Post-Budget 2025: Experts Share Their Reactions and Insights
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Post-Budget 2025: Experts Share Their Reactions and Insights

Dilip Sawhney, Managing Director, Rockwell Automation India

“We commend the Union Budget 2025 for its strategic focus on empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which are crucial to India’s growth narrative. With more than 5.7 crore MSMEs contributing 36% of the nation’s manufacturing output and 45% of exports, these businesses play a vital role in enhancing India’s status as a global manufacturing hub. The budget paves the way for a significant overhaul of India’s industrial and logistics landscape. This bold initiative will significantly benefit manufacturing, warehousing, and supply chain sectors. Furthermore, the National Manufacturing Mission’s emphasis on clean technology manufacturing, including the domestic production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries and solar panels, is a progressive initiative.

Supporting domestic manufacturing and focusing on Industry 4.0 can have a transformative impact on India’s manufacturing landscape. The decision to establish five National Centres of Excellence will enhance AI-based research and development while addressing the growing need for skills in technology-driven manufacturing. The announcement of global skilling partnerships is also a welcome step, ensuring that India cultivates a highly skilled workforce that strengthens its role in the global manufacturing ecosystem. The establishment of a national guidance framework to assist states in supporting Global Capability Centers (GCCs) further demonstrates the government’s commitment to promoting innovation and enhancing global competitiveness. The allocation of ₹20,000 crore to implement a private sector-driven Research, Development, and Innovation initiative is a significant move that will stimulate technological advancements and drive industrial transformation.

These initiatives will undoubtedly accelerate India’s journey toward becoming a sustainable, digitally enabled, and globally competitive manufacturing powerhouse.”

V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice Chancellor, BITS Pilani, and former Director, IIT Delhi 

“The Budget 2025-26 reflects the Government’s growing  commitment to higher education and R&D, with allocations for expanding IIT infrastructure, establishing AI Centres of Excellence, and increasing medical education seats. The emphasis on skilling through National Centres of Excellence and the proposed Deep Tech Fund of Funds will spur innovation and equip youth for global opportunities. The initiative to scale up the PM Research Fellowship is a welcome move. These measures align with the vision of fostering a knowledge-driven economy poised for the future.”

Arun Rajamani, MD Cambridge University Press and Assessment, South Asia 

 “We welcome the Budget as it has laid special emphasis on the role of education in our journey towards a viksit Bharat. We congratulate the FM for focussing on building a strong talent pool of young workforce which comes with an increased allocation towards education, employment, and skill development. Skill development is a critical cog in the wheel that will help us achieve our economic aspirations.

Establishing 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) in schools marks a transformative leap towards making learners future-ready with creativity and innovation at the heart of it.

The allocation of Rs 10,000 Cr is proposed for the Urban Challenge Fund in the financial year 2025-26 and this aims at supporting cities to be growth hubs and can be a boost for edtech companies to solve challenges.

Additionally, the introduction of Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme, coupled with improved broadband connectivity will be pivotal to bridging the digital divide in rural areas and making learning more inclusive.

Investing in higher education infrastructure along with the introduction of Centres of Excellence in AI for Education will help address the growing need for technically skilled professionals in the GenAI era. Lastly, improved access to student loans is another great initiative.”

Sanjiv Kanwar, Managing Director, Yara South Asia 

“The Union Budget 2025’s strong emphasis on the agriculture sector is a transformative step towards a brighter future for Indian farmers.

This strategic focus on crop diversification, improved irrigation, and better credit availability is essential for the sustainable growth of our agriculture sector.

Furthermore, the comprehensive programme for fruits and vegetables, aimed at promoting production, supplies, processing, and better remunerative prices, is a forward-thinking move that will benefit both farmers and consumers, while taking the country towards a better nutritional future.

Special focus on targeting 100 districts with low productivity, is a radical initiative that will significantly enhance agricultural productivity and support 1.7 crore farmers. The emphasis on empowering rural women, young farmers, and marginal farmers underscores the government’s dedication to inclusive growth and sustainable development in agriculture. By focusing on empowering farmers through these initiatives, the government is laying the foundation for a resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.

Overall, the budget’s focus on innovation, investment, and sustainability in agriculture is a bold move that will undoubtedly lead to a thriving and self-reliant agricultural future for India.”

Ankush Bahuguna Wows at Spoken Fest Mumbai with Teri Favourite Kaun Hai
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Ankush Bahuguna Wows at Spoken Fest Mumbai with Teri Favourite Kaun Hai

Asia’s largest spoken word festival, Spoken Fest by Kommune, unveiled its much-anticipated 7th edition in Mumbai, this weekend. The mega event honours the power of words, combining diverse forms like stories, music, poetry, theatre, Shayari, comedy, creative workshops, art installations, and immersive experiences—fostering a dynamic and inclusive space for fans across the spectrum. Among the many celebrated artists gracing the stage was digital sensation and content creator Ankush Bahuguna.

The festival took the city by storm, filling the air with raw energy, unfiltered stories, and voices that demanded to be heard. At the Spoken Fest, Ankush delivered a deeply personal and poignant tale about the unbreakable bond between siblings. His story, titled “Teri Favourite Kaun Hai?”, was a heartfelt tribute to his two elder sisters—Badi Didi and Chhoti Didi—who shaped his life in more ways than he ever imagined.

Ankush began by painting a vivid picture of his childhood—a constant tug-of-war for attention in a household where comparisons between siblings were part of the daily routine. “Life in the Bahuguna household was chaotic and melodramatic. Aur ek sawaal tha jo us ghar mein har waqt goonjta tha; at least mere kaanon mein goonjta tha. Dono didiyon ka mujhse poochhna: ‘Anki, bata teri favourite kaun hai?’” (Translation: Life in the Bahuguna household was chaotic and melodramatic. And there was one question that always echoed in that house; at least it echoed in my ears. Both my sisters would ask me: ‘Anki, tell me, who’s your favourite?’). Ankush recalled this with a laugh, setting the tone for a narrative brimming with humour.

He shared that his sisters (Teena and Cheena) turned their winter holidays into a full-fledged radio war, with their makeshift show, Bahuguna Ki Awaaz. “Pehle dono didiyaan ladti thi ki kal tu RJ bani thi, aaj main RJ banungi.”

(Translation: First, both my sisters would fight over who got to be the RJ that day).

But the real battle wasn’t over the mic; it was over his loyalty. Despite being the unwitting celebrity guest of their show, they still expected Ankush to pick a side. “Aur guts dekho, yeh sab karne ke baad bhi they expected me to have a favourite out of them! Mera favourite toh aam papad tha bhai! Because … You see, saste nashe run in the Bahuguna blood”, he declared with a grin.

(Translation: And look at their guts—after making me do all this, they still expected me to have a favourite among them! My favourite was aam papad, because… you see, cheap thrills run in the Bahuguna blood.)

Yet, no amount of dodging could save him from the inevitable question that loomed over his childhood. “Seriously though! Yeh sawal tha mera poora bachpan. ‘Who is your favourite one?’ And even at that age, my inner voice was like ‘Chup kar chup kar! Matt jawaab de, tu phasega’”, he admitted.

(Translation: Seriously though! This question haunted my entire childhood. ‘Who is your favourite one?’ And even at that age, my inner voice was like ‘Shut up, shut up, don’t answer—you’ll get trapped.’)

After that life became more complicated and so did the competition between his sisters. First, his elder sister, Teena, boldly declared she wanted to marry a man she liked, and while their parents initially opposed, citing their stance against love marriages —she eventually got her way. But the competition didn’t stop there. His younger sister, Cheena, eager to outdo her elder sibling, converted to another religion and planned an interfaith marriage. With their parents firmly against it, Ankush and his elder sister secretly helped her marry in court, making sure she tied the knot without anyone’s knowledge.

Just as the dust was settling from the previous drama, Ankush’s elder sister dropped a bigger bomb—she got divorced, becoming the first in the family, throwing the household into chaos. And that’s how, his younger sister, who had once been the rebellious one, suddenly became the favourite child, but that didn’t last long. A heated argument on Facebook over a family issue quickly had her dethroned from the top spot.

Things took a darker turn when Ankush’s mom discovered that their elder daughter, Teena also consumes alcohol. And as if that wasn’t enough, in true ‘MY TURN’ fashion, his elder sister declared she was remarrying, delivering a double strike in the ongoing competition of life between the two. Now, to top it all off, Ankush’s younger sister, always with fragile health, found herself battling kidney failure at just thirty-five, and was hospitalized.

Cheena’s illness became a harsh reminder of how quickly life could change. She moved back in with Ankush’s family, and once again, the two siblings found themselves roommates. But this time, life had altered them in ways they could never have anticipated. He reminisced, “I used to notice unki skin har baar thodi aur different lagti thi. But smile same thi! Aur pata hai kya same tha? Hum dono ka memes mein taste. Din bhar hum faltu ke memes dekh ke hanste. I told you! Saste nashe, melodrama, aur faltu memes, run in the Bahuguna blood.”

(Translation: I noticed her skin seemed a little different every day, but her smile never changed. And, you know what stayed the same? Our shared love for memes. We spent hours laughing at silly memes together. I told you! It’s the same cheap thrills, melodrama, and silly memes that run in the Bahuguna blood.)

Before the elder one could make her next move, Cheena played her trump card. Ankush was away for a shoot and that’s the day she left. He didn’t even get to meet her.

A month before Rakhi, Cheena had told him, “Anki, mujhe pahad dekhne hain…mujhe pahad dekhne le jaa.” (Translation: Anki, I want to see the mountains… take me to the mountains.) And, something in him had said, “Anki, karle yeh trip. Yeh wali mat postpone karna.” (Translation: Anki, just do this trip. Don’t postpone this one.) They planned the Rakhi trip to Dehradun, but Cheena didn’t make it that far. Maybe a month was just too long a wait for her.

But Chhoti and Ankush still went. His younger sister wasn’t there, but her Janamaz was. They laid it out in a valley with the most breathtaking view. Ankush recalled, “Us trip par kisi ne nahi poochha, ‘Anki, bata teri favourite kaun hai?’”— a question that had once been inescapable now felt hollow, lost into the silence.

And yet, suddenly, he still hears her – “’Sunn, Bittu ki shaadi mein Teena kya pehen ke aayi thi?’ Ab DNA thodi badlega…..Kyunki saste nashe, melodrama, faltu memes aur endless gossip run in the Bahuguna blood. And so does smiling in the face of tragedy.”

(Translation: ‘Hey, what did Teena wear at Bittu’s wedding?’ Now, the DNA isn’t going to change, right? Because cheap thrills, melodrama, silly memes, and endless gossip run in the Bahuguna blood. And so does smiling in the face of tragedy.)

Bahuguna’s story, rich in humour, vulnerability, and raw emotion, reminds us that life is a series of unexpected twists. It often leaves us without closure, but it gifts us with moments, voices, and laughter that linger. Perhaps that’s how love endures—through the echoes of shared joy and sorrow.

Top Property Investment Locations in MMR for 2025
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Top Property Investment Locations in MMR for 2025

As the Indian real estate market continues its upward trajectory, 2025 is expected to be a landmark year for property investments. With growing infrastructure developments, improved connectivity, and evolving buyer preferences, certain locations in Mumbai stand out as top investment destinations. Industry leaders share insights on why these areas are poised for significant growth.

Mulund: The Gateway to Luxury Living

Known as the ‘Prince of the Suburbs,’ Mulund offers a perfect mix of connectivity and lifestyle amenities. Mr. Nishant Deshmukh, Founder and Managing Partner of Sugee Group states, “Mulund’s proximity to both Thane and Mumbai’s central areas, along with its green surroundings and premium residential projects, makes it highly attractive for those seeking a balance between luxury and convenience. Further, its strong social infrastructure and upcoming projects are reshaping it into a hub for modern urban living.”

Borivali: The Urban Oasis

Borivali’s seamless connectivity and thriving social infrastructure have made it a favorite among investors. Mr. Rohan Khatau, Director of CCI Projects notes, “Borivali’s proximity to Sanjay Gandhi National Park and its excellent connectivity to the rest of Mumbai and Thane make it a hotspot for families looking for a balanced lifestyle. The steady development of retail and recreational spaces in Borivali enhances its appeal as a vibrant urban oasis.”

Malad-Goregaon: Western Suburbs on the Rise

The Malad-Goregaon belt continues to see an uptick in demand, driven by infrastructure advancements and lifestyle enhancements. Ms. Shraddha Kedia-Agarwal, Director of Transcon Developers shares, “The area’s connectivity via the Western Express Highway and metro lines has drastically improved, enhancing its appeal. It’s a perfect blend of residential and commercial growth. With new-age developments, this area is becoming a preferred choice for young professionals and families alike.” Mr. Umesh Jandial, Chief Business Officer of Omkar Realtors adds, “Malad-Goregaon offers excellent rental yields and long-term value due to its growing IT, corporate and entertainment industry presence. The steady influx of working professionals ensures sustained demand for high-quality housing in this region.”

Panvel: The Emerging Investment Hotspot

Panvel has emerged as a prime destination for property investments, thanks to its strategic location and burgeoning infrastructure projects. Mr. Sandeep Sonthalia, CEO of Wadhwa Wise City, explains, “With the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and the now operational Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, Panvel is becoming a hub of connectivity. The area offers a blend of affordability and future appreciation potential, making it an ideal choice for investors and end-users alike. We foresee Panvel evolving into a self-sufficient ecosystem with a balanced mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces.”

Chembur: A Neighborhood of Transformation

Chembur’s transformation into a premium residential and commercial hub is undeniable. Mr. Govind Krishnan Muthukumar, Managing Director & Co-Founder of Tridhaatu Realty comments, “With excellent road and metro connectivity, Chembur offers a mix of modern housing and traditional charm. The area’s redevelopment projects and enhanced infrastructure make it a promising destination for long-term investments.”

Sion: Central Location with High Potential

Sion’s strategic location in the heart of Mumbai makes it a sought-after area for real estate investments. Mr. Samyak Jain, Director of Siddha Group remarks, “Sion offers unmatched connectivity to major parts of the city and is witnessing a steady rise in premium residential developments. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking central living with modern amenities. The area’s ongoing transformation into a premium real estate destination is attracting a new wave of discerning buyers.”

With a mix of established hubs and emerging hotspots, Mumbai’s real estate market in 2025 promises diverse opportunities for investors. Whether it’s the affordability of Panvel, the luxury of Mulund, the convenience of Malad-Goregaon or the connectivity of Sion, each location offers unique advantages that cater to varied preferences and investment goals. As the city continues to evolve, these areas are set to redefine urban living and investment potential.

Shriram General Insurance Secures Strong Q3 FY25 Results with 25% Growth in GWP and 12% Rise in Net Profit
Neel Achary business
Shriram General Insurance Secures Strong Q3 FY25 Results with 25% Growth in GWP and 12% Rise in Net Profit

February 04th, 2025: Driven by strong growth in motor premium, Shriram General Insurance Company (SGI) has reported a 25% year-on-year increase in Gross Written Premium (GWP) for Q3 FY25, at Rs. 1061 Cr, up from Rs. 850 Cr in the same quarter last year. For the 9M FY25, GWP grew by 23% year-on-year, rising from Rs […]

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Cement Industry Secures Strong Role in Nation Building, Employment Generation, and Economic Growth Post-Budget
Neel Achary business
Cement Industry Secures Strong Role in Nation Building, Employment Generation, and Economic Growth Post-Budget

Hyderabad, February 04th, 2025: The Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA) welcomes the Union Budget 2025-26 presented by the Honourable Finance Minister Smt Nirmala Sitharaman. CMA Member Companies have been at the forefront of nation building by significantly contributing to infrastructure development, employment generation, and economic growth. CMA belives that the Budget presents a commendable vision for […]

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RRP Electronics Ltd. Commends Budget Provisions, Anticipating Strong Boost for Semiconductor Sector
Neel Achary business
RRP Electronics Ltd. Commends Budget Provisions, Anticipating Strong Boost for Semiconductor Sector

by Rajendra K Chodankar, Chairman & CEO, RRP Electronics Ltd. (Semiconductor Sector). “The Budget has proposed a significant increase in allocation to MeitY by 48% to Rs. 26,000 crore which includes subsidies for semiconductor also. The welcome move by the Government to promote compound semiconductors is also very heartening and will indeed take India beyond […]

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GIC Re Secures Strong Financial Performance for Nine Months Ended 31.12.2024
Neel Achary business
GIC Re Secures Strong Financial Performance for Nine Months Ended 31.12.2024

Mumbai, February 04, 2025: GIC Re announced financial performance for the Nine months ended 31.12.2024 at the Board Meeting of company held in Mumbai today. We give below the details of our financial performance for the nine months ended 31.12.2024: Gross Premium Income of the company was ₹ 30,786.87 crore for the Nine months ended […]

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Siddhi Johari Secures Role as Central Assistant Director of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Promotion Council
Neel Achary business
Siddhi Johari Secures Role as Central Assistant Director of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Promotion Council

4th February: Renowned social worker and Mrs. India International, Siddhi Johari, has been appointed as the Assistant Director of the Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Promotion Council, India. Expressing her gratitude, Siddhi Johari thanked everyone for their constant support. It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Promotion Council, India, is […]

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Union Budget 2025: Shaping Secure, Smart Cities and Sustainable Growth: Sudhindra Holla, Director of India & SAARC at Axis Communications
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Union Budget 2025: Shaping Secure, Smart Cities and Sustainable Growth: Sudhindra Holla, Director of India & SAARC at Axis Communications

Sudhindra Holla, Director of India & SAARC at Axis Communications

“The Union Budget 2025 sets a transformative agenda that aligns with our vision for secure and smart urban environments. With a focus on urban development and agriculture, the budget’s initiatives, such as the PM Dhan Dhyan Krishi Yojana aimed at enhancing crop yields, are crucial for fostering resilience in our food supply chains. This directly supports the security of critical infrastructure by ensuring stability in essential services.

The focus on youth empowerment and women’s welfare through targeted programs opens avenues for integrating advanced surveillance technologies. As we transition to a more digital economy, Axis Communications is dedicated to utilizing cutting-edge surveillance systems that enhance public safety and ensure robust data protection.

The proposed regulatory reforms will also play a vital role in creating a conducive environment for innovation in security technologies. As we look forward, we believe that these budgetary measures will not only strengthen India’s security landscape but also pave the way for sustainable growth in smart city projects across the nation.”

Ishita Ganguly’s Chamkeeli Set to Become the Next Icon After Komolika in Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain
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Ishita Ganguly’s Chamkeeli Set to Become the Next Icon After Komolika in Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain

Some characters in Indian television leave a lasting impact—be it their iconic style, cunning ways, or memorable dialogues. One such unforgettable character is Komolika, played by Urvashi Dholakia, who redefined the on-screen vamp with her glamorous and bold persona. Now, actress Ishita Ganguly is stepping into the spotlight with a character that promises to rival such legends. As Chamkeeli in Shemaroo Umang’s Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain, Ishita is ready to set the screen on fire with her fierce and mesmerizing presence.

Chamkeeli is not an ordinary character. With her striking scorpion tattoo, bold earrings, ring on her lips, and dazzling maangtika, she demands attention. Ishita herself is thrilled about playing this role, she said, “Chamkeeli is bold, fierce, and unapologetic. She believes every ruthless action she takes is justified to achieve her goals. I drew inspiration from Urvashi Dholakia’s Komolika, who made vamps glamorous and iconic. While Komolika is a benchmark, I’m hopeful that Chamkeeli will leave her own mark. Her look, her personality, and her dialogue ‘Chamkeeli jab chamake hai na, tab ache ache ka bulbva fuse ho jaave hai’ make her fun to play. From her mangtika to her tattoo, every detail of her look has me excited—the stylist and the makeup team have done a fabulous job!”

For Ishita, Chamkeeli’s look and persona have been a unique experience. “I’ve done many shows before, but none of them excited me as much as this. Everything about Chamkeeli, from her appearance to her personality, is fascinating. Even the makeup room is fun because the process of getting into Chamkeeli’s look is a whole vibe!”

At the core of Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain is the intense rivalry between Chamkeeli and Chaina for the haveli’s legacy. While Chaina fights for justice and tradition, Chamkeeli uses cunning and manipulation to achieve her goals. This clash of right versus wrong creates a rollercoaster of drama, emotions, and shocking twists that will leave audiences hooked.