Indian Startups Raise $240.85 Million This Week, Bengaluru Leads In Funding Deals

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Indian startups raise $240.85 million this week, Bengaluru leads in funding deals

During the week, 30 Indian startups secured a total of $240.85 million in funding including five growth-stage investments and 20 early-stage rounds.Bengaluru emerged as the leader in startup funding, with 12 deals secured during the week.It was followed by Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, and Patna.

Among business sectors, e-commerce startups received the highest number of investments, closing five deals, according to Entrackr report.

SaaS and fintech startups followed closely, securing three deals each, while companies in foodtech, healthtech, and manufacturing also attracted investor interest.

In the growth-stage category, edtech startup Leap raised $65 million in its Series E round led by Apis Partners.

B2B seafood startup Captain Fresh secured $30 million in its ongoing pre-IPO round.

SaaS IT management platform SuperOps raised $25 million, while a supply chain startup received $12 million in a Series C round from Evolvence India and Mirabilis Investment Trust.

Among early-stage startups, 20 companies collectively raised $107.15 million.

B2B SaaS startup Atomic work led with a $25 million Series A round, followed by investments in co-working firm Innov8, senior citizen-focused healthcare services provider Geri Care, telecom company Astrome Technologies, and mobility startup VoltUp.

Additionally, D2C handloom clothing brand Dressfolk and road safety products manufacturer Prisomoline raised funds but did not disclose the amounts.

On a weekly basis, startup funding remained stable but showed a slight dip of 3.22 per cent, down from $248.87 million in the previous week.

Over the past eight weeks, the average weekly funding stood at $349.53 million, with 26 deals per week.

Yogi Adityanath Monitors Basant Panchami Amrit Snan At Maha Kumbh, Ensures Safety And Smooth Arrangements

by with No Comment Latest UpdatesSpirituality

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took proactive measures to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the Basant Panchami Amrit Snan at the Maha Kumbh, starting his day early at 3 AM to monitor updates from the ‘war room.’

Following the tragic stampede that resulted in 30 deaths and 60 injuries, CM Adityanath focused his attention on the safety and well-being of both the sants and devotees attending the sacred ritual. His main priority was to ensure that all necessary arrangements were in place, with strict adherence to safety protocols.

The Chief Minister issued continuous directions to key officials, including the Director General of Police (DGP), Principal Secretary of Home, and members of the Chief Minister’s Office, to address any challenges and ensure smooth operations during the event.

According to DIG of Maha Kumbh, Vaibhav Krishna, the arrangements were commendable. “The arrangements are excellent. All our ghats and pathways are well-organized, and there is no overcrowding. Crowd control measures are in place to ensure everyone’s safety,” Krishna said.

The Amrit Snan at Triveni Sangam, held on the occasion of Basant Panchami, is one of the most significant rituals during the Maha Kumbh. The event attracts millions seeking spiritual purification, highlighting the importance of flawless event management by the state government.

 

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INAUGURAL EDITION OF INDIAN NAVY HALF MARATHON

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The inaugural edition of the Indian Navy Half Marathon was conducted on 02 Feb 25 in New Delhi. The event witnessed more than 10,000 participants competing across three race categories: 21.1 km, 10 km and 5 km runs, making it an inclusive event for runners of all calibres and backgrounds.

The flagship races – 21.1 km and 10 km runs were flagged off by Hon’ble Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, Dr Mansukh L Mandaviya in the presence of Chief of the Defence Staff, Chief of the Naval Staff, Chief of the Air Staff and senior services and civilian dignitaries.

The event was hosted at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, with the race route covering India Gate and the historic Kartavya Path and delivered a well-planned and unforgettable experience for all participants.  In addition, the event was also graced by Senior management of the main partner IDFC First Bank, associate partners IOCL and Titan Watches. The presence of distinguished sportspersons made the event more memorable.

This landmark event aimed to promote health and fitness amongst participants from all walks of life, encouraging them to embrace physical activity and adopt an active lifestyle for overall well-being. The event also fostered a sense of camaraderie and competition, bringing people together to forge stronger bonds with the Indian Navy. It further aimed to inspire the youth to consider joining the Indian Navy, a career synonymous with courage, discipline and service to the nation.

The resounding success of the Indian Navy Half Marathon was further amplified by the remarkable performances of the participants. Athletes from different age groups and professional backgrounds demonstrated their endurance, determination, and sportsmanship, making the event an inspiring spectacle for everyone. The winners in each category showcased outstanding physical and mental resilience, setting an example for future participants.

The winner’s (List of first 03 position in each category attached Indian Navy Half Marathon Winners 2025.pdf) are as follows: –

Indian Navy Half Marathon Winners 2025.pdf

21.1 km (Half Marathon)

Men (Open Category): Kulbir Singh (1:04:52)

Women (Open Category): Vrinda Bhandari (1:37:08)

 10 km

 Men (Open Category): Prakash Deshmukh (0:30:22)

 Women (Open Category): Kavita (0:35:36)

 5 km

 Men (Open Category): Gaurav Kasana (0:14:14)

 Women (Open Category): Anjali (0:17:37)

 

Former UK PM Rishi Sunak Attends Fifth T20I Between India And England In Mumbai

by with No Comment Latest UpdatesSports

Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attended the fifth and final T20I match of the series between India and England at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.

India, led by Abhishek Sharma’s all-round performance, secured a historic 150-run victory over England, clinching the five-match series 4-1.

In a post on X, Sunak mentioned that it was a tough day for the ‘Three Lions’ but congratulated Team India for their thumping win in the final T20I. He added that it was a pleasure to watch the match with his father-in-law, Narayana Murthy.

“Tough day for England at the Wankhede, but I know our team will come back stronger. Congratulations to Team India on the win. Despite the result, it was an honor to meet @josbuttler and @surya_14kumar before the match, and a pleasure to watch the cricket with my father-in-law,” Rishi Sunak said on X.

England won the toss and opted to bowl first in Mumbai. Abhishek Sharma (135 runs from 54 balls, 7 fours, and 13 sixes) played a stupendous knock in the first innings and propelled India to 247/9. The youngster was the standout batter for the Men in Blue on Sunday.

Brydon Carse led the England bowling attack with his three-wicket haul. Mark Wood also bagged two wickets.

During the run chase, England opener Philip Salt (55 runs from 23 balls, 7 fours, and 3 sixes) was the lone batter to stand out for the Three Lions. Apart from him, other players failed to perform in the game.

The Indian bowling attack displayed a stupendous performance, successfully bundling out England for 97, with 9 overs remaining. Abhishek Sharma, Shivam Dube, and Varun Chakravarthy picked up three wickets each in their respective spells.

Abhishek was named ‘Player of the Match’ for his match-winning knock, while Varun Chakravarthy bagged the ‘Player of the Series’ award.

NHPC’s 100 days Tuberculosis (TB) elimination campaign

by with No Comment EnergyHealth and Community

The Government of India is running “100 days Tuberculosis (TB) elimination campaign” for TB free workplace. Various activities are being organized under this campaign. In this sequence, NHPC organized free multi- speciality health camp for TB screening (X-ray chest & sputum exam.)/ Eye/ Dental check up and Ayurvedic consultation alongwith Fortis hospital – (pulmonology, nephrology, orthpedic, gynecology and internal medicine) , Centre for Sight, Dr. Pruthi Dental & multispeciality dental clinic & B. K. District Hospital at NHPC Residential Colony, Surajkund, Faridabad for employees and theire family members also for contractual staffs and their family members. A total of 277 people were given free medical consultation and treatment in the camp.

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Gene therapy promises individualised management of disease for each patient

by with No Comment Health and CommunityTechnology

Gene therapy promises individualised management of disease for each patient. Even if two individuals suffer from the same condition—be it cancer, kidney disease, or any other ailment—the treatment could be different in each case, guided by the individual’s unique genetic makeup, pre-existing susceptibilities and inherited vulnerabilities.”, stated Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, while inaugurating the Centre for Advanced Genomics & Precision Medicine at AIIMS Jammu.

Set up in collaboration with 4 base Care, the Centre aims to usher in a new era of personalised medicine, leveraging cutting-edge genomic research to provide targeted treatment based on individual genetic profiles.

Underscoring the transformative potential of gene therapy, the Minister emphasised that with genomic advancements, doctors would no longer rely on a one-size-fits-all approach but would tailor treatments to maximise efficacy and specificity for each individual.

The newly launched Centre for Advanced Genomics & Precision Medicine places AIIMS Jammu among the frontrunners in India’s medical research landscape. By integrating genomic data with AI-driven diagnostics, the centre aims to enhance early disease detection, optimise treatment strategies, and reduce the trial-and-error approach in medical prescriptions. Experts at the event noted that this facility would play a pivotal role in advancing precision oncology, cardiovascular genomics, and genetic screening for rare disorders.

Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed out that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has prioritised technology-driven progress in the healthcare sector. He cited the government’s efforts in promoting indigenous research and biotechnology, highlighting the exponential growth in India’s bio-economy—from a mere $10 billion in 2014 to nearly $130 billion today, with an ambitious target of $300 billion in the near future. He further stated that with over 9,000 biotech startups compared to just 50 in 2014, India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in medical innovation.

The Minister stressed the need for an India-specific genomic database, highlighting the country’s unique genetic diversity. “India is a subcontinent in itself, with over 4,600 distinct demographic groups. Our gene sequencing efforts, which have already mapped 10,000 healthy individuals across 99 communities, will help create a robust dataset tailored to Indian-specific health challenges,” he said. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing one million genome sequences in the coming years to enable more accurate disease prediction and personalised interventions.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also pointed out the resurgence of infectious diseases alongside the rise in non-communicable diseases, urging a hybrid approach combining traditional diagnostics with genetic insights. “India has already proven itself in preventive healthcare, pioneering innovations like the world’s first DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine and the HPV vaccine. With this new centre, we will further strengthen our ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases using cutting-edge technology,” he said.

A key objective of the centre is to make precision medicine affordable and accessible to the masses. While personalised treatments have traditionally been costly, AIIMS Jammu aims to leverage indigenous research and government-backed biotech initiatives to bring down costs and integrate precision medicine into public healthcare programs.

The Minister highlighted initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, which has provided health coverage to millions, and the recently launched Bio-E3 policy, which focuses on biotechnology for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and employment generation. He stated that the government’s National Research Foundation (Anusandhan) will play a crucial role in funding next-generation research in genomics and personalised medicine.

Dr. Jitendra Singh elaborated on how Precision Medicine could be a game-changer for cancer treatment, enabling doctors to design targeted therapies instead of relying solely on conventional chemotherapy and radiation. He cited India’s recent success in conducting the first-ever genetic therapy trial for haemophilia at CMC Vellore, where patients showed a 60% improvement in clotting factor production, with zero bleeding episodes. The trial, acknowledged globally and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, underscores India’s rising stature in genetic research.

He also noted that genomic medicine would play a crucial role in tackling lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, which is now affecting younger age groups in India. A recent study found that the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes in Jammu is slightly higher than the national average, making AIIMS Jammu’s research even more critical in developing effective intervention strategies.

Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded his address by reaffirming the government’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, where healthcare is not only curative but also predictive and preventive. “This is just the beginning. The future of medicine is personalised, and India is well on its way to leading the world in genomic healthcare,” he said.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Director AIIMS Jammu, Dr Shakti Gupta was all praise for Dr Jitendra Singh for the setting up and continuous upgradation of AIIMS Jammu.

Dr YK Gupta President AIIMS and Dr V Srinivas Director AIIMS New Delhi also spoke on the occasion.

 

Google pushes global agenda to educate workers, lawmakers on AI

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Alphabet’s Google, already facing an unprecedented regulatory onslaught, is looking to shape public perception and policies on artificial intelligence ahead of a global wave of AI regulation.

A key priority, one executive told Reuters, comes in building out educational programs to train the workforce on AI.

“Getting more people and organizations, including governments, familiar with AI and using AI tools, makes for better AI policy and opens up new opportunities – it’s a virtuous cycle,” said Kent Walker, Alphabet’s president of global affairs.

As Google races to best Big Tech rivals including Microsoft-backed OpenAI and Meta in the AI arena, it is mindful of the heavy regulatory scrutiny it faces in its existing businesses in advertising and search.

In the European Union, Google has offered to sell a part of its ad tech business to appease regulators, Reuters reported. In the U.S., the Justice Department is attempting to force a breakup of its Chrome Web browser — though it may shift course under the administration of President Donald Trump.

Meanwhile, governments globally are drafting new regulations on issues that could be exacerbated by AI, such as copyright and privacy. The EU AI Act, which seeks to assess risk and require disclosures from general-purpose AI systems, has received pushback from tech giants that could find themselves in the crosshairs of multibillion-dollar fines.

The DOJ has also sought to curtail Google’s advances in AI as a remedy in a federal case that found its search business to be an illegal monopoly.

Google executives see an opportunity to shape the narrative around a technology that has stoked emerging fears of mass job loss.

CEO Sundar Pichai announced in September a $120 million investment fund to build AI education programs. Deputies including Walker and Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer, are increasingly traveling globally to discuss policy recommendations with governments.

“There’s a lot of upside in terms of helping people who may be displaced by this. We do want to focus on that,” Walker said.

Efforts include expanding Grow with Google, a combination online and in-person program that provides training tools for businesses and teaches workers skills like data analysis or IT support that are meant to expand their career prospects in technical fields.

In December, the company said 1 million people had obtained a certificate for the program. It is adding specialized courses related to AI, such as one geared toward teachers, said program head Lisa Gevelber.

Courses alone are not enough to prepare workers, Walker said. “What really matters is if you have some sort of objective that people are working towards, like a credential that people can use to apply for a job.”

Google wants to increase experimentation on public-private partnerships, he said. The leading example so far, he said, is the “Skilled Trades and Readiness” program, in which the company has partnered with community colleges to train workers for potential jobs constructing data centers. Google is incorporating AI education into the program, he said.

“Ultimately, the federal government will look and see which proofs of concept are playing out – which of the green shoots are taking root,” Walker said. “If we can help fertilize that effort, that’s our role.”

In the long term, Walker said he expects a small fraction of existing jobs to be entirely displaced by AI, citing several studies commissioned by Google, Goldman Sachs, and McKinsey. Those studies suggest AI will be incorporated into most jobs in some capacity.

As part of Google’s efforts to prepare for this shift, it hired economist David Autor as a visiting fellow to study the impacts of AI on the workforce. Autor said in an interview that AI could be used to create more immersive training programs, akin to flight simulators.

“The history of adult retraining is not particularly glorious,” he said. “Adults don’t want to go back to class. Classroom training is not going to be the solution to a lot of retraining.”

(Reuter)

Republic Day 2025: From ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Initiative To ‘Evolution Of Banking Services’, Tableaux Highlights India’s Progress

by with No Comment Banking & FinanceEconomy

A vibrant display of tableaux highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage and remarkable progress across various sectors during the 76th Republic Day parade on Sunday. The tableaux, representing diverse states, union territories, and central ministries, paraded down Kartavya Path, captivating the audience with their creativity, themes, and intricate designs.

Ministry of Rural Development: Empowering women through “Lakhpati Didi” initiative

The Ministry of Rural Development presented a tableau focused on the theme of the “Lakhpati Didi Initiative,” which champions women’s economic empowerment through entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and education. The tableau featured a radiant statue of Lakhpati Didi, symbolizing a successful female entrepreneur who has achieved financial independence. Surrounding scenes depicted women engaged in various economic activities like weaving, handicrafts, and agriculture, highlighting the transformative impact of the initiative on women’s livelihoods.

The tableau also emphasized digital literacy, showcasing women using computers, while stressing the positive effects of women’s empowerment on children’s education. With vibrant cultural elements, traditional costumes, and rural motifs, the tableau conveyed the message of “Empowered Women, Prosperous Families, Strong Nation.”

Ministry of Finance: Evolution of banking services

The Department of Financial Services from the Ministry of Finance presented a tableau depicting the evolution of banking services in India. At the forefront, a spinning golden coin symbolized the country’s growing economy, innovation, and inclusive progress. The rupee symbol further illustrated the vibrancy and resilience of India’s economic growth. The tableau moved through the progression from traditional financial practices to modern banking systems, showcasing technological advancements and financial inclusivity.

A woman using an ATM highlighted how expanded banking services have improved access for all segments of society. The upward arrow leading to the UPI symbol showcased India’s rapid adoption of modern technologies to ensure inclusive progress. An intricately designed Potli at the rear represented wealth and prosperity, while LED screens displayed the importance of financial literacy and the various schemes under the National Mission for Financial Inclusion.

Ministry of Earth Sciences: Celebrating 150 years of Mausam Bhavan

The Ministry of Earth Sciences showcased a tableau celebrating 150 years of Mausam Bhavan, underscoring its transformative contributions to meteorology and society. The front section of the tableau highlighted the ministry’s efforts in cyclone awareness, featuring a depiction of Cyclone Dana and showcasing the life-saving power of timely weather warnings.

The tableau also focused on the impact of mobile weather alerts for farmers, enabling better crop management and improved livelihoods. The rear sections represented the ministry’s impact on four key communities: Fisherwomen, Pilots, Mothers, and Scientists. Live characters holding various meteorological instruments further illustrated the ministry’s role in safeguarding lives and empowering communities through accurate weather data and forecasts.

Abu Dhabi And Dubai To Be Connected By Rail, Reducing Travel Time To 30 Minu

by with No Comment InfrastructureLatest Updates

High-speed train project connecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes was announced by Etihad Rail, the train will travel at speeds of up to 350 km/h, dramatically reducing travel times and enhancing connectivity between the two emirates.

Etihad Rail, which will oversee the development and operation of the project, estimates the initiative will contribute Dh145 billion to the UAE’s GDP over the next 50 years. This new high-speed train is distinct from the previously announced Etihad Rail passenger service, which shares the same network as the UAE’s freight trains.

As part of the announcement, UAE leaders reviewed the country’s first passenger train fleet, which will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h. The first four passenger stations will be located in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah, strategically improving access to rail services for residents and visitors. These stations will be integrated with metro and bus lines, creating a seamless and interconnected transport network.

The stations will also feature business-class lounges, retail outlets, and family-friendly amenities, with designs inspired by Emirati heritage. While the project’s cost and launch date remain undisclosed, significant progress has been made with the issuance of tenders and the approval of network designs. Subsequent phases of development are planned in the coming years.The train route will connect key strategic destinations and tourist attractions, reflecting the UAE’s vision for advancing national infrastructure.

Spiritual Leaders Unfurl Tricolour At Maha Kumbh On 76th Republic Day

by with No Comment Latest UpdatesSpirituality

On the occasion of the 76th Republic Day, spiritual leader Morari Bapu, Swami Chidanand Saraswati, the spiritual head of the Rishikesh-based Parmarth Niketan Ashram, and Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati unfurled the national flag during the Maha Kumbh.

Earlier in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath unfurled the national flag, paying tribute to India’s Constitution and the freedom fighters who shaped the nation. Speaking on the significance of January 26, 1950, Adityanath highlighted the historic moment when India implemented its Constitution, marking the beginning of its journey as a sovereign democratic republic.

“On this day in 1950, India implemented its Constitution, marking the start of a new journey as a sovereign democratic republic. After a long struggle, the country achieved independence on August 15, 1947. Freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Subhash Chandra Bose, B.R. Ambedkar, and Rajendra Prasad played pivotal roles in securing this freedom. Today, as we complete 75 years of the implementation of the Indian Constitution, we salute these great sons of the nation,” he said.

The chief minister also emphasized that the Indian Constitution serves as the nation’s guiding principle, delivering justice and equality to every citizen.

India is celebrating its 76th Republic Day with a grand display of the country’s rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development, and military strength at Kartavya Path in the national capital. The ceremony began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial, where he led the nation in paying solemn tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath.

Approximately 10,000 special guests are witnessing the parade this year, reflecting the government’s focus on increasing ‘Jan Bhagidari’ (public participation) in events of national significance. These special guests, who are considered architects of ‘Swarnim Bharat,’ include top performers from various fields and beneficiaries of government schemes.

For the first time, a tri-services tableau has been featured in the parade, showcasing the spirit of jointness and integration among the armed forces under the theme ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat.’ The tableau depicts a Joint Operations Room facilitating seamless networking and communication among the three Services.