Archive: October 30, 2025

News

AICTE Chairman T.G. Sitharam flags off National IDE Bootcamp virtually

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

Hyderabad, October 30, 2025: A two-day Capacity Building Workshop on Innovation, Design & Entrepreneurship (IDE) was inaugurated at Vardhaman College of Engineering, near Shamshabad, on Thursday.

AICTE Chairman T.G. Sitharam flags off National IDE Bootcamp virtually

The two-day workshop focuses on a human-centred approach to exploring innovation, problem-solving, and design thinking. Several case studies will be discussed, and participants will visit the incubation centre at Vardhaman College of Engineering.

The All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell (MIC), Department of School Education and Literacy, Government of India, NCERT, School Innovation Council, and the Wadhwani Foundation have joined hands to organise the Innovation, Design, and Entrepreneurship (IDE) Bootcamps. It is a nationwide initiative.

This national initiative, envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, aims to nurture innovation, design, and entrepreneurial skills among student innovators and innovation ambassadors from higher education institutions and schools.

The initiative was launched virtually across 26 locations in 21 states and Union Territories by Prof. T. G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE; Dr Abhay Jere, Vice Chairman, AICTE; and Mr Deeraj Sahu, Additional Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, Government of India.

The local inauguration of the Bootcamp at Vardhaman College of Engineering was led by Yogesh Wadhawan, AICTE-MIC, Ministry of Education, New Delhi, who mentioned that Vardhaman was chosen as the nodal college for Telangana due to its strong infrastructure and experience in innovation and incubation. Over 80 participants from across Telangana — including District Education Officers (DEOs), District Science Officers (DSOs), and DIET faculty — attended.

Key dignitaries at the local inauguration included P. Rajeev, Joint Director, Samagra Shiksha, Govt. of Telangana; Yogesh Wadhawan, AICTE Representative; Shaik Waseem and Dr Rajesh Kandula from the Wadhwani Foundation; Prof. JVR Ravindra, Nodal Centre Head (SPOC); and Dr J. Krishna Chaitanya, Nodal Centre SPOC.

Addressing the central inauguration virtually, Prof. T. G. Sitharam stated that the initiative was being rolled out in three phases — with the first phase covering seven locations, including Vardhaman College of Engineering. Subsequent phases will be held in eight and eleven locations in early and mid-November, respectively.

He emphasised that design thinking — a human-centric approach to innovation — will play a vital role in realising Viksit Bharat, as envisioned by the Prime Minister.

“Education officers are the change agents,” he said. “Sow the seeds of innovation among students. We must create job givers, not job seekers.”

Prof. Sitharam added that the initiative would reach 1,500 DEOs, DSOs, and DIETs across 21 states and union territories, strengthening India’s innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Mr Deeraj Sahu highlighted that innovation is not limited to product creation but extends to rethinking processes and services. He cited examples such as instant delivery and aggregation models that have transformed industries in the last decade. He described the workshop as an important milestone for both educators and students.

Dr Abhay Jere called the IDE Bootcamp the first-of-its-kind initiative in India, inspired directly by the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Speaking at the local inauguration, P. Rajeev, Joint Director, Samagra Shiksha, Govt of Telangana, noted that engineers have contributed immensely to global platforms like Facebook, Google, and Instagram — and that Indian innovators have the potential to become future owners and leaders in such spaces.

Experts Shaik Waseem and Dr Rajesh Kandula from the Wadhwani Foundation explained how their organisation supports job creation and entrepreneurship through initiatives in skilling, innovation, and digital transformation.

Prof. JVR Ravindra, Principal and Nodal Centre Head, urged that educational institutions must move beyond producing employees to nurturing job creators.

“The time is now to transform our classrooms into hubs of innovation and entrepreneurship,” he said. “We already incubated 30 to 40 startups, with several progressing to revenue generation.”

Dr Krishna Chaitanya Janapati proposed the vote of thanks.

The program will conclude on Friday evening.

Technology

Top 4 Startups Building a Counterfeit-Free Future

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

Counterfeiting is a growing threat to businesses and consumers, with fake products infiltrating sectors ranging from pharmaceuticals to electronics, FMCG, and luxury goods. As e-commerce and digital payments expand, the scale and sophistication of counterfeit goods are rising, making robust anti-counterfeiting measures more critical than ever. Scheduled for release by the end of 2025, the ASPA–CRISIL report will evaluate counterfeiting risks across high-risk sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, consumer durables, automotive, apparel, and FMCG. By providing data-driven insights, the report aims to assist brand owners, regulators, and policymakers in strengthening anti-counterfeiting frameworks, enabling businesses to safeguard products and maintain consumer trust.

Below are the top 4 startups leading the fight against counterfeiting in India, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI, blockchain, and digital authentication to make products more secure and verifiable.

Ennoventure

Ennoventure, Inc. is a global SaaS company leading the digital revolution in brand protection, distinguished by its patented invisible signature powered by AI and cryptography. With innovation and people at core, the company empowers brands and consumers by authenticating product packages and transforming them into intelligent, connected packaging. The solutions seamlessly integrate into product packaging without process changes or capital investment. Its brand protection solutions are covert, cost-efficient, and can be deployed swiftly across multiple product package designs without the risk of counterfeiting. Trusted by major brands worldwide, billions of product packages carry Ennoventure’s invisible signatures across industries, including automotive and industrial spare parts, FMCG, agrochemicals, and more. Ennoventure, Inc. is headquartered in Massachusetts and has offices in Dubai and India.

Digimarc

Digimarc focuses on digital watermarking solutions, embedding unique identifiers into physical and digital products for authentication and tracking. The technology integrates seamlessly with digital content and packaging, providing real-time verification and product traceability. Digimarc’s solutions are widely used by retailers, media companies, and consumer goods brands to prevent counterfeiting, protect revenue, and maintain customer confidence.

Top 4 Startups Building a Counterfeit-Free Future

Checko is founded by IIT Kanpur entrepreneurs and backed by leaders from various unicorns, provides AI-powered embedded QR code technology to verify product authenticity. The company’s solutions also streamline paperless warranty management and enable offline client data collection through customer incentives. Designed primarily for electronics and electrical brands, Checko enhances both brand protection and customer satisfaction, allowing consumers to verify products through their smartphones while benefiting from loyalty and incentive programs.

Cypheme

Cypheme specializes in covert anti-counterfeit solutions using invisible chemical markers. These markers are embedded into products to provide authentication that is undetectable to the naked eye, making them particularly effective for high-value or high-risk items. Serving industries such as pharmaceuticals and luxury goods, Cypheme ensures supply chain security and prevents unauthorized duplication without altering product packaging, thereby maintaining both integrity and consumer trust.

Together, companies like Ennoventure,Inc., Checko, Cypheme, and Digimarc are leading the fight against counterfeit goods. By deploying AI, cryptography, QR codes, chemical markers, and digital watermarking, these innovators not only protect brands but also enhance supply chain transparency, improve consumer safety, and ensure that businesses can operate with confidence in a rapidly evolving market.

 

 

Editors Note: The order of products listed is for illustrative purposes only and does not reflect any official ranking or rating.

Technology

Consistent Infosystems Unveils Smart Multi-Device Power Socket Extensions

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

Consistent Infosystems Unveils Smart Multi-Device Power Socket Extensions

New Delhi, 30th October, 2025: Consistent Infosystems, one of India’s fastest-growing brands in IT hardware, consumer electronics, and security solutions, proudly announces the launch of its latest innovation the Power Socket Extension series. Available in four advanced models 2USB + 1 PD Port, Fast Charging, 4 Charging Socket, and 5 Charging Socket this new range is designed to deliver enhanced power efficiency, fast charging, and superior safety for modern homes and offices.

power socket pr edm 1 copy (1)

Crafted with durable PP material, each model in the Power Socket Extension range comes equipped with essential features such as an LED indicator, wall mounting hole, child safety shutter, and maximum output power of 2500W with a rated input of 10A 250V ensuring both performance and protection for everyday use.

The 2USB + 1 PD Port model features three AC sockets, two USB ports, and one Type-C PD port, supporting simultaneous charging for multiple devices. It includes an on/off button, LED indicator, and wall hole for convenient placement, offering an ideal solution for both residential and professional environments.

The Fast-Charging model comes equipped with five AC sockets, three USB ports, and one PD port. Designed with smart chip technology and 5V 2.1A USB output, it enables fast and efficient power delivery to multiple devices at once. Enhanced with safety shutters and durable construction, it ensures reliable performance every time.

The 4 Charging Socket model includes four AC sockets made from ABS material, combining strength, stability, and safety. It supports up to 2500W max output and provides a compact, dependable solution for multi-device power needs.

The 5 Charging Socket model offers five AC sockets, a fast-charging function, and an on/off button for user convenience and power control. Built with durable PP material, an LED indicator, and a wall mounting feature, it provides a comprehensive power management solution suitable for homes, offices, and entertainment setups.

Speaking on the launch, Mr Yogesh Agrawal, CMD & Co-Founder, Consistent Infosystems, said: “At Consistent, we are dedicated to creating innovative solutions that enhance everyday convenience and safety. The Power Socket Extension range embodies this commitment offering users reliable performance, modern design, and intelligent functionality for today’s connected lifestyle.”

With this launch, Consistent Infosystems continues to strengthen its presence in the power accessories and consumer electronics segment, delivering smart, reliable, and efficient solutions that empower users across India to stay connected and powered up with confidence.

Technology

Inspira Enterprise Named Leader in Cybersecurity Services by Everest Group’s 2025 PEAK Matrix

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

Inspira Enterprise Recognized as a Leader in the Cybersecurity Services for Mid-Market Enterprises PEAK Matrix Assessment 2025 by Everest Group

Mumbai, 30th October, 2025: Inspira Enterprise, a global leader in cybersecurity services, today announced that it has been recognized as a Leader in Everest Group’s Cybersecurity Services for Mid-Market Enterprises PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025. This recognition highlights Inspira’s AI-driven cybersecurity services, including Cyber Advisory, Data Privacy, Identity and Access Management, Data Security, Threat & Vulnerability Management (TVM), Managed Detection and Response (MDR), and Managed Security Services tailored specifically for mid-market enterprises across the globe.

Everest Group’s PEAK Matrix® is a proprietary framework for assessing the relative market success and overall capability of tech and tech service providers based on performance, experience, ability, and knowledge. Each provider is comparatively assessed on two dimensions, including market success and delivery capabilities. Market success is measured by revenue, number of clients, and year-over-year growth. Delivery capability is measured by scale of operations, scope, technology and innovation, delivery footprint, and buyer satisfaction. The PEAK Matrix® assessment process also includes provider customer reference interviews, which are a critical step that some other research firms exclude.

Commenting on the achievement, Chetan Jain, Managing Director, Inspira Enterprise, remarked, “We are truly honored to be recognized as one of the leaders by Everest Group.  This validates our team’s dedication and excellence in delivering advanced AI driven cybersecurity services to safeguard the digital assets of our customers.  We will continue to further invest and focus on building resilient, AI-driven, and automation-enabled security  for the global mid-market segment.”

Inspira’s strengths recognized by Everest Group include,

  • Clients have appreciated Inspira Enterprise’s domain knowledge, proactive account management, and comprehensive MDR services

  • Mid-market Enterprises searching for secure AI adoption can benefit from Inspira Enterprise’s AI governance and assured services, which track AI usage, map controls to emerging standards, and monitor compliance with policies

  • Enterprises can benefit from Inspira Enterprises’ iSMART2 (Intelligent, Simplified, Measurable, Adaptive, Risk-Based, Threat Centric, Tailored) platform-led cybersecurity services offering, such as CXO dashboards, TRPM workflows, and cyber-risk mapping

  • Inspira Enterprise has invested in SOC-enabled continuous monitoring with regional support, allowing it to enhance its OT security capabilities

  • Mid-market enterprises from HLS and the public sector may find Inspira Enterprise to be relevant, considering its strong vertical presence in supporting domain-aligned runbooks and compliance-driven delivery

“Mid-market firms hold a significant amount of sensitive business and customer data and are attractive targets for cybercriminals. They house complex environments, but the lack of resources of large enterprises makes them vulnerable to breaches, leading to losses on several fronts. Cybersecurity service providers for this segment have to deliver advanced security capabilities with agility while remaining cost-effective. Inspira Enterprises has exhibited these traits and earned a Leader position in the Everest Group Cybersecurity Services for Mid-Market Enterprises PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025,” says Kumar Avijit, Vice President, Everest Group.

Over the years, Inspira Enterprise has built a strong global presence delivering adaptive, intelligent, and customer-centric, end-to-end cybersecurity solutions. The organization serves as a strategic partner to diverse industries and houses several state-of-the-art AI led Cyber Fusion Centers, and delivers round-the-clock support to customers globally. With expertise in Threat Detection and Prevention, Incident Response, Compliance, and Risk Management, it continues to deliver value-driven outcomes and enhance digital trust for its global customers.

News

VFS Global launches Bulgaria long term visa services in India with state of the art centres in 6 major cities

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

The Embassy of Bulgaria in New Delhi and VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure mobility for governments and citizens, have announced the launch of long-term visa (D visa) services in India through strategically located state-of-the-art visa application centres in six major cities – Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, and New Delhi – making the services more accessible by removing the need for applicants to visit the Embassy of Bulgaria in New Delhi.

visa

The addendum was signed between H.E. Dr. Nikolay Yankov, Ambassador of Bulgaria to India, and Ms. Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia, VFS Global, at the Embassy of Bulgaria in New Delhi on 24 October 2025.

Starting 1 November 2025, Bulgaria long-term visa (D visa) applicants in India will be able to submit their applications at our Bulgaria Visa Application Centre in New Delhi by booking a prior appointment online. Appointment slots for our Bulgaria Visa Application Centres in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and Mumbai with also open from mid-November. Applicants can visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/bgr to register and secure an appointment slot to submit their applications with ease.

H.E. Dr. Nikolay Yankov, Ambassador of Bulgaria to India, said, “The launch of Bulgaria’s long-term visa services across India marks an important step in strengthening the people-to-people and business ties between our two countries. This initiative will make the application process simpler and more accessible for Indian citizens planning to travel to Bulgaria for study, work, or family reasons, further deepening the connections between our nations. With VFS Global already managing short-term visa (C visa) services for Bulgaria, this expansion ensures applicants can now conveniently access the full range of visa categories through a trusted partner, without the need to travel to New Delhi.”

Ms. Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia, VFS Global, said, “Our long-standing association with the Government of Bulgaria since 2008 has been built on trust and service excellence. And we are honoured to further strengthen our partnership by extending our support to long-term visa services in India. The introduction of Bulgaria’s long-term visa services through our centres across India will greatly enhance convenience for applicants, who can now complete the process closer to home. We remain committed to delivering efficient and trusted services on behalf of the Government of Bulgaria.”

Applicants get an option to choose from a range of optional and additional services to enhance their overall visa application submission experience such as Visa At Your Doorstep, Premium Lounge, Prime Time collection and submission, Courier, SMS, and Form Filling among others. It is important to note that opting for these additional services does not have any bearing on the timeline or decision on visa applications.

VFS Global has been a trusted partner for the Government of Bulgaria for visa processing services since 2008. The company offers visa services on behalf of the Government of Bulgaria across 31 countries through a network of 116 dedicated visa application centres globally.

VFS Global’s role in the visa application process is limited to front-end administrative tasks only, which include collecting visa application forms, required documentation as per the checklist, and enroll biometrics. VFS Global has no role in the decision-making process of granting or refusing a visa. Decision making on the granting or refusal of visa is the sole prerogative and sole responsibility of the Embassy within the Schengen coordination system.

Bulgaria Visa Application Centres in India for Long-Term Visa category:

  • Ahmedabad: Ground Floor, Shree Balaji Agora Mall, Between Tapovan & Bhat Circle, 200 Ft, Sardar Patel Ring Road, Motera
  • Bengaluru: 22, Gopalan Innovation Mall, Bannerghatta Main Rd, Sarakki Industrial Layout, 3rd Phase, J. P. Nagar
  • Chennai: Ramee Mall, 2nd Floor, No. 365, Anna Salai, Teynampet
  • Kolkata: 5th Floor, Rene Tower, Plot No. AA-I, 1842, Rajdanga Main Road, Kasba
  • Mumbai: Trade Centre, First Floor, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East)
  • New Delhi: Mezzanine Floor, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Connaught Place
Technology

Masai Launches All India Common Entrance Test to Boost Tech Talent Pipeline

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

Masai Launches All India Common Entrance Test to Strengthen India’s Tech Talent Pipeline in Partnership with IITs and IIM

October 30, 2025: Masai has announced the All India Common Entrance Test (AICET) 2025, scheduled for November 2, inviting applicants from across the country to qualify for three online certification programs developed in collaboration with iHUB DivyaSampark, IIT Roorkee; Vishlesan i-Hub, IIT Patna; and IIM Sirmaur. The initiative is designed to identify and nurture learners aspiring to build careers in emerging fields such as Agentic AI, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and Data Analysis with Generative AI.

The AICET will be conducted online from 10 AM to 10 PM, enabling participation from candidates across India and abroad. Selected learners will gain access to programs jointly designed by academia and industry to bridge the gap between conceptual learning and practical application.

The Certification Program in Agentic Systems and Design by iHUB DivyaSampark, IIT Roorkee is a six-month course that equips learners with the ability to design, govern, and deploy autonomous systems using more than 15 frameworks and tools. The program blends strategic and technical learning through modules on agentic architecture, single- and multi-agent systems, and a capstone project.

The Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Program by Vishlesan i-Hub, IIT Patna is a nine-month comprehensive course covering Python programming, data visualization, deep learning, NLP, computer vision, and generative AI. It emphasizes ethical practices and project-based learning to ensure practical skill development.

Both programs require a minimum qualification of 12th grade and are open to applicants from India and abroad.

The EDGE: Essentials of Data Analysis, GenAI & Execution Program by IIM Sirmaur is a six-month course focused on analytics, automation, and business applications of Generative AI. It includes modules on predictive modelling, clustering, sentiment analysis, and dashboard design using Power BI, Python, and SQL. It is open to students and professionals from both technical and non-technical backgrounds.

Prateek Shukla, Co-Founder & CEO, Masai, said, “Talent exists everywhere, but opportunity often does not. The All India Common Entrance Test is our attempt to change that—to give every learner, regardless of background or geography, a fair chance to access high-quality education from India’s best institutions. By bringing IITs and IIM into this effort, we’re making advanced tech learning not a privilege for a few, but a possibility for all. It’s about unlocking human potential at scale.”

Business

Decathlon Launches Kipsta RESIST Football Series for Diverse Indian Terrains

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

India, 30th October 2025, Decathlon, a leading sports retailer, today announced the launch of the Kipsta RESIST football series, developed to meet the needs of footballers across India’s diverse playing surfaces.

Club High Resist 2_Decathlon

Recognizing the variety of conditions, from hard, dry grounds to wet, uneven pitches, Decathlon developed the RESIST series under its sub-label, Kipsta, to provide a durable and reliable option for players across the country.

The Kipsta RESIST football series is designed to meet the demands of India’s varied playing environments, offering durability and consistent performance across different surfaces. The launch reinforces Decathlon’s commitment to providing footballers from urban centers to semi-urban and rural areas, with high-quality, affordable, and accessible equipment that suits India’s growing football community.

Speaking on the launch, Hans Peter Jensen, Sports Director, Decathlon India, says, “Football is more than a game—it’s a celebration of passion, community and the joy of playing together. In India, the sport is experiencing a cultural rise, rooted in self-expression, shared enthusiasm and the thrill of being in the moment. The Kipsta RESIST series embodies this spirit, designed for durability and performance on any surface, enabling players to move freely, play fearlessly, and stay connected to the love of the game. At Decathlon, we are proud to support this growing football community, helping players of all levels explore their potential, celebrate their talent and experience the true joy of football.”

Training High Resist Ball – The Training High Resist Ball has been designed for endurance and reliability across India’s diverse playing surfaces. Built with a robust, abrasion-resistant rubber outer layer, it ensures long-lasting performance for regular training and recreational matches. Suitable for use on hard ground, mud, gravel, and artificial or natural grass, the ball meets FIFA Basic standards for sturdiness and bounce. It offers strong technical performance at an inclusive price point, enabling more players to train consistently and confidently.

Club High Resist Ball – The Club High Resist Ball is crafted for competitive and club-level play, offering enhanced durability combined with refined control. Its rubber outer cover lamination with foam delivers a softer feel and precise ball response while maintaining resistance on harder surfaces. Moreover, the thermofusion stitching technology ensures a better lifetime of the ball. Engineered for use across multiple grounds from artificial and natural grass to gravel and mud, it complies with FIFA Basic standards to ensure quality and consistency. Reflecting Decathlon’s belief in democratizing sport, the Club High Resist Ball provides advanced performance at an accessible price, supporting players who aspire to elevate their game. The Club High Resist Ball, White & Blue, is also available in Size 4 for kids.

The RESIST series includes the Training Resist and Club Resist models, catering to different levels of play. The Training Resist is designed for recreational use and skill development, while the Club Resist is built for more competitive play.

Business

TechnoSport Expands Pan-India with New Stores in Gurugram and Erode

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

TechnoSport accelerates pan-India expansion, crosses halfway mark toward its 50 EBO target with twin launches in Gurugram and Erode

India, 30th October 2025: TechnoSport, India’s fastest-growing activewear brand, has launched two new Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs) in Gurugram, Haryana, and Erode, Tamil Nadu, marking a significant milestone in its nationwide retail expansion. With these additions, the brand now operates 26 EBOs across India, crossing the halfway mark toward its goal of 50 outlets by the end of this financial year. This milestone not only underscores the strong foundation TechnoSport has built for scalable growth but also reflects the brand’s sustained momentum and readiness for accelerated nationwide expansion in the coming years.

Ribbon Cutting

The Gurugram outlet, located at Elan Epic Mall, Sector 70, spans 1,678 sq. ft. and was inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Puspen Maity, CEO, TechnoSport, and other senior leaders. The launch in Gurugram represents a strategic addition to TechnoSport’s North India portfolio, catering to the city’s young, urban, and fitness-driven population. The region serves as a high-potential market owing to its growing athleisure culture, strong mall and retail footfall. The store also features localized winterwear collections tailored to the NCR region’s climate and urban lifestyle, ensuring a relevant and elevated shopping experience.

The Erode outlet, located at Perundurai Road, spans 2,202 sq. ft. and reinforces TechnoSport’s strong foothold in South India. Erode’s rising fitness culture, economic stability, and logistical connectivity make it an ideal Tier-2 city for expansion. The new store allows the brand to deepen engagement with South India’s activewear community while tapping into a growing customer base beyond major metros. 

Both outlets are designed to deliver a modern, immersive retail experience, offering the brand’s complete range of high-performance activewear, crafted for Indian conditions and lifestyles. 

Speaking on the milestone, Puspen Maity, CEO, TechnoSport, said, “These store launches across two key geographies marks an important moment in TechnoSport’s journey toward becoming India’s most accessible and trusted activewear brand. By opening stores in both Gurugram and Erode, we’re bridging two dynamic markets Northern and Southern India and bringing our innovation-led, performance-driven products closer to customers across the country. Reaching the halfway mark toward our 50-store target this FY is both a proud milestone and a reflection of the growing love for TechnoSport nationwide.”

With EBO revenues doubling year-on-year and conversion rates of 83% on walk-ins across outlets, TechnoSport continues to sustain strong business momentum. The brand remains firmly on track to achieve its ₹600 crore revenue target for FY 2025–26, driven by strategic retail growth, localized offerings, and a commitment to delivering performance and style for every Indian consumer.

Technology

Wipro to Power HanesBrands’ GenAI-led IT 2.0 Transformation

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

BRUNSWICK, N.J, BENGALURU, India, 30th October, 2025: Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO), a leading AI-powered technology services and consulting company, has signed* a multi-year strategic agreement with HanesBrands Inc., a global leader in iconic apparel brands. Leveraging the Wipro IntelligenceTM WINGS platform, Wipro expects to transform HanesBrands’ IT infrastructure and cybersecurity operations with an AI-first approach. 

This engagement marks a significant milestone in HanesBrands’ strategic IT 2.0 transformation initiative, which moves the company to a unified, AI-led managed services model. As part of this first-of-its-kind engagement, Wipro will leverage the WINGS Operations AI platform under Wipro IntelligenceTM – a unified suite of AI-powered platforms, solutions and transformative offerings – to streamline operations, improve regulatory compliance, and enhance the overall IT experience for HanesBrands’ consumers, suppliers, and employees, ultimately leading to cost reductions in IT operations.

Wipro will also strengthen HanesBrands’ security posture by enabling AI-powered predictive and preventive operations and automation of security workflows to improve incident resolution times. Additionally, Wipro will help HanesBrands manage regulatory compliance and minimize business disruption through greater operational stability.

“The engagement with Wipro is a key step in our journey to transform our IT operations and deliver better experiences for our customers and partners,” said Scott Pleiman, HanesBrands’ Chief Strategy, Transformation, Analytics and Technology Officer. “Wipro’s AI-led approach and deep domain expertise will help us drive innovation and achieve measurable business outcomes.” 

As part of this engagement, HanesBrands will also have access to the Wipro Innovation Network– encompassing Innovation Labs, AI native companies, Wipro Ventures, Academia, and technology partners—enabling long-term co-creation of solutions to address specific challenges. HanesBrands will benefit from ongoing innovation with Wipro’s proven expertise and capabilities. 

“We are proud to be a strategic partner to HanesBrands in their IT transformation journey,” said Shiva Jayaraman, SVP and Sector Head – Consumer Business, Americas 1, Wipro Limited.  “Continuing our ongoing relationship, this new engagement will allow us to bring the Wipro IntelligenceTM suite to HanesBrands, increasing their operational agility and resilience through AI-powered platforms, solutions and transformative offerings. Ultimately, Wipro’s consulting-led, AI-powered approach will drive accelerated innovation in operations, enabling HanesBrands to unlock new value and new growth opportunities.” 

This deal was mentioned in Wipro Limited’s financial results announcement press release, dated July 17, 2025, for the quarter-ended June 30, 2025, with a description of HanesBrands, but without naming the company.

 

Business

India’s Retirement Index Climbs to 48 as Early Planning Trend Grows: Axis Max Life IRIS 5.0

Oct 30, 2025 by Neel Achary 0 Comments

India’s Retirement Index Score Rises to 48 as Early Planning Gains Momentum; Half of Urban Indians believe in prioritizing early retirement savings : Axis Max Life IRIS 5.0

New Delhi, 30th October, 2025: Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (“Axis Max Life” “Company”), formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Limited, today unveiled the findings of the fifth edition of its annual India Retirement Index Study – IRIS 5.0, conducted in partnership with Kantar, a leading global marketing data and analytics company. 

Now in its fifth consecutive year, the India Retirement Index Study (IRIS) continues to serve as India’s most comprehensive benchmark on retirement preparednessassessing financial, health, and emotional readiness. The 2025 edition shows steady progress, with the Index score rising from 44 in 2022 to 48 in 2025, driven by stronger fitness habits, regular health check-ups, and higher insurance adoption. While financial confidence remains stable, awareness about the required retirement corpus continues to be low, with 7 in 10 respondents believing that ₹1 crore would be sufficient for a comfortable retirement. Health preparedness records the sharpest gain, highlighting India’s growing focus on wellness as a pillar of secure retirement.

This year’s edition sharpens focus on segments such as Return Migrants and Gig Workers, capturing the diverse emotional and financial realities shaping India’s retirement landscape. For the first time, Return Migrants have been studied separately as a cohort, offering insights into how this group balances financial confidence with renewed focus on health and well-being after relocation. With rising awareness, better product understanding, and growing health consciousness, IRIS 5.0 reflects a more retirement-ready India preparing for a secure and balanced future.

Sumit Madan, MD and CEO, Axis Max Life said, “IRIS 5.0 signals a clear shift towards smarter and more holistic retirement planning. Today’s consumers are showing greater health consciousness, higher product awareness, and sustained financial confidence. As health preparedness improves, the next frontier is building adequate retirement corpus and emotional resilience. The study also highlights a growing segment of individuals uncertain about how to begin their planning, reinforcing the need for a trusted advisory support. Diverse segments such as gig workers, women, and return migrants require tailored and inclusive solutions. The findings underline how the next phase of growth for the industry will hinge on delivering more innovative, advisory-led, and inclusive retirement solutions.”

Soumya Mohanty, MD and Chief Client Officer, South Asia,  Kantar said “IRIS 5.0 highlights evolving retirement behaviors across India. The rise in product awareness and health-first behaviour is notable. The study’s richer segmental analysis provides actionable cues for policymakers, employers and financial service providers to move from awareness to measurable preparedness.”

KEY FINDINGS FROM THE INDIA RETIREMENT INDEX STUDY 5.0

Retirement readiness rises across the country

  • IRIS 5.0 reflects a positive trend in retirement preparedness, with the national score rising to 48 — a 4-point increase from IRIS 2.0. Health readiness has improved to 46, up from 41 in 2022, driven by increased physical activity, more frequent preventive health checks, and a rise in health insurance ownership (now at 50%, +7%). Emotional preparedness remains the next priority, with 71% reporting loneliness concerns in certain cohorts. Emotional confidence has slightly declined, with 72% of Indians expressing concern about potential dependence on family 

Women Show Slight Edge Over Men in Retirement Readiness

Women have a slightly higher retirement preparedness score at 49, compared to 48 for men. A greater proportion of women (82%) expect to remain physically fit during retirement, versus 78% of men. However, women are 8% less likely to invest in risk-based financial instruments and report higher levels of loneliness (74%), underscoring the dual need for both emotional and financial empowerment.

Metros Lead in Retirement Preparedness, Awareness Grows Across Indian Cities 

  • IRIS 5.0 indicates a clear upward trend in retirement preparedness across India’s urban centers, led by metros and Tier I cities. Metros, with an IRIS score of 50, reflect a stronger focus on wellness and financial discipline, as more residents adopt regular fitness routines and preventive check-ups (60%). Tier I cities are fast following suit, showing a 13% rise in regular physical activity and a 21% increase in participation in risk-based investments, pointing to growing comfort with diverse financial tools. 

Regional Insights Highlight Varied Preparedness Across The Country

  • East India leads in overall preparedness, balanced across finance, health, and emotion.
  • North India shows highest health recovery post-COVID (+11 points in Health Index), boosted by monitoring and insurance adoption.
  • West India demonstrates strong financial momentum (+7 points in Finance Index), driven by stock (+15%) and real estate (+20%) investments.
  • South India reflects a balanced wellbeing profile, marked by a 4-point improvement in health sentiment (43) and emotional resilience (59), even as financial sentiment holds steady at 47 points.

Segment Spotlight: Diverse Cohorts Show Varying Preparedness

  • Gig Workers (IRIS index score – 47): Reflecting India’s evolving workforce, gig professionals show growing financial independence but weaker health engagement. However, 74% worry about meeting family’s basic needs, and many lack access to structured retirement or health benefits, highlighting a need for inclusive coverage.
  • Return Migrants (IRIS index score –  48): Financially confident due to earlier urban exposure, but 52% haven’t had preventive health checks in three years; thus offsetting savings optimism by health neglect. 
  • Women (IRIS index score – 49): Lead in financial and health preparedness, driven by stronger health optimism (+7) and rising fitness focus, reflecting proactive planning and higher retirement confidence compared with men (IRIS 48).These cohorts highlight India’s shifting workforce and post-pandemic realities, pointing to a broader need for tailored financial and wellness solutions.

Awareness vs Preparedness Gap Persists

  • Awareness improves with the average of known financial products rising to 11.6 in 2025 (IRIS 5.0) from 8.7 in 2022 (IRIS 2.0). Friends/family (72%) and financial advisors (47%) remain key sources.
  • Preparedness gap: Only 37% have achieved ≥25% of their target corpus; many underestimate required corpus for retirement (₹1 crore remains common benchmark).

NPS & Workplace Benefits Gain Traction

  • NPS awareness at 66% (up from 59%), but ownership stable at approx. 17% due to complexity and need for guidance.
  • As per IRIS 5.0, Employee Provident Fund (EPF) continues to be the most common benefit, cited by 69% respondents. When asked about additional add-ons, they would like to receive, regular health check-ups (55%) and medical or hospitalization coverage (49%) emerged as the top preferences.

Health & Prevention Take Center Stage

  • 81% engage in regular physical activity (+5 pts since 2022).
  • Preventive check-ups remaining at 55%.
  • Health insurance ownership at 50% (+7 pts), signaling growing focus on wellness and proactive health management.