Ringg AI secured $5.5 million in a series A funding round led by Arkam Ventures

Ringg AI $5.5 million funding

Ringg AI has secured $5.5 million (approximately ₹48 crore) in a Series A round. Arkam Ventures led this massive capital inflow. Other key investors who joined this venture include the Groww Founder Fund, Kunal Shah, and White Venture Capital. Current investor Capital2B was also a part of the round, and this is an indication of ongoing confidence in the vision of the company. The capital is a turning point for the startup because it is determined to establish itself in the constantly changing environment of conversational AI.

Fresh capital and the platform’s versatility

The new capital will be invested in some important growth projects. Much of the investment will be channelled into the construction of GPU clusters and creating their own artificial intelligence models. Building its own models will allow Ringg AI to cycle faster in deployments and remove its existing reliance on third-party APIs, improving the effectiveness and independence of the platform.

Ringg AI has rapidly differentiated itself through the development of a no-code, multi-lingual voice-AI orchestration platform. This new technology enables businesses to build, implement, and operate AI voice agents in a highly diverse set of inbound and outbound applications.

The flexibility of the platform is reflected in its use in different business units, such as customer support, sales, collections, logistics, lead qualification, and scheduling of appointments. It is also being applied to more precise tasks, including delivery confirmations and screening candidates, which turns into an all-inclusive answer to the needs of the modern enterprise.

The technical features of the platform are also emphasised by the fact that it supports 18 languages. This contains 10 Indian languages and the world languages like English, Arabic, Spanish, French, German, and Bahasa. Ringg AI allows businesses to interact well with a wide range of customers and a global customer base by providing a wide range of linguistic assistance.

The performance of the platform can be shown in its current performance indicators, which show that it drives about 1.5 million customer conversations monthly. Almost 77% of these interactions cannot be handled by human people, and so, this is a demonstration of the high level of sophistication of their AI voice agents.

Ringg AI has already brought more than 20 enterprise clients to major markets such as India, the United States, and Saudi Arabia. Its remarkable client list comprises large companies like CRED, PharmEasy, Shiprocket, Flipkart, and Shell. These collaborations indicate the capability of the platform to be used in high-scale and high-demand settings. To expand its influence, the startup is in the process of piloting in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), US-East, and North America, a clear indication of its desire to be the leader in the international voice AI market.

Conclusion

The successful Series A round, led by Arkam Ventures, makes Ringg AI a force in the voice AI industry. By specialising in proprietary technology and its no-code business model, the start-up is clearing the obstacles to large-scale automation in enterprise communications. The shift to independent AI models and dedicated GPU infrastructure may also give the company the competitive advantage that it will require in order to continue growing rapidly when it extends its presence to India and the global markets.

Millions of automated conversations are already being held every month by Ringg AI, which is well underway to reinvent the process of business and consumer interaction using voice as a powerful tool.

Cumin Co secured $5 million in a strategic funding round to enhance R&D and market expansion

Cumin Co $5 million funding

Cumin Co has raised $5 million in its recent equity round to help it fast-track its growth path in the Indian changing culinary environment in India. Prominent venture capital firms and institutional investors led the investment round, which is a major milestone for the startup. This capital injection will go toward the development of the research and development (R&D) capabilities of the company, the expansion of its manufacturing business, and the expansion of its distribution network throughout the country.

Growth and prioritizing innovation

The brand has been able to establish a niche of a blend of contemporary design and classic safety. With its commitment to toxin-free and long-lasting engineering, Cumin Co is responding to an expanding consumer trend in the market to buy kitchenware that is not as convenient as it may be unhealthy. The founders emphasized that the new capital will be central to shaping the brand into becoming more of a category leader as Indian households are becoming inclined to use premium and health-focused home solutions.

A significant part of the investment of $5 million will be redirected to the brand into the R&D department. Material science is a major aspect that Cumin Co has always stressed in its product development strategy. The brand intends to further innovate with this new capital, with a focus on developing innovative and high-quality products that are advanced (baby-food safe) and durable, in line with international standards of safety.

Consideration of R&D is not only in terms of product performance but also its longevity and sustainability. The brand will produce cookware that can be passed down through the generations by investing in higher quality manufacturing and materials, which are able to challenge the disposable nature of the current kitchen appliances culture. Such quality assurance is likely to build a firm consumer confidence and a competitive advantage in a market that has seen very little growth over the decades.

New capital and expansion

In addition to innovation, Cumin Co will use the funds to aggressively expand the distribution network and supply chain resilience. The brand has a first direct-to-consumer (D2C) model at the moment, using its online store and key marketplaces such as Amazon to distribute its offerings to a large number of customers.

The new capital will be used to pursue a more measured growth into offline retail and fast commerce platforms. The founders have shown their interest in developing an experiential shop-in-shop format and standalone stores, as they appreciate that cookware is a high-consideration, haptic category where a physical touch can become a conversion and retention factor.

The company already has a strong market penetration, reaching thousands of households in over 18,000 pin codes. As the business expands, Cumin Co will have a goal of expanding its consumer base to more than 100,000 households in the coming year. The brand will target the immediate needs of consumers in the city, who focus on speed and quality as well, when upgrading their kitchen by strengthening its presence on quick commerce platforms such as Blinkit and Zepto.

Conclusion

The $5 million fundraising is a transformational time in the life of the Cumin Co as it strives to reinvent the Indian kitchenware segment. With a strong distribution strategy and strict R&D, the brand is poised to transform an old and neglected category. As it enters the phase of expansion and launching new product lines, Cumin Co is focused on its vision of offering toxin-free and high-performance cookware that appeals to health-conscious consumers.

This is a strategic investment that not only powers the immediate growth of the company but also establishes an excellent benchmark in the domestic kitchenware industry, in terms of safety and innovation.

Voice AI startup Bolna raises $6.3 million in seed round led by  General Catalyst 

Bolna $6.3 million funding

Bolna, a voice AI startup based in Bengaluru, has successfully secured $6.3 million in a seed  funding round led by the global venture capital firm General Catalyst. This funding round  also saw significant contributions from Y Combinator, Blume Ventures, Orange Collective,  Pioneer Fund, Transpose Capital, and Eight Capital, alongside notable angel investors like  Aarthi Ramamurthy, Arpan Sheth, Watsan Madhavan, Ravi Iyer, and Taro Fukuyama. The  company made this announcement on January 20. 

This investment arrives at a crucial time as Indian enterprises are transitioning from  experimental artificial intelligence pilots to large-scale automation, particularly in handling  high-volume voice interactions. Many organisations across various sectors, including  customer support, logistics, recruitment, collections, and onboarding, still rely heavily on  traditional IVR systems or human-operated workflows, which are often costly, challenging to  scale, and not well-suited for India’s diverse linguistic landscape. 

Advancing Enterprise-Grade Voice Automation 

Bolna plans to use the newly acquired funds to enhance its engineering and deployment  capabilities, improve its proprietary AI and machine learning systems for vernacular voice  interactions, and bolster its enterprise-grade infrastructure to support high-volume,  production-ready deployments. 

“Voice remains the most vital engagement channel for enterprises. However, the shift from  IVR or human-driven processes to voice AI is a lengthy and intricate journey,” remarked  Maitreya Wagh, Founder and CEO of Bolna. “Our primary goal is to empower enterprises to  independently build, test, deploy, and monitor voice AI agents at scale, without any friction.” 

Creating Scalable and Multilingual Voice AI Solutions

Founded in 2024 by Maitreya Wagh and Prateek Sachan, Bolna has introduced a self-service  platform that enables enterprises to design, deploy, and manage voice AI agents without the  need for extensive implementation timelines or deep AI expertise. The platform currently  supports over ten Indian languages and is designed to operate effectively in real-world  telephony environments, including noisy settings and diverse regional accents. 

Since its initial commercial launch in May 2025, Bolna has experienced remarkable growth.  The platform has expanded from managing around 1,500 calls per day to over 200,000 daily  calls, marking an astonishing growth rate of more than 13,000 percent. The company now  caters to over 1,050 paying customers across various sectors, including e-commerce, BFSI,  logistics, recruitment, and education, with notable clients such as Varun Beverages, Spinny,  and Snabbit. 

Technology-Driven Differentiation 

A standout feature of Bolna’s platform is its proprietary orchestration layer, which  intelligently directs each call to the most appropriate AI model based on factors like  language, context, and use case. This strategy allows enterprises to avoid reliance on a single  foundational model, resulting in enhanced accuracy and efficiency. 

“We firmly believe that one foundational model cannot meet the diverse needs of enterprise  voice AI,” stated Prateek Sachan, Co-founder and CTO of Bolna. “Our orchestration layer  ensures that every call is managed by the best-fit model, rather than confining enterprises to a  single provider ecosystem.” 

Industry Confidence and Future Prospects 

Neeraj Arora, CEO India and MENA and Managing Director at General Catalyst, expressed  confidence in Bolna’s vision, stating, “Bolna significantly streamlines the process of building  and deploying voice AI agents. We see great potential for the company to become the default  platform for enterprises looking to automate voice-based interactions at scale.” 

With its emphasis on multilingual capabilities, scalable infrastructure, and enterprise-focused  design, Bolna is well-positioned to play a crucial role in transforming voice automation  across Indian businesses, aligning perfectly with the country’s rapidly evolving digital and  AI-driven economy.

WanderOn secured ₹54 crore in a Series A funding round co-led by DSG Consumer Partners and the Client Associates Alternate Fund (CAAF)

WanderOn ₹54 crore funding

Experiential travel startup, WanderOn, has raised ₹54 crore in its Series A funding round. This is a milestone in the Indian travel-tech industry. DSG Consumer Partners and the Client Associates Alternate Fund (CAAF) were the co-leaders of this new capital injection. The investment is an important milestone in the history of the Gurugram-based firm that has been able to create a significant business presence before this institutional round.

Strategic utilization of the capital

The investment is timed as the travel market is shifting to curated and immersive experiences. With this capital, WanderOn will be in a position to reinforce its market and improve its service delivery. The involvement of lead investors such as DSG Consumer Partners and CAAF reflects the increased investor confidence in the experience travel market, especially those platforms that serve the emerging preferences of the younger generation.

WanderOn has provided a roadmap to the implementation of the new money that has been acquired. One of the main goals is to make the traveling experience of its growing user base more immersive and accessible. The company will also expand its destination list to provide more variety on domestically and internationally based circuits. However, the capital will support the high-growth sectors like adventure travel, sports-based trips, and wellness tourism, which have experienced increased demand in the recent past.

WanderOn will invest heavily in technology, in addition to the expansion of its physical travel offerings. It is aimed to optimize the whole traveler experience, beginning with the discovery stage till the post-trip interaction. The startup plans to become more digital and thereby offer a smoother, end-to-end experience to travelers, to make the process of planning and booking a trip as hassle-free as the actual trip itself.

Operating the D2D model and robust growth

WanderOn organizes road trips, walking tours, and personalized tours with the focus being placed on obscure sites and organic social bonds among the participants. Based on the direct-to-consumer (D2C) business model, WanderOn relies on digital narratives and engagement campaigns led by influencers to its user base. 

The approach has enabled the brand to create a community of adventure travelers. The positioning of the brand revolves around the idea of traveling unapologetically authentic and concentrates on unpolished and authentic stories that can appeal to young adults who want to experience meaningful shared experiences on their trips.

Before this Series A round, WanderOn was a bootstrapped company, having shown extraordinary financial strength and development. The firm has already grown to a company with a revenue of more than ₹100 crore, and it has actually been almost twice year-on-year in the post pandemic period.

Up to now, the platform boasts of handling in excess of 1 lakh travelers to various international and local destinations. But its emphasis on curated group travel and building community gives it a unique competitive advantage in the already competitive market. As WanderOn grows its presence and develops its own Indian-first philosophy based on experiences, it is set to become a stronger brand in the travel-tech sector, offering affordable and enjoyable adventures to the upcoming generation of adventurers.

Conclusion

The ₹54 crore Series A round led by DSG Consumer Partners and CAAF is an important milestone in the journey of WanderOn. Having shifted its successful bootstrapped model to an institutional capital-supported one, the company will join forces and boost its growth and innovativeness. The investments in technology, as well as various categories of travel, as planned is a strategic approach to fulfilling the advanced needs of contemporary Indian travelers. 

Havells Q3 FY26: Cable outperformance balances seasonally weak durables 

Havells Q3 FY26 performance

Havells India Ltd. has showcased impressive financial results for the third quarter of FY26,  largely propelled by significant growth in its Cable and Wire segment. This growth  effectively counterbalanced the seasonal dips observed in some consumer durables categories. The company reported a commendable year-on-year rise in key financial  indicators, highlighting its operational strength, prudent cost management, and steady  demand in infrastructure-related sectors. 

In Q3 FY26, Havells achieved a net revenue of ₹5,573 crore, marking a 14.2% increase  compared to the previous year. The earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and  amortisation (EBITDA) surged by 21.4% to reach ₹524 crore, showcasing enhanced  operational efficiency. Profit Before Tax (PBT), excluding exceptional items, rose by 17.7%  year-on-year to ₹450 crore. It is noteworthy that during this quarter, the company also  recorded an exceptional expense of ₹45.03 crore due to the reassessment of employee benefit  obligations following the introduction of new labour codes. 

Financial Performance Overview 

Havells’ quarterly performance illustrates its ability to achieve growth across various  business segments while adhering to margin discipline. Key highlights for Q3 FY26 include: 

• Net Revenue: ₹5,573 crore, up 14.2% YoY 

• EBITDA: ₹524 crore, reflecting a 21.4% YoY increase 

• Profit Before Tax (excluding exceptional items): ₹450 crore, up 17.7% YoY

The robust revenue growth, particularly in the cables segment, along with controlled  operating expenses, has bolstered profitability, even amid mixed demand in consumer focused areas. 

Segment-Wise Business Performance 

Havells’ diverse portfolio exhibited varied performance across its segments during the  quarter: 

• Switchgears: Revenue of ₹624 crore, up 8.2% YoY 

• Cables & Wires: Revenue of ₹2,241 crore, a remarkable 32.8% YoY growth

• Lighting & Fixtures: Revenue of ₹423 crore, down 4.0% YoY 

• Electrical Consumer Durables: Revenue of ₹1,151 crore, up 4.3% YoY 

The Cable and Wire segment stood out, benefiting from robust demand in infrastructure,  industrial, and real estate projects. Conversely, the lighting and select consumer durables  faced slight pressure due to seasonal trends. The Lloyd Consumer segment reported a revenue  of ₹694 crore, reflecting a 6.5% YoY decline during the quarter. 

Key Financial Ratios and Returns 

Havells has maintained strong profitability and capital efficiency metrics: 

• Operating Profit Margin (OPM): 9.4% 

• Return on Equity (ROE): 17.4% 

• Return on Capital Employed (ROCE): 23.3% 

These ratios highlight the company’s effective capital utilisation and its commitment to  growth driven by returns. 

Balance Sheet Snapshot 

As of December 2025 (unaudited), Havells’ balance sheet remains robust and well capitalised: 

• Total Assets: ₹14,166 crore 

• Total Equity: ₹8,989 crore 

• Total Current Assets: ₹7,669 crore 

Exceptional Item and Regulatory Impact 

In Q3 FY26, Havells recognised an exceptional charge of ₹45.03 crore related to the  reassessment of employee benefit obligations following the notification of the New Labour  Codes by the Ministry of Labour and Employment. The management has clarified that this is  a one-time adjustment and does not affect the core operating performance of the company. 

Conclusion

Havells India’s Q3 FY26 results reflect a well-balanced and resilient business model, with the  strong performance of the cable segment offsetting temporary weaknesses in certain  consumer categories. With solid margins, healthy returns, and a strong balance sheet, the  company is well-equipped to navigate short-term demand fluctuations while seizing long term opportunities in infrastructure and electrification within the Indian market.

Wellbeing startup SuperLiving secured $2 million in a strategic funding round led by Kae Capital

SuperLiving $2 million funding

A major paradigm shift in Indian wellness is being observed towards preventive care, and the startup SuperLiving in Bengaluru is the first to take the initiative. As of late, the lifestyle and wellbeing platform stated that it has already obtained $2 million in a new strategic funding round. Kae Capital led this investment, which included All In Capital and a group of high-profile angel investors. This financial capital comes after a previous pre-seed infusion of approximately ₹2 crore that was raised in September 2025, following the company’s success in the Elevator Pitch event.

Utilization of the capital

The new funding obtained will be allocated to several key areas of development that will witness wellness become more accessible to more people. SuperLiving will use the $2 million to expand its product base and upgrade its proprietary AI companion.

A substantial part of the investment will also focus on the development of vernacular and culturally specific content, as it should make the platform appealing to users in various parts of India. In addition, the startup will focus on expansion of its distribution channels, namely, a more intense infiltration into Tier II and Tier III markets.

Manavdeep Singh Grover and Gurjot Kaur established SuperLiving in 2025. SuperLiving is an artificial intelligence-based preventive lifestyle platform. It will help you navigate the pillars of health that are important, such as nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, and the formation of everyday habits.

Compared to other wellness sites that often promote expensive supplements or intense exercise programs, SuperLiving emphasizes the aspect of sustainable change by providing small learning segments. It has a 24×7 AI companion that builds around individual schedules, personal constraints, and cultural specifics to enable users to have better daily health habits.

Personalization and primary focus

Mass adoption and regional inclusivity are two of the key characteristics of SuperLiving. The platform has affordable courses ranging between ₹99 and ₹250, making it accessible to a major demographic. The startup incorporates vernacular content and AI-personalized lifestyle programs to ensure that the advice it provides is realistic and can be related to the Indian context. The advanced AI of the platform examines the behavior of users on over 115 lifestyle parameters and can continuously optimize recommendations and offer habit-forming prompts that are highly customized to the engagement patterns of each individual.

Whereas there are numerous digital health portals that target the urban centers, SuperLiving is specifically designed to cater to the Indian heartland. The startup is mainly aimed at households between the 25-55 years age group, with Tier II and Tier III cities being given primary consideration.

This plan is already paying off; in 2.5 months since launching the monetization model, the company claimed it has more than 70 percent of its paying users who do not reside in big cities. This information denotes a strong and increasing need for affordable and digital wellness solutions within small towns and cities nationwide.

SuperLiving is already active in a broad range of wellness segments, including broad nutrition and fitness, as well as niche segments, such as mental health and prenatal care. The platform also has gamified tracking features and reward systems to ensure that the users are engaged and motivated to utilize it. All these functions aim at making the otherwise rather challenging process of lifestyle change engaging and enjoyable, so as to promote the long-term commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

Having successfully closed its $2 million round of funding, SuperLiving can effectively fill the gap between high-priced wellness services and the daily needs of the Indian population. The platform is transforming preventive healthcare into a reality for millions of people by integrating low-cost, regional language support and the latest AI technology. With the company still growing its activities and perfecting its AI-driven intelligence, it can be seen as the central figure in the quest to democratize health and wellness in the diverse geographical and economic background of India.

Budget 2026 Expectations Highlights: Policy and govt reforms  in high demand ahead of Fin Min Sitharaman’s speech 

Budget 2026 Expectations Highlights

As the nation gears up for the unveiling of the Union Budget 2026, anticipation is building  across various sectors for robust policy initiatives and impactful government reforms.  Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Budget on 1 February, and it is being  closely monitored by industry leaders, economists, and policy influencers for insights into  India’s economic priorities and reform strategies. 

This year’s Budget carries additional weight as it marks Nirmala Sitharaman’s ninth  consecutive presentation, a historic achievement in India’s parliamentary history. It also  represents the second comprehensive Budget under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s  government during its third consecutive term, further amplifying expectations for long-term  economic planning and structural reforms. 

As the Indian economy navigates global challenges while striving for domestic growth,  stakeholders are eager for clarity on reforms that can enhance investment, bolster  infrastructure development, promote job creation, and ensure fiscal stability. Budget 2026 is  widely regarded as a pivotal opportunity for the government to lay out a clear roadmap for  sustained economic growth and governance reforms. 

Union Budget 2026: Parliamentary Timeline and Key Milestones 

The Budget Session of Parliament will commence on 28 January with a joint address by  President Droupadi Murmu to both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Parliamentary  activities will continue on 29 January, as per the provisional calendar released by the Lok  Sabha Secretariat. On 31 January, Finance Minister Sitharaman is anticipated to present the  Economic Survey, which offers a thorough evaluation of the country’s economic 

performance and future outlook. This document, prepared under the guidance of Chief  Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran, traditionally sets the stage for the Budget  announcement. 

On 1 February, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present Union Budget 2026 at 11  AM in the Lok Sabha. The first phase of the Budget Session is set to conclude on 13  February, after which the second phase will begin on 9 March. The entire Budget Session  will wrap up on 2 April, following which both Houses of Parliament will be adjourned sine  die. 

Why Union Budget 2026 Is Particularly Significant 

The Union Budget serves as the annual financial statement of the Government of India, as  mandated by Article 112 of the Constitution. It outlines the anticipated receipts and  expenditures for the upcoming financial year, while also detailing key policy measures,  reform initiatives, and developmental priorities. 

Budget 2026 is especially significant as it follows a national election cycle. Last February,  the finance minister presented an interim Budget ahead of the general elections, which was  succeeded by the full Union Budget 2025 in July after the government was re-elected.  Consequently, Budget 2026 is expected to embody a more comprehensive and forward looking policy framework. 

Another noteworthy aspect of this year’s Budget is the historic personal milestone for  Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. With nine consecutive Budget presentations, she will  become the first finance minister in India to achieve this feat. Should she present the Budget  next year as well, she will match the record set by former Prime Minister Morarji Desai, who  presented ten Budgets during his tenure. 

Conclusion 

Union Budget 2026 is poised to be a defining moment for India’s economic and policy  landscape. With rising expectations surrounding governance reforms, fiscal responsibility,  and long-term growth strategies, the Budget is anticipated to clarify the government’s vision  for the future. As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to deliver her ninth  consecutive Budget, the emphasis remains on policy continuity, reform momentum, and  fortifying India’s economic resilience in a changing global environment.

Birla Global University Invites Applications for First Batch of MBA in Communication Management

Birla Global University MBA Communication Management Admissions

The programme focuses strongly on corporate boardroom brand communication requirements

20th January, 2026 | Bhubaneswar: Birla Global University (BGU), a premier university from Birla Group, invites applications for the first batch, i.e., 2026–28 batch of its MBA in Communication Management programme. The program responds to the strong industry demand for skilled communication managers across corporate, media, consulting, and public policy domains.  In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing interdisciplinary education, experiential learning, and competency-based outcomes, BGU marks a significant step in strengthening its management education portfolio, with a focus on communication-led leadership.

The MBA in Communication Management at BGU has been designed to prepare future-ready professionals capable of navigating the evolving landscape of brand communication, corporate communication management, crisis management, media engagement, and digital communication. 

Key Highlights of the MBA in Communication Management Programme:

  • Integrated Communication Curriculum: Blends management fundamentals with corporate communication, branding, advertising, public relations, digital media strategy, and content management.
  • Digital-First Orientation: Emphasizes digital storytelling, use of digital tools, social media strategy, data-driven communication, and emerging technologies.
  • Industry-Aligned Learning: Curriculum developed with inputs from industry experts, media professionals, and communication leaders.
  • Experiential Pedagogy: Live projects, case studies, simulations, internships, and industry interactions to ensure practical exposure.
  • Career-Focused Outcomes: Prepares graduates for roles in corporate communication, brand management, media strategy, digital marketing, public affairs, and consultancy.

Prof. (Dr.) Kulbhushan Balooni, Vice Chancellor, Birla Global University, said, “Taking Birla Group’s legacy forward with Birla Global University, we are committed to shaping future-ready leaders who can thrive in a data-driven and digitally connected world. As communication increasingly defines leadership, trust, and organisational success, our focus is on integrating strategic thinking, industry relevance, and experiential learning to empower students to create impact, build influence, and drive meaningful informed transformation across sectors.”

Speaking on the launch, Dr. Shiv Shankar Das, Dean, Birla School of Communication, Birla Global University, said, “The MBA in Communication Management reflects BGU’s commitment to addressing the evolving needs of organisations where communication plays a strategic role in leadership, governance, and brand building. The programme is designed to create professionals who can think strategically, communicate ethically, and lead confidently in complex business environments.”

The learning ecosystem at BGU fosters creativity, innovation, critical thinking, and strategic decision-making, preparing graduates to succeed in leadership roles across communication-driven industries.

Eligibility and Admission Process

ParticularsDetails
Applicant Category 1 (Entrance Exam Based)Applicant Category 1 (Entrance Exam-Based) Candidates with valid scores in CAT / XAT / GMAT / CMAT / MAT may apply using their respective exam scores.
Applicant Category 2 (BGU Entrance Test – BET)Candidates who do not have any of the above entrance exam scores may apply through the Birla Global University Entrance Test (BET), followed by WAT & PI.
Minimum EligibilityBachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university with a minimum 50% aggregate or equivalent CGPA (45% for reserved categories as per norms)
Detailed Eligibility Criteriahttps://www.bgu.ac.in/mba-communication-management
Application SubmissionApplication Submission Candidates are required to submit their applications through the online application form at the link below https://forms.bgu.ac.in/mba
Personal InterviewShortlisted candidates will be invited for the Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI) after initial screening.
Application Opening Date26th Sept. 2025
Application Closing Date31st June 2026
Fees

About Birla Global University (BGU):-

Birla Global University (BGU), Bhubaneswar, is a premier multidisciplinary university promoted by the renowned Birla Group. Known for its strong academic foundation, industry-oriented curriculum, and focus on holistic education, BGU is committed to nurturing future-ready professionals and responsible leaders. Spread across a modern, state-of-the-art campus in Bhubaneswar, the university offers a vibrant learning ecosystem supported by contemporary infrastructure, advanced laboratories, and technology-enabled classrooms.

Birla Global University places a strong emphasis on innovation, research, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning. Through industry collaborations, hackathons, live projects, and incubation-driven initiatives, the university actively bridges the gap between academia and real-world applications. BGU encourages interdisciplinary learning and promotes the use of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, data analytics, and digital platforms across its academic programmes.

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and executive education programmes across disciplines including Management, Engineering & Technology, Commerce, Economics, Law, Media Studies, and Applied Sciences. With a strong focus on skill development, leadership training, and ethical values, Birla Global University aims to contribute meaningfully to nation-building and the evolving global knowledge economy.

Follow us on: 

India’s $700-billion startup market moves from hype to execution 

India’s $700-billion startup market

As the nation gears up for the unveiling of the Union Budget 2026, anticipation is building  India’s startup ecosystem has reached a remarkable milestone, with an estimated combined  valuation of $700 billion in 2025. This impressive figure positions India as one of the most  significant startup markets globally, but the real transformation goes beyond mere numbers.  

The ecosystem is evolving from a phase characterized by rapid growth and attention-grabbing  headlines to one focused on execution, sustainability, and long-term value creation. 

This shift represents a clear change from the exuberance seen just a few years back. In 2021,  Indian startups attracted nearly $42 billion in funding, propelled by abundant global liquidity  and aggressive scaling strategies. However, funding levels moderated to $25 billion in 2022  and have stabilised between $10 billion and $12 billion annually from 2023 to 2025. Rather  than indicating a downturn, this phase signifies a recalibration. Capital is still active, but it is  now being deployed with more scrutiny and intent. 

Pranav Sheth, Managing Director of Corporate Finance at Alvarez & Marsal, observes that  the current funding landscape reflects a return to core business fundamentals. He points out  that funding has normalised, with investments being spread across a wider array of  companies instead of being concentrated in a few mega rounds. This shift is cultivating a  healthier and more resilient investment environment that prioritises measured growth over  unchecked expansion. 

The structure of startup funding has also seen significant improvement. Large funding rounds  exceeding $100 million, which once accounted for over 70% of annual investments in 2021,  now contribute roughly 30%. More capital is flowing into early-stage, mid-stage, and select  growth-stage ventures, fostering balanced development throughout the ecosystem. With  nearly $100 billion in dry powder available across venture capital and private equity funds,  and with exit pathways becoming clearer, startup investments are projected to grow by 10– 15% in 2026, reaching approximately $12–12.6 billion. 

Valuations Strengthen as Exit Pathways Improve

The $700 billion valuation milestone is currently supported by 126 unicorns, collectively  valued at around $365 billion. Despite this scale, India’s startup valuations represent only  about 8% of the country’s nominal GDP, compared to nearly 12% in the United States. This  disparity indicates significant potential for growth, provided that valuation increases are  backed by sustainable earnings and credible exit strategies. 

Sheth anticipates valuation growth of 10–12% in 2026, with total startup valuations likely to  surpass $800 billion by 2027. He emphasises that this growth will not stem from speculative  multiples but from steady IPO activity, continued unicorn creation, and alignment with  India’s broader economic expansion. Supporting this trend, nearly 48 Indian startups are  expected to enter public markets over the next 18 months, enhancing liquidity and recycling  capital back into the ecosystem. 

Global Innovation Signals and Manufacturing Maturity 

The focus on execution is also evident on global innovation platforms like CES 2026, where  the emphasis has shifted from incremental smart features to fully autonomous and integrated  systems. Industry leaders are increasingly favouring solutions that combine hardware,  software, AI, and industrial design into reliable, self-operating systems. 

India’s role in deep-tech and hardware-intensive categories is steadily maturing. Bolstered by  its engineering talent, rising venture interest, and supportive government initiatives, the  country is moving beyond cost competitiveness to create globally relevant products. 

This transition is also apparent in manufacturing. India is evolving from assembly-led models  to taking ownership across the entire design-to-manufacture lifecycle, particularly in sectors  like electronics, electric vehicles, energy systems, and connected devices. Ecosystem  enablers, including advanced manufacturing hubs and innovation centres like T-Works in  Hyderabad, are accelerating this shift by reducing development cycles and execution risks. 

From Growth to Grounded Maturity 

What ties together funding discipline, valuation expansion, global innovation signals, and  manufacturing depth is a shared commitment to execution. India’s startup ecosystem is no  longer driven solely by momentum. Capital is more discerning, technology must yield real world impact, and valuations are increasingly tied to performance and successful exits. 

For both investors and founders, the message is clear. India’s $700 billion startup economy  has entered a phase where execution is not just an advantage—it is the standard. The next  chapter of growth will belong to those who can build sustainable businesses, deliver  consistently, and transform innovation into lasting economic value.

Unbox Robotics Draws $28M Backing to Scale Intralogistics  Automation 

Unbox Robotics raises $28M for intralogistics automation

Capital to Drive Product Innovation and Global Expansion 

Unbox Robotics, a supply chain robotics technology firm based in Pune, has  successfully secured $28 million (around ₹243 crore) in a Series B funding round, led by  ICICI Venture and Redstart Labs (Info Edge). This round also saw contributions from  existing investors such as F-Prime, 3one4 Capital, Navam Capital, Force Ventures,  among others. 

The funding, which includes both primary and secondary capital, will be utilized to  bolster the company’s leadership and engineering teams, expedite the development of  new products, and broaden its reach across India and select international markets. 

Preparing for the Next Growth Phase 

With this fresh influx of capital, Unbox Robotics is set to enhance its technology  offerings and solidify its presence in the rapidly advancing warehouse and intralogistics  automation sector. The company is dedicated to helping enterprises automate order  fulfilment efficiently while minimizing reliance on heavy fixed infrastructure. 

Founded in 2019, Unbox Robotics specializes in creating modular robotic systems  tailored for warehouse and intralogistics operations. Their solutions integrate swarm intelligence software with 3D robotic sortation hardware, enabling large fleets of robots  to collaborate effectively and significantly boost throughput for high-volume operations. 

Catering to Global Clients in Logistics and E-commerce

Currently, the company serves clients across India, Europe, and the United States,  catering to sectors such as e-commerce, retail, and third-party logistics (3PL). Their  technology assists enterprises in managing increasing order volumes and operational  complexities, especially during peak demand periods, without a corresponding rise in  costs or workforce.

Pramod Ghadge, Founder and CEO of Unbox Robotics, expressed that the new funding  will facilitate the scaling of their products and accelerate their expansion into global  markets. “This capital enables us to invest significantly in technology, enhance our  team, and extend our solutions to customers in new regions,” he stated. 

Robust Investor Confidence in Technology and Execution

Sharad Malpani, Director at ICICI Venture and Co-Head of the IVen Amplifi Fund, noted  that Unbox Robotics has showcased impressive execution and unique technology. “The  company has a clear grasp of customer needs in logistics automation. We believe  Unbox Robotics is well-positioned to lead in facilitating efficient and scalable  warehouse operations both in India and globally,” he remarked. 

Vibhore Sharma, Director at Redstart Labs (Info Edge), emphasized the company’s  capability to convert technical innovation into tangible commercial success. “As Unbox  Robotics embarks on its next growth phase, we are eager to support the team as they  continue to scale,” he added. 

Sanjay Aggarwal, Venture Partner at F-Prime, highlighted that Unbox Robotics  distinguishes itself among India’s emerging robotics firms. “Their innovative products,  consistent execution, and ability to deliver high-ROI solutions to demanding global  clients make them a strong partner for the future,” he noted. 

Capitalizing on the Surge in Automation Demand 

As supply chains in India and around the world increasingly embrace automation to  enhance efficiency and resilience, Unbox Robotics is positioning itself as a key player in  this sector. With robust investor support and an expanding international footprint, the  company is now poised for its next growth phase in the global robotics arena.

The Whole Truth is in talks to secure approximately ₹304 crore in a fresh funding round, as the valuation exceeds ₹3,600 crore

The Whole Truth ₹304 crore funding

The Indian health food and Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) ecosystem is experiencing a capital wave as the established players are seeking to consolidate their market shares. According to recent reports, Clean-label food brand The Whole Truth, which is based in Mumbai, is in advanced negotiations to raise around ₹304 crore in a new round of funding. This opportunity represents the increased trust of investors in brands that focus on transparency and nutrition integrity in a market that is becoming more and more dominated by health-conscious consumers. According to the discussions, it is suggested that there is a high demand for sustainable business models that disrupt the established narratives of traditional processed foods in terms of radical honesty and premium ingredients.

Strategic utilization of capital

The main feature of this next round is also the significant increase in the market value of the company. According to sources knowledgeable about the negotiations, The Whole Truth is seeking a post-money valuation of more than ₹3,600 crores. This is a significant growth in relation to its past valuation milestones, and this is a testament to the aggressive nature of the growth path that the company has taken since its last funding rounds.

The brand interest does not just appear confined to its current supporters, with multiple high-profile international and domestic investment funds reportedly considering being part of the round. The current investors, who have been behind the mission of the brand to eradicate hidden sugars and artificial chemicals in snacks, are likely to be involved in anchoring this new capital inflow.

It is anticipated that the strategic application of this new kind would be concerned with the expansion of the network of distribution of the company, as well as the diversification of its product line. One of the opportunities that the Whole Truth has recognised is the growth of its physical retail presence in metropolitan and Tier-I cities.

The brand has been enjoying enormous success due to its digital-first strategy, but now it is considering making its mark strongly in the high-end modern trade shops and dedicated health shops. This multi-channel growth will target a wider pool of consumers who have been seeking healthier options to mainstream chocolates, protein bars and muesli.

Other than geographical expansion, the financing will probably be directed towards research and development to introduce more innovative clean-label products to the market. The firm has already managed to break several categories successfully by putting all the ingredients on its packaging front in large fonts.

The new capital will help the brand to expand to new food lines, which are generally loaded with concealed additives, thus increasing its mission to offer 100% natural food choices. The company intends to be the gold standard of transparency in the Indian food industry by adhering to a strict philosophy of “no milk, no soy, no gluten and no added sugar” throughout its flagship ranges.

Revenue growth and goal acceleration

The Whole Truth has a solid base to discuss its valuation based on its financial performance. The firm has been able to achieve steady revenue growth through the development of a highly loyal customer base that believes in its uncompromising approach to the quality of its food.

The Whole Truth has been disciplined about its supply chain and manufacturing operations, unlike other D2C startups that have chosen to focus on rapid growth at the cost of product integrity. Through its own production of products, the brand has been afforded complete control over the ingredient sourcing and production standards, which has consequently enhanced its brand equity and customer trust.

Another factor that contributes to the development of the platform is its distinct marketing approach, based on consumer education, as opposed to standard advertising. The brand has managed to establish itself as a reputable source of advice to its community through long-form content, openness and honesty regarding the traps of the contemporary food industry.

This teaching method has led to a high rate of customer retention and the low cost of customer acquisition as compared to the industry counterparts. The next fundraise will help get the financial buffer needed to take these marketing activities to the next level and make substantial investments in advanced brand-building campaigns that are likely to appeal to the Indian modern family values.

The possible ₹304 crore investment at ₹3,600 crore valuation is a milestone for The Whole Truth as it embarks on the subsequent stage of maturity. High brand core, clear vision of clean-label food and specific attention to consumer transparency contribute to the company becoming an outstanding player in the competitive health food market.

Another positive environment fostering the growth of the brand is the regulatory transparency and adoption of lifestyle illnesses in India. The new capital will enable the company to compete with larger conglomerates in the FMCG sector without losing its boutique emphasis on quality and honesty.

The fact that this round was successfully closed is regarded as a confirmation of the idea of the founder of the company, Shashank Mehta, to create the company based on the principles of truth in food manufacturing. Since its creation, the brand has developed from a small protein bar brand into a full-fledged health food platform that puts the status quo to the test.

The financial influx will help it achieve its ambition of becoming a household name in the health and wellness market, offering the funds to seize a large portion of the market currently owned by legacy brands that have been slow to adopt evolving consumer needs toward transparency.

Conclusion

The prospective round of funding for The Whole Truth is a landmark move in the Indian D2C industry. The valuation of more than ₹3,600 crore highlights the potential of the promise of the clean-label move and how the brand can live up to the promise of radical transparency. With the company almost closing this deal, the industry will be keen to monitor how it uses this momentum to further disorient the food segment.

The Whole Truth is not only creating a profitable business but also taking an active role in the future of the healthy Indian diet by helping to bridge the gap between nutritional science and convenience to the consumer. The strategic emphasis on R&D, offline retail channel growth, and educational marketing will ensure that the company will be on the frontline of the wellness revolution in the years to come.

GVFL announced a strategic investment of  ₹6 crore in insideFPV to scale indigenous defence drone technology

GVFL ₹6 crore investment

GVFL Limited, which was formerly Gujarat Venture Finance Limited, has declared that it has invested in insideFPV by ₹6 crore. This Surat-based drone technology startup has been storming the aerospace industry with its high-performance First Person View drones. The investment is expected to hasten the mission of the company to scale indigenous technology that is specifically designed to support defence as well as surveillance uses. With the geopolitical environment posing an increased focus on self-sufficiency in security equipment, this alliance marks an opportune intervention in order to complement the policy of Make in India in the deep-tech and defence sectors.

Primary objective and GVFL’s backing

The main goal of such capital infusion is to allow insideFPV to strengthen its research and development resources as well as increase its production capacity. The startup has also pioneered by creating drones that are more maneuverable and have high-definition real-time video transmission, which is also essential to contemporary tactical operations.

The support provided by GVFL is not only financial aid but a platform giving the startup an opportunity to align its technological roadmap with the high demands of the Indian armed forces and paramilitary agencies. InsideFPV will seek to minimize the reliance of a country on imported drone parts and finished products by concentrating on the local design and production of drones, effectively ensuring the supply chain of vital national security resources.

The investment indicates an increasing trend where venture capital companies have a keen interest in the dual-use technologies that can be utilized commercially and strategically. Although the concept of insideFPV was originally known in the markets of hobbyists and cinema, the transition to defence is indicative of the enormous opportunities of FPV technology in reconnaissance and precision attack.

Advanced manufacturing and partnership with GVFL

Under the new financing, insideFPV intends to establish a high-end manufacturing plant that is compliant with world quality standards. This growth does not only focus on hardware but also extends to the creation of proprietary software and flight control systems, ensuring the security of data and its operational stability.

The company is also seeking to empower its workforce by bringing in expert engineers and defence professionals who will assist in streamlining the product line to be used in the field. This all-inclusive scaling model means that the company would be in a position to address the growing demand among the departments of different government and individual security companies that are seeking to update their surveillance systems.

The collaboration with GVFL should also provide InsideFPV with new opportunities to access the market and network. GVFL has also been involved in a long history of fostering startups in Gujarat and other regions and giving these startups the services they require, mentoring them through the intricate process of regulatory and procurement in the defence sector.

With the help of the developed ecosystem of GVFL, insideFPV can better demonstrate its technological capabilities to the various stakeholders, such as the Ministry of Defence and foreign partners interested in Indian-made solutions related to drones. The positioning is crucial when a startup wishes to compete in the market of unmanned systems with well-established players globally.

Conclusion

The move by GVFL to invest in insideFPV is a landmark in the history of the Surat-based startup as it changes into a large player in the defence drone sector. The company has the potential to achieve its goals of scaling its indigenous technology by obtaining ₹6 crore of funding, thus aiding in the vision of India becoming a global hub of drones.

The emphasis on the FPV technology, along with the promotion of local production, makes the products not only the most advanced but also intrinsically safe for national usage. As the insideFPV keeps innovating and increasing its presence, it remains an example of how Indian startups can tackle the complicated security dilemma by providing self-built engineering solutions and targeted financial support.