BlackBuck gains IRDAI approval as a composite corporate agent

BlackBuck gains IRDAI approval as a composite corporate agent, enabling them to sell insurance to truckers until 2028. This aligns with their strategy to offer comprehensive digital solutions, including FASTag, fuel cards, and freight matching. The move follows their recent PPI license acquisition from the RBI, aimed at simplifying digital payments for truckers. Founded in 2015 by Rajesh Yabaji, Chanakya Hridaya, and Rama Subramaniam, BlackBuck specializes in FTL transportation, connecting businesses with truck operators. In Q4 FY25, they reported a net profit of INR 280.1 Cr with a 30.6% revenue increase.

CCI dismisses antitrust complaint over Google Ad Biz dominance, citing lack of evidence.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has dismissed a complaint by the Alliance of Digital India Foundation (ADIF) against Google over alleged dominance abuse in online advertising. CCI cited a lack of evidence and referenced past cases like Matrimony and Vishal Gupta. ADIF had raised concerns over unfair ad policies and Google’s Privacy Sandbox. Earlier, CCI fined Google ₹2,200 Cr for Android and Play Store dominance.

COAI Urges Govt to Bring (OTT’s) Communication Platforms Under Regulatory Framework

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has urged the government to regulate OTT platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram under the Unified License system, citing national security concerns. COAI argues these platforms operate outside existing telecom rules, calling for “same service, same rules.” However, tech groups oppose over-regulation, pointing to protections already under the IT Act 2000.

Cyient, Zinier Announce Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Field Service Transformation

Cyient and Zinier have partnered to modernize field service management (FSM) using AI. Combining Cyient’s integration expertise with Zinier’s no-code platform, the collaboration enables intelligent scheduling, predictive maintenance, and seamless GIS, ERP, and IoT integration. Aimed at telecom, utilities, and energy firms, this alliance promises improved efficiency, flexibility, and customer satisfaction. Zinier’s platform is already trusted by Virgin Media O2, Vodafone, and Naturgy.

Tim Cook Announces Double-Digit Growth in iPhones, Macs, and Services in India

Apple CEO Tim Cook announced a strong April–June quarter, with India delivering revenue records backed by double-digit growth in iPhones, Macs, and services. Globally, iPhone sales surged 13.4% to $44.6 Bn, driving Apple’s overall revenue up 10% to $94 Bn. Apple is now doubling down on India with plans to open four new stores in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, and Noida later this year.

Bira 91 Revolutionized Indian Beer and What’s Coming Next

Bira 91, founded by Ankur Jain in 2015, revolutionized India’s beer market by introducing flavorful craft beers tailored to urban consumers. Partnering initially with Belgian brewers, Bira 91 quickly gained traction and venture capital backing, including from Sequoia, enabling the establishment of domestic brewing facilities. Despite impressive growth—reaching INR 800 crore in FY23—a name change during IPO preparations caused significant sales disruptions and financial losses. Undeterred, Bira 91 continues its expansion, exporting to the US, UK, and Southeast Asia, aiming to capitalize on the growing Indian and global craft beer markets. #Bira91 #CraftBeerIndia

Safe Security secures $70M in Series C funding to Build CyberAGI

Safe Security, formerly Lucideus, secured $70M in Series C funding led by Avataar Ventures, with participation from Susquehanna Asia Venture Capital, NextEquity Partners, and John Chambers. Founded in 2012 by Saket Modi, Viditkumar Baxi, and Rahul Tyagi, the company will use the capital to advance its CyberAGI vision, expanding engineering, R&D, and global operations. Safe Security specializes in AI-driven cyber risk management, offering CRQ, TPRM, and CTEM solutions to help enterprises proactively reduce cybersecurity risks.

Showroom B2B Targets $8M Revenue with New Noida Tech Unit

Showroom B2B, backed by Jungle Ventures, projects $8M revenue from its new Noida manufacturing unit, producing 1.5 lakh garments monthly. CEO Abhishek Dua highlights a tech-driven, responsive supply chain for fast fashion. Targeting ₹2,500 Cr in five years, the unit will create 300+ jobs, 50% for women, with ROI in 12 months. Key clients include Vishal Mega Mart and Reliance Retail, emphasizing agility and scalability.

Google Proposes Play Store Policy Changes for India’s Gaming Apps

Google plans to revise Play Store policies in India for real-money gaming (RMG) apps after a CCI antitrust probe triggered by Winzo’s complaint. It will allow all RMG apps meeting legal norms and third-party certification, alongside updated ad policies for certified ‘games of skill.’ Winzo had criticized Google’s earlier stance. India’s gaming market is projected to hit $9.2B by FY29.

Karnataka launches ₹1,000 Cr Quantum Mission! Aiming to be Asia’s Quantum Capital by 2035

Karnataka has launched a ₹1,000 Cr Quantum Mission to become the “Quantum Capital of Asia” by 2035. CM Siddaramaiah announced a Quantum Task Force, Q-City, parks, and manufacturing zones. The plan includes skilling programs in 20 colleges, 150 PhD fellowships, India’s first Quantum Hardware Park, and a VC fund for 100+ startups, aiming for 100 patents and 2 lakh jobs, aligning with the National Quantum Mission.

Power Broker Trump announces 25% tariffs on India starting Aug 1, plus ‘penalty’ for trading with Russia

US President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on Indian imports effective August 1, 2025, along with a “penalty” over India’s Russian military and energy purchases. He criticized India’s protectionist policies and “massive trade deficit,” claiming limited US export opportunities. India responded, stating it is reviewing the move while reaffirming its commitment to a fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial trade agreement.