevated due to changes in RBI reporting dates.

    Market experts said credit growth has improved in recent months, led by strong demand from corporates, MSMEs, and retail borrowers, particularly in segments like gold loans. Lower lending rates have also encouraged companies to shift back to bank borrowing, as bond market yields remained relatively high.

    According to industry experts, external funding avenues such as overseas borrowing have become costlier due to elevated global yields and currency volatility, further boosting reliance on domestic bank credit.

    Data shows major lenders including State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, and Kotak Mahindra Bank have reported strong growth across corporate and MSME loan segments.

    Analysts also pointed out that bond market activity has remained subdued due to higher yields, while tighter global financial conditions have constrained external commercial borrowing. This has further strengthened banks’ role as key lenders in the system.

    However, experts cautioned that sustaining this pace of credit growth will require stronger deposit mobilisation, as rising credit demand is already creating pressure on liquidity and balance sheets. Banks have increasingly relied on certificate of deposits (CDs) to bridge funding gaps, with issuances rising sharply during FY26.

    Overall, while credit momentum remains strong, analysts expect banks to focus on deposit growth and funding stability to support sustained lending expansion going forward.