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  • Trump Imposes 26% Tariff on Indian Imports, Citing ‘Reciprocal’ Trade Policy

    In a critical step that could change worldwide commerce, US President Donald Trump has declared a 26% tariff on imports from India. The decision, which will start at midnight EST on Thursday, is part of Trump’s larger plan to respond to what he labels as unfair trade practices. The development could have major effects on vital sectors like automobiles, textiles, and industrial goods.

    In the White House Rose Garden, on what he called “Liberation Day,” Trump had this to say about the new tariffs:

    They were necessary, he insisted, to counter India’s contrary trade policies. For too long, he said, American workers had been at a disadvantage when it came to trade with India. The Indian government, he said, had slapped a 12% tariff on American goods, nearly four times higher than the 3% tariff the U.S. imposed on Indian goods. To right this trade wrong, according to Trump, the new tariff was intended, supposedly, in his mind, to ensure trade that was “fair and reciprocal.”

    “If you want your tariff rate to be zero, then you build your product right here in America,” Trump said during his speech. The declining tariff rate is part of the administration’s push to direct American companies to manufacture domestically and to reduce the reliance on foreign products.

    Impact on Key Sectors

    The 26% tariff is likely to significantly affect several sectors of the economy. Among them are automobiles, textiles, and industrial goods. Indian exporters have been banking on the US as a prime market. Those who sell to the US are most definitely going to feel these new duties in their bottom line. And what about American businesses that source from India? They’re not going to get a pass.

    The automotive sector is one of the most affected because the new tariffs cover unassembled vehicles, auto components, and imported cars that are fully assembled. This is part of Trump’s larger trade policy, which aims to protect carmakers in the U.S. from foreign competition by slapping a 25% duty on cars made abroad. Notably, Vietnam and Thailand, which also impose steep tariffs on U.S. auto exports, were targeted by these new measures.

    A Global Trade Shake-Up

    Trump’s latest protectionist policies have hit several nations, not just India. The US has come up with a universal baseline tariff of 10% on all imports, no matter where they come from. Meanwhile, imports from China now face a whopping 34% tariff, and exports to the US from the European Union are subject to a 20% tariff.

    This far-reaching tariff policy was presented by Trump as a shift towards American economic independence, something he has a long-established record of favoring. He portrayed the tariffs as a potential revenue-enhancer, saying they could bring in “trillions and trillions of dollars” and, by so doing, reduce the national debt and lower our taxes.

    Even with the tariffs’ taking an aggressive posture, Trump maintained diplomatic standing with Prime Minister Modi, calling him “a great friend” but equally insisting that India was not treating US trade fairly.

    The tariffs just imposed are bound to bring some kind of response from India, and it looks like the country is ready to deliver what many are calling ‘counter-tariffs.’ The officials who oversee trade for India are watching this closely. And businesses here, but especially those that export to India, are trying to gauge how much the situation could upset supply chains and pricing.

  • Smart Campuses, Safer Students: The Rise of Hostel Management Tech in India

    New Delhi [India], April 2: For decades, managing student hostels in India has been riddled with inefficiencies. With over 40,000 colleges and 1,000 universities housing millions of students, institutions have struggled with manual record-keeping, delayed communication, and outdated safety protocols. Wardens have had to track attendance, handle emergencies, and manage daily operations using paper registers and phone calls, while parents often remained in the dark about their children’s well-being.

    Even basic processes—like late-night medical exits or weekend permissions—were entangled in bureaucracy, creating frustration among students and straining trust between families and institutions. But with rising enrolments and increasing safety expectations, campuses are now embracing hostel management platforms—smart solutions that streamline operations and create a transparent, connected ecosystem for students, parents, and administrators.

    Revolutionizing Campus Operations: Student and Institutional Impact

    Digital solutions are untangling years of inefficiencies.

    At SOA University, Bhubaneswar, students previously navigated a complex maze of paperwork for simple permissions. “Getting approval meant running between offices,” recalls Payal Das, a medical student. “Now, I just tap a button, my parent approves via WhatsApp, and I’m out—no stress.”

    Efficiency like this is driving rapid adoption across India, with platforms like FretBox replacing manual workflows. Ashish Gupta, Founder of FretBox, highlights the broader impact: “Every alert that reassures a parent, every minute saved for a warden—that’s why we built this. We’re not just automating hostels; we’re rebuilding trust.” This transformation aligns with India’s “Building for Bharat” vision, which prioritizes scalable, tech-driven solutions, added Mr. Gupta.

    “These platforms are solving long-standing pain points while addressing cultural anxieties,” notes Gupta. With an asset-light SaaS model and 100% client retention, FretBox and similar platforms are poised to onboard 100+ institutions by 2025, with a strong focus on Tier 2/3 cities, home to 60% of India’s student population.

    At KIIT University, Director of Administration Snehasish Rout recalls past challenges: “Tracking 20,000 students was overwhelming. Previously, we had to download reports and manually analyze incidents, making the process slow and inefficient. Now, automation handles it seamlessly, allowing us to focus on student well-being. We’ve also built a direct communication channel with students—they can now reach out for help without bureaucratic layers. As a result, we’re resolving hostel complaints faster than ever before.”

    Beyond logistics, this digital shift is strengthening parental confidence. At Galgotias University, hostel manager Ramveer Singh attributes a 20% rise in enrolments to parents’ trust in real-time safety updates enabled by the platform.

    Modern hostel management platforms offer AI-driven safety protocols, Geofenced alerts & real-time tracking, and automated workflows for approvals. FretBox’s real-time tracking has reduced warden response times by 70%, while its AI-powered mess system has helped cut food waste by 30%.

    With policy backing and growing market momentum, hostel management technology is becoming a cornerstone of India’s education evolution. By blending automation with human connection, these platforms are turning systemic challenges into solutions—enhancing safety, transparency, and trust. As smart campus solutions continue to reshape Indian universities, one thing is clear: tech-driven hostels lead to safer students and stronger institutions.

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  • The Maharashtra Cabinet Approved E-bike Taxis

    In a move that will help single passengers going up to 15 km, the Maharashtra cabinet approved the introduction of electric-bike taxis on 1 April. The approval has been given for towns with a population of at least one lakh. This decision will encompass Mumbai as well as numerous other major centres in the state. According to state Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, the initiative will generate over 10,000 jobs in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Apart from that, it will create an additional 10,000 jobs throughout the state. He told reporters that e-bikes that have a suitable barrier between the front and rear riders and a roof cover for monsoon weather will be permitted to transport passengers. Sarnaik made the remark following the approval of the plan to introduce electric-bike taxis in major cities at a weekly cabinet meeting.

    Revenue Model Yet to be Finalised

    According to Sarnaik, the cabinet has simply authorised the policy for the introduction of e-bike taxis. However, a revenue model is now being finalised and will be revealed shortly. The minister emphasised that passenger security and reasonable rates will be the top priorities. Generally speaking, a “bike taxi” is a ride-hailing service that transports customers on motorcycles or other two-wheeled vehicles. Children of taxi and autorickshaw drivers who work for government-approved companies and boards are eligible to apply for e-bike taxis, according to Sarnaik. A grant of INR 10,000 would be provided to them, and they may borrow the remaining sum. He went on to say that this is the first step in making Maharashtra pollution-free.

    Tariffs will be set by the government. If one traveller must pay INR 100, the government will try to find ways to make it cost about INR 30 to 40, added the minister. The state government is carrying out a number of projects to offer citizens cutting-edge transport services, according to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). E-bike taxis will now be permitted to operate in cities with a population of at least one lakh people after the cabinet approved the policy as part of this endeavour, according to the statement.

    Guidelines that these E-bike Taxis Need to Follow

    These vehicles need to be legally permitted, insured under the Motor Vehicles Act, and have a current fitness certificate. According to the official statement, the relevant Regional Transport Authority (RTA) will set the rates for e-bike taxis. The statement went on to say that bike taxis will prioritise passenger safety while offering a convenient and reasonably priced commuting choice. Only electric bike taxis are allowed to function in the transportation industry under this legislation. This project will help individuals save time on their commutes, cut down on pollution and traffic, and provide an affordable last-mile connectivity option. Furthermore, it will generate new job prospects. E-bike taxis can only be operated by drivers who are between the ages of 20 and 50. For increased convenience and safety, female passengers would be able to select drivers of their own gender, the statement further added.

  • Meraki 2025: A Launchpad for the Next Generation of Problem-Solvers

    New Delhi [India], April 2: With global challenges mounting—from climate change to resource scarcity, public health crises, and economic disparity—innovative solutions have become non-optional but, in fact, imperative. Meraki 2025, hosted by the Fortune Institute of International Business (FIIB), stands at the intersection of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and social impact, offering a platform for student-led startups to move beyond theoretical ideas and into real-world execution. Now in its 15th year, the initiative has played a critical role in the development of over 50 ventures, many of which have scaled into impactful businesses with tangible results.  

    According to Radhika Shrivastava, Executive Director at FIIB, “Meraki was incepted from the belief that business education must create real-world impact. We envisioned it as a platform where students live entrepreneurship, don’t just learn it Over the years, Meraki has empowered young innovators to transform bold ideas into viable businesses. At its core, Meraki embodies innovation, sustainability, and social good—principles that will define the future of business.”

    While just a competition, Meraki is also a catalyst for change. It nurtures entrepreneurial spirit, ensuring that profitability and sustainability coexist, bringing forth a generation of founders who recognize that business success must also translate into societal progress. The startups that emerge from this competition don’t just pitch ideas; they create solutions that directly address some of the most pressing global issues.  

    Startups with a Purpose

    Unlike conventional business plan competitions, Meraki is purpose-driven, focusing on ventures that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This ensures that profitability is not the sole metric of success—impact, scalability, and ethical innovation hold equal importance. Its track record includes a wide spectrum of early-stage ventures that have translated technical ingenuity into measurable change, proving that sustainability-driven businesses can thrive in competitive markets.

    Among the standout success stories is Picapool, a geo-location-based pooling platform developed by students at IIT Hyderabad. Designed to facilitate shared purchases, rides, and services, Picapool harnesses the power of collaborative consumption to reduce waste, optimize costs, and build smarter, more sustainable urban mobility solutions. The startup has already facilitated over 1,200 pooled rides and fields more than 300 daily requests, demonstrating its potential for scalability and widespread adoption. Recognizing its promise, the Suzuki Innovation Center awarded the startup INR 15 lakh, a crucial investment that will accelerate its development.  

    Another compelling case is TGP Bioplastics, a Maharashtra-based startup specializing in starch-based compostable plastic alternatives. At a time when the world is grappling with the environmental cost of plastic waste, TGP Bioplastics offers a game-changing solution. By focusing on biodegradable materials that do not compromise on durability, the startup has already secured contracts with John Deere and Mahindra, both of which are integrating TGP’s products into their supply chains. Within just four months, the company has generated INR 53 lakh in revenue, proving that sustainability can be both ethical and profitable.  

    The success of these startups underscores the fundamental ethos of Meraki—great ideas should not remain ideas; they must be built, tested, and launched into the real world.

    A Rigorous Selection Process 

    Meraki’s selection process is meticulously designed to identify and refine high-potential startups. Ventures are assessed on five core evaluation metrics to ensure they have the potential for long-term success:  

    1. Ideation: The competition prioritizes ideas that are original, scalable, and actionable. This means selecting projects that not only demonstrate creativity but also address urgent challenges in practical ways. Innovations like Jalraaj, a water purification system from the Buddha Institute of Technology, Gorakhpur, and OncoALERT, a low-cost, non-invasive cancer screening test from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, embody this spirit of practical problem-solving.
    2. Market Analysis: A great idea is only viable if it has a market. Participants are expected to demonstrate a deep understanding of their target audience, competitive landscape, and potential barriers to adoption. For example, Jalraaj is strategically targeting urban, coastal, and rural markets, offering a cost-effective alternative to conventional water purification methods.  
    3. Value Proposition: Each venture must present a clear and compelling case for why its solution is needed. Whether it is OncoALERT’s biomarker-based oral cancer detection tool, which offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional screening, or Picapool’s shared economy model, which enhances accessibility and affordability, a strong value proposition is a prerequisite.  
    4. Financial Viability: The best ideas fail without financial sustainability. Meraki evaluates how well a startup’s business model supports long-term growth, profitability, and investor appeal. Companies like TGP Bioplastics have demonstrated that eco-conscious products can be both scalable and commercially viable, reinforcing the notion that profit and purpose are not mutually exclusive.  
    5. Sustainability: At the core of Meraki is its commitment to long-term social and environmental impact. Startups must prove that they align with sustainability principles and have a model that ensures their solutions remain relevant, ethical, and impactful in the future.  

    By employing this rigorous selection framework, Meraki ensures that only the most promising, high-impact ventures progress through the competition, receiving mentorship, funding, and industry exposure.  

    Meraki 2025: A Timely Initiative  

    The 2025 edition of Meraki arrives at a time when sustainable solutions have never been more critical. Over the years, the competition has helped launch innovations across multiple industries, from renewable energy startups developed at IIM Bangalore to fintech solutions for small-scale farmers pioneered at JBIMS Mumbai. These projects are not mere academic exercises—they are transformative business models that drive meaningful change.  

    This year, Meraki was bigger than ever, with:  

    • 100+ student teams from top institutions
    • Expanded mentorship programs with seasoned entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders
    • A sharper focus on real-world execution, ensuring ideas don’t just stay in pitch decks but materialize into working businesses

    More than a competition, Meraki serves as a convergence point for emerging entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers, all of whom share a common goal: building businesses that drive impact, profitability, and long-term sustainability.

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  • Microsoft May Shortly Replace the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)

    Microsoft has said that it would be redesigning Windows 11’s Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error message. Instead of the classic blue colour, frowning face and QR code, the new design features a streamlined screen that resembles the black screen that appears when Windows is updating. It’s unclear at this time whether the new BSOD will continue to appear as a black screen when Microsoft releases the update’s final version. According to the blog post, Microsoft’s team is now testing a new, more efficient user interface for unexpected restarts. This new interface fits better with Windows 11 design principles and advances the company’s objective of resuming user productivity as quickly as feasible. It also stated, “We’ve made your experience easier while maintaining the technical information displayed on the screen.”

    Windows Insiders can Test the New Version

    The new BSOD is available for Windows Insiders to test in beta, Dev, and Canary Channel test versions. However, before it is officially released as a black or blue screen, it will show up as a green screen in these test versions. This is the first significant alteration to the BSOD since Windows 8 when Microsoft added a dejected face to the screen. This updated design just says “your device ran into a problem and needs to restart” and incorporates the BSOD error or malfunctioning driver. In test builds of Windows 11 in 2021, Microsoft did briefly change the BSOD to a black screen before returning to the blue screen that had been in use since Windows 8.

    Recent Developments of Microsoft India

    An antitrust action against Microsoft for including its antivirus software with the Windows 10 operating system (OS) has been dropped by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). According to the regulator, there is no proof that Microsoft has imposed any limitations or requirements on customers’ usage of the antivirus program Microsoft Defender. According to the ruling, customers are allowed to install and utilise whatever third-party antivirus software they like, free from contractual or technical restrictions. The Commission does not believe that Microsoft has violated any of the provisions of section 4 of the Competition Act. Section 4 of the Act forbids companies from abusing their position as the market leader.

    When Microsoft debuted its Windows 10 operating system in 2015, the informant claimed in a complaint against the company that Microsoft Defender was pre-installed. According to the complaint, third-party developers may have their software pre-installed through agreements, but not pre-activated, because Windows devices are only permitted to have one default antivirus app. For an antivirus program to function, including to carry out automated background system scans—a key characteristic that sets antivirus software apart—it must be set as the default. It went on to say that the default antivirus program has access to crucial functions like automatic updates, real-time protection, and on-demand scanning, but third-party apps without default status cannot. Because of their incapacity to perform at their best, third-party antivirus programs may find it difficult to compete and may eventually be removed from devices.

  • 600 Customer Service Representatives are Let Go by Zomato

    According to media sources, Zomato decided to fire 600 customer service representatives only a year after they were hired. The aforementioned action is part of the company’s response to its growing reliance on automation to save expenses. This move also added more fire to the rumours of Zomato witnessing a decline in its primary food delivery service. Zomato has also been having trouble with its rapid commerce division, Blinkit, which has been losing more money. Under the Zomato Associate Accelerator Program (ZAAP), the company hired close to 1,500 customer service representatives. This move was aligned with the firm’s aim of advancing these employees into a variety of positions in supply chains, operations, sales, and other departments within a year. Nevertheless, the contracts of a large number of these employees were not extended.

    Terminated Without Giving a Valid Reason

    A month’s salary was being offered as compensation to the affected employees. They had, however, been let go without warning. According to a statement released by the media, one of the customer service representatives claimed that most of the workers hired under the ZAAP programme were let go without giving a reason. Employees also think that their jobs are no longer necessary because Zomato is using AI more and more to automate its customer service system. It should be noted that Zomato just introduced Nugget. It is an AI-powered customer service platform that currently manages millions of support requests for Blinkit, Hyperpure, and Zomato every month.

    Zomato’s Second Layoff Within Short Span of Time

    On 28 March, a former Zomato employee claims in a widely shared Reddit post that the firm unexpectedly and without warning fired over 300 employees. According to the former worker, who says he was one of those affected, the decision was made based on an “average lateness” of only 28 minutes over three months—and this after he had demonstrated good performance and a solid track record. The post claims that Zomato failed to notify the staff of this significant change or provide them with an opportunity to address or resolve their attendance problems. They were astonished when they were unceremoniously terminated instead.

    The user blasted the corporation for treating employees like “disposable” and called this “a cold termination”. Outrage over job security and business ethics in India’s startup sector was sparked by the post, which soon gained popularity. Similar tales were recounted by numerous Reddit users, who questioned the justice of such sudden dismissals. One poster, who claimed to be a current Zomato employee, detailed how quickly the terminations occurred, including how Slack accounts were disabled, access was refused, and staff members were let go without being given a chance to explain themselves. A lawyer encouraged impacted employees to take action and not take this lying down while offering legal support. Employees are being encouraged by users to “fight for the compensation” they are entitled to. Another ex-Zomato employee claimed they were let go for an unclear cause and that they were not informed that differences in login times would be considered non-compliance.

  • Income Tax Department Issues INR 158 Cr Demand Notice to Swiggy

    The Income Tax (I-T) Department has issued a tax demand notice to foodtech giant Swiggy, requesting payment of an additional INR 158.25 Cr. According to Swiggy’s exchange filing, the company is accused of improperly taking deductions for “cancellation charges paid to merchants”. The violations include firstly, Section 37 of the Income Tax Act of 1961 prohibits cancellation charges paid to merchants. Secondly, the submission stated that interest income on the income tax refund had not been given for taxation. The supplementary demand notice, which was issued by the Central Circle of the IT department’s Bangalore office, covers the time frame of April 2021–March 2022. Swiggy stated that it is taking the required actions to safeguard its interests in the interim. Swiggy said it is pursuing the required actions to safeguard its interests through review and appeal since it feels it has compelling reasons against the order. Additionally, the foodtech company thinks that its “financials and operations” won’t be significantly impacted by the demand notice.

    Another Day at the Office for Swiggy

    The business has previously been served with tax notices. Just one week ago, the Income Tax Department office in TDS Circle, Bengaluru, sent Swiggy an income tax demand notice for INR 99 lakh for the April 2017–March 2018 period. A demand notice for INR 326.7 Cr was also issued by the GST department in 2023 to the Sriharsha Majety-led business for the July 2020–March 2022 period. The business has challenged the notice in an appeal. Zomato, Swiggy’s competitor, has also received a barrage of tax letters. An INR 401.70 Cr GST demand letter and an interest penalty of the same amount were sent to the Deepinder Goyal-led company in December of last year.

    Trouble Continues for Swiggy

    Swiggy has been attempting to fizz off fires on several fronts, and this is the latest blow from the tax authorities. The company’s bottom line has suffered due to excessive capital burn and fierce competition in the rapid commerce sector. In Q3 FY25, Swiggy’s net loss increased 39% to INR 799 Cr from INR 574.4 Cr in the same quarter last year. From INR 3,048.6 Cr in Q3 FY24 to INR 3,993.1 Cr in the reviewed quarter, operating revenue increased by 31%. The company’s shares have been declining due to growing losses and heightened competition. Year-to-date (YTD), the stock has dropped by almost 38%. BofA Securities downgraded Zomato and Swiggy this week, pointing to significant losses in rapid commerce and slower growth in their meal delivery business. The broking firm lowered Swiggy’s price target from INR 420 per share to INR 325 and downgraded its recommendation from “Buy” to “Underperform”.

  • Cleanz24: The Go-To Laundry Franchise for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in India

    Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 2: Cleanz24, India’s fastest-growing laundry and dry cleaning franchise chain, is setting benchmarks in the franchising world. In just nine months, the brand has successfully expanded to 50+ stores, establishing itself as a trusted name in the laundry industry. With ambitious plans to reach 100+ stores by the end of 2025 and a vision to achieve 1,000+ stores over the next four years, Cleanz24 is empowering aspiring entrepreneurs across the country to join its mission of revolutionizing the laundry sector.

    A Proven Business Model for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    Cleanz24 offers a hassle-free and profitable franchise model designed to meet the needs of first-time and experienced entrepreneurs alike. With low operational complexities, comprehensive training, and ongoing support, Cleanz24 ensures that franchisees have the tools and knowledge to succeed.

    “Our success is built on the success of our franchisees. With Cleanz24, you’re not just starting a business—you’re joining a community that’s dedicated to excellence and growth,” said Somnath, CEO at Cleanz24.

    Why Cleanz24 Is the Preferred Choice for Entrepreneurs

    1. Rapid Expansion: 50+ stores in 9 months, with an ambitious goal of 100+ stores by the end of 2025 and 1,000+ stores in the next four years.
    2. High Returns: Proven business model with the potential for strong ROI within the first year.
    3. Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive step-by-step guidance, from location selection to marketing strategies.
    4. Sustainable Practices: Cleanz24 prioritizes eco-friendly solutions, making it a responsible choice for today’s conscious consumers.

    Driving Growth in India’s Laundry Industry

    India’s laundry industry is witnessing rapid growth, driven by increasing urbanization and the rising demand for professional services. With a market size valued at billions, the sector offers immense potential for organized players like Cleanz24. The brand’s focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and entrepreneurship has made it a standout name in this burgeoning industry.

    A Bright Future for Cleanz24 Franchisees

    Cleanz24’s franchise model is designed to deliver results. With a robust system that minimizes operational challenges, franchisees can focus on providing high-quality services to their customers. The company’s commitment to growth and support ensures that every partner has the tools to thrive in this lucrative industry.

    “We’re proud of the milestones we’ve achieved, but this is just the beginning. Our vision is to create a network of 1,000+ successful franchises over the next four years, offering unparalleled services to customers and opportunities to entrepreneurs across India,” added Somnath.

    If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur looking for a profitable business opportunity, Cleanz24 is the ideal partner. With a growing network, proven business model, and dedicated support, Cleanz24 is the go-to laundry franchise in India.

    About Cleanz24

    Cleanz24 is a premier laundry and dry cleaning franchise chain in India, committed to delivering quality, convenience, and sustainability. With over 50+ stores in its network and plans to expand to 1,000+ stores in the next four years, the brand is revolutionizing the laundry industry and empowering entrepreneurs to achieve their business dreams.

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  • Elaborated Details Ratan Tata’s Will: Who Gets What?

    According to numerous media reports, the late entrepreneur Ratan Tata‘s inheritance would mainly benefit the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation and the Ratan Tata Endowment Trust. Both of these entities are committed to charity and philanthropic endeavours. The business tycoon’s estate is estimated to be worth approximately INR 3,800 crore. Tata’s February 23, 2022, will specify how his assets will be distributed, with an emphasis on continuing the charity causes he supported. According to the reports, these two organisations will receive the majority of his legacy, which includes the ordinary and preference shares of Tata Sons as well as other financial assets. He has reserved a sizeable amount of his fortune for his close friends, family, and acquaintances.

    Who Gets What in Tata’s Family?

    Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, his half-sisters, and Mohini M. Dutta, a former Tata Group employee close to Tata. Both of these ladies will divide a third of the late industrialist’s bank fixed deposits, financial instruments, and physical possessions like art and timepieces, estimated at INR 800 crore. Close friend Mehli Mistry is expected to acquire the Alibaug property and his cherished collection of three firearms, including a a.25-bore pistol. Tata’s brother Jimmy Naval Tata would inherit a portion of the family’s Juhu house. According to court documents, it also has a fourth supplement that states that unlisted stocks and shares, along with any assets not otherwise specified, shall be divided equally between the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation and the Ratan Tata Endowment Trust, the report stated. The executors of Tata’s will, Mehli Mistry, his sisters Shireen and Deanna Jejeebhoy, and attorney Darius Kambatta have petitioned the Bombay High Court as part of the probate procedure. It is anticipated that the legal process known as probate, which verifies the validity of a will and gives the executors the power to divide the assets, will take around six months.

    Tata’s Close Employees and Pet Also Get their Share

    In addition to a loan waiver of INR 51 lakh, Ratan Tata left his long-time cook Rajan Shaw a little over INR 1 crore. His secretary Delnaz Gilder has been handed INR 10 lakh. His butler, Subbaiah Konar, will receive INR 66 lakh, which includes a INR 36 lakh debt waiver. Ratan Tata ordered that his clothing be given to non-governmental organisations for distribution to the poor. Brands he wore included Brioni suits, Daks, Polo, Hermes ties, and Brooks Brothers shirts. Additionally, he waived off his executive assistant Shantanu Naidu a loan of INR 1 crore. He had taken this loan to pursue his MBA at Cornell University. In addition, he waived a loan of INR 18 lakh to his driver, Raju Leon, and another loan to his neighbour. Ratan Tata loved animals, and his testament made specific mention of his dog Tito. For the German Shepherd (Tito), the businessman set aside INR 12 lakh, with INR 30,000 being paid off each quarter. Rajan Shaw will continue to look after Tito.

  • Shark Tank-Funded and PV Sindhu-Backed Better Nutrition Secures INR 10 Crore Funding from Top Investors Across Google, Meta, & More

    Better Nutrition, India’s first Biofortified food brand, has successfully raised INR 10 crore in its latest funding round. The investment brings together a strategic alliance of family offices, high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), and angel investors, all united by a shared vision: making nutrient-rich food affordable and accessible to every Indian household. This round saw strong reaffirmation from early investors, with nearly 30% of the total funding coming from existing backers – demonstrating deep confidence in Better Nutrition’s mission and execution capabilities.

    This fundraising round wasn’t just about securing capital – it was about forging a coalition of strategic partners across industries to propel the brand’s next phase of growth.

    Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals and a Shark Tank India investor, emphasized the significance of the brand’s mission, “Better Nutrition is addressing one of the most pressing yet often overlooked issues – hidden hunger. Their approach is innovative, their mission is transformative, and they are committed to making an impact. This is the kind of business that aligns both health and financial viability, making a tangible difference in people’s lives.”

    Shantanu Deshpande, Founder & CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, who invested through his fund The BarberShop, which also facilitated participation from a network of seasoned angels, entrepreneurs, and venture capitalists, said: “Better Nutrition is that rare combination of a purpose-driven mission with founder-level clarity and execution. Their sharp focus on scaling biofortification and reimagining everyday nutrition makes them not just an investable business—but a movement you want to be a part of and help shape.”

    Better Nutrition’s feature on Shark Tank India catapulted biofortified foods into national awareness. Since then, the brand has witnessed remarkable growth, achieving a 5X increase in revenue, a 10X surge in website traffic, fulfilling over 25,000 orders, and expanding across major quick commerce platforms, including Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket.

    Prateek Rastogi, Co-founder of Better Nutrition, underscored the power of this funding round saying, “This wasn’t a round we raised – it was a round we constructed. Every name on this cap table represents a very specific lever we’ll need in the coming phase – whether it’s last-mile logistics, content-led commerce, international trade, corporate governance, or institutional capital access. In today’s environment, capital is available—but building the right capital+capability stack is what separates momentum from real scale. That’s what this round was about.”

    Aishwarya Bhatnagar, Co-founder of Better Nutrition, shared an ambitious outlook saying, “We are on track to build a ₹1000 crore brand by the end of the decade. We’ve taken our proprietary tech beyond staples and are now scaling it across pulses, oilseeds, and other foundational crops. What excites us most is the next line of products – foods made from our own crops, where we retain their nutrient density, low-GI profile, and pesticide-free integrity. We’ve focused not just on one trait, but stacked multiple benefits—higher iron, zinc, protein, better digestibility – and brought them together in formats that are ready for everyday India.”

    The newly raised funds will be deployed to expand product offerings in biofortified food categories, strengthen distribution across quick commerce, offline retail, and direct-to-consumer (D2C) channels, scale farmer training programs and sustainable sourcing initiatives, and invest in R&D and nationwide awareness campaigns to educate consumers on biofortified foods. 

    The funding round also saw participation from Aclr8.vc, the fund co-led by Apurva Chamaria (Global Head – Venture Capital & Startups, Google), Karan Jindal (India Lead – Content Marketing, Meta), and Arjun Vaidya (V3 Ventures), Akshay Ghulati (Shiprocket) Greenday, the parent company of Better Nutrition, had raised INR 3.1 crore in 2022 in a round led by IIM Ahmedabad Ventures. Since then, the company has witnessed a 3X growth in both revenue and valuation, reflecting strong traction in its mission-driven business model.

    About Better Nutrition

    Better Nutrition is committed to addressing the nation’s nutritional challenges by offering biofortified grains that are naturally enriched with essential nutrients such as zinc, iron, protein, and calcium. By collaborating with over 15,000 farmers and fostering a growing network of rural micro-entrepreneurs, Better Nutrition strives to make nutrient-rich grains accessible to every Indian household, thereby enhancing energy, immunity, and overall health without necessitating significant dietary changes. The company has garnered recognition for its innovative approach, including securing investments from prominent figures like PV Sindhu and Masterchef Pankaj Bhadouria and featuring on platforms such as Shark Tank India Season 4. Headquartered in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Better Nutrition continues to lead the way in promoting health and wellness through its range of biofortified products.

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