Trump’s new immigration restrictions are putting pressure on overseas businesses and students. Stricter rules are being implemented regarding the issuance of study visas to international students.
Additionally, measures are being taken to tax the income of international students who work in the United States following their education. Additionally, lawmakers have suggested taxing the profits of US businesses that contract with foreign countries.
The Trump administration is currently putting policies into place to safeguard American jobs and keep foreigners from filling them. Commenting on the move, Kamal Karanth, Co-founder of Xpheno stated, “The proposed hike in H1B visa fees is not a surprise, and IT services companies have been preparing for such developments. Over the last six months, many of them have either nominated or hired new GCC heads to capitalize on the GCC route for business. While higher visa costs could slow down onsite hiring, it will only accelerate the offshoring momentum. We expect MNCs to increase their reliance on GCCs and IT services firms in India, which remain a cost-effective option even after factoring in a 25% cess. In the near term, IT services companies may become more aggressive in offering GCC-specific services, and the increased supply of talent could also lead to softer pricing for GCC staffing.”
Lawmakers in the US have suggested taxing the money earned by overseas students participating in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme. Under the OPT programme, foreign students employed by US companies are now free from paying Social Security and Medicare taxes.
US Lawmakers Introduced Dignity Tax
The Dignity Act, which has been introduced, would require OPT students to pay FICA (Social Security and Medicare) taxes on their earnings. OPT students who are employed in the United States will be required to pay FICA taxes if the proposed Dignity Act is passed.
The current employer and employee Social Security tax rates are 6.2% and 6.2%, respectively, for a total tax rate of 12.4%. The current employer and employee Medicare rates are 1.45% and 1.45%, respectively, for a total of 2.9%. FICA taxes are currently waived for international students employed in the United States under the OPT programme.
Foreign students will be required to pay these taxes if the Act is passed. The only tax with a wage base restriction is Social Security. The highest salary that is taxable for that year is known as the wage base limit. This base limit for 2025 earnings is $176,100. The Medicare tax has no wage base restriction. Medicare tax applies to all covered wages.
US Administration Also Proposes HIRE Act
US businesses that hire foreign workers or contract out work to foreigners will be required to pay taxes to the US government. Senator Bernie Moreno introduced the Halting International Relocation of Employment Act, or HIRE Act, with the goal of preventing outsourcing by deterring American companies from hiring workers from other countries in search of lower wages.
A 25% tax on outsourcing payments made by American taxpayers or businesses to foreigners whose labour benefits American consumers is proposed under the HIRE Act. Those payments made after December 31, 2025, will be subject to the recently proposed levy.
Any American who makes an outsourcing payment is subject to a tax under the HIRE Act, which is equal to 25% of the payment’s total amount. Any business that hires foreign workers rather than Americans will be subject to a tax under the law, and the money raised will be used to support middle-class workforce development initiatives.
Quick
Shots
•OPT students would lose exemption
from FICA taxes (Social Security & Medicare).
•Would impose 12.4% Social Security
and 2.9% Medicare taxes on OPT earnings.
•Social Security taxable wage base capped
at $176,100 (2025); Medicare applies to all wages.
•Introduced to curb outsourcing by US
firms hiring foreign workers.
According to Financial Times story, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is considering plans to do away with immigration costs for outstanding international talent. The Trump administration’s announcement of a $100,000 cost for new H-1B visas, which went into effect on21 September, was preceded by the talks that were already taking place inside Number 10 and the Treasury.
According to those briefed on the discussions, Starmer’s “global talent taskforce” is formulating plans to attract the top academics, scientists, and digital specialists to Britain in order to spur economic growth.
A zero-fee system for applicants who have attended one of the top five colleges in the world or received prestigious awards is one alternative being considered, according to FT.
Peeyush Agarwal, Co-founder & CEO of Invest4Edu stated, “Talent acquisition has become a global war, and immigration policies are becoming decisive factors. The US announced just six weeks ago that it would be raising the prices of coveted H-1B visas to nearly $100,000. Such a move may prove detrimental for startups, tech companies, and skilled professionals alike. For decades, the H-1B programme has been the very gateway for talent from across the globe, mainly from India, to enter the US job market. This exorbitant pricing, however, can only mean that the dream of working abroad may be closing further. Seizing the opportunity, the UK is now in the process of slashing visa fees as an inducement for talent acquisition from around the world.”
Kajal Dave, Co-Founder, LaunchEd Global echoed similar sentiments as she stated, “The recent contrast in visa policies between the U.K. and the U.S. is already influencing how global talent makes decisions. The U.K.’s move to cut visa fees for top global talent shows it is serious about attracting skilled professionals and international students. Lowering costs not only makes the U.K. more accessible but also creates a clear message: the country is open and welcoming to talent. On the other hand, the U.S. decision to raise H-1B visa costs to as high as $100,000 is creating concern in India. For years, the U.S. has been the top choice for Indian graduates, especially in technology and management. But with higher costs and ongoing immigration uncertainty, both employers and students may hesitate. Companies could rethink sponsoring talent, and students may wonder if the high cost of a U.S. degree is still worth it when work opportunities are less certain.”
Current Cost of Britain’s Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent visa presently costs £766 ($1,030) in Britain, and partners and dependents must pay the same amount. Since President Donald Trump signed the proclamation instituting the $100,000 levy, which is frequently used by American software companies to hire Indian employees, the gap with the US has widened.
According to a source close to the UK negotiations who spoke to FT, the US ruling has “put wind in the sails” for those advocating for Britain to reduce the expense of its expensive immigration system before the November 26 Budget. To recruit scientists and IT workers, the UK established a Global Talent Taskforce in June 2024, supported by a £54 million Global Talent Fund.
The taskforce will assist researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, senior engineers, and creatives, according to the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology. The funding will be distributed to top universities and research institutions through UK Research and Innovation during a five-year period beginning in 2025. In accordance with Britain’s new Industrial Strategy, these organisations will locate and target certain individuals.
Good News for Skilled Indians Planning for Britain
India is anticipated to play a significant role. The Global Talent visa is an essential tool for luring scientists and innovators, according to Lord Patrick Vallance, Minister for Science, Research, and Innovation. He stated that India and the UK already have a solid connection and that he believes it is only becoming stronger while speaking at the India Global Forum’s Future Frontiers Forum in London on June 20.
But in reality, everything isn’t driven by government-to-government ties on science. Both the scientist and the person must be scientists. There are significant scholarly connections. “I’d like to see more of that as India becomes an increasingly powerful player in the science and tech space,” he said. India has been moving up the research ladder in the world.
According to the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, the nation placed in the top five for 45 of 64 essential technologies in 2023. In fields like distributed ledger technology and biological manufacturing, it surpassed the US.
Quick
Shots
•Possible exemption for applicants
from top 5 global universities or with prestigious awards.
•Trump administration imposes $100,000
fee on new H-1B visas from September 21, mainly affecting Indian tech
workers.
•UK launched taskforce in June 2024
with £54m Global Talent Fund to attract scientists, engineers, and
innovators.
•Funds to be distributed via UK
Research & Innovation to target top researchers and specialists.
Ahmedabad: EVamp Technologies, the company behind Mobilane, the fast-growing electric vehicle charging network, has raised Rs. 7 crore in its first round of funding. The company plans to use the capital to scale up its pan-India EV charging infrastructure and to invest in the in-house manufacturing of AC chargers and Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) DC chargers.
As a prominent Charge Point Operator (CPO), EVamp has established itself as a key player in delivering reliable and smart charging solutions across urban centres, highways, and commercial spaces under the Mobilane brand. With this funding, EVamp aims to expand its market reach, expand its portfolio, and contribute to India’s shift toward clean mobility.
Commenting on the development, Devansh Shah, Founder of EVamp Technologies Pvt. Ltd., said, “This funding marks a major milestone in our journey. Since inception, our focus has been on building a high-performance, future-ready EV charging network. We have developed deep capabilities in charger technology and operations, and with this investment, we are well-positioned to rapidly scale manufacturing for AC and LEV DC chargers and lay the foundation for a sustainable EV infrastructure across the country.”
Gunjan Mehta, Co-founder of EVamp Technologies, said, “EVamp is built on strong fundamentals of technological innovation, operational efficiency, and financial sustainability. We are proud to be the only Charge Point Operator (CPO) in India to achieve PAT (Profit After Tax) positivity even before raising external capital. This speaks to the strength of our robust business model and disciplined approach. As we expand and start manufacturing at scale, we remain committed to creating a sustainable ecosystem that delivers long-term value to our users, partners, and investors, while supporting India’s clean mobility mission.”
EVamp’s Mobilane network has already made significant inroads in key urban and highway locations, offering user-friendly, app-integrated charging solutions. The new funding will allow EVamp to accelerate deployment, enhance user experience, and ramp up domestic manufacturing in the EV space.
About EVamp Technologies: EVamp Technologies is a new-age EV infrastructure company that owns and operates the Mobilane network, a pan-India EV charging platform offering reliable, scalable and smart charging solutions. The company designs and manufactures AC and LEV DC chargers and provides integrated hardware and software solutions for EV charging across urban, residential, and highway infrastructure.
South Africa’s job industry is in trouble as several companies announce job reductions. Ford Motor South Africa, Glencore, ArcelorMittal South Africa, and Goodyear South Africa have already announced the layoffs. And now joins Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA). The company is planning to cut over 600 jobs and is in talks with worker unions on the same. However, nothing is final yet, as the union is fighting back and negotiations are underway. So, why is the company laying off now? Is CCBSA cutting some costs, or is it just a restructuring? How will this impact South Africa’s severe unemployment problem? Learn more.
Why Is Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) Laying Off?
According to CCBSA, it is planning to lay off 600 workers due to “evolving industry dynamics,” meaning it is restructuring itself to fit the new economic conditions.
CCBSA Quoted by Business Day, CCBSA said, “In response to evolving industry dynamics, Coca-Cola Beverages SA intends to make adjustments to its organisation that, if implemented, may result in some roles being impacted and may, unfortunately, result in job losses.”
Industry experts are concerned and point fingers at:
Higher costs (costs of raw materials, transport, etc.).
Weak consumer spending (people in South Africa are buying less because of economic struggles).
Frequent power shortages (the load shedding is making production difficult and expensive in South Africa).
Food and Allied Workers Union Fighting Back
If the layoffs happen, the economic condition in South Africa could worsen. Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) sent a notice on September 2, 2025, to the Food and Allied Workers Union (Fawu).
The notice said it will lay off about 600 of its employees.
Fawu is strongly against the move and is fighting back as it represents many hardworking Coca-Cola workers.
The Union’s Stance
Fawu firmly believes that the layoffs can push South Africa’s already severe unemployment into more trouble.
Apparently, 1 in every 3 people in South Africa struggles to find a job. According to Reuters, the country’s unemployment rose to 32.9%.
This is not the first time the union in the past has also criticized Coca-Cola for its cost-cutting activities and neglecting workers’ livelihood.
Bigger Picture
Notably, CCBSA is part of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA). It is the eighth-largest Coca-Cola bottler in terms of revenue globally.
The company operates in several African countries, and especially in South Africa, CCBSA employs thousands of South Africans.
What Happens Next?
According to the South African companies, they can’t randomly lay off employees. There is a process in place; companies must consult with the unions first.
While discussing the issue with the unions, the companies have to be open to:
Redeploying workers,
Voluntary severance packages,
And other cost-saving measures.
Having said all that, the law can’t guarantee that companies won’t lay off. It is hard to avoid layoffs, but what it can guarantee is having a voice.
Right now, in Coca-Cola’s case, the negotiations between CCBSA and Fawu are underway, and 600 people’s jobs are at risk.
In the radiant glow of Navratri, a time when we celebrate the divine feminine energy, we find inspiration in the stories of strength, resilience, and wisdom that the nine goddesses embody. As we celebrate Navratri, let us also celebrate the empowered women entrepreneurs who, like Shailaputri, the embodiment of purity and auspiciousness, have fearlessly embarked on their business journeys.
Shailaputri, one of the nine forms of Maa Durga, is worshipped on the first day of Navratri and sets the stage for our journey into the captivating stories of women entrepreneurs. She embodies the spirit of new beginnings, representing the idea of setting out with pure intentions and the promise of successful ventures.
At StartupTalky, we asked women entrepreneurs to reflect on Shailaputri’s qualities and share what motivated them to start their businesses, as well as the early challenges they faced in their industries. Their stories reflect determination, courage, and clarity of vision, values that resonate deeply with the spirit of the goddess.
Ms. Samiha Jha, Founder & Director of Sammyukk
Like Shailaputri, the symbol of purity and dedication, I established Sammyukk with a mission inspired by sincerity and intent. Taking this journey wasn’t easy; working in a competitive field as a female entrepreneur took its dose of disbelief and detours. But like the steady rise of Shailaputri, I remained focused on my values and kept walking. Those initial setbacks only made me more determined to create a brand that honours inner strength, mindful decisions, and the bravery to lead graciously.
Key Takeaway: Staying true to your values turns early struggles into stepping stones.
Dishi Somani, Founder of DishiS Designer Jewellery
My inspiration to start DishiS Designer Jewellery stemmed from my immense love for timeless designs and a dream of offering fine, yet affordable, jewellery to today’s woman. Similar to Shailaputri’s purity and strength, I hoped for my brand to represent the same trust and authenticity. The toughest part about starting was entering a competitive market dominated by legacy brands. Earning respect and the trust of the consumer took tremendous strength, but it taught me how to tackle challenges and the significance of sticking to my vision over time.
Key Takeaway: Trust and persistence help new brands stand tall against established players.
Vijeta Soni, Co-Founder & CEO, Sciative Solutions
Sciative was conceived through a clear vision to turn pricing into a scientific, AI-based process. For decades, travel, retail and hospitality pricing was done either through gut-feel or strict rules, resulting in lost revenue. We thought about making a real difference by developing AI-based products which dynamically respond to market fluctuations and optimise profitability.
The first hurdle was acceptance. Companies were not willing to rely on technology with something as significant as pricing. To convince traditional companies to embrace AI, one needed to be patient and deliver results. We realised that when value becomes apparent, adoption would be quick, and today that vision has become a reality in the industries we serve.
Key Takeaway: Patience and proof of value are key to driving technology adoption.
Drishti Madnani, Co-Founder & Beauty Expert at Shryoan Cosmetics
The idea to start Shryoan came from the vision to do something innovative in the beauty industry while providing affordable, high-quality cosmetic products to every woman. Just as Shailaputri represents purity, it was our mission to create a brand based on trust and transparency. Initially, my biggest challenge was finding space in a market controlled by the global giants. Becoming credible and gaining customer trust took tremendous efforts, but it also made us strong enough to demonstrate that an Indian brand can provide international-standard products.
Key Takeaway: Trust and credibility can turn a challenger brand into a trusted choice.
Tejasvi Madan, Founder & CEO, Beyond Bound
When I left behind a comfortable corporate career to build Beyond Bound, it felt like stepping into the unknown. There were endless hurdles from convincing manufacturers to trust my vision to ensuring every design celebrated real women’s bodies. Yet much like Shailaputri’s steady and grounded strength, I learnt that humble beginnings carry their own power. With clarity of purpose, even the smallest steps start shaping a dream into reality.
Key Takeaway: Humble beginnings, backed by purpose, create powerful transformations.
Just like Shailaputri symbolises purity, my journey began with an intention to bring purity back to rituals. I had allergies from charcoal incense, but after marriage, I saw how meaningful rituals were in my family’s life. That motivated me to try out low-smoke incense from temple flowers and essential oils. When my family loved it, I realised the concept had viability.
The greatest challenge was awareness—making people believe that something so traditional could be reworked for the environment. Informing consumers and establishing credibility around eco-friendly pooja products was the most challenging but most critical step in our initial years.
Key Takeaway: Awareness and education are vital when reshaping traditional practices.
Gopika B Raj, Co-Founder & CCO of MyDesignation
MyDesignation falls under a niche business domain. We are an expressive fashion brand. What inspired me to start this brand was the urge to create a space where fashion goes beyond trends and becomes an expression of identity.
The biggest challenge in the beginning was awareness; people often found the idea of “expressive fashion” unfamiliar, even alien, and many were hesitant to embrace their own cultural fashion, leaning more towards western styles. Alongside this mindset, there was also a clear gap in the market—fashion that was both high in quality and still affordable was almost impossible to find. That’s where our focus has been at MyDesignation.
Gunjan Adya, Expressive Art Therapist & Founder of Tula Journey
Drawing inspiration from Goddess Shailaputri, Tula’s Journey comes from a purity and honesty of purpose. As the founder of the brand, I felt the need to help people manage their stress and help them learn to live life mindfully.
There are always challenges when one starts something new. The biggest challenge was to introduce the concept of journaling to people who were 40 years and older, as they were used to sharing their thoughts and emotions with their friends or family and not writing them down in a journal. However, through my workshops, I started to spread awareness about the benefits of journaling. I feel happy saying that things are changing now.
Shreya Ghodawat, India Ambassador, SHE Changes Climate | CEO, Sustainable Guides
Like Shailaputri, my intentions were pure. What inspired me to start my business was the need for a space that empowers mindful consumers, rooted in my love for nature, our environment, and our planet. I wanted to create a platform where people could begin and continue their sustainability journey guiltlessly.
The initial challenges included building a user base and securing funding, which required perseverance, a clear vision, and a passion for sustainability. Bridging the gap between consumer awareness and consumer willingness was a big one too.
Naina Ruhail, Founder and Co-CEO, Vanity Wagon
I started my brand with a pure vision for enhancing beauty the natural and safe way. The initial challenges were quite daunting with a multitude of facets to it, but the dedication to authenticity and immense belief in our goal has guided me through those challenges.
In a world of toxic, chemical-laden beauty products, finding a clean beauty product becomes a challenging task. That’s when I decided to resolve this problem by making the skimming process easier for people. I’ve stayed true to our mission and maintained integrity in business practices to form the foundation for lasting success. There is still a long way to go, but each challenge only strengthens my commitment to our vision.
Closing Note
These stories echo the essence of Shailaputri—new beginnings, resilience, and the courage to walk a path with purity of intention. As we celebrate Day 1 of Navratri, may these journeys remind us that strength often lies in starting and that every challenge is an opportunity to build something lasting and meaningful.
According to President Donald Trump, Rupert Murdoch and his son Lachlan are anticipated to be among a group of investors attempting to purchase TikTok in the United States. Trump stated that the men would “probably” be part of a planned agreement to keep TikTok operational in the US during an interview with Fox News that aired on 21 September.
He added that Michael Dell, the founder of Dell, and Larry Ellison, the chairman of Oracle, would probably be engaged. Trump called the guys “American patriots” and stated, “I think they’re going to do a really good job.” The US and China are moving closer to an agreement that would sell the social media platform’s American operations to US investors, the president said during a phone conversation with his Chinese counterpart earlier this week.
Why TiTok Needs to Sell its Business to US Investors?
A law approved by Congress in April 2024 would have prohibited the app unless its Chinese parent firm, ByteDance, sold its US unit, necessitating the sale. Concerns that Beijing would obtain the personal information of TikTok’s 170 million American users led to the proposal of this law. Until a deal is reached, its enforcement is on hold. Trump stated on Fox’s The Sunday Briefing that “they’re very well-known people” who would generate a “tremendous amount” of money in response to a question about who was involved in the potential TikTok agreement.
Among these is Larry Ellison. He’s part of it. Michael Dell, a wonderful man, is involved. Unfortunately, there is a man named Lachlan involved. “Are you familiar with Lachlan?” he said. “And Rupert is probably going to be in the group.” The family’s media giant, which includes Fox Corp and News Corp, was recently taken control by Lachlan Murdoch, ending a protracted struggle with his siblings over succession. News Corp. chairman emeritus Rupert Murdoch is 94 years old.
Following Trump’s remarks on Sunday, US media outlets indicated that the Murdochs would not be investing in their personal capacity, but rather through Fox Corp. They are well-known for their conservative viewpoints and right-leaning media outlets, such include Fox News and the Wall Street Journal. However, Trump, who is now suing the Wall Street Journal for defamation after a report said he signed Jeffrey Epstein’s birthday book, has also occasionally taken offence at them.
US Eager to Crack TikTok Deal
In response to political pressure to remove the social networking app’s US operations from its Chinese owners, ByteDance, the White House has increased hopes that a deal is almost final.
According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, a deal might be inked “in the coming days” on Saturday. Speaking to Fox as well, Leavitt stated that Oracle will oversee data and privacy for the app in the US and that “America will also control the algorithm.”
The possibility of the Murdochs and Ellisons, two of the most influential families in US media, obtaining substantial control over one of the most widely used social media apps in the country is increased by the planned TikTok merger. China has not officially stated if an agreement has been reached or not.
Quick
Shots
•Congress passed a law in April 2024
requiring TikTok’s Chinese parent ByteDance to sell its US business or face a
nationwide ban.
•Involvement likely through Fox Corp,
not personal investment; Lachlan Murdoch recently took control of the family
media empire.
•Oracle expected to oversee TikTok’s
US data security and algorithm control.
•Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said
a TikTok deal could be finalized “in the coming days.”
Bengaluru / New Delhi / Mumbai, India, 22 September 2025: SpaceFields, an emerging deeptech startup developing next generation Rocket Propulsion systems for Defence & Space, has raised $5 (₹42cr) million in strategic investment led by Globaz Technologies Pvt. Ltd, co-led by Rockstud Capital and Venture Catalysts + + Group, with participation from Nithin Kamath’s Rainmatter, VC Grid, Burla Angel Network, Faad Capital, SIDBI, O2 Angels, MeitY Startup Hub and others. The company had previously raised about $1.3 million in Seed funding from Jamwant Ventures, HVB 88 Angels and others in 2024.
Founded in 2021 by VSSUT Burla (Odisha) alumni- Apurwa Masook, Rounak Agrawal, and Sudarshan Samal, SpaceFields, incubated at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, is pioneering innovations in rocket propulsion and solid propellants, positioning itself at the cutting edge of India’s growing space and defence ecosystem. SpaceFields has won four contracts under the iDEX initiative of the Ministry of Defence, and has also filed ten patents (with five granted) on various novel technologies developed in-house.
The partnership between Globaz & SpaceFields underscores a shared commitment to develop critical, sovereign, dual‑use technologies that enhance national security while expanding India’s role in the global defence & aerospace value chain. “SpaceFields sits at the intersection of deeptech innovation and national need,” said Mr. Karan Wilkhoo, Director & Promoter, Globaz Technologies. “This investment reflects our strong confidence in SpaceFields’ ability to translate advanced propulsion R&D into high-impact field-ready solutions for India and global markets. With Globaz’s expertise in system integration and scale-up manufacturing, together, we are poised to become a cornerstone in India’s journey towards technological sovereignty, enabling a future of strategic self-reliance.”
The fresh capital will be deployed towards scaling up manufacturing, securing key regulatory certifications, and expanding the team across engineering, operations, and business functions. The development comes at a pivotal time for India’s Defence and SpaceTech ecosystem, with a growing wave of new-age startups driving innovation and indigenization. Government of India’s proactive policies, including the liberalization of defense procurement has further provided a boost to such startups. SpaceFields’ journey aligns perfectly with Prime Minister Modi’s clarion call to the youth in his recent Independence Day speech, to build homegrown deeptech capabilities and strengthen India’s technological sovereignty.
Abhishek Agarwal, Managing Partner of Rockstud Capital, said, “Thrilled to partner with SpaceFields, which is uniquely positioned in a differentiated whitespace, bringing in-house developed, IP-led innovations to a sector that has seen limited private innovation so far. Their breakthrough work aligns closely with Rockstud Capital’s Yuva Bharat thesis, which backs innovations driving Atmanirbhar Bharat in national security and deep-tech. We are proud to support their journey of advancing cutting-edge propulsion technologies and strengthening India’s strategic autonomy.”
Dr. Apoorva Ranjan Sharma, Co-Founder and MD of Venture Catalysts++ Group, said, “India’s rise as a global aerospace and defence hub will be written by young companies that dare to solve hard-tech challenges at home and scale them for the world. SpaceFields embodies that spirit. In just four years, the team has transformed rigorous research into patent-backed solid-propulsion platforms that can strengthen our armed forces, serve NewSpace economy, and catalyse an entire supply chain of precision engineering. At Venture Catalysts, we back founders who combine deep scientific insight with relentless execution, and SpaceFields does exactly that. Our investment stands as a testament to our conviction in their technology roadmap as well as their mission to make Atmanirbhar Bharat a reality, while opening lucrative export corridors for Indian defence innovation.”
Dinesh Pai, Head of investments at Rainmatter by Zerodha, said, “Most of us at Rainmatter have tracked SpaceFields team for more than couple of years now. From the initial years of building prototypes to leading precision engineering solutions in solid propellants, they have constantly demonstrated sharp execution, delivering on ambitious milestones while staying deeply rooted in their mission. Their relentless focus on building local capabilities in aerospace, solving hard-tech problems with long-term impact, aligns strongly with our patient capital approach.”
“We have been fortunate to have earned the trust of unique mix of Investors, who resonate with our long-term vision of advancing sovereign capabilities in critical propulsion technologies,” said Apurwa Masook, Founder & CEO, SpaceFields. “Solid propulsion being a core enabler of defense and space missions, as also evident in our diverse cohort of customers such as the Armed Forces, DPSUs, DRDO, Tactical drone companies, and several Aerospace OEMs who are in need of bespoke custom-developed solid-fuel powered systems. This investment will accelerate productionization and expand manufacturing capacity to meet India’s strategic requirements while addressing global demand. We are also delighted to partner with Globaz Technologies, whose strengths in systems engineering and production-scale supply-chain, complement our propulsion innovation.”
About Venture Catalysts
Venture Catalysts is India’s first multi‑stage venture investing platform, backing founders from idea to growth through a combination of deal‑by‑deal syndication and Category II AIFs. Since 2016, the firm has built a nationwide investing and platform network, with over US$500 million in AUM and 400+ portfolio companies, delivering multiple unicorn outcomes and meaningful liquidity events.
About 60 partners and 1,500 employees were laid off by PwC’s Middle East division as the Big Four accounting firm’s expansion in the region is being severely slowed by a dispute with Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund.
According to various media reports, the business started to reduce the number of positions in February after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund placed a harsh one-year restriction on new consulting contracts for PwC. Reports further stated that this made a larger decline in work for consultancies in the kingdom worse as Riyadh reassesses its massive expenditures over the previous ten years and reprioritises initiatives that had benefited western consulting firms.
PwC Reorganising its Operations in Middle East Region
As per media reports citing internal sources, PwC has already started to reduce positions and evaluate performance in the area. According to a media report, PwC’s leadership started figuring out how to cover a potential “large” income deficit in the company’s most recent fiscal year and the following one after the PIF, a significant client, put the firm on “the naughty step”. There is also a change in leadership in the region.
According to a staff-wide email written on September 19 by PwC UK leader Marco Amitrano, Laura Hinton, managing partner, will take over the Middle East business in October, working alongside Hani Ashkar, the company’s current senior partner. A person knowledgeable on the leadership changes, however, stated that Hinton is anticipated to become the only senior partner after a year.
The action was taken five months after the PIF ban directly led to the resignation of two top leaders. Massive PIF projects, such as Neom, a futuristic $500 billion development along the Red Sea coast, featured PwC as one of its advisors. The restriction, however, was the consequence of “friction and angst” prompted by the accounting firm’s desire to hire Neom’s top internal audit officer and a reluctance to take on audit work that would interfere with more lucrative consulting contracts, according to persons familiar with those events.
Revenue growth at PwC’s Middle East division, which is controlled by the UK firm and has been its success story for the past three years, fell to 0.4% in the year to June 2025 from 26% in the previous 12 months, according to figures released recently.
PwC’s Layoffs Targeted Consulting Roles in Middle East Region
Partners and employees engaged to work on “transformational” projects have been especially affected by the cuts, which have mostly targeted consulting positions in the firm’s Middle East division.
Media reports also mentioned that PwC had about 11,000 employees and 500 partners in the region at the end of its most recent fiscal year, most of whom were in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
The region’s headcount has remained relatively stable despite the reductions, thanks to fresh recruitment in sectors where customer demand is still high. The firm promoted 62 new partners in June and consistently recruits a lot of lower-level employees. PwC still has plans to expand in the Middle East, they added.
Quick
Shots
•Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund
(PIF) imposed a one-year ban on new consulting contracts with PwC.
•PwC’s revenue growth in Middle East
fell to 0.4% in FY25, down from 26% in FY24.
•Laura Hinton to take over PwC Middle
East in October, succeeding Hani Ashkar over time.
•Ban followed PwC’s attempt to hire
Neom’s internal audit officer and reluctance on audit work.
Jio Payments Bank Introduces ‘Savings Pro’; customers can now earn up to 6.5%* returns on their surplus fundsCustomers can earn higher returns on their idle liquidity by auto-investing surplus savings in the ‘Growth’ plans of Overnight Mutual Funds^ directly through the JioFinance app
Mumbai, September 22, 2025: In an industry-first initiative, Jio Payments Bank Limited, a subsidiary of Jio Financial Services Limited, today announced the launch of ‘Savings Pro’, an innovative feature that enables customers to earn more from idle surplus funds in their Jio Payments Bank account, through automated investments in the ‘Growth’ plans of Overnight Mutual Funds.
With just a few clicks, any Jio Payments Bank account holder can upgrade to a Savings Pro account. Customers need to set a threshold amount of their choice, starting at ₹5,000 during the initial launch phase, and any surplus funds in their account, exceeding this threshold, will be automatically invested into select overnight mutual funds, which carry low risk.
Customers can invest up to ₹1,50,000 per day through this facility. Redemptions are processed in accordance with the guidelines set by the Securities Exchange Board of India. Customers have the flexibility to instantly redeem up to 90% of their investments, with a maximum instant redemption limit of ₹50,000. Funds exceeding this amount can be redeemed within 1 to 2 working days.
The entire journey is seamless and fully digital via the JioFinance app.
With no entry or exit loads, hidden charges or lock-in periods, customers can maximise their returns and have full control over their money. Customers can view eligible mutual funds, set or modify thresholds, and track returns on their investment with complete transparency.
Speaking on the launch, Vinod Easwaran, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jio Payments Bank Limited, said, “In an environment of softening interest rates, today’s financially aware customers are actively seeking smarter alternatives to grow their savings. Savings Pro empowers them to do just that by turning a passive bank balance into an earning opportunity. With no paperwork, no cost, and easy access, we are offering a future-ready product that aligns with how Indians want to manage money today — effortlessly, intelligently and digitally.”
Savings Pro marks a significant step in Jio Payments Bank’s commitment to simplify financial decision-making and bring investment-linked savings within the reach of every Indian. Designed to serve both experienced and first-time investors, the product supports long-term financial inclusion by offering a safe, liquid and rewarding way to grow wealth.
About Jio Financial Services Limited:
Jio Financial Services Limited (JFSL) is a Core Investment Company (CIC), registered with the Reserve Bank of India. JFSL is a new-age institution, which operates a full-stack financial services business through customer-facing entities, including Jio Credit Limited, Jio Insurance Broking Limited, Jio Payment Solutions Limited, Jio Leasing Services Limited, Jio Finance Platform and Service Limited, and Jio Payments Bank Limited.
Its digital-first model aims to ensure the holistic financial well-being of Indian citizens by enabling them to borrow, transact, save and invest seamlessly. Through the JioFinance app, customers can access a range of services including loans, savings accounts, UPI bill payments, recharges, digital insurance, financial tracking and management tools and more. JFSL has also entered into a joint venture with BlackRock, the world’s leading providers of investment solutions, to offer asset management, wealth management and broking services in India.
JFSL was originally incorporated as Reliance Strategic Investments Private Limited on July 22, 1999, under the Companies Act 1956. Subsequently, the name of the Company was changed to Reliance Strategic Investments Limited and a fresh certificate of incorporation was issued on January 14, 2002. Thereafter, pursuant to a scheme of demerger with Reliance Industries Limited, the name of the Company was further changed to ‘Jio Financial Services Limited’ and a fresh certificate of incorporation was issued on July 25, 2023. JFSL has been listed on the BSE and NSE since August 21, 2023.
Diwali is a highly anticipated and widely celebrated festival in India. No second thoughts on that. After all, all of us wait for it with our arms wide open. It is a time of joy, togetherness, and festivities. While it is traditionally celebrated with family and friends, it is also a great opportunity for organizations to foster a sense of community and engagement among their employees. We’ll look into Diwali Office games and positive celebration ideas that aren’t just fun and facilitate better bonding between teammates. These Diwali activities for employees not only bring people together but also create a positive and inclusive work environment.
One of the best ways to create a festive atmosphere in the office is through cubical decoration. While nothing can beat the charm of traditional rangolis and Diyas, it is always a great idea to make your teammates engage in proper teamwork to design certain aspects of an office. Modern workplaces push creativity and innovation by using LED lights, lamps, paper lanterns, and wall patterns to decorate workspaces. However, as we said Diwali’s significance lies in the Diyas and Rangolis, and you can leverage this to establish great bonding between team members by dividing them into groups and asking them to decorate certain sections of the office. This not only increases productivity but also initiates conversations and gamifies the process of office decoration. As a founder or manager, you can ask employees to participate in the decoration process to foster a sense of community and collaboration. By involving everyone, you create an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued. It can be one of the best Diwali team building games.
Ethnic Attire: Celebrating Diversity and Culture
Encourage employees to showcase their fashion sense by wearing traditional Indian outfits. You can even turn it into a friendly competition by awarding prizes for the best-dressed individual, the most creative traditional accessory, or the most vibrant outfit. This not only adds to the festive spirit but also encourages employees to embrace their cultural heritage and express themselves. Gamification is crucial in making these interactions and initiatives fun. It can be one of the fun and competitive Diwali games for the office and can be a fantastic way to bring excitement and festive spirit to the workplace.
Games and Fun: Building Team Spirit
Games and activities are an integral part of any celebration. Fun and engaging games can be an excellent method to build team spirit and foster camaraderie among employees. There are numerous Diwali-themed games to choose from, such as Musical Chair, Freeze Dance, Trivia Pursuit, Tongue Twister Challenge, Never Have I Ever, and Pictionary. Thes games can be organized virtually or in person, depending on the office setup. Incorporating games into your celebration will ensure that everyone has a memorable and enjoyable time. Remember that there’s a reason why an Antakshri or a Dumb Charade is still the numero uno pass-time in get-togethers. The reason is simple – it initiates conversations and makes people feel connected and is one of the most Diwali fun activities in office.
Colourful Rangoli Festival: Unleashing Creativity
Diwali Games for Office – Rangoli Competition
Rangoli, a traditional Indian art form, holds significant cultural importance during every auspicious activity. It involves creating intricate patterns and designs on the floor using colored powders, rice, or flower petals. Organizing a Rangoli competition in the office allows employees to showcase their artistic skills and creativity. You can make it more engaging by introducing challenges such as Timeless Rangoli or Don’t Rush Challenge. Such creative games not only add a touch of tradition but also encourage teamwork and collaboration and are the best Diwali activities for office. For this, you will be required to split teams with the right combination of men and women. Women are better at art and decoration in general, so having them in every team is a must as they can surely lead the way in groups of all shapes and sizes.
Tambola and Desi Contests: Spreading Laughter and Joy
Diwali Games in Office – Tambola
No Indian celebration feels complete without the game of Tambola, also known as Bingo or Housie. It is a popular game that brings people together and spreads laughter and joy. Including Tambola in your list of team-building activities is a surefire way to engage employees and create a lively atmosphere. You can also organize Desi contests such as Best Bollywood Dance, Best Ethnic Singing, or Best Traditional Recipe. These games allow employees to showcase their talents and create unforgettable memories. We love Housie, coupled with some Lays, Kurkure, Uncle Chips, or some delicious pakwaan and pakodes. I’m sure they’ll love it too.
Exchanging Gifts and Sweets: Spreading Happiness and Gratitude
Encourage employees to share sweets and gifts with their colleagues as a team activity. This not only spreads happiness and gratitude but also strengthens bonds within the team. Additionally, consider adopting a corporate gifting custom, where the company provides gifts to its employees. This gesture creates a sense of appreciation and fosters a stronger connection between the employees and the organization. Now this isn’t a game, but we can add that extra bit of fun by embedding puzzles and quizzes into sweet boxes or anonymous messages from various team members inculcated into one which can turn it into an interesting and a fun Diwali games idea.
Amazing Awards: Recognising and Appreciating Efforts
The festival of light can be a perfect occasion to recognize and appreciate the hard work and dedication of your employees. Consider giving out awards or bonuses to acknowledge their efforts. Recognizing and rewarding employees not only boosts morale but also motivates them to perform better in the future. It is a simple yet effective way to show gratitude and strengthen the bond between the employees and the organization. This is timeless, as appreciation goes a long way.
Diwali Treasure Hunt: Laughter and Gallore
Plan a fun and exciting treasure hunt in the office! Hide various clues around the workplace that guide teams step by step to a special festival-themed prize. This game for the office will add some thrill and excitement to the celebration and get everyone working together, building team spirit. Plus, it’s an enjoyable opportunity for employees to explore the office in a playful, festive way, making the celebration more enjoyable and memorable.
Quiz: Sharing Knowledge and Fun
Create an interactive quiz around Diwali, having questions about Indian culture and traditions. Offer small prizes to participants who answer correctly. This fun game will not only entertain but also educate your employees about the importance of the festival and the rich cultural heritage it represents.
Guess The TECHNOLOGY: Games to Play in Office | Deepavali Activities in Office
Diya Decoration Contest: Unleashing Art and Creativity
Diwali Games for Office – Decorated Diya Contest | Diwali Corporate Games
Supply your employees with plain clay lamps (diyas) and various decorating items. Everybody participates in a friendly competition to create the most beautiful decorated diya. With lots of prizes to be won, this creative Diwali game can be an excellent opportunity for your employees to lift their festive spirits and showcase their artistic talents.
Diwali Karaoke Night: Sing, Shine, and Celebrate Together
Host a fun virtual Diwali karaoke night where employees can sing their favorite Bollywood songs or festive Diwali tunes. Turn it into a lighthearted competition by letting everyone vote for the best performance. Add more fun with small prizes for winners, like gift cards or e-vouchers. Encourage group songs or duets to bring more laughter. You can also record the highlights and share them as a Diwali memory with the team.
Conclusion: Celebrating with Joy and Togetherness
In conclusion, employee engagement activities and games are an excellent way to celebrate the festival of lights while fostering a sense of community and engagement in the workplace. From cubical decoration to ethnic attire, games, and fun, colorful Rangoli festivals, Tambola and Desi contests, exchanging gifts and sweets, and amazing awards, these activities create a positive and inclusive work environment. By celebrating this festival with joy and togetherness, organizations can enhance employee morale, strengthen team spirit, and promote a sense of belonging. Let this festival be a time of celebration and appreciation for your employees, making it a memorable experience for all.
FAQs
What are fun office Diwali games?
Diwali games for the office that you can organize for your employees can be as below:
Cubicle Decoration
Best Dressed Competition
Various team-building games like Musical Chair, Freeze Dance, Trivia Pursuit, Tongue Twister Challenge, Never Have I Ever, and Pictionary
Tambola or Bingo
Exchange of Gifts and Sweets
Awarding Employees
Treasure Hunt
Diwali Quiz
Decorating Diya Contest
How can the office be decorated on Diwali?
The best office decoration ideas for Diwali include rangoli, Candles, Lanterns, Cubicle decor, fairy lights, flowers, and more.
What is Rangoli?
Rangoli is a cherished Diwali tradition, where vibrant designs are created using colorful powders and flowers. These beautiful patterns are drawn on the floor near the entrance of homes to invite the gods and attract good fortune!
