If you haven’t heard of Cohere before, it is an AI company that targets only business clients and not the general public, unlike ChatGPT or Gemini. Cohere Inc. is currently making headlines for two major reasons you should know. First, Cohere got a massive cash boost of $500 million, and second, they made a super hire with Joelle Pineau, former VP of AI Research and global lead for Fundamental AI Research (FAIR) at Meta. Why are they important, you may wonder? Right now, every company is literally racing to become the next major AI player, and Cohere has precisely what it takes to get there. Plus, Joelle Pineau’s views on responsible, non-hyped, and non-political AI are sure to surprise you. Learn more.
What Happened?
In a major announcement on LinkedIn dated August 14, 2025, Cohere shared that they have secured substantial funding of $500 million. On paper, Cohere’s valuation now rises to $6.8 billion, all thanks to its investors. Cohere reportedly has ambitious plans to strengthen its AI capabilities in 2025. And hiring Joelle Pineau is paving the way toward that goal.
Replying to the post, Joelle Pineau said, “I’m thrilled to be joining Cohere in the role of Chief AI Officer, helping advance cutting-edge research and product development. Cohere has an incredible team, and this is an exciting moment in the company’s journey. I look forward to supporting the research teams in Cohere Labs and contributing more broadly to the goal of building and delivering the best AI solutions, while meeting the highest standards of security, privacy, robustness, and transparency…”
Why Hiring Joelle Pineau Is Big for Cohere?
Joelle Pineau is no ordinary candidate. Here’s an overview of her career:
She has been a respected computer science professor at McGill University since 2004.
She worked as a Research Manager and Director at Meta AI from May 2017 to February 2023.
Her talent advanced her career, and she became VP of AI Research and Global Head of Fundamental AI Research (FAIR) at Meta (from March 2023 to May 2025), which developed the Llama AI models.
What Will Pineau Lead at Cohere?
Cohere is opening a new office in Montreal in collaboration with Mila, a major Canadian AI research hub. Pineau will join Cohere’s Montreal office in September this year. According to her LinkedIn profile, Pineau is the Chief AI Officer and will soon lead Cohere Labs in the research domain.
Cohere also made another notable hire, Francois Chadwick, a former Uber executive, as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
Some Known Reasons Why Left Meta
According to her farewell post in April on LinkedIn, she mentioned she wants to take some time off before jumping into a “new adventure.”
Besides that, there are other known speculations around her departure. According to The Globe and Mail, she was more interested in building practical AI solutions. The article also notes that she didn’t want to get caught up in the hype and politics surrounding AI (citing how AI is aligning politically after Donald Trump took over the Presidency in the U.S.).
Global Names Are Betting on Cohere…
Backed by world-class investors, Cohere is the next big name, indeed. Some important investors include:
Radical Ventures (Canada)
Inovia Capital (Canada)
AMD Ventures
Nvidia
PSP Investments
Salesforce Ventures
The Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan has newly joined its global investors team.
Nick Frosst, the co-founder, appreciated that the team is on the path to profitability by developing useful technology rather than comparing valuations with competitors.
Zudio is one of India’s fastest-growing fashion retailers, offering affordable clothing and accessories. With the backing of the Tata Group and operated by Trent Limited, which manages Westside and Star Bazaar, it has established a strong presence in the market. The growth has been quick, and not by accident. By 2024, Zudio had expanded to 350 stores across India, from big city malls to smaller-town high streets.
Each new outlet seems to drive foot traffic almost immediately, which says a lot about how well the brand connects with people. For someone looking at it from an investment angle, it’s hard to miss the signs: steady demand, a broad customer base, and the security of being backed by the Tata name. In retail, that’s a combination you don’t come across every day.
Zudio operates on a FOCO (Franchise Owned, Company Operated) model, which is designed to make the investor’s role simple and low-stress. As a franchise partner, your main responsibility is to fund the setup, which covers the franchise fee, security deposit, store interiors, and initial stock. Once the doors open, the real work shifts to Zudio.
The company takes full charge of daily operations, from hiring and training staff to managing inventory, handling sales, and keeping the store in top shape. In short, you invest, and Zudio runs the business, allowing you to enjoy the returns without getting caught up in day-to-day management.
Zudio follows a clear set of criteria for selecting franchise partners, making sure the business is in capable hands from the start. The brand is actively seeking well-prepared investors who can meet both the space and location needs, while also committing to its proven operational standards. Here’s an overview of what’s required:
Requirement
Details
Property Type
Commercial
Space Required
6,000 – 8,000 sq. ft
Location
High-traffic areas or popular shopping hubs
Franchise Agreement
Standard 7-year term, renewable
Exclusive Territorial Rights
Yes
Support from Zudio
Expert guidance, operational manuals, and IT systems
Zudio Franchise Investment Breakdown
Zudio Franchise Investment Breakdown
Starting a Zudio outlet comes with clear, well-defined costs that cover everything from branding rights to the store launch. Here’s what to expect:
Franchise Fee: You’ll need to set aside around INR 15 lakhs for the franchise fee. This secures your right to operate under the Zudio brand, allows you to access its proven business model, and includes guidance during the setup and launch phase.
Store Setup & Inventory: Creating a Zudio store that matches the brand’s look and feel typically costs between INR 25–35 lakhs. This includes interiors, fixtures, lighting, display units, and signage. Furthermore, you’ll need to purchase an opening stock of products worth about INR 10–12 lakhs.
Rent & Leasing: Location is everything in retail, and securing a high-footfall spot may require an advance rent or security deposit of INR 10–15 lakhs.
Marketing & Promotions: Zudio recommends spending around INR 2–3 lakhs on local advertising, launch events, and promotional campaigns.
Total Investment: In total, setting up and running a Zudio outlet will require an investment of INR 60–80 lakhs. This covers all major costs to get your store open, stocked, and ready for customers.
Licenses & Documents Needed for a Zudio Franchise
Before you can open your doors as a Zudio franchise owner, there are a few essential licenses and documents you’ll need to have in place. These ensure your store is legally compliant and ready to operate from day one.
Mandatory Licenses
Shops & Establishment License: A must for all retail outlets, issued by the local municipal authority.
Trademark Agreement: Grants you the legal right to use Zudio’s brand name and logo.
Required Documents
Business Proof: Certificate of Incorporation and PAN card if operating as a registered company.
Identity Proof: Any valid ID such as a PAN card, Aadhaar card, or passport.
Financial Documents: Recent bank statements to confirm you have the financial capacity to run the outlet.
Lease Agreement: Needed if you’re renting the store premises.
Zudio Franchise Infrastructure Requirements
Opening a Zudio store requires you to follow strict infrastructure guidelines to ensure every outlet delivers the same premium shopping experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
Parameter
Requirement
Storage Space
Adequate for smooth inventory management
Interior Design
As per Zudio’s official brand guidelines
Staff
Trained, well-groomed, and customer-focused
Location is a key factor. Zudio franchises bloom in high-footfall markets like:
Popular shopping centers with steady daily visitors
Prime commercial areas are buzzing with activity
Urban centers where fashion-conscious shoppers are found
Zudio Product Categories
Zudio Product Categories
Beauty: Affordable makeup and skincare essentials, from lipsticks and eyeliners to foundations and moisturizers, designed for everyday glam.
Women’s Apparel: Trendy tops, chic dresses, stylish ethnic wear, and comfortable loungewear for every mood and occasion.
Men’s Apparel: Casual tees, smart shirts, jeans, trousers, and ethnic wear, blending comfort with contemporary style.
Ethnic Wear: Kurtas, kurtis, churidars, and sarees that mix traditional elegance with a modern touch for festive and cultural events.
Loungewear: Cozy nightwear, soft pajamas, and relaxed fits that keep you comfortable whether you’re at home or stepping out casually.
Footwear: From casual shoes and sandals to formal footwear and slippers, designed to offer both comfort and style.
Where is Zudio Expanding?
Zudio has been rapidly growing its presence across India, targeting both metropolitan hubs and emerging markets. The brand’s expansion strategy covers all major regions of the country:
How Much Can You Earn from a Zudio Franchise in India?
Every investor wants to know the returns. This section covers estimated monthly sales, average margins, and realistic timelines to break even when running a Zudio franchise in India.
Thanks to its strong brand appeal and affordable fashion positioning, Zudio has become one of the most lucrative fashion retail franchises in India. On average, franchise owners can expect:
Profit Margin: Around 10% to 20% per month.
Monthly Sales Potential: Approximately INR 70 lakh to INR 1 crore, depending on the store’s performance.
ROI Timeline: Most franchisees recover their investment within 3 to 5 years.
What Does Zudio Offer Its Franchisees?
Zudio ensures its franchise partners are well-prepared from day one by providing comprehensive training, operational support, and store set-up assistance. Here’s what you can expect as a franchisee:
Orientation Sessions: An introduction to Zudio’s brand story, values, and market positioning.
Employee Training Programs: Structured modules to ensure staff maintain Zudio’s high standards of customer service.
Store Operations Guidance: Training on daily store management, inventory control, and customer engagement strategies.
Hands-On Experience: On-site, practical learning under the supervision of an experienced Zudio store manager.
Store Set-Up Support: Assistance with layout planning, visual merchandising, and initial inventory stocking for a smooth launch.
Technology Integration: Implementation of advanced retail tools to enhance both customer experience and operational efficiency.
Conclusion
Owning a Zudio franchise can be a game-changing step for entrepreneurs eyeing the booming retail fashion market. Backed by the trust and reputation of the Tata Group, Zudio stands out for delivering affordable yet trendy fashion to a growing customer base. Moreover, the brand’s strong market demand and extensive franchise support make it an attractive venture.
That said, the initial investment and royalty fees require careful financial planning, especially in the early stages. Success will largely depend on picking the right location, implementing effective marketing, and maintaining a strong operational focus.
Zudio operates on a FOCO (Franchise Owned, Company Operated) model, where investors fund the setup while the company manages daily operations like staffing, sales, and inventory.
How much does it cost to open a Zudio franchise in India?
The total investment required for a Zudio franchise is around INR 60–80 lakhs, covering franchise fees, interiors, inventory, rent deposits, and promotions.
What are the profit margins in a Zudio franchise?
Zudio franchisees can expect profit margins of 10–20% per month, depending on the store’s sales and location.
What is the ROI timeline for a Zudio franchise?
Most franchise owners recover their investment within 3 to 5 years, thanks to high sales volumes and strong brand demand.
India’s pharmaceutical market is rapidly growing, and many businesses are looking forward to partnering with top-rated PCD Pharma companies. In this setup, the franchise owner plays a crucial role; their knowledge of the local market and business knowledge can make all the difference in earning good profits.
This is why the Pharma franchise model is so promising, as it offers you ownership along with strong earning potential. PCD Pharma (Propaganda Cum Distribution): a company provides medicines and products, and the distributor takes care of selling, marketing, and distribution. It is considered a simple partnership that benefits both parties.
However, choosing the right one matters because not every company offers the same advantage. In this article, we will explore some of the best PCD Pharma companies in India that offer excellent opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing a PCD Pharma franchise in India
Choosing the right PCD pharma company is one of the most important decisions you will make in your business journey. A good partner can set you up for long-term growth, while the wrong one can limit your potential. Here are the key things to keep in mind before you commit:
Product Range & Quality: Choose a company with a diverse portfolio across multiple therapeutic segments and certifications like WHO-GMP/ISO for assured quality.
Brand Reputation: Partner with a trusted, well-established brand to gain instant market credibility.
Franchise Support: Look for robust marketing, promotional tools, and technical guidance to boost sales.
Investment & Returns: Assess initial costs, profit margins, monopoly rights, and ROI potential before committing.
List of the Fastest-Growing PCD Pharma Franchise Companies in India
India’s pharma sector is witnessing rapid expansion, and the PCD (Propaganda Cum Distribution) model is opening fruitful opportunities for entrepreneurs. These fast-growing PCD pharma companies are making their mark with quality products, strong distribution networks, and full franchise support. Whether you’re a first-time investor or an experienced distributor, this list highlights companies that combine growth potential with trust and market credibility.
Salvus Pharma
WEBSITE
salvuspharma.com
Experience
10+ years in pharma manufacturing & distribution
Salvus Pharma – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
It is a Chandigarh-based Salvus company that has created a niche in the PCD pharma industry with its focus on quality, innovation, and affordability. Salvus Pharma provides monopoly-based franchise rights, extensive marketing materials, and timely product delivery. Their WHO-GMP-certified manufacturing ensures quality compliance, making them a trusted choice for distributors.
Albia Biocare
WEBSITE
www.albia.in
Experience
15+ years
Albia Biocare – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Based in Chandigarh, Albia Biocare has over 15 years of experience in the pharmaceutical sector. Their product range includes tablets, capsules, syrups, drops, ointments, and powders. Their team comprises skilled professionals, quality controllers, and WHO/ISO-certified manufacturers. Albia Biocare offers franchise partners logistics, marketing, and promotional support, making it easier to set up a successful franchise.
Kyna Pharmaceuticals
WEBSITE
www.kyna.in
Experience
20+ years
Kyna Pharmaceuticals – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Kyna Pharmaceuticals offers a diverse range of products, including herbal and pharmaceutical items. Their portfolio spans analgesics, anti-acids, gastroenterology, antibiotics, anti-cough and cold, anti-malarial, dermatology, gynecology, pediatrics, multivitamins, and more. The company provides excellent support for marketing, logistics, and franchise growth, making it one of the fastest-growing PCD pharma companies in India.
Juvetica Lifesciences – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
The company caters to multiple therapeutic areas such as antibiotics, pain management, gastro care, pediatrics, and nutraceuticals. Juvetica stands out for its extensive promotional support, offering visual aids, MR bags, product literature, and even digital marketing consultation to help franchise partners grow. Their focus on consistent quality and ethical business practices has helped them build a solid presence in the Indian PCD pharma market.
Life Pharma
WEBSITE
lifepharma.in
Experience
10+ years
Life Pharma – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Life Pharma, operating under the A1 Cure division, is committed to delivering affordable and effective healthcare solutions across India. The company offers monopoly rights, marketing assistance, and attractive promotional schemes to its franchise partners. With ISO 9001:2008 certification and adherence to DCGI, FDA, and FSSAI guidelines, Life Pharma has established itself as a reliable and ethical pharma partner.
Cipla
WEBSITE
www.cipla.com
Experience
89+ years
Cipla – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Founded in 1935 by Dr. K.A. Hamied, Cipla is one of India’s most trusted pharmaceutical brands, with a strong global presence. Renowned for leadership in respiratory, urology, and antiretroviral therapies, Cipla offers over 20 specialty segments, including life-saving anti-AIDS drugs. Their PCD franchise model is backed by innovation, consistent quality, and affordability, making them a preferred partner across India.
Mankind Pharma
WEBSITE
www.mankindpharma.com
Experience
38+ years
Mankind Pharma – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Established in 1986 and headquartered in New Delhi, Mankind Pharma operates in 22+ countries with a turnover exceeding 50,000 million. They offer an extensive range, from antibiotics and antifungals to cardiovascular and OTC products like Manforce condoms and pregnancy test kits. Known for affordability and quality, Mankind is a top choice for pharma franchise partners across India.
Onesta Lifecare – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Onesta Lifecare is an Ahmedabad-based company that has been producing high-quality pharmaceuticals since 1948. Their portfolio spans allopathic and ayurvedic formulations, supported by advanced manufacturing facilities. With nationwide presence, Onesta offers sole distribution rights and strong partner support, making it a competitive player in India’s PCD market.
V Care Biotech
WEBSITE
www.vcarebiotech.com
Experience
15+ years
V Care Biotech – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
V Care Biotech specializes in tablets, capsules, oral liquids, health supplements, and topical preparations. Known for ethical business practices, they provide exclusive marketing rights, bulk pricing benefits, and comprehensive promotional support to franchise partners. Their strategic approach ensures strong market reach and profitable growth.
Ambit PCD Pharma
WEBSITE
ambitbiomedix.com
Experience
18+ years
Ambit PCD Pharma – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Founded in 2006 in Ahmedabad, Ambit PCD Pharma operates ISO 9001:2008 and WHO-GMP certified plants producing over 250 pharma products. With effective promotion strategies and consistent quality, Ambit is among India’s most reliable PCD franchise companies.
Fossil Remedies
WEBSITE
fossilremedies.com
Experience
15+ years
Fossil Remedies – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Based in Ahmedabad, Fossil Remedies offers 2800+ products across eight therapeutic divisions, including antibiotics, cardiac, diabetes, gynecology, ophthalmology, dental, and dermatology. With diverse dosage forms like syrups, tablets, and powders, they are a top choice for franchise partners seeking a wide product range.
Sun Pharma
WEBSITE
www.sunpharma.com
Experience
41+ years
Sun Pharma – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Mumbai, Sun Pharma is India’s largest pharma company and the world’s fifth-largest specialty generic manufacturer. Their products are known for high quality, affordability, and strong market trust. Sun Pharma’s robust PCD model offers partners unmatched credibility and reach.
Vibcare Pharma – Top PCD Pharma Franchise Companies
Vibcare Pharma has been a trusted name in the Indian pharmaceutical sector for over four decades. With WHO-GMP-certified manufacturing facilities, the company offers a diverse portfolio across ayurvedic, ophthalmology, critical care, and other therapeutic segments.Vibcare focuses on developing, producing, and marketing high-quality healthcare products that serve both domestic and global markets. Vibcare focuses on developing, producing, and marketing high-quality healthcare products that serve both domestic and global markets.
Conclusion
If you are stepping into this industry, your choice of PCD pharma franchise partner will lead your journey. Choose a company that doesn’t just hand you a product list but backs you with timely deliveries, marketing tools, and a strong brand name you can trust. In a fast-growing market like India’s, the right franchise tie-up can turn your investment into long-term success. With the right partner, you will be able to make a real impact on healthcare while securing your own future.
Which are the top PCD Pharma franchise companies in India?
Some of the best companies include Cipla, Sun Pharma, Mankind Pharma, Salvus Pharma, Albia Biocare, Kyna Pharmaceuticals, Juvetica Lifesciences, Onesta Lifecare, Fossil Remedies, and Vibcare Pharma.
What is a PCD Pharma franchise ?
A PCD Pharma franchise is a business model where a pharma company provides its products to a distributor or franchise owner, who then markets and sells them locally.
How do I choose the best PCD Pharma company for a franchise?
Check for product quality, WHO-GMP/ISO certifications, company reputation, product range, monopoly rights, marketing support, and profit margins before partnering with a PCD pharma company.
Is PCD Pharma franchise business profitable in India?
Yes, due to the rising demand for affordable medicines and healthcare products, the PCD Pharma business is highly profitable with margins ranging from 20%–40%, depending on the company and products.
India’s startup and business ecosystem saw a series of funding announcements on 18 August 2025, with activity spanning consumer brands, lifestyle, GovTech and renewable energy. The day’s highlights included early-stage seed rounds, a major growth capital infusion, and a large strategic investment by a prominent entrepreneur. Here’s your quick roundup of the top funding deals and key business news in India today.
Daily Indian Funding Roundup – 18 August 2025
Company
Round/Type
Amount
Lead investor(s)
Sector
DOBRA
Seed
₹1.5 crore
D2C Insider Super Angels Fund
F&B / Consumer
Hexafun
Seed
₹4.5 crore
Prajay Advisors
Lifestyle accessories / D2C
Amnex Infotechnologies
Growth capital
₹460 crore
Wealth Company Asset Management (Bharat Value Fund)
Digital infrastructure / GovTech, AI-IoT-GIS
Goldi Solar
Strategic investment
₹137.5 crore
Nikhil Kamath (individual)
Renewable energy / Solar manufacturing
Stanza Living
Debt
₹60 crore
Alteria Capital, Innoven Capital
Managed accommodation / Co-living
DOBRA raises INR 1.5 crore seed round led by D2C Insider Super Angels Fund
Bengaluru-based, F&B brand reimagining nostalgic Indian favourites (e.g., pop goli soda, artisanal cotton candy, tapioca crisps), DOBRA closed an INR 1.5 crore seed round led by the D2C Insider Super Angels Fund. The brand plans to accelerate an omni-channel push across modern retail, food services, quick commerce and D2C.
Hexafun secures INR 4.5 crore seed funding from Prajay Advisors
Design-led lifestyle accessories brand focused on items such as handkerchiefs and socks, Hexafun raised INR 4.5 crore in a seed round led by early-stage investor Prajay Advisors. Funds will support retail expansion, stronger marketing and wider distribution across metros and high-growth cities.
Amnex Infotechnologies gets INR 460 crore growth capital from Bharat Value Fund
Wealth Company Asset Management, the asset management arm of Pantomath Group, invested INR 460 crore in Ahmedabad-based Amnex via its Bharat Value Fund. This is Amnex’s first growth capital round; the company builds AI/IoT/GIS-driven platforms for mission-critical sectors including traffic, utilities, mining, logistics, agriculture and smart cities. The capital will help scale these solutions.
Nikhil Kamath invests INR 137.5 crore in Goldi Solar
Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath invested INR 137.5 crore in Surat-based Goldi Solar. The company, described as one of India’s largest PV module manufacturers, will use the funds to expand into solar cell manufacturing and scale module capacity.
Stanza Living Secures INR 60 Crore Debt Funding from Alteria and Innoven Capital
Managed accommodation provider Stanza Living has secured INR 60 crore (approximately $7 million) in debt funding from Alteria Capital and Innoven Capital. Alteria Capital invested INR 35 crore, while Innoven Capital contributed INR 25 crore. The funds were raised through the issuance of 6,000 non-convertible debentures at a face value of INR 1,00,000 each, as per the company’s regulatory filing with the Registrar of Companies. (reported exclusively by Entrackr)
Key News Highlights for 18 August 2025
ShareChat Appoints Google’s Neha Markanda as Chief Business Officer
ShareChat has appointed Neha Markanda, formerly of Google India, as its Chief Business Officer. In this role, Markanda will lead the company’s revenue strategy, drive growth, and strengthen relationships with stakeholders across India. Prior to joining ShareChat, she spearheaded Google’s health strategy in India and led business transformation and AI-led solutions in retail and health tech.
Parag Agrawal Launches AI Startup Parallel Web Systems
Former Twitter (now X) CEO Parag Agrawal has launched a new AI startup, Parallel Web Systems, aiming to revolutionise how AI agents interact with the web. The company focuses on developing infrastructure and tools that enable AI applications to conduct real-time research on the internet, accessing and synthesising public web data to provide detailed citations. Parallel Web Systems has secured $30 million in funding from Silicon Valley investors.
Zepto Ventures into Real Estate with ‘Land in 10 Minutes’ Offering
Quick commerce platform Zepto has partnered with The House of Abhinandan Lodha to offer land plots with a promise of availability within 10 minutes. This venture marks Zepto’s expansion beyond traditional grocery and essential deliveries into high-value asset categories. The collaboration was highlighted in a recent advertising campaign.
Boundless Ventures Launches INR 200 Crore Fund to Invest in AI Startups
Former Kae Capital partner Natasha Malpani has launched Boundless Ventures, an early-stage investment fund with a corpus of INR 200 crore. The fund aims to support AI-native startups originating from India, focusing on sectors such as consumer, infrastructure, agent tooling, vertical applications in healthcare and logistics, and make-in-India hardware and deep tech. Boundless Ventures has already invested in six startups, including SuperHealth, Armatrix, Piersight, and Knot.
Investor Neeraj Tyagi Passes Away
Investor Neeraj Tyagi, known for backing startups like Oben and Zypp, has passed away. Tyagi was a prominent figure in India’s early-stage ecosystem, co-founding We Founder Circle (WFC), Avinya Ventures, and Invstt. At WFC, he helped build one of the country’s most active angel networks, facilitating over 100 startup deals in the last three years. He was also instrumental in creating Invstt, a marketplace for startups and investors, attracting over 27,000 investors across 66 countries and 900 cities.
In the third round, the IndiaAI Mission plans to add over 3,850 graphics processing units (GPUs) to increase its GPU capabilities. Abhishek Singh, the chief executive of the IndiaAI Mission, was quoted in an ET report as saying that IndiaAI possesses 1,050 Google Trillium tensor processing units (TPUs).
From training to inferring large-scale models, Google’s sixth-generation TPUs, known as Trillium, are specially designed processors designed to enhance AI and ML workloads.
Expressing his views on the developments, Deepak Gupta, Co-Founder, Style Lounge said, “India’s move to procure 3,800 GPUs in its third AI tender is not just about hardware—it’s about unlocking possibilities. For years, many Indian startups, researchers, and innovators have had the ideas, the talent, and the drive, but lacked the computing muscle to bring those visions alive. This step feels like a big green signal for innovation. GPUs are the fuel that power everything—from training large AI models to building practical solutions in healthcare, education, beauty-tech, recruitment, and even agriculture.”
“With this kind of infrastructure, India is giving its innovators a fair chance to not just catch up, but actually lead with unique, world-first AI solutions. As someone working at the intersection of AI and industry, I see this as more than an investment—it’s a message that India is ready to dream bigger. Ready to create AI that is not just for India, but from India, for the world. Truly excited to see how this boost in compute capacity can transform ideas into breakthroughs and put India firmly on the global AI map,” he added further.
Breakdown of GPU Suppliers and Contributions
Google Cloud offers these customised processors for purchase. Additional GPUs supplied by already-embellished bidders include 1,300 NVIDIA H100 GPUs from Locuz, 50 Google Trillium TPUs from Ishan Infotech, and 2,500 GPUs from Sify (1,000 Google Trillium TPUs, 800 NVIDIA H200 GPUs, and 700 NVIDIA L4 GPUs), according to Singh, who was quoted in the story. Vensysco has reduced costs, but they haven’t supplied any more GPUs.
Revisions in L1 Pricing and Financial Evaluation
The ET report also stated that the third round’s financial bid evaluation was finished, with minor adjustments made to the L1 (lowest bidder) prices. It is anticipated that the empanelled bidders from the GPU tender’s first and second rounds will match these updated prices.
India’s AI GPU Pool Crosses 34,000 Units
The 34,333 GPUs in the current pool will be joined by these extra 3,850 GPUs from the third round. More than 17,300 GPUs have been installed in India as of June of this year under the IndiaAI Mission. Jio Platforms and CtrlS Datacenters have not yet started the deployment process, but providers like Yotta Data Services from the Hiranandani Group, E2E Networks, and NxtGen Cloud Technologies are making progress.
Upcoming GPU Procurement Plans Under IndiaAI Mission
At the CII Business Summit 2025 more than two months ago, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the minister of information technology, declared that the government would buy an extra 14,000 GPUs as part of the IndiaAI objective. The minister went on to highlight the increase in processing power, stating that the nation has surpassed the 34,000-GPU milestone after adding 15,916 GPUs to the 18,417 already-installed GPUs; however, these new units are not yet operational.
In the second round, the MeitY shortlisted seven businesses: Ishan Infotech, Yotta Data Services, Locuz Enterprise Solutions, Vensysco Technologies, Cyfuture India, Sify Digital Services, and Netmagic IT Services. Four of the six applying companies—Locuz Enterprise Solutions, Ishan Infotech, Vensysco Technologies, and Sify Digital Services—passed the technical phase in the third round. Nevertheless, Rackbank Datacenters and Teleglobal International failed to get past the round.
Quick
Shots
•IndiaAI Mission to procure 3,850+
GPUs in its third round of tenders.
•IndiaAI already has 1,050 Google
Trillium TPUs in place.
•IndiaAI’s GPU capacity rises to
34,333 GPUs with new additions.
•Govt to procure 14,000 more GPUs as
announced by IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
Google is accelerating the Gemma family for a boom, it seems. In the past few months, Google has launched Gemma 3, Gemma 3 QAT, Gemma 3n, and now Gemma 3 270M. The rapidly growing Gemmaverse is keeping developers worldwide on their toes with exciting new launches. According to the Google For Developers page, Gemma surpassed a million downloads about two weeks ago. The tool was introduced to the world of developers on August 14, 2025. The launch has turned several heads in wonder, and here’s everything you need to know about Google Gemma 3 270M. Learn more.
What Is Google Gemma 3 270M?
In simple terms, Google Gemma 3 270M is a small AI developed by Google (the obvious). This is the most miniature version of Gemma so far. Where 270M refers to 270 million parameters, let’s call these parameters, say, ‘brains’ or ‘knowledge knobs’, which Gemma uses to interpret and generate text. Which brings us to the following question: What do you need Gemma 3 270 for?
Why Did Google Make Google Gemma 3 270M?
Many wonder if this new development is just a fancy addition to the Google family or if it truly solves any major problems. Unlike ChatGPT or Gemini, which need significant computing power, money, and time to operate, Gemma 3 270M is lightweight and cost-efficient. It is designed for specific tasks (rather than open-ended conversations), such as for developers. Ideally, the model is perfect for developers building apps and tools that require fast, affordable, and reliable AI (that don’t need large servers).
How Does It Work On a Technical Level?
These 270M parameters function in two distinct ways:
170M are dedicated to embeddings, meaning that this part of the model understands the world and meanings.
The remaining 100M are dedicated to transformer blocks, meaning this part of the model thinks and processes the text.
The model has a large vocabulary, with 256,000 tokens, and can handle rare words, technical terms, and even specific languages, especially when compared to other models.
What Is Google Gemma 3 270M Good At?
It is important to note that Google Gemma 3 270M is not Gemini or ChatGPT, so don’t be surprised if the tool is straightforward with chit-chat. Here’s where the tool excels:
Sentiment analysis – the tool is good at determining whether the text is positive or negative, thanks to its extensive vocabulary.
Entity recognition – the tool can automatically identify names, places, organizations, and dates from the provided text.
Query routing – the tool intelligently directs queries to the right sources/systems for processing.
Compliance checks – the tool is rigid about checking if the text complies with the rules/laws to identify potential risks or harm.
Creative things – this is a bonus, but not a major one. The tool can create a small story, perhaps don’t expect long essays.
The tool is super efficient; it allows you to fine-tune a task in hours rather than days. For example, you can fine-tune it for sentiment analysis in product reviews or train it to understand legal jargon for compliance checks. When you give the same task to large AI models, which have billions of parameters, use expensive GPUs, and require a lot of computing energy, it takes much longer.
It’s convenient to use on your own computer or phone, especially if you’re a developer. The data doesn’t necessarily go to Google’s servers, so it’s perfectly fine in terms of privacy.
The tool doesn’t drain your device’s battery; when tested on the Pixel 9 Pro, it used only 0.75% of the battery for 25 conversations. That’s impressive.
Versions available:
The tool is available in two versions
Instruct model – this is developed to follow human instructions.
Pretrained model – this is a base model, developed for your customization.
Where Is the Tool Available?
The tool is not available for download from Hugging Face, Ollama, Kaggle, LM Studio, or Docker.
You can also try the tool on Google’s Vertex AI or with tools like llama.cpp, Gemma.cpp, LiteRT, Keras, and MLX.
Additionally, if you want to customize the tool, Google supports tools including Hugging Face, UnSloth, and JAX.
Since founders and entrepreneurship enthusiasts make up a large portion of our audience, we chose a topic that’s unique, pertinent to this demographic, and not extensively covered by StartupTalky. Considering how specific tools can support data privacy, it directly relates to the ideas of consumer trust, ethical growth, and data strategy—all of which are crucial in today’s startup environment.
Transparency is a business strategy, not just a trendy term. Being transparent about how you handle user data can be a real competitive advantage for startups navigating crowded markets and aiming for long-term loyalty. Building trust through open data practices is both a moral requirement and a growth lever at a time when privacy concerns are growing.
Consider a personal VPN service, which is based on the unmistakable promise of safeguarding user privacy. Even if your startup isn’t in the VPN industry, you can learn from their mission and practices: customers are much more likely to remain loyal when they know exactly how their information is handled.
Why Startups Need Transparency
Customers are wary in a time of intrusive trackers, data breaches, and privacy policies that appear to be designed to be confusing. A startup immediately distinguishes itself when it can state with confidence, “Here’s the data we collect, here’s why, and here’s how we protect it.”
Not only does this clarity appeal to privacy-conscious consumers, but it can also help you steer clear of expensive blunders, particularly in areas with stringent laws like GDPR. Actually, you can approach it similarly to any other launch decision: the more you prepare in advance, the easier the process will be. The startup checklist we created is a fantastic illustration of how to simplify difficult yet necessary tasks; this is the same idea that should be applied to data policies.
Foundational Elements of Open Data Practices
Legalese walls should be abandoned in favor of simpler policies. Provide users with quick-to-scan visual cues (icons, brief bullets) and summaries in plain language.
Opt-in controls: Give individuals a choice over what is gathered and make that choice obvious.
Real-time updates: Send users an email, blog post, or in-app message as soon as you start using a new analytics tool or make changes to the way you store data.
Support and education: Ensure that clients understand not only what you collect, but also why. Resources from organizations like the Electronic Frontier Foundation are brimming with easily navigable privacy guidelines that you can modify to fit your own brand voice, so you don’t have to start from scratch.
Why It Works: Trust Equals Growth
Transparency is a growth engine, not just a matter of ethics.
Decreased attrition: When customers feel valued and informed, they remain longer.
More powerful brand reputation: People talk about companies that treat them well. For example, “this fintech app actually explains what it does with my info” is a strong natural pitch.
Fewer legal hassles: Conflicts and complaints decrease when everyone is aware of the regulations.
In actuality, privacy is often neglected by startups. Making it your primary value communicates to your audience that you take their trust seriously.
Startup Playbook: Doable Actions
Map every interaction, from the time a user registers to the analytics scripts on your website, to audit your data flow.
Make your privacy policy simpler — Put a one-line synopsis at the top of the plain-English version to start.
Make it simple for users to say “yes” or “no” to data collection and to change their minds later by implementing opt-in transparency.
Openly communicate any changes. Explain what’s new and why privacy updates are important, just like you would with new product launches.
A Simulation in Action
Let’s say you are in charge of a health technology startup. You want to make your weekly newsletter more unique. You could ask, “Want us to customize your newsletter based on your preferences?” and explain the benefit (“more relevant health tips”), as well as the option to opt out at any time, rather than silently tracking click behavior.
Businesses that allow users to connect to multiple locations stand out due to the same philosophy. They demonstrate their value of privacy in each and every customer interaction, rather than merely saying it.
Last Remark
In today’s startup world, trust is a growth multiplier, not just a “nice to have”. Your brand’s values can be inferred from the way you handle user data. Integrate openness into your brand and convey it as you would any essential feature of your product, and you’ll not only attract new clients but also retain existing ones over time.
Bengaluru, August 18, 2025; DOBRA, an emerging Indian food-and-beverage brand bringing a modern twist to nostalgic favourites, has raised a ₹ 1.5 Cr. Seed round, led by the D2C Insider Super Angels Fund.
The investment will accelerate DOBRA’s expansion across Offline Channels of Modern Retail, and Food Services as well as Digital Channels of Quick Commerce, and Direct-to-Consumer (D2C), as the brand looks to capture the growing demand for premium, experience-led FMCG products in India’s $170 billion sector.
What makes this funding round stand out is the participation of the D2C Insider Super Angels Fund, a network of celebrated founders and operators from India’s leading consumer brands.
“D2C Super Angels bring more than just capital” said Rahul Johar, Co-founder of Oxbow Brands, which launched DOBRA. “They bring the kind of battle-tested insight you only get from building category-defining consumer brands in India. For us, this isn’t just funding, it’s an endorsement from people who truly understand what it takes to scale consumer brands in India.”
DOBRA’s current product line features reinvented Pop Goli Soda, Artisanal Cotton Candy, and Tapioca Crisps, crafted to transpose consumers back to childhood memories while delivering a premium, contemporary taste.
Abhishek Shah, Partner at D2C Insider, said: “DOBRA’s ability to blend authentic Indian flavours with a modern, premium format, and execute across multiple channels, by being present where the consumer prefers to shop, is exactly what Indian consumers are looking for today. Combine that with a seasoned founding team, and you have a rare opportunity to back a high-potential brand in FMCG space.”
With this fresh capital, DOBRA aims to strengthen its operations, expand its product line-up, and deepen consumer trial, preparing for the next stage of growth across India and laying the groundwork for future international expansion
The transaction was supported by BizLegal, Allied Law Practices, SVJS and other advisors from the startup ecosystem.
About DOBRA:
DOBRA is an Indian F&B brand offering premium reinventions of regional favourites, from Pop Goli Coda to Artisanal Cotton Candy and Tapioca Crisps. Founded by Oxbow Brands, whose team has decades of experience in building premium consumer brands and national distribution networks in India. DOBRA brings fun moments and memories to consumers through elevated quality and taste of their products, using an Omni Channel approach that spans Modern Retail, Quick Commerce, Food Service, and D2C.
About D2C Insider Super Angels Fund:
The D2C Insider Super Angels Fund is powered by a network of leading founders, investors, and operators, including Vivek Biyani (Broadway), Rohit Bansal & Kunal Bahl (Snapdeal, Titan Capital, Unicommerce), Bhisham Bhateja and Hitesh Dhingra (The Man Company), Anupam Mittal (Shaadi.com), Muralikrishnan B (Xiaomi India), Vedang Patel (The Souled Store), Deep Bajaj (Sirona) and Gaurav Gupta (Shipway), who back high-potential consumer brands with both capital and strategic guidance.
Hexafun, a design-first lifestyle accessories brand, has raised ₹4.5 crore in a seed funding round led by early-stage investor Prajay Advisors. With this fresh capital, the brand is gearing up to deepen its retail presence, accelerate marketing efforts, and expand its quirky, design-first footprint across India’s metro and high-growth cities.
In a strategic brand move following the raise, Hexafun is launching ‘Insanely Indian’, a culture-forward campaign and collection that reimagines everyday essentials through the lens of Indian heritage and Gen Z irreverence. The campaign celebrates the chaotic, colorful, and contemporary ways Indians express their identities through fashion.
With a Gen Z-first mindset, the brand taps into the generation’s growing demand for non-repetitive, fresh, and unapologetically different offerings—without the premium price tag. This has shaped the new ‘Insanely Indian’ Regional Drop, a mash-up of cultural spice and contemporary sass.
The Regional Drop is a hyper-local accessory collection drawing inspiration from five culturally iconic states, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bengal, Gujarat, and Punjab. The product line includes statement socks, hankies, tote bags, coasters, and giftables—all infused with regional flair and designed to transform simple accessories into conversation starters. From “Kem Cho?” totes to “Patiala Peg” socks, the pieces reflect cultural quirks with bold, modern energy.
Harshit Singhal, and Manali Sanghvi shared, “For years, we’ve looked outward for style cues-first to the West, then to the East. But there’s a creative uprising happening right here in India. The youth today aren’t just consuming trends-they’re rewriting them. Hexafun was born out of that mindset. This funding isn’t just capital-it’s a catalyst to take our vision further. What’s fascinating about Gen Z is that while they might come off a bit too chill or have an entire emoji language of their own, they’re deeply connected to their roots. They love infusing a dash of culture into their outfits, repping where they come from but with their own spin on it. That spirit is what inspired Insanely Indian, tailored for a generation that believes heritage can be cool.”
Born as a garage project, Hexafun has scaled rapidly into a multi-million-rupee brand. Its unique proposition, transforming mundane accessories into mood-driven, expressive products, has struck a chord with Gen Z and young millennial shoppers. Already present in select retail spaces like Regal Shoes, Crossword, and Hamleys, Hexafun is now expanding into modern trade, launching branded kiosks, and listing across Q-commerce platforms like Blinkit.
Dr. Prakash Mody and Mr. Jayendra Shah, Founders of Prajay Advisors LLP said in a joint statement – “The rise of Hexafun signals a new era for everyday essentials. What sets them apart is their ability to transform simple items into coveted products through a combination of design, culture, and consumer engagement. Their potential for growth is immense, and we’re excited to be part of the journey”.
Hexafun’s product line is crafted using 100% eco-conscious materials and aims to promote gender-neutral fashion rooted in self-expression. With Insanely Indian, the brand is not just launching a campaign; it’s launching a cultural canvas for India’s most expressive generation.
About Hexafun:Hexafun is an Indian lifestyle accessories brand that brings a playful twist to everyday essentials. Founded in 2021, the company is dedicated to transforming mundane everyday lifestyle products into vibrant, quirky accessories that reflect individuality and fun. The product range includes handkerchiefs, socks, stoles, shoe bags, luggage covers, and storage pouches, all crafted from 100% sustainable materials.The brand emphasises gender-neutral fashion, encouraging everyone to express themselves freely through the accessories.
India, 18th August 2025: District by Zomato, the going-out vertical, announces a long-term strategic partnership with HSBC India. This collaboration aims to redefine how India engages with its cities’ vibrant cultural landscapes. As the exclusive banking partner, HSBC will be seamlessly integrated into District’s expansive calendar of key cultural events, spanning music concerts, immersive dining experiences, stand-up comedy shows, and diverse lifestyle gatherings.
India’s going out segment is experiencing significant growth, driven by several notable factors, including an increasing number of first-time concert-goers, a growing urban population and a rising desire for diverse and enriching experiences. Consumers are actively seeking new ways to engage with entertainment, dining, and cultural events, transforming how they spend their leisure time.
Through this partnership, District by Zomato and HSBC India aim to make cultural experiences more accessible, financially feasible and aspirational, to further integrate going out into the daily lives of urban residents across India, enriching the overall cultural fabric of the cities.
Rahul Ganjoo, CEO, District by Zomato, said, “India’s ‘going out’ culture is rapidly evolving, reflecting a growing desire for richer urban experiences. At District, we’re dedicated to being the essential gateway to this dynamic landscape, providing access to the full spectrum of cultural moments. Our strategic partnership with HSBC is a key collaboration that amplifies this commitment, allowing us to collaboratively empower more individuals to immerse themselves in the pulse of their cities fully.”
Jaswinder Sodhi, Head of Customers, Marketing & Digital, International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India, said, “We believe in creating meaningful connections that enrich lives and empower aspirations. Our partnership reflects this vision, as we bring together the best of banking and culture to redefine how India experiences its vibrant urban landscapes. By unlocking exclusive access, savings, and opportunities, we aim to make every moment more memorable and every experience more accessible for our customers.”
Key offerings:
Unlock Exclusive Access: HSBC debit and credit cardholders will receive early and exclusive RSVPs and presale codes, ensuring priority entry to popular events, exclusive dining experiences and more, before the general public.
Unlock Savings: The partnership will offer HSBC-exclusive discounts and deals, making a variety of urban experiences more affordable and accessible.
Unlock the Scene: HSBC will be deeply embedded in India’s most relevant and talked-about events and experiences, connecting consumers directly to the heart of the action and the pulse of their city’s cultural landscape.
About District by Zomato:
District is India’s playground for those who refuse the ordinary and is reshaping how people discover and experience their cities. It brings together handpicked experiences across dining, concerts, movies, events, sports, shopping — turning plans into memories. Whether you’re chasing your next favorite meal, scoring tickets to sold-out shows, or uncovering hidden gems — District puts it all in one place.
About HSBC:
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited in India offers a full range of banking and financial services through 26 branches across 14 cities. HSBC is one of India’s leading financial services groups, with around 44,000 employees in its banking, investment banking and capital markets, asset management, insurance, software development and global resourcing operations in the country. It is a leading custodian in India. The Bank is at the forefront in arranging deals for Indian companies investing overseas and foreign investments into the country
