The appeals submitted by Meta Platforms and WhatsApp against an order issued by the Competition Commission of India (CCI), a fair trade regulator, that imposed a penalty of INR 213.14 crore for abusing market dominance were admitted by the appellate panel NCLAT on 16 January. A two-member bench of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) stated that the matter needs to be taken into account after hearing Meta and CCI’s initial statements. “We conclude that consideration should be given to the submission made by the parties. The NCLAT bench, which included Justice Ashok Bhushan as its chair, declared that it accepted both appeals. However, NCLAT stated that it will make a decision next week regarding the temporary respite to maintain the CCI order. The attorneys representing WhatsApp and Meta Platform asked the appellate tribunal to halt the CCI order during the hearings. The attorney representing the Competition Commission of India, however, disagreed.
What was the issue?
The CCI fined social media giant Meta INR 213.14 crore on November 18 for using unfair business practices in connection with the 2021 WhatsApp privacy policy modification. The NCLAT, which has appellate jurisdiction over CCI orders, has received challenges to this order from Meta Platforms and WhatsApp. Speaking on behalf of Meta and WhatsApp, Senior Advocates Kapil Sibal and Mukul Rohatgi argued that the CCI had overreached itself in making a decision about WhatsApp’s privacy policy while the case was still pending before a Supreme Court Constitution Bench.
The entity’s privacy policy now includes CCI. It is in front of five Supreme Court judges. According to him, it lacks the authority to handle it. Furthermore, there isn’t a complaint in this instance, and CCI reached an “erroneous conclusion” regarding dominance without considering the “effect analysis” of that. According to Sibal, “Without an effect analysis, you cannot come to the conclusion,” and the CCI hasn’t even looked at the specific data being shared. Additionally, he said that CCI had prohibited WhatsApp from using data gathered on its platform for advertising reasons with other Meta firms or Meta company goods for five years and that “they are trying to destroy the business model.”
Monetisation is the Key to Any Business
Sibal went on to say that no software can thrive without generating revenue, noting that comparable platforms like Signal and Telegram have their own revenue schemes. Additionally, search applications make money in different ways. Additionally, he requested an emergency stay on the CCI order, which was due on February 19. According to Sibal, NCALT can take up the issue and make a decision after the Supreme Court rules on the privacy policy and the legislative regulations are established. “Moreover, the balance of convenience is in our favour, as we have been operating this for years,” he continued.
WhatsApp spokesperson Mukul Rohatgi stated that everyone can use the app for free and that no one is being charged for sending “Good Morning to Good Night” messages that include videos. How is it possible for anyone to live on a free model? This sharing isn’t ominous. This is merely a business plan. These days, Facebook and WhatsApp are owned by the same company. He claimed that this type of sharing is harmless and not destructive. On behalf of the CCI, attorney Samar Bansal, however, disagreed with these claims, arguing that the CCI’s investigation and the Supreme Court case did not overlap. In response to a bench question, he stated that competition law examines commercial data, whereas data privacy law exclusively examines personal data.
In an effort to tackle the issues facing the car rental industry, Droom has launched its new product, Droom Rental. The company, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary, announced the addition of a new category that employs technology and artificial intelligence to provide over 25,000 cars in over nine categories, including cars, buses, coaches, helicopters, planes, yachts, ambulances, scooters, bikes, and bicycles. In just one week since its introduction, Droom Rentals has reportedly acquired more than 1,500 listings from more than 100 rental providers in more than 25 cities.
Car Rentals a Highly Unorganised Sector in India
According to a statement from the firm, the $23 billion car rental market in India is currently very disorganised, with a significant lack of trust, opaque pricing, and non-standard experience, as well as a limited adoption of AI and technology. Other rental categories like daily rental, corporate rental, wedding rental, employee transportation solution, event rental, etc., remain largely unorganised, inefficient, and full of fragmented providers, despite the ride-hailing segment’s successful integration of cutting-edge technology and streamlined operations, Droom stated and expressed its intention to tap into the unorganised rental market.
According to Sandeep Aggarwal, the founder and CEO of Droom, the car rental industry has long been a source of frustration for him because it lacks transparency, trust, standardisation, a vast or diverse fleet, or premium fleet options. He said that the company will shortly be introducing a state-of-the-art technological stack for employee mobility, corporate rental, and all other rental kinds, bringing India’s car rental market up to, if not better than, international standards.
Connecting Used Car Dealers with Customers
Sandeep Aggarwal founded Droom in 2014, and it provides an online marketplace that links buyers and used car dealers. Through its partnerships with banks and NBFCs, the startup also offers financial backing. To date, the firm has raised a total of $296.00 million. Spinny: A Gurgaon-based marketplace for trading used cars, Spinny was founded in 2015. It lets people buy cars, schedule test drives, and choose cars online. Droom’s rivals are Spinny, Cars24, and CarDekho.
The startup’s main sources of revenue include advertising fees, vendor subscription revenues, and buyer commissions. In terms of finances, Droom’s India division cut its loss in half for the fiscal year that concluded on March 31, 2023. From INR 137 Cr in the previous fiscal year to INR 62.1 Cr in FY23, the company was able to reduce its net loss by 55%. But throughout the reviewed year, its operating revenue also fell. In FY23, Droom recorded operating revenue of INR 253.2 Cr, a 34% decrease from INR 384.6 Cr in FY18.
A warehouse space totalling 253,421 square feet has been leased by Zomato Hyperpure. The warehouse is situated in Palava, which is a part of the Mumbai metropolitan area (MMR), near Lodha Industrial and Logistics Park. The lease will begin on February 15, 2025, and last for five years.
The facility would be rented for more than INR 85.3 lakh per month by Zomato Hyperpure, a business-to-business (B2B) platform for kitchen solutions established by the restaurant aggregator Zomato, with a 5% annual rent increase. The rent will increase to INR 1.04 crore per month by the fifth year. A four-month rent security deposit has already been given by the business.
Further Financial Transactions of the Deal
Propstack, a provider of real estate data, analytics, and workflow solutions, submitted the registration documents. The transaction was filed with the Ulhasnagar sub-registrar’s office in Thane, incurring a stamp duty of INR 14.73 lakh and a registration charge of INR 1,000.
Over 6.5 million square feet of warehouse and industrial parks are presently being developed by the Lodha Industrial and Logistics Park (LILP) throughout the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), Chennai, and MMR. In the upcoming five years, it intends to greatly expand its business.
Operations of Hyperpure
Through Hyperpure, Zomato provides restaurants with groceries, fruits, and vegetables. Over the last few quarters, the B2B industry has been growing steadily. Revenue for Hyperpure nearly doubled to INR 1,473 Cr in Q2 FY25 from INR 745 Cr in Q2 FY24. Hyperpure introduced the “Express” delivery service in November 2024, which allows things to be delivered between 30 minutes and 4 hours. Prior to that, Zomato also announced that it would establish a processing facility to supply Hyperpure’s restaurant partners with value-added food supplies, such as sauces, spreads, and pre-cut and semi-finished perishable goods. The most recent development occurs over a month after the foodtech major used a qualified institutional placement (QIP) to raise INR 8,500 Cr, or over $1 billion. The company stated in its QIP filing that it will spend roughly INR 2,137 Cr from the issuance to set up and operate the warehouses for Hyperpure and the dark stores for its rapid commerce arm, Blinkit.
Zomato Going Beyond Food Delivery
According to the official document, Zomato’s capacity to expand its network of warehouses and dark stores in important areas is essential for the company’s growth in its B2B Supplies (Hyperpure) and rapid commerce sectors. Zomato has been launching a lot of new products for its other verticals, such as rapid commerce and meal delivery. The startup formally announced last week that Blinkit’s 10-minute meal delivery app, Bistro, had launched. Additionally, Zomato introduced a new 15-minute food delivery service in select areas of Delhi NCR.
The corporate affairs ministry (MCA) has given foodtech giant Swiggy permission to incorporate Swiggy Sports Private Limited, its sports division. The company stated in an exchange filing on January 16 that the newly incorporated entity’s primary goals will be to engage in sports team ownership, management, talent development, event organisation, and facility operation; provide career services; acquire broadcasting and sponsorship rights; and promote sporting events using a variety of business models, among other activities.
The approval follows a month after the foodtech major’s board approved the establishment of a new subsidiary to serve the sports and entertainment and recreation sectors. When Swiggy announced the establishment of the subsidiary in December, it stated that it was solely going to house the Mumbai pickleball team that it had purchased from the World Pickleball League (WPBL). According to Swiggy, the brand’s current connection in sports is restricted to owning the pickleball team’s rights in Mumbai, and there are no intentions to get further involved in sports.
Swiggy Expanding its Network and Services
The most recent development coincides with Swiggy‘s aggressive expansion into new markets and introduction of additional products. It just released its new “SNACC” app, which provides meal delivery in a few areas of Bengaluru in 15 minutes. With the release of a new app called Pyng Professional last week, it also made an entry into the services marketplace business. In the meantime, Swiggy Scenes, a new service that allows customers to reserve parties and events at Swiggy’s partner restaurants, was introduced by the firm in December. Before that, Swiggy also unveiled “One BLCK,” a new premium invite-only membership club.
In an attempt to cut down on food waste throughout its value chain, listed foodtech giant Swiggy has started a new campaign called “Swiggy Serves.” In an effort to combat hunger nationwide, Swiggy intends to redistribute excess food from its restaurant partners to underprivileged areas, the firm announced in a statement. The non-profit Robin Hood Army, based in Delhi NCR, has partnered with the Sriharsha Majety-led company on the Swiggy Serves project. By the end of 2030, it hopes to deliver 50 million meals to underprivileged communities. With the help of more than 126 restaurant partners, the two have already redistributed 2,000 meals among 33 locations as part of the recently established campaign’s trial.
Zomato Also Catching Up
Aiming to expand beyond its core food delivery services and hyper commerce, Zomato launched ‘District’ in August of last year with the goal of consolidating its going-out business, which includes eating and ticketing (movies and events). With this, Zomato entered a number of new markets under one corporate umbrella, including lifestyle services, sports ticketing, live events, retail, staycations, and more. Swiggy’s most recent move is expected to expand the rivalry between the two titans in rapid commerce beyond the food delivery industry.
According to a court petition by the U.S. company, Meta may have to “roll back or pause” some functionalities in India because of an antitrust injunction that prohibited its WhatsApp messaging service from sharing user data with Meta for advertising purposes. The Competition Commission of India’s (CCI) November ruling, which ruled that the firm exploited its power and “coerced” WhatsApp users into agreeing to a 2021 privacy policy that allegedly increased user data collecting and sharing and gave it an unfair edge over competitors, is being challenged by Meta.
In India, Meta’s largest market, where there are over 350 million Facebook users and over 500 million WhatsApp users, the CCI has fined the company $24.5 million and banned it from exchanging data for five years. Although Meta has publicly defended its policy change and stated that it disagrees with the CCI order, the U.S. corporation is clearly uneasy about the CCI’s decision, as evidenced by its appeal file, which takes a critical stance on the watchdog’s operations.
Company’s Major Concern
The business is worried that the prohibition on WhatsApp-to-Meta user data exchange could limit its capacity to provide consumers with customised advertisements on Facebook and Instagram, according to the company’s filing with the Indian appeals panel on January 3.
WhatsApp claims in public that it gives Meta access to a user’s phone number, transaction history, business interactions, and mobile device data. For the first time, Meta explained the implications of the order in its petition, stating that the data sharing ban may prevent an Indian fashion company from customising Facebook or Instagram advertisements based on their conversation with a WhatsApp user about a particular clothing line.
According to the business, using the solution in its broadest sense will probably necessitate Meta pausing or reversing a number of features and products. It affects WhatsApp’s and Meta’s capacity to continue operating profitably, albeit it is impossible to pinpoint the precise financial impact on the company. Facebook India Online Services, a registered company that sells advertising inventory in India, claimed $351 million in income in 2023–2024—the most in at least five years.
Meta’s Worldwide Concerns
Meta’s worldwide problems are made worse by the antitrust issues in India. WhatsApp was charged in 2021 with breaking EU law by neglecting to provide clear and understandable explanations for policy changes. Later on, it consented to inform EU users of the modifications.
The Indian case began in 2021 in response to complaints about modifications to WhatsApp’s privacy policies. Meta informed the CCI that the modifications did not increase its capacity for data gathering and exchange, but rather served merely to notify them about the operation of optional business messaging capabilities. According to its November verdict, WhatsApp’s policy lacked an opt-out provision and forced users to accept or risk losing access to the service. The watchdog has mandated that WhatsApp give users the option to choose whether or not to share data with Meta.
National Startup Day, celebrated on January 16th in India, is a day to honour the growth and success of the country’s startup ecosystem. Since the launch of ‘Startup India’ in 2016, the number of DPIIT-recognised startups has grown from around 500 to over 1,59,157 as of January 2025. This makes India the third-largest startup hub in the world. The theme for this year, “Let’s shape the future together—one innovative idea at a time,” reflects the spirit of collaboration driving the country’s entrepreneurs.
In the spirit of this occasion, StartupTalky connected with various founders and industry experts to gather their views on one of the hottest topics these days—AI. AI has been a major conversation point in industries across the globe. We asked founders about its growing impact and how their businesses are adapting to it. Many shared how AI will reshape their sectors in the next few years. They also spoke about how their startups are embracing AI and driving innovation.
Let’s see what they have to say.
AI Revolutionising Healthcare Financing and Patient Care
Vikrant Agrawal, Co-Founder of Care.fi, highlighted how AI is set to revolutionize healthcare financing over the next three years by automating complex processes, enhancing decision-making, and improving resource efficiency. Key advancements will likely include predictive analytics for financial risk management, real-time revenue insights, and fully integrated systems for patient care.
Care.fi is already at the forefront of this transformation. Our AI-powered RCM platform, RevNow, exemplifies how automation can streamline insurance claims processes, reduce claim rejections, and ensure real-time cash flow reconciliation. By automating tedious tasks, hospitals can focus more on patient care and less on administrative burdens.
Sahil Lakshmanan, Chief Business Officer of CarePal Money, emphasised thatAI is redefining healthcare financing by simplifying application processes, enhancing decision-making, and fostering financial inclusion. It enables one-click loan applications, real-time document verification through digital integration (e.g., Aadhaar and PAN via India Stack), and instant approvals powered by data-driven algorithms. Patients benefit from tailored solutions as AI adapts credit scoring to non-traditional factors like medical emergencies and irregular income streams.
CarePal Money leads this transformation by leveraging AI for custom risk profiling, smart recommendations, and 24/7 real-time assistance through virtual assistants. AI-driven multilingual interfaces and region-specific options ensure accessibility for underserved communities. By aligning financing options with patient needs and streamlining hospital interactions, we create a more inclusive and efficient healthcare ecosystem powered by AI.
Karan Arora, Co-Founder of One Health Assist, pointed out that AI will run two parallel tracks at One Health Assist—helping doctors understand patient history in detail and providing consumers with AI-driven care solutions that improve risk detection and focus on prevention. He said, “We aim to offer personalized care solutions that respond to users’ health changes, promoting lasting wellness. As AI develops, we plan to keep up by including new technologies that improve participation and results, making preventive healthcare easier to access and more accurate for all.”
Padmakumar Nair, CEO and Founder of Ennoventure Inc., highlighted that AI is set to restructure anti-counterfeiting. In the next 3 years, we anticipate AI enhancing our encryption algorithms, making them even more robust and secure against sophisticated counterfeiters. Advanced machine learning techniques will play a crucial role in identifying subtle patterns and anomalies associated with counterfeit products. Ennoventure’s focus lies in leveraging AI to improve the accuracy and speed of authentication, enhance data analytics and predict potential counterfeiting threats proactively.
Transforming HRMS with AI
Sayeed Anjum, Co-Founder and CTO of greytHR, discussed how AI is transforming the HRMS industry byreshaping talent management, employee engagement, and operational efficiency. It enables hyper-personalized experiences by intuitively adapting to individual needs while automating routine tasks and leveraging analytics for data-driven decisions.
Anjum said, “At greytHR, we’ve already integrated AI into our full-suite HRMS solution, which manages the entire employee lifecycle. Here are our most widely used AI-enabled features:
An AI-powered chatbot that streamlines employee query resolution and is already being used by lakhs of users.
AI-driven recommendations to enhance employee engagement and improve the feedback processes.”
Empowering Automation with AI
Neerja Kumar, Co-Founder and COO of Enalytix, discussed how AI will drive deeper automation, predictive insights, and smarter decision-making. Advancements in machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing will allow businesses to unlock new efficiencies, improve personalization, and enhance operational agility.
“At Enalytix, we are at the forefront of this evolution, developing new AI architectures and models that leverage both Edge AI and cloud technologies. This approach enables real-time insights without relying on constant internet connectivity—ideal for the Indian market and other similar regions. Our hardware-agnostic solutions and ability to install remotely provide scalability, making it easier for businesses to harness the power of AI across diverse environments,” said Kumar.
Animesh Samuel, Co-Founder and CEO of E42.ai, spoke about how AI is set to redefine enterprise automation, with agentic AI following a similar path to the mainstream success of generative AI. While generative AI has transformed industries by solving problems creatively and producing new content, agentic AI is poised to take automation to the next level by enabling systems to act autonomously and make informed decisions. This evolution will empower businesses to shift from reactive to proactive automation creating smarter, self-directed workflows.
At the heart of this transformation is E42, enabling enterprises to seamlessly adopt scalable, no-code AI co-workers that integrate intelligence into workflows, paving the way for operational excellence.
Revolutionising Music Licensing
Gaurav Dagaonkar, Co-founder & CEO of Hoopr shared that AI is shaking things up in music licensing! Soon, we’ll see AI streamlining things like contracts and royalty tracking, making the whole process smoother. Imagine AI suggesting the perfect song for your project – that’s happening too!
“At Hoopr, we’re embracing this change. We’re building AI tools to help our users find the right music faster, and we’re streamlining our own licensing process with AI. We’re also using AI to understand our users better and improve their experience. Basically, we’re using AI to make music licensing easier and more efficient for everyone involved,” said Dagaonkar.
AI Transforming the Lending Sector
Eklavya Gupta, Co-Founder and CEO of Recur Club, discussed how AI is transforming the lending sector. He highlighted, ” Lending is one of the oldest industries, and I believe AI will accelerate it at an unprecedented pace. India remains a highly underserved market for credit, and AI will help build the technology infrastructure needed to cater to the unique credit requirements of diverse business models.
We’ve worked hard to rethink our internal processes using AI, and we’ve already seen significant efficiency improvements in data collection and underwriting. AI equips us with the intelligence to stay ahead of evolving business models, while for our customers, it unlocks faster access to more tailored credit solutions.”
Advancing Electric Vehicles with AI
Nemin Vora, Founder and CEO of Odysse Electric Vehicles, discussed the potential of AI to drive advancements in EV performance, predictive maintenance, smart manufacturing, and customer support.
In the next three years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) will have a transformative impact on the electric vehicle (EV) industry, driving significant advancements across multiple areas. For end customers, AI will enhance Vehicle Performance and Efficiencyalong with Predictive Maintenance and Diagnostics, offering a more comfortable, efficient, and safer driving experience while enabling optimal use of their EVs.
From a manufacturing perspective, AI will play a pivotal role in Smart Manufacturing and Supply Chain Optimization, allowing for more efficient production processes, improved quality & cost control, and faster delivery. Additionally, AI-driven After-Sales Customer Supportfeatures will streamline service processes, improving customer satisfaction and fostering long-term brand loyalty.
Together, these innovations will make electric vehicles a more attractive and seamless choice for consumers, positioning AI as a key driver in the widespread adoption of EVs in the coming years.
“We view AI as a key enabler in our strategy to accelerate the adoption of electric mobility, and we are focused on leveraging this technology to deliver innovative products, improve sustainability, and enhance the overall customer experience,” said Vora.
AI Enhancing Language Learning
Arpit Mittal, Founder and CEO of SpeakX, shared, “AI is already reshaping education, but we are just scratching the surface. In the next three years, I see it becoming a personal coach for every learner—offering immersive, real-time feedback that feels almost human. At SpeakX, we are driving this shift by combining AI with human insight to create tools that are not only smarter but also more empathetic. Whether it’s practicing for a job interview or perfecting pronunciation, we’re committed to making language learning more accessible, faster, and even enjoyable.”
AI’s Role in Edu-Fintech Industry
Rohit Gajbhiye, Founder and MD of LEO1 highlighted that AI will revolutionize the edu-fintech industry in the next three years by automating processes, enabling personalized financial solutions, and enhancing institutional efficiency. It will empower educational institutions with predictive analytics for cash flow and fee management while offering parents tailored payment plans and spending insights.
“At LEO1, we are integrating AI to provide real-time tracking, personalized rewards, and advanced financial literacy tools, ensuring smarter financial management for families and institutions. By driving this innovation, we are shaping a more efficient, transparent, and accessible education ecosystem.” said Gajbhiye.
Apparel Sourcing with AI
Abhishek Dua, CEO and Co-Founder of Showroom B2B talked about how AI is set to disrupt the apparel sourcing industry over the next three years, reshaping it with advanced automation, predictive analytics, and real-time decision-making capabilities. By leveraging machine learning algorithms and big data, AI will revolutionize demand forecasting, analyzing historical trends, sales patterns, and external market factors to optimize inventory and production cycles, reducing inefficiencies like overproduction and stockouts.
Dua shared, “At Showroom B2B, we are embedding these advanced technologies into our ecosystem. Our advanced supply chain management platform utilizes AI-driven forecasting and intelligent automation to streamline operations, while our data-driven partner allocation strategy ensures optimal supplier matching based on capacity, compliance, and historical performance. Moreover, our AI-powered predictive analytics will enhance supply chain visibility, providing real-time insights into production, compliance, and logistics, enabling proactive interventions and optimized resource allocation.”
The Future of Cloud Security and AI
Saurabh Bhardwaj, CEO of VergeCloud, discussed how AI will transform CDN, cybersecurity, and edge computing, enabling real-time decision-making, predictive threat detection, and hyper-personalized experiences. This evolution creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to address challenges like latency and cyber-resilience, fostering scalable, AI-driven solutions. VergeCloud remains a catalyst, empowering startups to shape India’s digital future and drive global innovation.
Personalising Retail with AI
Varun Tangri, Founder and CEO of QueueBuster, highlighted that in the next three years, artificial intelligence will disrupt sectors by increasing customer convenience and personalisation. AI-powered CRM connected with Android POS systems will transform retail customer interactions by allowing for real-time, personalised suggestions based on transaction history and preferences. This system enhances product discovery, boosts conversion rates, and lowers customer turnover through quick interventions and customised incentives.
Furthermore, AI integration decreases operational costs by automating procedures, optimising stock management, and anticipating customer flow to optimise manpower. Businesses that use AI gain a competitive advantage, boost customer loyalty, and increase ROI through data-driven initiatives and seamless customer experiences.
AI Empowering Blue-Collar Industries
Nilesh Dungarwal, Co-Founder and CEO of WorkIndia, shared how AI will empower blue-collar industries by automating tasks in manufacturing, logistics, and construction, while also creating new opportunities through upskilling.
Dungarwal said, “Artificial Intelligence (AI) will significantly influence blue-collar industries by automating tasks in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and construction. While this may lead to job displacement in some areas, it also presents opportunities for increased productivity and the creation of new roles. Upskilling and reskilling the workforce will be crucial to prepare workers for AI-driven changes.
Our startup is actively propagating skill development programs that empower workers to adapt to technological advancements. By equipping individuals with skills that complement AI, we aim for a future where innovation and meaningful livelihoods coexist seamlessly.”
January 16 is observed as National Startup Day in India, celebrating the country’s growing startup scene and its role in boosting the economy and innovation. It’s a day to recognise the hard work of entrepreneurs and the challenges they face while building businesses that make a difference.
From innovations like UPI to solving everyday problems, Indian startups are changing many industries. On this special day, StartupTalky asked some of India’s amazing entrepreneurs and business leaders to share the one piece of advice they wish they had when starting their journeys.
Their candid insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone thinking of starting a business. Here’s what they had to say.
Viraj Bahl, Founder and Managing Director of VRB Consumer Products (Veeba)
For me, the most profound lesson has been that success doesn’t come from chasing trends but from execution and staying true to your vision. On Indian Startup Day, I salute every founder who’s dared to take that first leap of faith. Together, we’re shaping not just companies but the future of a nation.
From pioneering fintech innovations like UPI, which revolutionized digital payments globally, to building frugal solutions that empower underserved markets, Indian startups are showcasing how resourcefulness can drive transformation. This isn’t just about growth; it’s about creating impact for change. On Indian Startup Day, we celebrate the vision and resilience of entrepreneurs shaping a new global narrative from India.
Ankit Anand, Founding Partner at Riceberg Ventures
Founding and running a startup is inherently challenging and high-risk. Everything often takes longer than anticipated. The paradox is that if we truly understood how tough and time-consuming it would be, we might never start.
Given these challenges, the only way to sustain this journey is to pursue something we are deeply passionate about—something we would gladly dedicate our lives to, even without immediate rewards or incentives. While the media highlights quick successes and rapid growth, it often overlooks the relentless hustle and perseverance that happen behind the scenes.
However, the most important thing to remember is that, even though it’s incredibly hard, the journey is undoubtedly worth it. The impact we create, the lessons we learn, and the growth we experience make it one of the most fun and fulfilling paths we can take.
Navkaran Singh Sethi, MD and Co-Founder of EnerG Lubricants
Looking back, one piece of advice I wish I had when starting is the importance of building strategic partnerships early. From the outset, collaborating with industry leaders like we did with ExxonMobil in 1999 played a pivotal role in our growth. These partnerships provided access to world-class technology, global best practices, and expanded market reach. For aspiring entrepreneurs today, forming strong relationships with key players and seeking collaborations can open doors to new opportunities, resources, and credibility. It’s not just about innovation but also about leveraging external expertise and networks to accelerate success in a competitive market.
Focus equally on technology and market alignment. Initially, E42 concentrated heavily on tech innovation but realized the importance of building a partner and client ecosystem early on. For aspiring entrepreneurs, this highlights the need to balance product development with creating a robust go-to-market strategy, ensuring scalability and sustained growth while adapting to dynamic market needs.
Srinivas Shekar, Co-Founder and CEO, Pantherun Technologies
One piece of advice I wish I had when starting out is to embrace uncertainty and focus on adaptability. As an entrepreneur, things rarely go as planned, and being flexible in your approach can turn unexpected challenges into opportunities. It’s important to keep an open mind, learn from setbacks, and never lose sight of what customers need.
I also realized the value of building a strong support network early on. Surrounding yourself with mentors, peers, and team members who share your vision can provide valuable insights and encouragement when times get tough.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, understanding that the journey will be unpredictable but rewarding is key. Stay resilient, seek advice, and remember that success is built on learning and evolving every step of the way.
Gaurav Dagaonkar, Co-founder & CEO of Hoopr
If I could go back and give my younger entrepreneurial self one piece of advice, it would be: “Focus relentlessly on building genuine, long-term relationships with your customers.” In the early days, it’s easy to get caught up in chasing growth and hitting targets. However, over time I have realised that building a strong foundation of trust and loyalty with your customers is far more valuable in the long run. This advice is more relevant than ever in today’s hyper-competitive business landscape where loyalty cannot be taken for granted.
My second advice would be to build a driven and like-minded leadership early on so that scale and growth become compounded in the first 3-5 years of your business.
Nemin Vora, Founder and CEO of Odysse Electric Vehicles
Looking back, one piece of advice I wish I had when starting out is to focus more on building a strong and adaptable network and team from the very beginning. While having a clear vision and a great product is crucial, having access to a diverse group of mentors, industry experts, and potential partners can provide invaluable insights, open doors to new opportunities, and help navigate the inevitable challenges that arise.
For aspiring entrepreneurs today, I would emphasize the importance of surrounding yourself with people who bring different perspectives, skills, and experiences. This network can help you anticipate market shifts, provide constructive feedback, and offer support during tough times. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are powerful tools for growth, especially in an evolving industry like ours. Building these relationships early on can significantly accelerate both personal and business growth.
Arpit Mittal, Founder and CEO of SpeakX
Early on, I spent too much time trying to perfect every detail before launching. What I have learned is that feedback from users is invaluable—real-world input often highlights areas you might not have considered. For anyone starting out, focus on solving a genuine problem, create a functional solution, and improve as you go. The goal is not to have everything perfect on day one but to keep evolving based on what your audience truly needs.
Reshbha Munjal, Co-Founder of KorinMi
If I could go back, one piece of advice I’d give myself is to, above all, have unwavering conviction in yourself and your idea. You need to believe it’s right, even when others don’t. Confidence in your vision is key, and it’s essential to identify the gaps in the market that your product is filling. Success comes not just from having a great product, idea, or service, but from addressing a real need. As an entrepreneur, focus on the value you’re providing and the problems you’re solving. When you’re fulfilling a need, everything else falls into place.
Abhishek Dua, CEO and Co-Founder of Showroom B2B
One key piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to stay laser-focused on solving a clear and specific problem. Success often stems from understanding your target audience deeply and addressing their needs with precision and efficiency. Leverage data and insights to guide decisions, remain agile to changing trends and execute your vision with strategic intent.
By building solutions that directly tackle the pain points of your industry, you can establish a strong foundation and deliver real value. Building trust with stakeholders and delivering consistent value will position your business for sustainable growth.
Varun Tangri, Founder and CEO of QueueBuster
One piece of advice I wish I had when starting out is the importance of resilience. Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges, and staying resilient in the face of setbacks is crucial for long-term success. Additionally, being active on social media and regularly talking about your products can help build visibility and engage with your audience directly. Remember, you are not just a custodian of your startup but also its biggest and most reliable brand ambassador. Staying connected with customers is equally important—while founders often engage with customers early on, this connection tends to fade as businesses scale. However, understanding their needs and feedback allows for continuous product evolution, ensuring better service and fostering business growth.
Padmakumar Nair, CEO and Founder of Ennoventure Inc.
Looking back, I wish I had prioritised early collaboration and stakeholder engagement. We faced challenges educating the market about our technology and struggled to gain traction. Building strong partnerships with brands and manufacturers from the outset would have accelerated adoption.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, I emphasize the importance of deep customer engagement. Understand their needs firsthand, involve them in the development process, and build a community around your solution. This collaborative approach fosters trust and ensures your solution truly addresses their challenges.
Vikrant Agrawal, Co-Founder of Care.fi
A piece of advice that would have been invaluable at the outset is: Start with a deep focus on understanding your target audience’s pain points. While it’s tempting to dive into product development, success often hinges on how well you align your solutions with the real-world challenges of your audience.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly in niche sectors like healthcare fintech, it’s critical to prioritize empathy-driven innovation. Engaging directly with stakeholders provides insights that can refine your offerings.
Karan Arora, Co-Founder of One Health Assist
An important learning experience was the need to be always flexible and adaptive to changes, considering the quick evolution in industries like healthcare. Adjusting one’s business model based on new insights or shifts in the marketplace is highly critical for any corporate setup. It is clearly evident that, as any new business owner should, what one develops with adaptability and continuous learning allows one to respond sensibly to hurdles and situate oneself ahead of trends in the field of sustainable long-term growth in dynamic and rapidly changing environments.
Rahul Nainani, CEO and Co-Founder of ReCircle
A key piece of advice is the importance of unwavering focus. Early on, it’s tempting to chase every opportunity and try multiple ideas, but this can dilute efforts and distract from your core mission. While experimentation and learning from mistakes are vital, staying aligned with your original vision is crucial for long-term success. Saying “no” to distractions, especially as new trends and opportunities arise, is essential for building a strong, sustainable foundation. In a noisy startup ecosystem, focus helps prioritize resources, maintain clarity, and drive consistent growth.
Nilesh Dungarwal, Co-founder and CEO of WorkIndia
Bet on yourself unapologetically, while staying grounded.If I could go back, this would be my advice to younger me. Confidence gets you started, but perseverance and humility keep you going. You don’t need all the answers, upfront learning on the go is important. Every obstacle teaches, and every mistake shapes growth. Stay open, listen, and evolve. Betting on yourself means trusting you’ll figure it out, even when uncertain. Progress matters more than perfection. For anyone starting out: take bold risks, be humble, embrace lessons from setbacks, and keep pushing forward. That’s the journey from ambition to achievement.
Tapan Barman, Co-founder and CEO, Mihup
One piece of advice I wish I had received is: The key to success lies in understanding your users deeply and building for them, not for trends.
When starting Mihup, we initially focused on what we believed the market wanted. Over time, we learned the importance of listening closely to our customers and fine-tuning our conversation intelligence platform to address real-world challenges, such as enabling natural voice communication for multilingual and tech-phobic users. This shift was instrumental in making Mihup a trusted partner for enterprises today.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, the takeaway is clear: build solutions that address specific pain points and resonate with your target audience. Invest in user research, iterate relentlessly based on feedback, and create a strong team that believes in the mission. With these pillars, you can create impactful and sustainable innovations that stand the test of time.
Anshul Jain, Co-founder and CTO of Roadcast
When starting out, it’s easy to get caught up in chasing multiple opportunities or trying to create a product that does everything. This can dilute your efforts and slow your progress. I wish someone had emphasised the importance of laser-focusing on a single, well-defined problem and solving it better than anyone else. For aspiring entrepreneurs, my advice would be: “Focus on solving one clear problem exceptionally well before expanding your vision.” By honing in on solving one problem with excellence, you’ll build a strong foundation for success and be in a much better position to scale.
Eklavya Gupta, Co-Founder and CEO of Recur Club
It has to be the focus. As a startup, you have limited resources and time, so it’s crucial to identify what truly matters and excel at it. It’s better to do one thing extremely well than to do ten things half-heartedly.
We live in an age of information overload, and I believe that focus will become a superpower. It’s about saying “no” more often and being deliberate about what you choose to say “yes” to.
San Banerjee, Co-Founder and CEO of ADDA
One piece of advice that I would like to share is to be clear about the core benefits that your solution is offering, focus and obsess about it, and go really deep, before trying to develop solutions for multiple different problems. For example, focussing on one aspect like clean communication and accounting helped us in getting trust and traction in the market.
Sahil Lakshmanan, Chief Business Officer of CarePal Money
Focus on building a sustainable ecosystem, not just a standalone product.” Early on, I realized that solving complex problems, like healthcare financing, requires integrating multiple solutions. For aspiring entrepreneurs, the takeaway is to think beyond immediate solutions and design for scalability and long-term impact from the start.
Manish Panwar, Business Head at Xumane
As Business Head, my advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, leaders and strategists today would be:
Iterate relentlessly, take feedback seriously, and be prepared to pivot.
Embrace failure as a lesson, and stay adaptable.
Build a network of advisors, mentors, and partners who can help guide your decisions.
By staying adaptable and focused on continuous improvement, you’ll be in a stronger position to turn your vision into a successful reality.
This year, India marks nine years of Startup India, a transformative journey that began in 2016. National Startup Day honours how entrepreneurs and startups are reshaping economies and societies. It celebrates creativity, tenacity, and innovation while emphasising the role that entrepreneurs play in advancing technology and environmentally friendly solutions. The day also highlights how crucial it is to create an environment that supports audacious ideas and gives business owners the confidence to question the status quo and create the future.
What DPIIT’s Official Data Reveals?
As of January 15, 2025, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) had recognised over 1.59 lakh firms, solidifying India’s position as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. Over 100 unicorns power this thriving ecosystem, which is redefining entrepreneurship and innovation globally. This change has been driven by major cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR, but smaller cities have also been making a greater contribution to the country’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Fintech, edtech, healthtech, and e-commerce startups have overcome regional obstacles and achieved international acclaim. India’s transition from job seekers to employment creators is exemplified by companies like Zomato, Nykaa, and Ola, which propel economic growth.
The Main Pockets of Startup Sector
According to DPIIT data, non-metropolitan areas account for more than half (51%) of India’s DPIIT-registered companies. An encouraging indication of India’s entrepreneurial potential is the growing number of businesses originating from non-metropolitan areas. Cities such as Jaipur, Indore, Coimbatore, Vadodara, and Surat provide entrepreneurs with affordable talent and growth prospects. In the meanwhile, companies receive substantial help from government-led incubator programs like Telangana’s T-Hub, which unlocks trillions of dollars in value and transforms India’s entrepreneurial scene. From 2014 to 2024, all of these emerging businesses have raised about $158 billion in capital.
Jobs Generation
By creating more than 16.6 lakh direct jobs in a variety of industries as of October 31, 2024, DPIIT-recognised startups have made a substantial contribution to the creation of jobs. With 2.04 lakh jobs, the IT services sector is the largest, followed by healthcare and life sciences (1.47 lakh) and professional and commercial services (about 94,000). These contributions demonstrate how startups propel economic expansion and generate a wide range of job possibilities across sectors.
A number of flagship programs have been introduced by the Startup India initiative to offer entrepreneurs all-encompassing assistance at various phases of their development. In order to ensure the expansion and viability of startups, these programs seek to solve important issues like funding, market access, and credit guarantees.
Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
With a capital of INR 945 crore, SISFS was established with the goal of giving entrepreneurs financial support for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialisation during a four-year period beginning in 2021–2022. This would allow these firms to advance to a point where they can look for loans from commercial banks or other financial institutions, or raise money from venture capitalists or angel investors.
Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS)
The goal of the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) is to offer a credit guarantee up to a predetermined amount against loans made by Member Institutions (MIs) to finance qualified borrowers, or startups, as defined in the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade’s (DPIIT) periodically amended Gazette Notification.
Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) Scheme
In accordance with the Start-up India Action Plan, the Prime Minister introduced FFS on January 16, 2016. A corpus of INR 10,000 crore has been granted for contributions to different Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) that are SEBI-registered. FFS was established with the specific goal of assisting the growth and development of innovation-driven businesses. It does this by facilitating start-ups’ finance needs through participation in SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Fund funds.
Sates Realising the Power of Startups
The push for local entrepreneurs by the federal and state governments goes well beyond statistics and lofty discourse. A growing number of states increasingly see startups as a means of boosting demand and creating jobs. In 2016, for example, only four states had specific startup policies. This figure, which has now increased to 31 states and union territories (UTs), provides insight into how startups have gained popularity with influential decision-makers and oversight organisations. In addition to promoting policies, the Centre has onboarded numerous startups on sites such as the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) to expedite its procurement process and provide them with a platform to market their products directly to customers without the need for intermediaries. According to the DPIIT, as of October 2024, 27,208 of the 1.59 lakh certified firms had listed on GeM and fulfilled 3.53 lakh orders of INR 30,825 Cr.
BHASKAR: Strengthening the Startup Ecosystem in India
The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) platform was introduced by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in September 2024, in addition to the previously listed programs. The goal of this innovative project, which is a component of Startup India, is to centralise and simplify interactions within the Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem. In line with India’s goal of becoming a global leader in entrepreneurship, BHASKAR seeks to promote innovation, cooperation, and growth by bringing together startups, investors, mentors, service providers, and governmental organisations.
Startup Mahakumbh: Promoting Creativity
As a premier event, the Startup Mahakumbh unites investors, industry leaders, ecosystem players, startups, unicorns, and soonicorns. It promotes discussion to fortify the country’s startup ecosystem while showcasing India’s technological potential and entrepreneurial spirit.
With over 1,300 exhibitors spread across ten themed pavilions, the inaugural event in 2024 set an impressive example. Attracting a remarkable number of over 48,000 business travellers, it developed into a flourishing centre for innovative concepts and significant collaborations. With the theme “Startup India @ 2047—Unfolding the Bharat Story,” the second edition, which is slated to take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from April 3–5, 2025, is expected to surpass expectations. As India moves closer to being a global centre of innovation by 2047, this ambitious theme seeks to examine the future of the startup ecosystem in that country.
As India commemorates the ninth anniversary of the Startup India initiative, the nation’s entrepreneurial scene has seen a notable transition. With more than 1.59 lakh businesses recognised by DPIIT and an expanding workforce, India has solidified its position as a global centre for entrepreneurship and innovation. Through flagship programs, capacity-building initiatives, platforms like BHASKAR, and events like Startup Mahakumbh, the initiative has empowered companies in non-metropolitan areas as well as other sectors. An inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem is fostered by the Startup India program, which continues to be a major driver of economic growth as India moves closer to becoming a global leader in innovation.
Paavan Nanda is a name that has become synonymous with innovation and strategic thinking in India’s fast-paced startup ecosystem. As the co-founder and CEO of WinZO, Nanda has redefined how millions of Indians experience gaming and entertainment. From creating Asia’s largest backpacker hostel chain to building a thriving social gaming platform, his entrepreneurial journey is both inspiring and transformative.
Through his ventures, Nanda has not only disrupted industries but also contributed significantly to the growth of India’s digital economy. His ability to identify opportunities, embrace challenges, and execute visionary ideas has earned him a place among India’s top entrepreneurs.
In this StartupTalky article, we will explore Paavan Nanda’s success story, including his early life, childhood, personal life, education, awards, philanthropy, and more.
Paavan Nanda – Biography
Full Name
Paavan Nanda
Birthplace
India
Nationality
Indian
Education
Bachelor’s in Engineering from Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology, MBA from Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta
Occupation
Entrepreneur, Angel Investor
Known For
Co-founder of WinZO, Co-founder of Zostel and ZO Rooms
Paavan Nanda was born in India and demonstrated an early interest in technology, problem-solving, and innovation. His academic background reflects his sharp intellect and desire to make a difference.
He has an engineering degree that helped him to understand technology and systems. Then he did an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta. The combination of technical and business knowledge was very effective in enabling him to excel as an entrepreneur.
Paavan Nanda – Personal Life
Paavan Nanda leads a relatively low-profile personal life. When not immersed in business, he enjoys traveling, gaming, and exploring new cultures. He often attributes his creative ideas to experiences gained during his travels.
Nanda is also active on social media, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, technology, and gaming trends.
Paavan Nanda – Winzo
The Idea
Paavan Nanda founded WinZO with Saumya Singh Rathore in 2018, identifying an exciting opportunity within the Indian gaming market. Worldwide, the gaming industry was witnessing phenomenal growth; however, the Indian gaming market lacked a local platform for such a huge audience. Paavan Nanda visualized vernacular gaming to reach users with entertainment in their mother tongue.
WinZO was built to bridge this gap, offering a range of games, entertainment content, and social features in 12+ Indian languages.
Early Development
From the start, WinZO was designed to be user-centric. Nanda and his team have focused on user experience, security payment systems, and content personalization. The reason why the platform has become a success is that it connects people from all walks of life and makes gaming available to all.
Rapid Growth and Achievements
WinZO picked up pace, and millions of users joined the platform. In 2021, the company raised $65 million in a Series C funding round, bringing global investors on board, including Griffin Gaming Partners and Kalaari Capital.
WinZO today stands at a valuation of more than $360 million and is considered one of India’s leading social gaming platforms.
WinZO Financials FY23
WinZO’s operating revenue grew by 188% from INR 234 crore in 2022 to INR 674 crore in 2023. Total expenses increased by 50%, from INR 375 crore to INR 564 crore. The company turned profitable, shifting from a loss of INR 130 crore in 2022 to a profit of INR 126 crore in 2023.
Before WinZO, Paavan Nanda built Zostel-the Asia’s largest backpacker hostel chain. Started in 2013, Zostel gave budget travel to India a brand-new avatar for the first time as affordable and community-focused stays for young travelers.
After establishing the success of Zostel, Paavan Nanda went on to co-found the budget hotel aggregator ZO Rooms backed by Tiger Global. Although ZO Rooms faced challenges due to market competition, it demonstrated Nanda’s ability to create innovative business models.
As the CEO of WinZO, Nanda leads with a user-first approach, emphasizing innovation, scalability, and sustainability. He would like WinZO to be a platform that empowers the creator, engages the user, and fosters community over and above gaming.
So far, Nanda’s strategic decision making-from partnering with the leading game developers to introducing gamified learning experiences positioned WinZO as a trailblazer in India’s gaming industry.
Paavan Nanda is deeply committed to giving back to society. Through his philanthropic initiatives, he supports:
Education: Scholarship and programs for underprivileged students for quality education.
Entrepreneurship Development: Mentorship programs and seed capital for new entrepreneurs, especially in underserved communities. Nanda believes that technology and education are catalysts for change, as reflected by his efforts.
Paavan Nanda – Awards and Recognitions
The wide-ranging acclaim of Paavan Nanda lies in his entrepreneurship and gaming work:
He is recognized on the Forbes India 30 Under 30 (2016) for changing the hospitality and gaming landscape.
Economic Times Start-Up Awards (2021): WinZO was recognized for innovation in the gaming space.
Featured in YourStory’s 50 Disruptive Startups (2020) as a game-changer in digital entertainment.
Paavan Nanda – Facts
WinZO’s Language Diversity: The platform offers games in over 12 Indian languages.
Zostel’s Milestone: Zostel hosts have welcomed millions of travelers across India.
Angel Investor: Nanda has invested in startups across the tech, media, and food sectors.
Innovative Partnerships: WinZO collaborates with gaming studios worldwide to deliver diverse content.
Paavan Nanda – Vision for the Future
Nanda’s journey is far from over. His vision for WinZO includes:
Expanding into international markets.
Incorporating blockchain technology to enhance gaming transparency.
Promoting gamified education as a tool for skill development.
Through his ventures, Paavan Nanda aims to continue driving India’s digital revolution, creating platforms that entertain, educate, and inspire.
Conclusion
Paavan Nanda exemplifies the spirit of modern entrepreneurship. From reimagining budget travel with Zostel to transforming gaming with WinZO, his journey reflects innovation, resilience, and a deep understanding of market needs.
His contributions to the Indian startup ecosystem have been through job creation but also in terms of giving a million-plus user base an entertaining experience localized in their space. As Nanda continues innovating, he will only impact more technology and society, setting in place his own legacy as one of India’s most visionary entrepreneurs.
FAQs
Who is Paavan Nanda?
Paavan Nanda is an Indian entrepreneur best known as the co-founder of WinZO Games, a leading gaming platform in India. Before WinZO, he co-founded Zostel, a popular backpacker hostel chain in India.
What is Paavan Nanda education?
Paavan Nanda completed his undergraduate degree from Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology and later pursued an MBA from IIM Calcutta.
What is WinZo?
WinZO is a social gaming platform where users can play games and win money.
India has the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. Startups in our country are playing an extremely important role in driving innovation, creating jobs, and boosting economic growth. Recognising the importance of startups, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared 16th January as National Startup Day to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation shaping the nation’s future.
While initiatives like Startup India have built a strong foundation, many industries still face unique challenges. These challenges need targeted policy interventions. This National Startup Day 2025, StartupTalky brings together insights from industry leaders, highlighting what they think could better support startups and drive growth in their industries. By addressing these needs, the government can help startups succeed in local and global markets.
Electric Vehicle Industry Growth
Nemin Vora, Founder and CEO of Odysse Electric Vehicles, shared, “We believe that EV sectors, especially the two-wheeler space, will continue to be a priority sector. This optimism comes from the shared goal of making transportation sustainable. We trust that the government will bring in incentives for both manufacturers and consumers, infrastructure development for EV charging, and policies to encourage research and development for the betterment of the EV space.
To better support startups in particular, and drive growth in the electric vehicle industry, we believe that the following policy changes and implementations would be highly beneficial:
Regulatory Support and Streamlined Approvals: Simplifying and expediting regulatory approvals for electric vehicles, along with implementing clear and consistent policies around safety and certification standards, would help startups enter the market more efficiently.
Promoting Incentives toward a Large Consumer Base: Government-backed awareness campaigns and direct consumer incentives, such as FAME-II subsidies or tax rebates for electric vehicle purchases instead of PLIs, would drive demand and encourage consumers to transition to electric mobility.
Access to Financing and Grants: Providing easier access to financial support through low-interest loans, grants, and venture capital funding for electric vehicle startups would enable companies to scale faster, invest in technology, and expand production capacities.
Reduced Taxes and Import Duties on EV Components: Lowering taxes and import duties on key electric vehicle components would make it more affordable for startups to produce electric vehicles domestically, which in turn would lower the overall cost of electric mobility.
These strategic policy changes would not only create a conducive environment for electric vehicle startups but also drive industry-wide growth, accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility, and help India meet its environmental goals.”
Srinivas Shekar, Co-Founder and CEO of Pantherun Technologies highlighted a few key areas that the government should focus on to support startups and boost growth in cybersecurity:
Investing in AI-driven cybersecurity solutions can help tackle the growing threat of sophisticated cyberattacks.
Encouraging collaboration between public and private sectors and promoting innovation in homegrown technologies will also make a big difference.
Providing tax breaks for companies developing advanced cybersecurity tools and creating skill development programs to train cybersecurity professionals can strengthen the industry.
Expanding CERT-In’s resources and improving strategies to handle international cyber threats are equally important.
These steps will create an environment where startups can innovate, grow, and contribute to building a safer digital future.
Simplifying Fintech Regulations for Healthcare Financing
Sahil Lakshmanan, Chief Business Officer of CarePal Money stated that to better support startups, the government could:
Simplify regulatory processes for fintech startups, particularly around healthcare financing and patient data security.
Incentivize partnerships between startups and public hospitals to ensure widespread access to innovative financial solutions.
Logistics Industry Innovation and Growth
Anshul Jain, Co-founder and CTO of Roadcast, highlighted the impact of government policies like the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme in supporting startups. To further drive growth in the logistics sector, he suggested several measures that the government could consider:
Tax Benefits for R&D: Offering tax credits or subsidies for startups investing in AI, IoT, and other innovative technologies would encourage more technological advancements in the logistics space.
Improved Connectivity: Enhancing road, rail, and port connectivity would streamline supply chains, benefiting both logistics companies and customers.
Green Logistics Policies: Financial incentives for adopting fuel-efficient and sustainable practices could help companies reduce their environmental footprint.
Startup Tax Holidays: Extending tax holidays for early-stage startups would ease cash flow pressures and help businesses scale faster.
Skill Development Programs: Launching initiatives to train workers in AI, IoT, and supply chain management would ensure a skilled workforce to support growth in the sector.
Easier Access to Credit: Streamlining access to low-interest loans would provide logistics startups with the financial backing needed to expand and innovate.
IT Sector Transformation and AI Product Development
Neerja Kumar, Co-Founder and COO of Enalytix shared, “India’s IT sector has traditionally thrived on services, but in line with the Honourable Prime Minister’s Make in India vision, it is time to shift focus towards product development, particularly in emerging technologies like AI. To support this transformation, the government should introduce measures that foster innovation and global competitiveness in Indian IT products. Key initiatives could include creating a catalogue of Made-in-India products, particularly in AI, to enhance their visibility in international markets. Additionally, offering export incentives will encourage companies to scale their product offerings globally.”
AI Adoption and Growth in Key Industries
Animesh Samuel, Co-Founder and CEO of E42.ai emphasised that policies promoting AI adoption in sectors like BFSI, healthcare, and manufacturing can drive growth. Providing tax incentives for AI-led automation, establishing funding programs for R&D, and fostering public-private partnerships would encourage innovation. Support for enterprise automation platforms like E42 through government-backed AI centers could enhance accessibility for SMEs, enabling them to leverage advanced technologies without breaking the bank. Streamlining data compliance regulations for cloud-based and on-premises deployments can further ease AI implementation.
Growth in Music-Tech Industry
Gaurav Dagaonkar, Co-founder and CEO of Hooprstated, “For music-tech startups like ours, initiatives that further simplify and strengthen intellectual property regulations, provide access to affordable capital, and incentivize innovation in areas like AI and music technology will be crucial. We need a policy framework that not only supports the growth of India’s INR 10,000 crore creator economy but also fosters responsible innovation and empowers creators to thrive.”
ESOPs and Startup Growth
Manish Panwar, Business Head at Xumane, suggested, “To better support startups and drive growth in the ESOP (Employee Stock Option Plan) and cap table management space in India, several changes or implementations in government policies could be considered:
Taxation Reforms for ESOPs
Incentivizing Investment in Startups
Supporting Employee Education and Awareness
By implementing some of these changes, the government could create a more vibrant ecosystem where startups are incentivized to grow and reward their teams through ESOPs while also ensuring that both entrepreneurs and employees are well supported in managing their equity and wealth.”
EdTech Industry and AI Integration
Arpit Mittal, Founder and CEO of SpeakX, highlighted that the government has a unique opportunity to make technology a bridge, not a barrier. Policies that promote AI in education, like tax incentives for EdTech startups, could fuel innovation and bring personalized learning tools to underserved areas. Strengthening digital infrastructure—like affordable internet and devices for rural regions—is crucial. But it is not just about access; teachers also need support. Investment in training programs will ensure educators can use AI tools effectively in classrooms. Lastly, prioritizing data privacy regulations will build trust, so students and families feel secure using these platforms.
Reshbha Munjal, Co-Founder of KorinMi, said, “While many policies today aim to promote startups in India, the real impact lies in how easily they can be implemented. Whether it’s getting tax rebates or loan approvals, simplifying these processes would make them far more accessible and empower entrepreneurs to focus on innovating. When policy meets opportunity, startups can become the catalysts of the change we need.”
Retail Industry Growth and Innovation
Varun Tangri, Founder and CEO of QueueBuster, suggested that to support entrepreneurs and fuel growth, the government should prioritise infrastructure investments, particularly road networks, to improve connectivity and establish new retail hubs. Fast-tracking the National Retail Policy is critical for streamlining operations and providing a common foundation for business. Simplifying GST compliance, making finance more affordable, and encouraging tech usage would all help alleviate operational issues. Encouraging green retail activities through tax breaks or incentives would enhance sustainability. These steps will promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and a thriving startup environment, allowing enterprises to scale and contribute effectively to India’s economic growth.
AI and Language Technology Industry Growth
Tapan Barman, Co-founder and CEO of Mihup, emphasised the importance of dedicated support for AI and language technology startups, particularly those focused on multilingual AI and voice interfaces. He suggested several measures that the government could take to boost this sector:
Dedicated Support for AI and Language Technology: Establish grants and incentives specifically for startups working on multilingual AI and voice interfaces, recognizing the importance of these technologies for India’s diverse population.
Accessible Data Frameworks: Create secure, government-backed frameworks for startups to access anonymized datasets that represent India’s linguistic and phonetic diversity, which are critical for training voice AI systems.
Collaboration Initiatives: Facilitate partnerships between startups and public institutions, enabling real-world deployment of conversational intelligence platforms in sectors like healthcare, education, and public services.
Startup Tax Reforms: Provide tax relief for R&D-heavy startups and offer incentives for companies that are building indigenous AI solutions for global and local challenges.
These measures, as highlighted by Barman, are key to supporting the growth of AI technologies in India.
Plastic Recycling Industry and Policy Reform
Rahul Nainani, CEO and Co-Founder of ReCircle, discussed the need for a balanced policy approach for plastic recycling that considers social justice, environmental preservation, and economic growth. He suggested that the government could support long-term growth in the industry through tax reforms and lower GST rates on recycled plastic products. Nainani said:
“Higher taxes on the plastic industry could drive inflation, while technological innovation can help deliver better services and benefits to connected communities and the economy. For sustained industry growth, infrastructure support and digitization in plastics manufacturing are critical, as well as ensuring businesses comply with the government’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mandates under the Plastic Waste Management Rules of 2016.”
He also highlighted that ClimaOne’s strategy of ethically recycled plastics aligns with these EPR regulations, which require producers to integrate 30% recycled content into their products by 2025, with the percentage increasing annually.
Lubricant Industry Innovation and Growth
Navkaran Singh Sethi, MD and Co-Founder of EnerG Lubricants, suggested that government policies could focus on several measures to support startups in the lubricant industry, including:
To support startups in the lubricant industry, government policies could focus on:
R&D Tax Incentives: Offering tax breaks for innovation in high-performance additives and sustainability.
Access to Financing: Providing government-backed funding or low-interest loans to help startups scale.
Streamlined Regulations: Simplifying certification processes for meeting international standards and global market entry.
Workforce Development: Supporting educational and technical training programs to build a skilled workforce.
These measures would drive innovation, accelerate growth, and help Indian startups become global leaders in the lubricant industry.
Data Privacy and Ethics in Residential Tech
San Banerjee, Co-Founder and CEO of ADDA, expressed concerns about unethical practices in the residential community tech industry, particularly regarding the misuse of data for advertising and other monetisation purposes. He emphasised the following points:
Data Privacy and Cybersecurity: Stricter guidelines around data privacy and ethics should be implemented to protect the interests of apartment owners and residents who use these platforms. ADDA’s model remains ad-free, and spam-free, and ensures zero risk for users.
Supporting Ethical Solutions: Policies that promote ethical practices would encourage serious solution providers to enter the market, fostering a safer and more reliable environment for users.
Apparel Sourcing Industry Growth
Abhishek Dua, CEO and Co-Founder of Showroom B2B, shared that to support startups and drive growth in the apparel sourcing industry, the government should focus on streamlining compliance regulations, making it easier for small manufacturers to join organised supply chains. Expanding affordable financing, such as low-interest loans, would help startups scale and manufacturers upgrade technology. Investments in logistics and infrastructure, like transportation and warehousing, would enhance supply chain efficiency. Grants for sustainable practices would encourage eco-friendly operations, aligning with global standards.
Additionally, export incentives for startups working with compliant manufacturers could boost international competitiveness, while skill development programs focused on technology, compliance, and quality standards would uplift manufacturers, fostering a more efficient and scalable ecosystem.
Workforce Development and Job Creation
Nilesh Dungarwal, Co-founder and CEO of WorkIndia highlighted that policies like SEZ expansions can create jobs and incentivize the development of new capabilities. He believes that the government’s focus on upskilling and job creation is crucial. According to Nilesh:
“Young people in India have a lot of potential, but to match talent with industry demands, focused skill development programs are required. By prioritizing entrepreneurship, workforce readiness, and a robust startup ecosystem, the government can unlock innovation, accelerate growth, and create sustainable opportunities across sectors, driving long-term economic transformation.”
Nitin Konde
