Archive: April 2, 2025

JSW MG Motor India Secures 5,500 Unit Sales in March 2025, Achieving 9% YoY Growth

Gurugram, April 02nd, 2025: JSW MG Motor India reported sales of 5,500* units for the month ending March 2025. This represents a year-over-year (YoY) growth of 9 % over March 2024, when the company sold 5,050 units.

MG’s electric vehicles—Comet, ZS EV, and Windsor—accounted for over 85% of total sales, demonstrating significant consumer adoption of the company’s electric vehicle portfolio. The MG Windsor, which holds the distinction of being India’s highest-selling electric vehicle, reinforced its growing popularity and widespread approval among Indian buyers by recording its highest-ever sales in March.

JW Marriott Pune Welcomes You to Savor Punjab’s Authentic Flavors at the Baisakhi Food Festival

Pune, 02nd, April 2025: Commemorate the joyous festival of Baisakhi with an indulgent Punjabi feast at the Baisakhi Food Festival hosted at Spice Kitchen, JW Marriott Pune. The celebration helmed by Chef Sweety Singh, from 4th to 14th April 2025, will bring forth a soulful and hearty dining experience that pays homage to the harvest festival and Sikh New Year.

Baisakhi, deeply rooted in agrarian traditions, marks the beginning of a new year for the Sikh community and is a time of joyous feasting, music, gratitude, and togetherness. In keeping with this tradition, Spice Kitchen presents a specially curated menu featuring a delectable selection of regional specialties, prepared with authentic flavors and time-honored techniques. Acclaimed Chef Sweety Singh, renowned for his mastery of traditional North Indian cuisine, will transport guests to the heart of Punjab through indulgent specialties exclusively created for the food festival.

Begin your feast with the Pindi Chole, a quintessential Punjabi delicacy featuring a classic chickpea curry simmered with fragrant spices, delivering a burst of earthy goodness in every bite. Delight in the creamy and smoky Paneer Tikka Masala, where succulent cottage cheese cubes are marinated in a medley of spices, enveloped in a luscious tomato-based gravy. For meat lovers, the menu boasts the Mutton Barrah that offers tender, spice-infused ribs grilled to perfection, delivering a delightful balance of smokiness and juiciness. The Amritsari Macchi, an iconic dish from the streets of Punjab, offers crispy, golden-battered fish infused with carom seeds and a hint of tangy lemon, making it an irresistible delight. No Punjabi feast is complete without the classic Butter Chicken, a rich and creamy tomato-based curry with tender, tandoor-cooked chicken, generously laced with butter, creating a mouth-watering experience.

Beyond the culinary offerings, the ambiance at JW Marriott Pune’s Spice Kitchen will transform into a vibrant Punjabi celebration, the restaurant resonating with the soulful melodies of traditional Punjabi music, setting the perfect backdrop for a warm and celebratory evening.

Set within the warm and inviting atmosphere of Spice Kitchen, this limited-time festival promises an unforgettable journey through Punjab’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Baisakhi Food Festival with Chef Sweety Singh at Spice Kitchen:

Dates: 4th to 14th April, 2025

Time: 7 pm – 11 pm

JICA Secures INR 4,649 Crore ODA Loan for Delhi Metro Phase 4 Expansion

New Delhi, 02nd April 2025: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has signed a loan agreement amounting to 79,726 million Japanese Yen (approximately INR 4,649 crores) (part of a total project cost of 298,358 million Japanese Yen) for the Delhi Mass Rapid Transport System Project (Phase 4 Additional Corridors) (I).

This project aims to enhance urban mobility in the National Capital Region (NCR) of Delhi by expanding the Delhi Metro network through the construction of additional corridors. With Delhi facing severe traffic congestion, high air pollution levels, and increasing travel demand, this initiative will help improve public transportation accessibility, reduce automobile dependency, and contribute to a sustainable urban environment. The ODA loan agreement was signed between Ms. Manisha Sinha, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Mr. TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative of JICA India.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative of JICA India, stated, “The rapid increase in urbanization and vehicle ownership in Delhi has led to severe traffic congestion and environmental challenges. The expansion of the Delhi Metro network is a critical step toward addressing these issues by providing a reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly mass transit solution. JICA remains committed to supporting India’s efforts in developing sustainable urban infrastructure, and this project will contribute significantly to improving the quality of life for Delhi’s residents.”

The project involves the expansion of the Delhi Metro network with the construction of approximately 47 km of new metro corridors, including extensions of Line 1 and Line 5, and the development of a new Line 11. It includes the construction of 39 new metro stations, comprising 9 underground, 1 at-grade, and 29 elevated stations, along with a new metro depot. The initiative will also introduce advanced electrical, signalling, and communication systems, along with automatic fare collection systems to enhance passenger experience. Additionally, 178 new metro cars will be procured to support increased network capacity. To ensure efficient execution, the project will include consulting services for design review, construction supervision, and technology transfer, strengthening local expertise in metro operations and infrastructure management.

The project is expected to directly benefit approximately 400,000 daily commuters by 2031, while indirectly improving connectivity for over 17 million residents in the Delhi NCR region. By reducing traffic congestion, enhancing accessibility, and lowering vehicular emissions, the project will contribute to Delhi’s long-term urban sustainability goals.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will be the executing agency, responsible for implementing, operating, and maintaining the metro network upon completion.

This initiative aligns with India’s “Delhi Master Plan 2021” and Japan’s Development Cooperation Policy for India, which emphasizes enhancing connectivity and promoting low-carbon urban transport solutions. It also supports global sustainability goals by reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 26,550 tons per year through a shift from road to rail transport.

JICA has been a key partner in the development of the Delhi Metro since its inception, having previously supported Phases 1, 2, 3, and earlier Phase 4 projects through ODA loans. The agency remains committed to fostering sustainable urban development and inclusive economic growth in India.

The figures are calculated with current exchange ratio: INR 1/- = JPY 1.71491/-

Franchise India Secures ₹100 Cr GTV in Two Months, Sets Strong ₹1500 Cr Goal for 2025

New Delhi, 02nd April 2025: Franchise India, one of the leading players in the Indian franchising ecosystem, has achieved a significant milestone by reaching ₹100 Crore, Gross Transaction Value (GTV) in just two months. This rapid growth highlights the company’s robust business model and its prominent position in India’s burgeoning franchising industry. Looking ahead, Franchise India has set its sights on an ambitious target of ₹1500 Crore GTV by the end of the 2025 financial year, marking a bold step toward reinforcing its leadership in the sector.

The company’s journey is not just about numbers—it’s about creating a dynamic ecosystem that supports both domestic and international brands while fostering entrepreneurship across India. Franchise India’s international arm, FranGlobal, has been instrumental in bringing over 45 global master franchise brands to the Indian market. These brands span multiple sectors including food, fitness, education, and lifestyle, featuring global names like Figaro Pizza, Franks Hot Dog, EasyGym, ActionCoach, Smoothie Factory, Sports Star Academy, Burgertory, Barcelos, Real Pizza, Direct English, Three o’ Clock Cafe and more. This influx of international franchises speaks about India’s growing appeal as a destination for global business, with Franchise India playing a pivotal role in making this happen.

What sets Franchise India apart is not just the range of global brands it has introduced to the Indian market, but also its strategic partnerships with key domestic names. Through its FranCorp arm, the company has forged valuable collaborations with popular brands like Fashion world, Pepperfry, Raymonds ready to wear, Raymond Ethnix, Raniwala, Miss Jo, John players, Be cafe by BPCL, and Palmonas etc, these partnerships are more than just business deals—they represent Franchise India’s ability to spot lucrative opportunities across various industries and enhance its expansive portfolio.

For Franchise India, the path to success has been built on the foundation of supporting its franchisees. By providing essential tools, training, and expertise, the company ensures that its partners are well-equipped to navigate India’s evolving business environment. With a growing portfolio of both local and international brands and a focus on strategic sectoral expansion, Franchise India continues to be a key player in the country’s franchise revolution.

“We are excited about the future and our target of reaching ₹1500 Crore GTV by the end of FY 2025,” said Gaurav Marya, Chairman at Franchise India. “Our impressive growth in just two months underscores the strength of our business model and the thriving demand for franchising in India. The franchising industry in India is currently valued at approximately ₹800 billion and is projected to grow to $140–150 billion in the next five years, with a compound annual growth rate of 30-35%. The sector contributes close to 2% of India’s GDP and provides direct employment to over 1 million people. Our commitment to innovation, expanding across sectors, and partnering with global brands is the driving force behind our success. With the right support, expertise, and tools, we are confident that Franchise India will continue to accelerate the success of our franchisees and solidify our position as a leader in the industry”.

With a promising future ahead, Franchise India is on track to not only reach its GTV goal but also to continue its role as a trailblazer in India’s vibrant franchising sector. As more global brands enter the market and the franchising landscape diversifies, Franchise India’s success story is set to inspire countless entrepreneurs and business leaders across the country.

DRC-Africa Battery Metals Forum Secures Kolwezi as Its Next Major Venue This September

It’s official, DRC-Africa Battery Metals Forum is moving to Kolwezi and is taking place from 29-30 September 2025.

In what is already the third edition of this event, the focus is on the region’s potential in the global energy transition, including leveraging the DRC and Zambia’s significant cobalt and copper resources for battery precursor manufacturing. Overall, the DRC envisions a future where it plays a pivotal role in the global battery metals supply chain, contributing to the energy transition while fostering economic development and sustainability in the region.

Industry has spoken

“The industry has spoken, and we have listened. We are ready for this next chapter of DRC-Africa Battery Metals Forum. Get ready Kolwezi, there’s a new event in town!” enthuses VUKA Group Event Director for Mining Samukelo Madlabane.

He explains: “We always consult with our partners and clients in the industry, and there was overwhelming consensus that this event will serve the sector better by moving closer to it. We expect to improve our engagement with the mining houses, operators and suppliers on the ground and to offer our guests a valuable in-situ experience to meet, network, share knowledge and experiences, and to do business.”

Kolwezi, the capital of Lualaba Province, has been an important mining hub since the 1940s. The region is particularly known for its generous copper reserves and cobalt stocks. These metals are essential to the electrical industry, battery precursor production, mobile phones and computers as well as aircraft engines, and are the country’s main resources.

Battery metals industry

The DRC-Africa Battery Metals Forum has quickly developed into the premier regional gathering for stakeholders involved in the African battery metals industry, including producers of cobalt, copper, lithium, nickel, graphite, manganese, rare earths, and 3T, as well as battery manufacturers, traders, end-users, investors and NGOs.

With a focus on fostering an open and transparent environment, the meeting serves as a crucial driving force behind the establishment of a battery manufacturing industry in the DRC, driven by the growing demand for batteries and electric vehicles. To this end, the event provides a comprehensive platform that unites stakeholders from across the battery metals industry to foster partnerships and dialogue, enabling a local industrial revolution through beneficiation and industrialisation.

Another important driving force is inclusive and sustainable growth in the battery metals industry, promoting and supporting local beneficiation and sustainable development, stimulating local market economies and development economies, and enabling local industrial development in order to foster socio-economic progress in the DRC and Africa.

Here is some enthusiastic feedback from previous high-level attendees:

– “This is my second DRC Battery Metals Forum: I participated in the first edition and this one as well provides a very good platform for all the stakeholders to get together and discuss the challenges and opportunities for battery metals in the DRC. So, thank you to the presenters and organizers. I think that to many the questions raised this year really need a follow up and to have further discussion about the business climate in the DRC and how to encourage investment in the country.” – H.E. Lucy Tamlyn, US Ambassador, DRC

– “The DRC-Africa Battery Forum provided a vital platform for key stakeholders, including both government and private entities, who shared a keen interest in the sector. It has proven to be an invaluable resource, facilitating connections with key experts in the field. The organizers have done a splendid job.” – Adorin Amngaihnem Guitec, General Manager, Arise IIP, India

About DRC–Africa Battery Metals Forum
DRC–Africa Battery Metals Forum is organized by The VUKA Group (formerly Clarion Events Africa), a leading Cape Town-based and multi-award-winning organiser of exhibitions, conferences, and digital events across the continent in the infrastructure, energy, mining, mobility, e-commerce, and CX sectors. Other well-known events by The Vuka Group include DRC Mining Week, Nigeria Mining Week, Enlit Africa, Africa’s Green Economy Summit, Smarter Mobility Africa, ECOM Afric, and CEM Africa. Mining Review Africa, the leading monthly magazine and digital platform in the African mining industry is the event’s premium media partner.

DRC–Africa Battery Metals Forum dates and venue:
Date: 29-30 September 2025
Venue: Kampi Ya Boma, Kolwezi, DRC

Marketing vs. Product: Decoding the Right Strategy for Your Startup’s Growth

By: Ms. Radhika Gupta, Founder and Creative Lead of Upload Digital. 

One of the most debated questions in the startup world is whether to prioritize marketing or product development. Should a company focus on creating the best possible product before launching aggressive marketing efforts, or should it build brand awareness early to ensure a strong market entry? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The ideal strategy depends on the industry, market conditions, and product characteristics.

Industry-Specific Considerations

The industry in which a startup operates plays a crucial role in deciding whether to focus on marketing or product development first.

• Tech and SaaS Startups: In the SaaS industry, a structured product development process is essential. Startups often launch either a full-fledged product or a minimum viable product (MVP) to test market response. Early adopters play a crucial role in refining the product through real-world feedback. Once the product-market fit (PMF) is established, startups can scale their marketing using a mix of organic and paid strategies.
• Consumer Goods and Lifestyle Brands: In highly competitive sectors like fashion, beauty, or food & beverage, brand awareness is key. A shoe brand entering a saturated market needs to develop its product while simultaneously investing in marketing efforts to create differentiation. Engaging with consumers early on helps build demand, brand memory, and product allure even before launch.

The Role of Early-Stage Marketing

Regardless of when marketing efforts begin, every startup must establish clear marketing goals. A common pitfall is expecting immediate sales or leads from initial campaigns, but early marketing should focus on creating brand awareness, building audience engagement, and developing a strong digital presence. Encouraging sign-ups, waitlists, or pre-orders can generate early interest and demand. Organic growth strategies, such as content marketing, social media engagement, and thought leadership, play a crucial role in positioning the brand before the product even launches, ensuring that the right audience is aware and ready when the product enters the market.

Balancing Marketing and Product Development: When to Focus on What

The choice between a marketing-first or product-first approach doesn’t have to be a binary decision. The most successful startups integrate both strategies in a way that aligns with their goals and market dynamics.

If a product is highly innovative and requires extensive research and development, such as in deep tech, biotech, or SaaS, focusing on product development first is essential. In industries where market education is necessary, the product may need fine-tuning before customers fully understand its value. Additionally, when competition is low, startups have the advantage of refining their offering before scaling up marketing efforts. This ensures that the product is not only functional but also well-positioned to meet customer needs effectively once marketing initiatives begin.

On the other hand, in saturated markets, strong branding is key to helping a startup stand out and capture consumer attention. If a product requires consumer validation, building an audience early can provide insights into demand and refine the offering before a full-scale launch. Additionally, for products that rely on network effects, where value increases as more people use them, gaining early traction is crucial for driving long-term growth and establishing a competitive edge.

The Impact of AI and Digital Transformation

Startups today have the advantage of leveraging AI-driven marketing to enhance their growth strategies. AI tools enable businesses to optimize advertising campaigns in real time, personalize customer experiences, and predict market trends and consumer behavior. Additionally, AI plays a crucial role in improving SEO and digital visibility, ensuring brands reach the right audience more effectively. Being recommended by AI chatbots and search engines is emerging as a key success metric, making it essential for startups to integrate AI-backed digital strategies early. Those that do can gain a significant edge over competitors, accelerating brand recognition and customer acquisition.

Conclusion

Startups face a strategic dilemma: should they invest heavily in marketing first, or focus on perfecting their product before promoting it? The most effective approach depends on the industry, competition, and business model. The key is to strike a balance, leveraging early-stage marketing to build anticipation while ensuring a strong product foundation to deliver on brand promises. By integrating marketing and product development, startups can create a sustainable growth strategy that aligns with their long-term vision.

India’s next big tech startups take center stage at Games24x7’s TechXpedite pitch day

India, 02nd April 2025: Games24x7, a leading tech-first organization in the business of online gaming, hosted the Pitch Day of its TechXpedite Accelerator Program, providing a platform for 12 emerging, tech-led startups to showcase their innovative solutions before a distinguished panel of investors, industry leaders, and government stakeholders. The selected startups include Choira, Mple.ai, Glovatrix, LiaPlus AI, Gabify, Arficus, Cairovision, Chittoo, Noha.ai, Spoda, Zeuron.ai, and BeAble Health.

Encouraging these startups, Ashish Shelar, Minister of Information Technology & Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra, said, “Initiatives like TechXpedite are essential in nurturing next-generation ideas, driving India’s digital transformation, and promoting a thriving startup ecosystem. They align with the government’s vision of creating enabling platforms and acting as a catalyst for tomorrow’s leading tech enterprises. We look forward to seeing the impact of this program and the success of the exceptional startups it has supported.”

The program, aimed at empowering promising ventures by providing them with valuable resources, mentorship, and industry exposure, witnessed selected startups from across the country present their innovative solutions before a distinguished audience, comprising investors and industry leaders. Having undergone a curated mentorship program during which they had access to the best technology resources and expert guidance, these entrepreneurs represent the innovation in the Indian startup ecosystem.

Speaking about the impact of TechXpedite, Mr. Bhavin Pandya, Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Games24x7, said, “The sheer depth of talent within India’s startup ecosystem is truly inspiring and evident from the overwhelming response to TechXpedite with applications pouring in from 24 states. At Games24x7, we recognize this immense potential, and TechXpedite is our effort to facilitate purpose-driven organizations meaningfully engage with relevant industry experts, mentors and investors. The program provides a platform for emerging entrepreneurs to scale their ideas and tackle India’s unique challenges with innovative solutions. Over the years, we have accumulated a wealth of knowledge in technology, and this initiative allows us to give back to the ecosystem, supporting the next wave of transformative startups shaping India’s digital future.”

TechXpedite, a 60-day accelerator program, received over 330 applications, reflecting the vibrancy of India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. While 60% of the applicants were from Tier 1 cities, the program saw an increase in representation from cities beyond the metros including Pune, Indore, and Jaipur. AI accounted for 58% of the applications, Gaming contributed 12%, and Inclusive Tech, which focuses on addressing challenges in healthcare, education, and accessibility, made up 15% of the startups.

The Pitch Day featured a carefully curated audience of 100+ experts, including top venture capitalists, angel investors, government representatives, and industry leaders, providing startups with an opportunity to form strategic partnerships, and accelerate their growth.

Supported by various government bodies, including the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT); the Department of Electronics, Information Technology (IT), Biotechnology (BT), and Science & Technology (S&T), Government of Karnataka; the Directorate of Industries, Government of Maharashtra; and the Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (ITE&C) and Industries & Commerce Departments of the Government of Telangana, TechXpedite aims to empower promising startups to scale, innovate, and create impactful solutions, thereby strengthening India’s startup ecosystem.

TechXpedite is also supported by various industry and technology players, including AWS as Cloud Partner. The accelerator program has provided selected startups with mentorship sessions, masterclasses, networking opportunities, and credits worth over US$500,000 from more than 30 technology partners. This comprehensive program has addressed a wide array of crucial topics for startup growth, such as technological advancements, business continuity strategies, financial frameworks, and market penetration approaches, with the aim of guiding them towards building scalable and sustainable business models.

Celebrate the Spirit of Navratri at Tamra, Shangri-La Eros New Delhi

New Delhi, 01st March 2025: Shangri-La Eros New Delhi invites guests to experience the joy of Navratri with an exclusive menu at Tamra, its celebrated international cuisine restaurant, from March 30 to April 7, 2025. Renowned for its immersive “World on Your Plate” concept, Tamra evolves into a haven for festive indulgence, offering a menu that represents the heritage and flavours of Navratri with contemporary finesse.

Crafted with precision and passion, the menu honours traditional fasting delicacies reimagined for the discerning palate. The journey begins with an array of appetizers, including the ever-popular Aloo Ki Tikki with Khajur Ki Chutney, the delightfully crispy Phool Makhane Aur Sabudana Ki Tikki, and the zesty Anardana Shakar Kandi Ki Chaat. Each dish signifies the vibrancy of Navratri while praising its culinary roots.

The gratification continues with a carefully curated selection of main courses that serve warmth and comfort. From the rich, nutty flavours of Paneer Kaju Makhana to the aromatic simplicity of Jeera Aloo, and the velvety smoothness of Falahari Malai Kofta, every dish is a symphony of taste. Paired with Samak Aloo Pulao and flaky Kuttu Ki Poori, these creations offer an exceptional dining experience.

Concluding the experience, Tamra’s dessert selection is nothing short of incredible. Guests can savour the rich Badam Makhane Ki Kheer, the nutty decadence of Lauki Badam Ka Halwa, and the refreshing aroma of Kiwi Badam Ki Phirni, a perfect finale to this festive feast.

At Tamra, the Navratri buffet is available for lunch at INR 3,200 plus taxes per person and dinner at INR 3,500 plus taxes per person. Every meal is designed to enrich the festive spirit with Shangri-La’s signature refinement.