Publication : CxoToday

Explore 2024’s defining tech trends and a glimpse into 2025 through the insights of industry leaders. This year-end story captures expert opinions on groundbreaking innovations, challenges faced, and the technologies poised to shape the future.

Jamil Valliani, Head of Product, AI, Atlassian

“2025 will be the year of the AI agent. As agents grow richer in interactivity and start to reach across more than just text and into audio and visual elements, they will bring about a powerful cultural shift in how humans collaborate with AI. Agents are already quite good at augmenting and accelerating our work — in the next year, they will get even better at performing highly specific tasks, taking specialized actions, and integrating across products, all with humans in the loop.

I’m most excited to see agents becoming exponentially more sophisticated in how they can collaborate with teams to handle complex tasks. Agents are benefitting from rapidly evolving foundation models, reasoning over increasingly rich data sets, and gaining the ability to take more actions. These advancements will not only yield better results when handling tasks but also allow the agent to continually learn and handle increasingly complex problems, much like a human teammate or collaborator might. Our relationship with them will evolve, and we’ll see new forms of collaboration and communication on teams develop.”

Joe Thomas, Head of Product Management, Loom

“As we approach 2025, I predict that teams will fully embrace asynchronous work as the foundation for AI-driven collaboration. Companies will recognize the immense value of high-fidelity, documented contexts—especially through asynchronous video—which AI can index and convert to other formats in powerful ways. We’ll see a surge in content transformation from video to metadata and text, with AI agents converting these inputs into efficient workflows and actionable insights. Video recording will be increasingly leveraged as a powerful and efficient documentation mechanism, with individuals and teams increasingly trusting AI to help package the most effective note possible, whether it is to other teammates or to AI agents to get work done on the team’s behalf. This shift to asynchronous work will empower measurable productivity gains, both to solve for human-oriented constraints of time zones or schedules and human-AI collaboration.”

Mr. Meghan Nandgaonkar, Head of JDU, Fujitsu

The current year saw several technologies making bold strides to reshape everyday life. In 2025, further advancements in AI, Quantum Computing, 5G, Extended Reality and Sustainable Technology, are projected to become more prominent and integrated into everyday use. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will become a cornerstone for all sectors, with AI-driven solutions enhancing everything from cybersecurity, business operations, education, and customer service. Quantum Computing is fast becoming more real, offering promise of unprecedented computational power. Companies will leverage quantum algorithms to solve complex problems, such as optimizing supply chain optimization and developing new materials, far more efficiently than ever before. The deployment of 5G and beyond connectivity will revolutionize network infrastructure, especially industries capitalizing on ultra-fast, low-latency networks to support the growing Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. Extended Reality (XR) technologies, including virtual, augmented, and mixed reality, will find applications beyond industries into everyday life. These technologies will enhance remote collaboration in sectors like healthcare and education; and improve customer engagement via immersive experiences that can bridge the gap between physical and digital environments. It will also help enhance quality of healthcare by augmenting complex investigative procedures and surgical procedures. Finally, Sustainable Technology will become a priority for all companies. Advanced solar panels and efficient energy storage systems will make green energy more accessible and affordable. IT companies will continue to invest in green data centers. Innovations in energy-efficient hardware and software will reduce the carbon footprint, aligning with UN’s sustainable development goals.

These trends will help us move to a more connected and sustainable world that uses technology to innovate and build trust in society.

Anil Lole, Chief Information Security Officer, Fujitsu

In 2025, the cybersecurity landscape is poised for transformative changes driven by digital acceleration and technological innovation. Artificial Intelligence will revolutionize threat management, enabling predictive analytics that enhances Security Operations Center (SOC) efficiency while demanding robust ethical frameworks to prevent potential misuse. Zero-trust architecture will become paramount, adopting an “assume breach” philosophy that emphasizes continuous verification, micro-segmentation, and sophisticated identity management. This approach will be crucial in mitigating increasingly complex supply chain attacks, with organizations implementing transparency mechanisms like Software Bill of Materials (SBOMs) and conducting rigorous vendor assessments.

Ransomware threats will continue evolving, employing sophisticated double-extortion strategies that require comprehensive defensive measures, including immutable backups, decentralized recovery solutions, and strategic cyber insurance. Emerging regulatory landscapes will increasingly prioritize privacy and transparency, particularly concerning AI, Internet of Things (IoT), and cross-border data interactions.

Leadership in cybersecurity will become more strategic, with Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) aligning security initiatives directly with business objectives. Sustainability will also emerge as a critical consideration, with organizations exploring eco-friendly cryptographic approaches and energy-efficient security practices.

By embracing innovative technologies and maintaining a holistic, forward-thinking approach, organizations can effectively navigate the complex cybersecurity challenges of the future.

Pavan Choudhary, Practice Lead, Fujitsu

The electric vehicle industry is undergoing transformative changes driven by technological advancements and sustainability goals. Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) are central to achieving carbon neutrality, supported by renewable energy-powered charging infrastructure and smart grid integration. Strategic collaborations will address infrastructure challenges and advance regional solutions. Hydrogen fuel cells are emerging as a sustainable alternative for heavy-duty vehicles and public transport, with investments in green hydrogen production paving the way for diversified energy options. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are enhancing predictive maintenance through IoT-enabled sensors, reducing downtime and operational costs while improving customer experiences. Software-defined vehicles (SDVs) are transforming cars into dynamic platforms with over-the-air updates, centralized computing, and enhanced customization, underscoring the importance of cybersecurity and scalable ecosystems. Smart infrastructure powered by IoT and V2X technology is optimizing energy use, traffic flow, and safety while promoting seamless interaction between EVs and urban environments. Sustainability efforts extend to the entire lifecycle of EVs, including battery recycling, renewable energy use in manufacturing, and circular supply chains. These initiatives reduce environmental impact and create new business opportunities in material recovery.

The EV industry in 2025 represents a fusion of innovation and sustainability. Fujitsu is committed to leveraging technologies like AI, HPC, and IoT to build a zero-emission future, fostering collaborations that drive impact and support a sustainable mobility ecosystem.

Sumit Sabharwal, Head of HR Shared Services, Fujitsu International Regions

As we approach 2025, the HR domain is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by technology, shifting demographics, and rising employee expectations. Generative AI will revolutionize HR by automating tasks, generating workforce insights, and enabling hyper-personalized experiences while emphasizing ethical data use. The rise of “Boundaryless HR” will dismantle silos, integrating permanent employees, gig workers, and partners into cohesive ecosystems to enhance agility. A “skills-first” approach will dominate talent strategies, with skills intelligence platforms driving reskilling in emerging fields like quantum computing and cybersecurity. Employee well-being will become a business imperative, with organizations embedding mental health and work-life balance into their cultures to improve retention and engagement.

HR technology will evolve into flexible ecosystems, enabling interoperability across recruitment, learning, and performance tools to support global teams. IT organizations will adopt a “culture of cultures,” balancing global values with local team autonomy to foster micro-cultures that reflect diverse needs. HR leaders must align talent strategies with business objectives, leveraging technology and human-centric principles to drive organizational growth

The HR function of 2025 will act as a strategic powerhouse, shaping the future by adapting to industry demands and championing innovation. For IT organizations, this transformative period offers an opportunity to lead with foresight, ensuring resilience in an ever-changing lands

Amit Kumar Shrivastava, Head of AI, Global Fujitsu Distinguished Engineer (AI)

In 2025, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to evolve from a transformative technology to a fundamental progress enabler. Generative AI is embedding itself into critical business workflows, delivering measurable value in customer engagement and product development. AI accessibility will accelerate through open-source frameworks, democratizing innovation across industries.

A key trend is domain-specific AI, with tailored solutions emerging for healthcare, agriculture, and urban development. Small AI models are gaining prominence, especially in edge computing, offering cost-effective and adaptable solutions. AI-as-a-Service (AIaaS) is simplifying deployment, enabling organizations to experiment with AI more easily.

Educational platforms and financial institutions are leveraging AI for personalized learning and innovative investment tools. Agentic AI systems are beginning to reshape operations in logistics and customer support. Deepfake technology presents both opportunities and challenges, prompting increased focus on responsible use.

Strategic national initiatives like the INDIAai portal and AIRAWAT platform are driving collaboration and AI adoption. The “Make AI in India, Make AI Work for India” campaign emphasizes fostering innovation and addressing societal challenges. Skilling initiatives are preparing the workforce for an AI-driven economy.

By 2025, AI will transition from exploration to impact, transforming industries and redefining how we work, learn, and innovate.

Dennis Gada, EVP and Global Head of Banking and Financial Services, Infosys

At Infosys, we foresee the financial services landscape in 2025 as a tapestry of innovation and resilience. AI, for example, will continue to weave itself into every business process, transforming banking by assisting diverse personas and enhancing operational efficiency. As cybersecurity and fraud threats loom large, robust security measures will be the industry’s shield. The rapid adoption of open banking and embedded finance, moreover, will democratize financial services, driving inclusion and innovation. Banks, meanwhile, will embrace multi-cloud strategies, balancing flexibility with resilience. Blockchain and smart contracts, particularly in commercial banking, will come into their own, streamlining transactions and boosting transparency. The push to reduce tech debt through legacy modernization, such as updating mainframes, will pave the way for platformification. Customer journey-based operations resiliency will be paramount, especially for critical applications like online banking and payments. Ultimately, financial institutions will ensure their data infrastructure is robust, maintaining high-quality, governed data with built-in privacy and preferences to meet both regulatory demands and customer expectations, solidifying their foundation for the future.

  1. AI will continue to get embedded in every business process, assist every persona and transform banking
  2. Cybersecurity and fraud will continue to remain a key area of concern
  3. Open banking and embedded finance are set for faster adoption in 2025
  4. Banks are expected go for multi-cloud implementations in 2025
  5. The potential of blockchain & smart contracts are realizing, especially in the commercial banking space
  6. Tech debt reduction with legacy modernization such as mainframe modernization will be on rise to enable platformification
  7. Customer journey-based operations resiliency will be a priority for top tier applications such Online Banking (Mobile/Web) and Payments
  8. Financial services institutions will ensure data is infrastructure-ready with high quality, governed data with built-in privacy and preferences

Vinay Chhabra, Co-Founder & Managing Director, AceCloud, a brand of RTDS

“2024 has been a pivotal year for India’s cloud and AI ecosystem, catalyzed by rapid adoption and government initiatives under the IndiaAI Mission, which allocated over INR 10,300 crore. The development of high-performance compute infrastructure, including more than 10,000 GPUs, aims to position India as a leader in AI while addressing talent and compute shortages that challenged AI-readiness for many organizations. This focus on GPU-powered AI is reshaping sectors and accelerating the adoption of cloud technologies to streamline processes and reduce costs.

However, challenges remain, particularly around infrastructure scaling and the high costs of GPUs, which continue to impact AI implementation. As per International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) AI Preparedness Index 2024, that assesses AI preparedness in 174 countries by examining factors such as digital infrastructure, human capital and labour markets, innovation and economic integration, etc., India ranks 72nd with a rating of 0.49. Advanced economies such as United States has a rating of 0.77, Singapore – 0.80, and China ranks 31st with a rating of 0.63 in this index highlighting AI adoption and implementation maturity.

Looking to 2025, overcoming these bottlenecks will be crucial. We envision expanded GPU accessibility, public-private partnerships for cloud infrastructure growth, and AI democratization through initiatives like India’s Data Labs and IndiaAI Innovation Centres. As AI adoption grows, enhanced cybersecurity frameworks will also play a vital role in safeguarding cloud data, which is integral to maintaining trust and enabling advanced analytics.

AceCloud is committed to aligning with India’s digital ambitions by delivering scalable, secure, and cost-effective cloud solutions. By fostering innovation in cloud and GPU technology, we’re preparing to empower enterprises with the tools they need to harness the full potential of AI in the coming years. Through these advancements, we’re building a resilient, future-ready digital ecosystem that positions India as a global technology leader.”

Mr. Hariharan Subramanian, Managing Director, Siemens Healthcare Private Limited

“As 2024 draws to a close, the MedTech industry continues to emphasize on solutions that would revolutionize healthcare delivery and enhance patient experience. One of the key focus areas has been the use of AI in diagnostic imaging for early detection, particularly for diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s. AI is changing how we improve cancer care by spotting earlier detection and more personalized treatment by analysing vast amounts of medical data in real time. The idea of making healthcare more personalized, convenient, and safe for patients with the help of digital twins has also been the centre of innovation and research. It’s giving way to more targeted therapies.

Looking forward, the future of MedTech is full of possibilities and promise. Having more sustainable and accessible healthcare solutions will act as a key in taking MedTech industry a step higher. At Siemens Healthineers, we remain focused on pioneering these innovations to provide better healthcare solutions for all. We believe that strategic industry-academia collaborations will further aid in developing a better healthcare ecosystem for all stakeholders.”

Narasimha Goli, Chief Technology and Product Officer, Iron Mountain

“AI agents are a relatively new wave of digital workers, slowly permeating businesses, which we can only expect to see increase in 2025. Designed to operate independently, these agents can be trained much like human workers, assuming roles such as accountants or IT service desk operators. By training them with specific skills and knowledge, organisations can deploy a digital workforce capable of executing tasks with minimal human oversight. But to be ready for AI agents, organisations face the challenge of transforming their physical and digital data from an ungoverned liability into a well-managed asset.

The explosion of unstructured data, including documents, images, videos, and communications, has intensified the challenges organisations face. They must ensure they are taking the right steps to utilise their physical and digital assets to extract the maximum value for AI models.

2025 will be the year enterprises begin to invest in agent platforms, and at the same time, they will invest in creating AI-ready data – centralised, clean and governed – to fuel these digital workers. Organisations should develop data management strategies to protect, manage, and optimise assets while preparing for emerging AI-centric use cases that leverage digital and physical assets. By tailoring information governance strategies to meet their requirements, business leaders can ensure their data management practices are not only effective but also enable AI to extract the most value from their data. Without this, even the most sophisticated agentic frameworks will struggle to deliver the promised benefits.”

Pankaj Sachdeva, Vice President, Data Science & Analytics and Managing Director, India Innovation, Pitney Bowes

“Generative AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing are reshaping industries, with Generative AI leading the charge. Its ability to personalize experiences, optimize operations, and fuel creativity is revolutionizing business landscapes.

In shipping, Generative AI enables real-time route optimization, demand forecasting, and fuel-efficient logistics. AI-driven dynamic scheduling reduces transit times and costs, while chatbots provide personalized updates, enhancing customer experiences.

The evolution of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) with AI-driven customization and automation is set to dramatically transform the way we interact with business applications. Future advancements, including Multimodal and Ethical AI, will ensure responsible practices, deeper operational integration, and groundbreaking efficiencies, driving innovation across industries.”

Sammeer Pakvasa – Managing Director & CEO, Eleganz Interiors

“As we close out 2024, the commercial interior design landscape in India has undergone a remarkable transformation, shaped by evolving workplace dynamics and a growing emphasis on sustainability. At Eleganz Interiors, we have been at the forefront of this evolution, transitioning from general contracting to becoming a full-service design and build fit-out firm. This step-by-step transformation has enabled us to deliver integrated solutions that optimize processes, reduce costs, and elevate quality. Our journey into new sectors continues to redefine how spaces are designed, built, and utilized.

This year, design trends have leaned towards warm, earthy tones that reflect India’s rich heritage and grounded aesthetic. Shades like terracotta, ochre, and deep burgundy have dominated, with 48% of commercial design projects opting for these hues to create environments that foster calm and comfort. These tones align seamlessly with Pantone’s 2024 Colour of the Year, ‘Apricot Crush,’ a shade that blends traditional charm with modern sophistication, perfectly suited to India’s urban workspaces.

Flexibility and ergonomics remain at the heart of workplace design, with over 65% of offices adopting modular and adaptive layouts. This shift caters to diverse work styles, ranging from open collaborative areas to private, focused zones. Such customizations not only enhance functionality but also contribute to employee well-being and satisfaction, helping organizations reduce turnover and foster a positive workplace culture.

Sustainability continues to be a cornerstone of our projects, as more than 70% of new buildings in India achieve green certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). At Eleganz Interiors, we have integrated eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and waste reduction practices into every stage of our projects. From recycled wood and low-VOC paints to energy-saving LED lighting, our solutions aim to minimize environmental impact while meeting our clients’ needs.

The rise of biophilic design has further enriched workplaces, with more than 50% of projects incorporating natural elements such as indoor greenery, wood textures, and ample natural light. These features not only enhance aesthetics but also improve air quality and productivity, with studies showing a 27% boost in workplace performance in spaces designed with biophilic principles.

At Eleganz Interiors, we are proud to blend the principles of design and build with cutting-edge trends and sustainability practices. By leveraging locally sourced materials, optimizing space planning, and embracing innovation, we are creating work environments that inspire and elevate. As we move forward, we remain committed to redefining industry standards and championing sustainable, functional, and aesthetically inspiring commercial spaces.

In an era where design, functionality, and sustainability converge, Eleganz Interiors continues to set new benchmarks in the commercial interior design industry.”

Pratik Kamdar, CEO and Co-Founder – Neuron Energy

“As 2024 draws to a close, the EV industry in India has witnessed a significant stride. EVs are becoming the most preferred move for people across urban and rural markets. The push for eco-friendly transportation, with evolving government policies, has set up a strong foundation for future growth. With this scenario, we must focus on advanced innovation to address the industry’s challenges in enhancing battery life, performance and affordability. Moving into 2025, we foresee the EV ecosystem maturing further with regards to the charging infrastructure, localized manufacturing, and a surge in demand for two- and three-wheeler EVs along with commercial vehicles. This is an exciting phase, and we are committed to driving the transition towards a cleaner, greener future.”

Amit Goyal, Managing Director- South Asia, Project Management Institute (PMI)

“According to the India Skills report, India has the second highest skill gap in the world which poses to be a critical challenge for our country’s economic development. While our nation possesses ample resources and human capital, realizing our full economic potential, particularly on the global stage, requires addressing this skills gap. Organizations are realizing the cost of this deficit. Globally, 11.4% of investment are wasted due to poor project performance, according to a recent Pulse of the Profession report. This data underscores the urgent need for investment in project management upskilling initiatives. In today’s complex business environment, characterized by rapid technological advancements and intricate global supply chains, project management expertise is no longer a desirable asset but a fundamental requirement for organizational success, further substantiating the increasing demand for qualified project managers.

Looking ahead, developing an agile workforce backed with technological know-how and sustainability at its core will reshape the way we see industries. Project professionals should emphasize highly on enhanced efficiency and accuracy, also aligning their projects with corporate and national goals which will further strengthen our focus on nation building. Skill development and an ethical working style should also be a focus area. To sum it up, developing robust project management capabilities within our workforce is not merely a prudent investment; it is a strategic imperative for ensuring India’s future economic prosperity.”

Vaibhav Kathotia, COO – Real Estate

“As 2024 draws to a close, it is clear that the real estate sector in India has shown remarkable resilience in navigating a complex landscape shaped by global economic headwinds and shifting consumer preferences. This year has been pivotal in redefining what it means to create living and working spaces that are not only luxurious but also adaptable and future-proof.

One of the defining trends in 2024 was the rising emphasis on sustainability and smart infrastructure. Across both residential and commercial segments, we’ve seen a surge in demand for eco-friendly designs that prioritize energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Buyers today are more discerning, valuing properties that offer green certifications, sustainable materials, and innovative amenities designed for long-term living. This shift has been driven not just by regulatory changes but by a broader societal commitment to responsible development.”

“Another key transformation has been the way we work. The pandemic accelerated a shift towards hybrid work models, and in 2024, this trend continued to reshape commercial real estate. Co-working spaces and flexible office formats have become essential to meet the needs of businesses looking for agility and scalability. This shift has had a ripple effect across urban centers, driving demand for mixed-use developments that seamlessly integrate living, working, and leisure spaces. Cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Gurugram have emerged as hubs for these dynamic environments, reflecting a broader trend of urban regeneration and smart city initiatives.”

“As we step into 2025, the outlook for the real estate sector is one of cautious optimism. While global economic uncertainty persists, there are positive signals, including expectations of interest rate cuts and a renewed focus on infrastructure investments. The government’s continued push for affordable housing and urban renewal projects will play a significant role in driving growth. At the same time, luxury real estate will continue to evolve, with a focus on bespoke experiences and state-of-the-art amenities tailored to the needs of an increasingly global clientele.”

“Technology will be a game-changer in 2025. The integration of AI, IoT, and data-driven insights into real estate planning and development will enhance efficiency and improve decision-making across the board. From smart buildings that optimize energy usage to digital platforms that streamline property transactions, innovation will be at the heart of the sector’s progress. For developers and investors alike, staying ahead of these trends will be crucial in delivering value and maintaining a competitive edge.”

“Ultimately, the success of real estate in 2025 will hinge on our ability to balance innovation with tradition, creating spaces that honor the past while embracing the future. As we continue to navigate an evolving landscape, the focus must remain on delivering projects that enhance community living, foster connectivity, and promote sustainability. It is an exciting time for the sector, and I am optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead for all stakeholders committed to shaping India’s urban fabric.”

Mr. Jai Decosta, MD and CEO, K12 Techno Services

“As we reflect on the past year, we are proud of the significant strides made by the Indian Education Sector in shaping the future of school education. The K-12 sector, in particular, has experienced accelerated growth, driven by the integration of technology, policy reforms, and innovative learning solutions. Schools are increasingly adopting e-learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and digital tools to enhance learning experiences and improve accessibility for all students. Our recent survey, the ‘All India Parent Survey 2024,’ highlights that 87% of parents support technology integration in schools, recognizing its potential to enhance learning. This growing enthusiasm for technology reflects a wider shift toward more personalized and flexible learning experiences.

Moreover, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 continues to shape the K-12 landscape by emphasizing a flexible curriculum that fosters critical thinking and creativity. There is also a growing focus on providing a holistic education that nurtures not only academic skills but also life skills, emotional intelligence, and social-emotional learning (SEL). While challenges persist, particularly around infrastructure in rural areas and ensuring quality teaching across all schools, we are optimistic that strategic investments will unlock immense potential in the journey ahead. At K12 Techno Services, we remain committed to empowering educators and students with innovative solutions that foster engagement, accessibility, and growth. As technology continues to transform classrooms, we are focused on providing the tools students need to thrive in an ever-evolving world.”

Preeti Sharma, Executive Director, Pragati Software Pvt. Ltd.

Empowering Innovation and Leadership: Preeti Sharma’s Vision for 2025 in Tech, Sustainability, and Women’s Empowerment

As we close 2024, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the transformative shifts we have experienced in the tech sector. This year has been defined by innovation fueled by challenges and the rise of new trends shaping both technology and women’s roles in leadership.

One of the most remarkable highlights of 2024 has been the rapid acceleration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) across industries, including corporate IT training. These technologies have enabled businesses to enhance efficiency, deliver personalized learning, and revolutionize client engagement. At Pragati Software, we’ve seen how AI-powered tools have redefined how businesses approach marketing, operations, and customer experiences.

However, this wave of technological advancement has not been without its challenges. The need for constant upskilling and the rapid adoption of new tools have tested organizations and individuals alike. For women entrepreneurs like me, staying ahead has required not just adaptability but also empowering our teams with the skills to navigate this evolving landscape confidently.

Championing Diversity and Inclusion

2024 has also been a milestone year for diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, with businesses increasingly recognizing their critical importance. I take pride in the progress we’ve made in creating more inclusive spaces for women leaders, especially in technology and publishing. At Pragati Software and Letterprint Publications, our initiatives focus on mentorship, flexibility, and providing resources that encourage women to step into leadership roles.

That said, there remains significant work to ensure equality for women, particularly in tech-driven sectors. It’s a cause I am deeply passionate about, and I believe that fostering inclusivity and support systems will be essential to achieving lasting change.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we turn to 2025, I am particularly excited about the opportunities that lie at the intersection of technology and sustainability. Businesses are increasingly aligning with eco-friendly innovations and responsible practices, which I believe will be defining trends in the year ahead. From sustainable data centers to green software development, the integration of green IT solutions will be vital as industries respond to environmental challenges.

Another trend I see gaining momentum is the convergence of traditional industries and technology. For example, digital content creation, online education, and tech-enabled publishing services are becoming indispensable. At Pragati Software, we are actively exploring how to leverage emerging technologies to deliver personalized learning experiences and enhance the reach and impact of our training programs.

2025 also holds promise for women in business, with more women stepping into leadership roles and driving innovation. The future is about breaking barriers, embracing change, and creating a new narrative for women leaders across industries. I am confident that the next year will bring even greater opportunities for women to lead and inspire.

A Year of Optimism and Transformation

2024 has shown us the power of resilience, adaptability, and inclusivity. As we step into 2025, I am optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead. From advancements in AI to sustainable innovations and the continued rise of women leaders, the future is bright for the tech sector and beyond.

I look forward to being a part of this ongoing evolution and contributing to building a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future.

Kayzad Hiramanek, Chief Operating Officer, Edelweiss Life Insurance

The insurance “Techade”- leading the charge in insurance innovation: Innovate, Integrate, and Liberate in 2025

As 2025 approaches, the insurance industry stands at a transformative crossroads. Technology, driven by large data sets, is reshaping every aspect of our business and the future of insurance is being defined by those who innovate on, integrate with, and liberate customer encumbrances. Insurers are rising to the challenge of thriving in a world where personalized solutions and communication, seamless digital experiences, and strategic partnerships are essential.

The journey ahead is driven by four key pillars which are the foundation for the future of insurance—one that is more connected, customer-focused, and dynamic than ever before.

Level up AI-driven efficiency in transforming operations: AI will continue to transform operations in claims management, underwriting, and fraud detection, with generative AI enhancing everything from customer support to pricing and claims processing. Precursors to AI like Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is streamlining back-office operations, delivering significant ROI while enhancing customer satisfaction. Insurers investing in these technologies will enhance their people productivity, service offerings and drive greater customer satisfaction, unlocking new possibilities like on-demand insurance and real-time pricing.

Customer-Centric personalized advisory with hassle-free buying: Today’s customers expect more than just a product—they demand personalized, real-time advisory services and seamless self-service options. Insurers will respond by enhancing digital platforms with features like instant quotes, real-time claims tracking, and automated workflows. AI-driven voice systems and data analytics will transform customer interactions, enabling personalized recommendations and faster response times. As insurance shifts toward tailored, goal-oriented solutions, insurers will rely on technology to provide real-time advisory, helping customers make informed decisions and boosting customer loyalty.

AI-Driven embedded insurance- Seamless Protection, Anytime, Anywhere: Embedded insurance is emerging as a powerful growth driver, revolutionizing how coverage is delivered. By seamlessly integrating insurance products into non-insurance services, insurers are poised to enhance accessibility and convenience. Strategic partnerships with sectors such as automotive, real estate, and healthcare will enable insurers to tap into real-time data, ensuring that coverage meets the immediate needs of customers at the moment of necessity. AI-powered solutions will be central to this transformation, automating processes and offering real-time, personalized experiences. By analysing context and individual customer needs, AI will provide tailored protection, making insurance an effortless part of daily life. This shift will redefine how consumers engage with insurance, creating a frictionless experience that is as natural as any other service they use regularly.

Seamless ecosystem collaboration: Insurers will operate within interconnected digital ecosystems, powered by APIs, cloud-native architectures, and microservices. The future of insurance will be driven by collaboration. In 2025, insurers will operate within connected digital ecosystems, using APIs, cloud-native architectures, and microservices to exchange data and work with tech firms and service providers. Real-time data from sectors like automotive (vehicle telematics), smart homes, and IoT will enable insurers to offer dynamic, usage-based coverage that adapts to customers’ evolving needs. The power of connected ecosystems will allow insurers to stay ahead of emerging risks and continue innovating in ways that enhance both customer experience and operational efficiency.

2025: The Year to Innovate, Integrate, and Liberate

As we step into 2025, the insurance industry faces an exciting, transformative future. To succeed, insurers must embrace technological innovation, adopt customer-centric strategies, and foster seamless collaboration. By doing so, they can unlock new growth opportunities, redefine customer engagement, and elevate the insurance experience to new heights. The future belongs to those who dare to innovate relentlessly, integrate strategically, and liberate customer experience consistently. Let 2025 be the year we rise to the challenge and turn today’s possibilities into tomorrow’s success.

Mr. Sarveshaa SB, Chairman & MD, BHADRA Group

“The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for India’s residential real estate sector. Achieving record-breaking sales of 2,60,349 units in the first nine months, a 9% increase from the previous year, the industry showcased its ability to evolve and thrive. From catering to the growing demand for luxury housing to adapting to changing market dynamics, the sector demonstrated resilience and innovation. The integration of technology, including virtual reality property tours and AI-driven personalization, has transformed the way homes are marketed and purchased, making processes more transparent and customer-focused

He added, “As we look ahead, the milestones of 2024 give us immense confidence for the future. With urbanisation gaining momentum and sustainability becoming a key priority, the real estate industry is well-positioned to redefine urban living. The surge in luxury housing sales, accounting for 46% of all sales in Q3 2024, indicates a shift in buyer preferences towards premium properties. By focusing on quality, innovation, and eco-conscious development, including the integration of smart home technologies and green building practices, this sector will continue to create meaningful value for communities and contribute to India’s growth story”

Naveen Gupta, Founder, Spalba

“2024 reaffirmed India’s position as a very important player in the global startup ecosystem. The relaxation of angel tax provisions have boosted confidence that India is committed to improving the Governance model around startups and willing to go that extra mile. However, a lot remains to be done and at a very fast pace. The path ahead requires a greater push for infrastructure development and access to affordable capital. In 2025, creating sector-specific policies and incentivizing R&D through robust IP protection mechanisms will be key to accelerating innovation, said Naveen Gupta, Founder, Spalba, SaaS-based event-tech platform.

Mr. Mohit Anand, Co-Founder & CEO, Secure Connection Pvt. Ltd.

“At Secure Connection Pvt. Ltd., innovation has always been at the heart of our mission to make everyday living simpler, smarter, and more connected through technology. The smart home and connected living industry continues to evolve rapidly, driven by trends such as AI integration, sustainability, and the growing demand for seamless, intuitive solutions. This year, innovation has transformed the way people live by making smart technology more accessible, efficient, and impactful in daily life. From integrating Alexa into our smart home solutions to simplifying everyday routines through voice control and connected devices, we have prioritized user-friendly, energy-efficient technologies that meet the needs of modern households. As we look towards 2025, our vision is to continue pioneering advancements in connected living by focusing on sustainable solutions, AI-driven innovations, and further enhancing customer experiences. We remain committed to driving positive change by addressing evolving needs, improving convenience, and ensuring smart living remains simple, efficient, and sustainable for every home.”

Bhavesh Kothari, CEO and Founder, Property First Realty

The year 2024 marked a significant shift in the consumers’ real estate journey where an increasing number of developers are partnering with proptech companies to bring more convenience and better understand their customer cohort. While this trend was underway for a couple of years, it truly panned out in 2024 and is going to be a dominant force in 2025. The role of proptech companies have changed from being facilitators to growth drivers in the real estate sector and the coming year is going to further solidify this stance. The learnings also revealed that proptech can play a definite role in attracting tier-2,3 customers through partnerships with developers which will increase consumers’ trust, bring greater transparency and help increase market traction.

Jasmeet Singh Chhabra, Co- Founder, Crimson Schools

Industry forecast estimates that India’s education sector is to reach a market size of USD 313 billion by FY 2029-30. It is safe to say that we are already on that path, experiencing rapid growth, driven by better access to education, growing urbanisation, rising per capita incomes, and conducive government policies. This is going to significantly increase the demand for suitable real estate for students and staff – according to a latest CBRE finding, India will need an additional ~4+ billion sq. ft. by 2034-35 to fulfill this demand from K-12 and higher education institutions, with a sizeable number of private institutions. This is in keeping with the global trends where, at 82.4%, India has seen the maximum student enrolment in private schools across prominent economies in 2022. It is also a hotspot for foreign investments accounting for approximately 1.4% of the total FDI inflows in 2023. We believe this trend will continue as private equity investors will be drawn by the increasing number of school chain operators, the asset-light business models of such businesses, and the deepening collaboration with international education chains.

Vishal Goel, Managing Director, RX Propellant

India’s life sciences sector continues to grow by leaps and bounds, underpinned by its rapid bioeconomy expansion from USD 10 billion in 2014 to over USD 130 billion in 2024, with projections exceeding USD 300 billion by 2030. The country has established itself as a global biotechnology hub, contributing an anticipated 19% to the global biotechnology market by 2025. The biologics market alone is forecast to grow to USD 12 billion by the same year, showcasing an impressive CAGR of 22%.

Key drivers include a rising elderly population, set to reach 347 million by 2050, intensifying the need for advanced therapeutics and biotechnology solutions. India’s skilled talent pool—comprising innovators, researchers, and healthcare professionals—continues to attract global investments, supported by initiatives such as the BioE3 Policy and PLI schemes, designed to bolster biomanufacturing capabilities.

The sector’s evolution is also marked by advancements in biosimilars, with Indian firms increasingly capturing global markets as biologics worth over $200 billion go off-patent by 2030. Strategic adoption of biofoundries, artificial intelligence, and digital automation is enhancing production efficiencies and scaling innovation.

Collaboration between public and private sectors, integration of advanced technologies, and India’s cost-effective infrastructure underscore its ability to lead in delivering affordable healthcare solutions. In 2025, aligning with global standards and capitalizing on transformative opportunities will help India reinforce its position as a key contributor to advancements in life sciences and global health improvements.

Rohit Mahajan Co-Founder plutosONE

India continues to lead the global digital payment revolution with innovative platforms like RuPay, BHIM, UPI, Bharat Connect, and FASTag, spearheaded by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). UPI’s international expansion now spans Sri Lanka, Mauritius, France, UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, and Nepal, with over 20 nations in South America and Africa in discussions to adopt UPI-like systems through NPCI’s global arm, NIPL.

This year, fintech transactions surged remarkably. Bharat Connect recorded ₹1,00,999 crore in transactions across 22,113 billers, while UPI processed 15.48 billion transactions worth ₹21.55 lakh crore, marking annual growth of 38% in volume and 24% in value. FASTag transactions also rose significantly, reaching 359 million in November 2024, a daily average of 12 million.

Key innovations include Bharat Connect for Business, a B2B invoicing platform leveraging BBPS to streamline financial operations, and UPI Circle, enabling secure delegated payments for families and small businesses. With AI-powered security and interoperability driving advancements, 2025 promises transformative developments in digital payments.

At plutosONE, we are committed to fostering collaboration with fintechs, banks, and regulators to build a scalable, transparent, and secure payment ecosystem that empowers individuals and businesses alike

MUKESH PANDEY ,Director Rupyaa Paisa

The FinTech sector witnessed unprecedented growth in 2024, spearheading innovations that redefined banking, insurance, and investment landscapes. One standout development was the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in personal banking. AI chatbots, capable of understanding and processing human emotions, significantly enhanced customer service, providing personalized financial advice based on individual spending habits and financial goals.

Another breakthrough was in blockchain technology, which transformed payment systems. The introduction of decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms facilitated peer-to-peer transactions without the need for traditional banking infrastructures, leading to faster transactions and reduced fees. This innovation particularly benefitted small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by simplifying cross-border payments and improving access to capital through blockchain-enabled lending platforms.

Insurance technology also saw remarkable advancements with the adoption of telematics and IoT, allowing for more accurate risk assessments and premium determinations based on real-time data. This made policies more affordable and encouraged a culture of prevention rather than reaction.

Furthermore, the rise of robo-advisors democratized access to investment, offering algorithm-based portfolio management services at a fraction of the cost of traditional financial advisors.

The FinTech revolution of 2024 did not just enhance existing services; it reimagined financial systems as inclusive, efficient, and transparent, setting a new standard for how we manage personal and business finances.

Kamalasekar Subramaniam, Principal Consultant of VTRAC, Cybersecurity Consulting Services at Verizon Business

“As we approach 2025, cybersecurity threats will continue to evolve at an accelerated pace. As we see advancements in AI and quantum computing, attackers are becoming more sophisticated. Social engineering attacks are evolving beyond traditional phishing, with attackers now using deepfake technology making it harder to distinguish between legitimate and malicious communication. As AI plays an increasingly central role in detecting and responding to threats, attackers will harness the same technology to craft more complex and effective attacks.

Additionally, the rise of large language models (LLMs), presents new vulnerabilities as attackers can manipulate AI systems through prompt injections, bypassing traditional security measures. On top of that, quantum computing is on the horizon, potentially cracking current encryption methods and enabling more advanced ‘hack now, crack later’ attacks. To combat emerging cyber threats, organizations should focus on AI-driven detection and response systems, proactive monitoring, and recovery strategies. Leveraging AI-enhanced Security Operations Centers (SOCs) for dynamic threat detection and remediation, ensuring more resilient defenses in the face of evolving risks.” – Kamalasekar Subramaniam, Principal Consultant of VTRAC, Cybersecurity Consulting Services at Verizon Business

Shashwat Swaroop, Founder, Marmeto

“This year has seen monumental growth and transformation for commerce, driven by India’s unique blend of digital innovation and consumer demand. With the Indian commerce market expected to reach $200 billion by 2026, up from $85 billion in 2023, reflecting a CAGR of 20-25%, the potential for businesses to scale and thrive has never been greater. The past year has seen a deeper penetration of commerce into Tier II and III cities, backed by enhanced internet access, improved logistics, seamless payment systems, heightened preference for online shopping and the rise of mobile-first shoppers.

2025 will see focus on refining the fundamentals such as enhancing the omni-channel experience to blur the lines between online and offline commerce, streamlining supply chains for faster delivery, and creating personalised shopping experiences that cater to diverse consumer bases. As scale of commerce grows, more and more brands will focus on leveraging tech to help them unlock smooth operations and enable efficient scaling”

Dr. Suman Katragadda, CEO, Heaps.ai

“As we close 2024 and look ahead to 2025, India’s healthcare and health insurance sectors stand at a transformative juncture. Despite rapid advancements in medical infrastructure and technology, fundamental challenges persist in affordability, accessibility, and care management. Addressing these issues requires a concerted focus on capacity building and innovative strategies to ensure better healthcare outcomes.

Health insurance penetration in India remains low, with approximately 75% of medical expenses still being paid out-of-pocket. The integration of AI in healthcare is no longer optional, it has become the cornerstone of modern care management and coordination. India is still at an early stage of leveraging the power of AI and data analytics. AI-driven tools like predictive analytics and risk assessment indices can redefine patient care by enabling insurers and healthcare providers to anticipate complications, prevent hospitalizations, and deliver cost-effective, timely interventions.

This year, the government’s initiative to extend PM-JAY benefits to the elderly population was a commendable step toward inclusive healthcare. However, a key challenge remains the need for more individuals to invest in health insurance. To drive greater adoption, the government shall consider reducing taxes on health insurance, making it more affordable for all. By addressing these challenges, we can move closer to a more equitable and healthier India in 2025 and beyond,”

Smita Shetty Kapoor, CEO & Co-founder of Kelp

“As we bid farewell to 2024 and prepare to embrace 2025, it’s inspiring to see the transformative strides made in workplace safety, inclusivity, and employee well-being. This year, the corporate world has demonstrated an enhanced commitment to the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH), with many organizations moving beyond mere compliance to proactively fostering cultures of respect and trust. Industry trends reveal a growing reliance on technology to enhance PoSH monitoring and employee awareness, alongside a deeper integration of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies into business practices. Notably, there has been a surge in leadership accountability and a stronger focus on employee mental wellness, underscoring the interconnectedness of safety and well-being.

At Kelp, 2024 was a year of incredible collaboration and growth. We continued our mission of creating safer and more inclusive workplaces, working with over 1000 organizations across diverse sectors. The 5th edition of the Kelp PoSH Awards® celebrated companies that went above and beyond to make their workplaces safe and inclusive. We also shepherded organizations through formulating their commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity through internal diagnostics, leadership interventions and learning. Some of the most treasured memories stem from being part of our client’s DEI journey, from inception to execution.

As we step into 2025, I am excited to see how our workplaces will further evolve to propel a shared -vision for safety, diversity and inclusion. My hope is that organizations worldwide continue to recognize that safety and respect must go beyond compliance and be seen as what they truly are -essential drivers of innovation, engagement, and long-term success. Together, we can shape workplaces that are not only compliant but also empowering ecosystems where every individual—irrespective of gender, orientation, or background—feels valued, heard and can realize their full potential.

At Kelp, we remain steadfast in our vision of creating safe, happy, productive and inclusive workplaces, and I look forward to another year of meaningful impact and collaboration.”

Mr Madhav Krishna, Founder and CEO of Vahan.ai

“It has been over 2 years since ChatGPT was introduced, and since then the abilities of generative AI have grown exponentially. The entire paradigm of possibilities has now changed. In 2024 we saw AI research play a pivotal role in winning two Nobel prizes (with Demis Hassabis and John Jumper winning the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work through the AI-powered AlphaFold 2 and John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton winning the Nobel Prize in Physics for their work with artificial neural networks).

AI is no longer a tool of the future—it is shaping the present, delivering profound business impacts and redefining how we engage with information. 2025 would be a pivotal year with the advent of agentic AI, a form of “reasoning” AI that can perform a variety of tasks without human intervention, such as, data analysis, customer service, identifying and learning from data to react, with minimum human intervention. AI Agents would open up a new realm of possibilities and opportunities which have been till date locked beyond a financial or high skill barrier. In March of 2024, the Indian cabinet allocated INR 10,354 crore to the IndiaAI Mission, signaling its commitment to building AI in India for Bharat and in 2025 we expect to see greater commitment and support from the Government towards building AI for Bharat. AI in India will continue to empower individuals and increase opportunities for them, to access the market and make their lives better.”

Mr. Dilip Modi, Founder & CEO of Spice Money

“2024 has been a landmark year for the fintech industry, achieving unprecedented milestones in innovation and financial inclusion. India now boasts 26 fintech unicorns, including one decacorn, with registered startups surging from 2,100 in 2021 to 10,200 in 2024 and a combined valuation of $125 billion. Payments and lending categories attracted the maximum amount of funding, accounting for 85% of capital raised, while UPI surpassed 10 billion transactions in August, underscoring its transformative impact.

Spice Money is proud to contribute to this remarkable growth with offerings like biometric banking through AEPS, assisted bill payments, cash collection, and the rollout of UPI for rural India. Our foray into MSME lending and a robust 14-lakh-strong Adhikari network has extended essential financial services to 95% of rural pin codes and 2.39 lakh villages. In 2024, we impacted over 2.5 crore rural customers monthly, fostering trust, financial accessibility, and economic empowerment across Bharat.

Looking ahead to 2025, India is on track to have approximately 150 fintech unicorns with a combined valuation projected to reach $500 billion by 2030. The industry’s future lies in driving scalable and inclusive solutions through collaboration with policymakers and public partners, fostering sustainable and impactful growth for millions across the country.

At Spice Money, we remain committed to advancing Bharat’s financial inclusion through tech-driven solutions, ensuring compliance, and enhancing fraud risk management while prioritizing sustainable and profitable growth. A supportive regulatory framework and robust public-private collaboration are essential to addressing the unique needs of rural India. With rural fintech leading India’s digital revolution, Spice Money aims to build a resilient, inclusive financial ecosystem that uplifts communities and accelerates economic progress.”

Mr. Nikhil Agarwal, President, CJ Darcl Logistics Ltd.

“2024 has been a year of significant progress for India’s logistics sector, underscored by sustained policy support and technological strides. With the transformative impact of the government’s initiatives towards infrastructural development and digitization, the sector has shown its resilience and growth potential. With projected market value of the Indian logistics sector reaching ₹47.12 lakh crore by 2030, (according to a recent report titled ‘A report on future talent requirements in logistic’) the integration of innovative technologies, from digital platforms and autonomous vehicles and augmented reality are set to propel the industry further. Moreover, the commitment to eco-friendly logistics practices—such as emissions-reducing route optimization and green packaging—position India as an eco-conscious leader in the global supply chain.

In order to keep up with the disruptions, and meet demands of clients, educational reforms and vocational training focusing on AI, big data, blockchain, and sustainable practices are paramount. With these measures, India’s logistics sector is ready to not only improve the operational excellence but also to achieve the benchmark for sustainability and innovation. The path that lies ahead is one that will bring a future where India is not only a supply chain destination but a global innovator in sustainable supply chain solutions.

As we enter 2025, CJ Darcl remains agile, prioritizing technology, capacity building, and employee well-being. Anticipating advancements in automation, robotics, and sustainable operations, we are equipped to amplify efficiency and elevate customer service in the dynamic market. Here’s to a year of progress and a promising future, characterized by flexibility, sustainability, and technological innovation in logistics.”

Rubal Sahni, Area Vice President & Country Manager India, Confluent

“Today’s consumers navigate a world of instant gratification and hyper-personalization. They expect experiences that are not just tailored, but predictive—services that are intuitive and understand their needs even before they ask for it.

Due to this fundamental transformation, businesses can no longer rely on static data or delayed insights. When consumer behavior changes due to shifting preferences or emerging trends, technological infrastructures need to be equally agile to match.

Enter real-time data streaming – a critical technology that enables businesses to share data in real-time, seamlessly and at scale to deliver richer, faster customer experiences. It is not just a tool for solving immediate problems but a catalyst for profound value realisation and organisational change. From UPI transactions to food deliveries and adaptive cybersecurity, data streaming can deliver faster and smarter experiences, all while keeping technology adoption more cost-effective and aligned to regulatory mandates.

In 2025, as AI adoption continues to evolve, the true differentiator will be how quickly an organization can derive value and insights from the data they collect. As technical teams become more agile and data becomes readily accessible, the ability to combine insights from across silos will allow teams to redefine what’s achievable. The challenge, then, won’t just be about adopting data streaming but mastering its management to realise its full potential––without compromising compliance or control. Businesses that embrace real-time data streaming will set new benchmarks for innovation and resilience.”

Pushpamitra Das, Founder & Director, JUSTO.

According to Pushpamitra Das, Founder & Director, JUSTO, disbursements in India exhibited a modest growth of 9.2% in FY 2024 on the back of 18.2% growth in FY 2023. Public Sector Banks (PSBs) maintained a dominant position, holding 43% of the market value and 40% of active loans, while the private sector accounts for 23% of the market value and 34.5% of active loans. Housing Finance Companies (HFCs) contribute 22.5% to the market value and 19.4% to active loans. Foreign institutions represent a minimal 0.2% market value and 0.6% active loans, whereas the Others category has 11.3% market value and 5.5% active loans.

In FY24, there was an increase in the average home loan amount across all lenders. Public Sector Banks (PSBs) reported an 11% year-on-year growth, with the average loan amount rising to ₹28 lakhs. Private Banks recorded a 7% increase, with the average loan amount reaching ₹42 lakhs, according to CRIF High Mark.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) maintained the repo rate at 6.5% throughout 2024. In December 2024, the RBI reduced the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) by 50 basis points to 4%, a move expected to enhance liquidity and potentially lower home loan interest rates.

The 2024-2025 Union Budget introduced measures aimed at transforming the real estate sector, particularly in affordable housing, taxation, and infrastructure development, which are expected to influence the home loan industry positively. Analysts predict that home loan borrowers may experience relief in 2025, with expected interest rate cuts ranging from 50 to 100 basis points, contingent on economic indicators such as GDP growth and inflation.

In summary, the home loan industry in India during FY 2024-2025 experienced a slowdown in growth, influenced by monetary policies and market dynamics. However, with anticipated interest rate cuts and supportive government initiatives, the sector is poised for a potential rebound in the coming years.

Krishnan Ramachandran, MD & CEO, Niva Bupa Health Insurance

“The health insurance industry in India has undergone transformative growth in 2024, propelled by regulatory advancements and evolving customer preferences. At Niva Bupa, we welcome progressive measures by IRDAI, such as reduced waiting periods for pre-existing conditions, policy standardization, and the push for inclusivity with products that have no upper age limit. These changes have significantly enhanced accessibility and customer-centricity in health insurance. The proposal to consider reduction in GST rate on health insurance premiums, if accepted and implemented would turn out to be game-changer. It would make health insurance more affordable and encourage more people to secure their health. Alongside these developments, the adoption of digital technologies has streamlined policy issuance, claims management, and personalized health services, contributing to better customer experiences. Initiatives promoting preventive healthcare, including wellness benefits and mental health coverage, are reshaping how individuals perceive health insurance, shifting the focus toward holistic well-being.

Despite these strides, India still faces challenges in penetration, particularly in underserved and rural areas. Addressing these gaps through innovative products and partnerships aligns with the government’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ where equitable access to quality healthcare is foundational. As we enter 2025, we remain committed to empowering individuals across demographics, fostering a resilient and inclusive healthcare ecosystem, and contributing meaningfully to the nation’s progress.”

Vikram Bhandari, CTIO at Yantra – A Riveron Company

“2025 will be a year of ‘AI Evolution and Collaboration.’ As company leaders—such as CFOs and CIOs—seek to drive innovation, economic growth, and market value, AI will play a key role in transforming the digital economy. In recent months, AI has become more accessible and better understood, and this foundation paves the way for significant advancements in AI systems, including AI agents, generative AI, and human-AI collaboration. We will see the first wave of AI augmenting rather than replacing human roles, fostering a partnership where humans focus on creativity, strategy, and oversight, while AI handles data processing and automation. These innovations will equip CFOs and CIOs to use automation and data-driven strategies, which drive greater operational efficiency and leads to increased market value. With easier access to AI-led innovation, succeeding in a competitive landscape will demand a mindset of rapid experimentation. This means company leaders need to fail fast, learn faster, and adapt to cutting-edge technologies while investing in the upskilling of their workforce to maximize ROI”

Ajay Sawant, Chairman and Managing Director, Orient Technologies Ltd.

“In 2024, we saw a significant uptick in tech investments and overall tech adoption as businesses recognized the need for digital transformation. This surge in activity has set the stage for 2025, which will be a pivotal year for cloud services. As the BFSI industry and technology firms lead the charge for scalable, secure, and agile solutions, businesses will prioritize integrating cutting-edge security frameworks into their cloud infrastructures to address the growing demand for cyber resilience. The integration of AI will further enhance decision-making, operational efficiency, and defenses against increasingly sophisticated threats. The way we combine AI with cloud computing will shape the future of technology, laying a strong foundation for both security and innovation.”

Debi Prasad Dash, President, of India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA) and Chair of India Electric Mobility Council (IEMC)

“2024 saw a significant change in Indian renewable space. Most of the solar tenders came up with energy storage as an option in India. Most solar tenders began incorporating energy storage as an option, leading to over 16 gigawatt-hours of hybrid tenders at competitive prices below 2 to 3 rupees. In 2022-2023, the Indian government has come up with multiple policies on energy storage including waiver of the transmission charges for the energy storage, and viability gap funding which was announced in the budget and implemented in the last part of 2024. The government’s initiatives included a 10% energy storage mandate for new solar projects, optimizing transmission lines, and creating substantial opportunities for battery energy storage systems (BESS) in India.

As the Indian Energy Storage Alliance (IESA), we anticipate a cumulative market potential of around 250 gigawatt-hours of battery energy storage requirements by 2032. Therefore, we believe that over the next seven years, India will become a market leader in this sector, alongside the US, Australia, Europe, and China. Many Indian companies have evolved, and numerous global companies have entered the Indian market this year. We foresee an acceleration phase for the deployment of Battery Storage Systems (BSS) for renewables in India by 2025.”

Madhusudan Krishnapuram, VP – Product, Engineering & MD, GoTo India

“The year 2024 marked a pivotal phase in AI adoption, laying the groundwork for its widespread integration across industries. Cybersecurity, which emerged as another critical priority in 2024 amid increasing digital threats, will continue to dominate the technology landscape. For IT leaders, this will mean doing more with less—delivering seamless IT support and management solutions to empower a widespread, hybrid workforce while balancing efficiency and innovation. In 2025, the IT support landscape will pivot toward seamless AI integration, driving proactive solutions and predictive analytics at scale. Hybrid workforces will demand tools that unify collaboration, ensuring security and efficiency across distributed teams. Future trends, such as AI-driven threat detection, quantum computing advancements, and autonomous IT support systems, will not just redefine the IT industry but also reshape the talent landscape, driving demand for specialized skills and new approaches to workforce readiness. The next chapter of technology innovation will belong to organizations that embrace these disruptions while staying focused on building resilient, sustainable, and human-centered systems.”

Ms Srividya Kannan, Founder and CEO

Enterprise AI: Transforming Business Strategies with Real-Time Analytics and Predictive Modeling

“Enterprise AI is transforming the business landscape by delivering real-time, data-driven insights through predictive modeling. These technologies enable organizations to take a holistic view of their operations, streamlining workflows, optimizing costs, and directly enhancing profitability.

Predictive modeling and real-time analytics are no longer just tools—they’re becoming the backbone of enterprise strategy. These technologies empower businesses to make data-driven decisions at unprecedented speed, optimizing operations and uncovering opportunities for cost reduction and margin improvement. For example, predictive inventory management allows enterprises to minimize waste by matching supply with real-time demand, while customer behavior analytics helps personalize offerings, driving higher conversions and loyalty.

Predictive modeling, powered by AI and ML, leverages historical data to anticipate future trends and make informed decisions across various domains, from supplier selection and vendor onboarding to enterprise content management systems like invoices, workflows, and HR processes. This capability enhances efficiency and provides enterprises with a significant competitive edge. The time saved through automation and insight generation translates into higher productivity and improved margins.

What’s particularly exciting is how these systems are evolving. They’re no longer reliant on static data silos; they now leverage dynamic data streams, enabling enterprises to pivot and adapt instantly in a rapidly changing market. The future of large enterprises will rely on harnessing these technologies to build resilient, agile systems. CXOs who invest in real-time analytics and predictive modeling today won’t just keep pace—they’ll set the pace for innovation, efficiency, and long-term profitability.”

Mr Gerald Jaideep, CEO Medvarsity

The Rise of Generative AI and Advanced LLMs

“Generative AI and large language models (LLMs) are set to redefine healthcare education in 2025, revolutionizing how professionals learn by delivering personalized experiences and immersive real-world scenario simulations. A recent study by the University of Florida College of Medicine revealed that 68% of medical students already use LLMs, with 56% finding them accurate for general medical topics—highlighting their growing role in education.

As the convergence of healthcare and technology accelerates, interdisciplinary programs that integrate medicine, AI, data analytics, and leadership skills are paving the way for a new era of learning. Beyond enhancing personalization, LLMs address one of the most significant challenges in medical education: the overwhelming cognitive load. By managing the mechanical aspects of information processing, these technologies enable students to concentrate on critical thinking, problem-solving, and the humanistic dimensions of medicine.

This shift not only equips future healthcare professionals with the skills needed for an increasingly digital landscape but also ensures they remain focused on delivering compassionate, patient-centered care.”

Mr Rajeev Singh, MD, BenQ India & South Asia

Remote Work and Education

“The education sector is undergoing a transformative shift as classrooms evolve into dynamic environments that prioritize collaboration and personalized learning. A key trend driving this change is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and energy-efficient technologies, which are revolutionizing how educators teach and students learn. AI tools are streamlining workflows and enhancing resource optimization within educational settings. Intelligent tutoring systems offer personalized learning experiences, adapting to individual student needs and learning paces. This not only improves engagement but also helps educators identify and address knowledge gaps effectively.

Simultaneously, the push for sustainability is leading schools to adopt energy-efficient technologies, such as SmartEco projectors. These advanced devices utilize laser and LED technology, enabling significant reductions in electricity consumption—up to 50% compared to traditional mercury lamp projectors—without compromising on performance. This shift not only alleviates budget pressures for educational institutions but also aligns with broader environmental goals.

As remote learning continues to be a significant component of education, enhancements like real-time translation and adaptive task management are facilitating seamless collaboration among students and teachers, regardless of location. The convergence of AI-driven solutions and energy-efficient technologies is thus setting the stage for a new era in education, where learning environments are more interactive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of both educators and students.”

Mr. Amit Sharma, MD & CEO, Tata Consulting Engineers

The Indian engineering consultancy sector has experienced a remarkable transformation in 2024, propelled by a steadfast commitment to sustainability, digital progress, and the adoption of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, modular construction, and pioneering innovations in energy storage, small modular reactors (SMRs), semiconductors, high-speed rail and infrastructure as a focus area. At Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE), we are determined to harness this momentum, aligning fully with India’s aspiration to emerge as a global leader in sustainable development, technological self-reliance, and resilient infrastructure.

Our approach remains uncompromisingly innovative, delivering bespoke, end-to-end engineering solutions across an ever-widening spectrum of critical domains. Alongside traditional areas such as renewable energy, transport, water resources, space, nuclear, and defence, we are actively catalysing growth in emerging sectors like advanced battery technologies, PSPs, SMRs, and semiconductors. Through close collaboration with domestic partners, we invigorate the ‘Make in India’ initiative, ensure rapid knowledge transfer, and nurture a dynamic ecosystem of self-reliant manufacturing and cutting-edge research.

As we look to 2025 and beyond, our focus centres on expanding our global presence by delivering transformative projects that seamlessly blend sustainability, innovation, and digital sophistication. By leveraging AI, machine learning, and state-of-the-art project management methodologies, we will provide integrated solutions that uplift communities and industries in India whilst setting new benchmarks on the world stage. Guided by our unwavering commitment to economic growth, environmental stewardship, skill development, and technological excellence, TCE stands ready to shape a smarter, more resilient, and truly “Viksit Bharat.”

Mr. Nirav Choksi, CEO and Co-Founder of CredAble

“In 2025, there will be major business opportunities in the FinTech lending space, with the likes of invoice-based lending and cash flow-based lending expected to gain more momentum. Additionally, in today’s experience economy, contextual FinTech solutions powered by a reliable technology suite will play a central role in enhancing customer experiences and unlocking steady revenue growth. Against this backdrop, while embedded finance has made great headway in the banking sector—to deliver the one-stop shop many customers now demand—embedded FinTech will be a top priority for banks as they look to upgrade their tech offerings. With embedded FinTech, banks will integrate FinTech’s AI-powered and low-code digital solutions to stay competitive technologically. FinTechs like CredAble are speeding up underwriting with local Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) integration and building a strong ecosystem of working capital financing technology for banks with globally integrated, yet locally relevant financing solutions. To ensure continuous risk assessment and define the next chapter of working capital financing, we will see banks and FinTechs forge partnerships to leverage a flexible, cost-effective, and DPI-enabled lending core to build solutions on.”

Pankaj Vyas, CEO and MD, Siemens Technology and Services.

“2024 has been a year of rapid integration of AI into the way we work – moving beyond the buzz and helping people and machines team up more naturally. AI agents don’t just analyze data; they help us make decisions and act on them in the moment. As we step into 2025, we are increasingly seeing technologies like Generative AI, Digital Twins, and the Industrial Metaverse come together to build smarter and sustainable systems. Industries will be designing new hardware and infrastructure in digital environments first, ensuring that they not only work well, but are also environmentally friendly before they ever hit the real world. Digital tools will also allow us to tackle big challenges, from saving energy and protecting the planet to fostering a more intuitive relationship between people and the technology we use every day. The “Intelligence Revolution” is upon us, and its success depends on how thoughtfully we develop and embrace these new tools.”

Dr. Bijal Sanghvi, Managing Director, Axis Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

“The future of manufacturing lies in embracing smart technologies, empowering human creativity, and driving excellence to meet the demands of tomorrow. Central to this evolution is the commitment to sustainability, where manufacturers are adopting greener practices to align with global environmental goals. From energy-efficient production lines powered by renewable energy to implementing circular economy principles like recycling and reuse, sustainability is transforming the industry into a responsible steward of the planet. By integrating advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), manufacturers can optimize processes, reduce waste, and predict resource needs with precision, paving the way for eco-friendly operations that balance profitability and environmental responsibility.

Equally transformative is the rise of Industry 5.0, which shifts the focus from automation alone to fostering human-machine collaboration. In this new era, machines powered by AI and robotics handle repetitive, precision-driven tasks, while human ingenuity and creativity drive innovation, customization, and problem-solving. This harmonious interplay not only enhances efficiency but also creates a more dynamic and adaptive manufacturing environment. Industry 5.0 underscores the importance of placing human values at the core of technological advancements, ensuring inclusivity and resilience. Together, sustainability, AI, and human-machine synergy are shaping a future where manufacturing is not just smarter and more efficient but also more sustainable, people-centric, and capable of meeting the evolving needs of society.”

Mr. Rakesh Goyal, Director, Probus

The insurance sector in India underwent substantial changes in 2024 as a result of comprehensive regulatory changes. These initiatives are laying the foundation for a cleaner, more transparent industry with affordable products that ultimately benefit the end policyholders.

Regulatory Changes: The lower surrender charges for endowment policyholders were one significant change. This ensures fairness and transparency in the market, protecting policyholders from financial penalties or burdens. The life insurance sector will be impacted by this reform in the near and distant future.

Government Changes: A significant development is the anticipated reduction in Goods and Services Tax (GST) on health and life insurance policies.

Industry level changes: Another positive development is the progress in regulatory processes for issuing new licenses, which, though not yet finalized, signals growth and innovation in the sector. Additionally, the share of brokers in insurance distribution expanded significantly in 2024. These trends highlight the industry’s focus on fostering enhancing distribution networks, and catering to evolving customer needs.

Outlook for 2025: The reforms of 2024 have set the stage for significant growth. Although the past year’s growth in both life and non-life sectors was modest, the regulatory and government-driven cleanup efforts, alongside the industry’s focus on extending distribution, are expected to steer the industry in a new direction. Industry participants are aligning their policies and strategies to reflect these developments. This comprehensive reform marks a turning point for the long-term growth of the industry, creating a positive and lasting impact for policyholders and the sector alike.

Shivam Thakral, CEO of BuyUcoin, India’s second-longest-running digital asset exchange

As 2024 draws to a close, we at BuyUcoin reflect on a year filled with significant events and challenges within the cryptocurrency landscape. Bitcoin price has seen an incredible boost from a level of $100,000 as the prospect of Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), being announced, opened the opportunity for institutional investments. With regards to the U.S. Bitcoin Strategic Reserve, President-elect Donald Trump has further flared interest, with other countries looking to follow in its footsteps, thus introducing a game theory dynamic of a global kind.

To promote institutional adoption, we included zero-fee transfers for Indian users and a 1% bonus on transferred assets. We are hopeful for the future of Web3 and blockchain technology, as it will bring some very transformative developments with regulatory clarity in 2025.

In 2025, the focus will be on how major economies react to the strategic reserves and whether or not companies will emulate MicroStrategy in adopting Bitcoin as part of their treasury management. The changes in accounting standards that FASB is poised to make will also likely drive companies to include Bitcoins and other cryptocurrencies in their reserves.

Anish Jain, Founder, WadzChain

As we close the chapter of 2024, we reflect on a year filled with unprecedented milestones and transformative changes in the cryptocurrency world. Bitcoin’s remarkable surge past the $107,000 mark has reshaped market dynamics and ignited renewed interest in digital assets. The political landscape has also evolved, with Donald Trump’s return to prominence influencing discussions that could shape future regulatory frameworks.

In India, the Lok Sabha’s recent discussions on crypto regulations signal a crucial step towards a more structured and secure environment for digital currencies. For WadzChain, this year has been particularly significant as we prepare for the launch of our WCO and the soft launch of our Mainnet, initiatives designed to redefine global transactions and enhance the efficiency of financial systems worldwide.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited about the immense opportunity presented by the growing demand for tokenisation solutions across various sectors. We see business conditions turning favourable in 2025, especially through diversification within the tokenisation landscape. By expanding offerings into other products and services, we will touch other market segments effectively. So, let’s embrace the opportunities ahead and innovate in this ever-evolving landscape. Together, we can harness the power of blockchain technology to create a more inclusive and prosperous financial future.

Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget

The cryptocurrency landscape has transformed so much in 2024, with Bitcoin setting the pace. With its price skyrocketing by approximately $108,000 to an all-time high. Expected policies from the upcoming government, including a strategic Bitcoin reserve, have bullishly inclined investors. The anticipation surrounding Bitcoin’s price movement may rally toward an expected range of between $180,000 and $200,000.

As we look ahead to 2025, the crypto industry will evolve significantly. The perfect amalgamation of AI technologies will complement trading strategies and user experience while paying attention to the inclusion of PayFi in the overall streamlining of such activities. Besides, the MEME sector is still up and alive, having a lot of profits for investors. The thing is, still, there are challenges, especially in the security aspect, which recent incidences have shown highlight vulnerabilities that could tarnish the market’s trust.

We anticipate a continued bullish trend in the crypto market. The expected appointment of a pro-crypto SEC chairperson and the establishment of a national Bitcoin reserve could significantly enhance institutional confidence. With predictions indicating BTC potential peaks of $500,000 by 2027 driven by regulatory shifts and growing blockchain adoption, the stage is set for an exciting year ahead in the world of cryptocurrency.

Jay Snyder, SVP, Global Partner and Alliances at Dynatrace

As we enter the new year, channel businesses will focus on strengthening their partnerships with vendors that can turn complex data into actionable insights. For example, by using an AI-driven observability platform that delivers tailored answers about customer environments, service delivery teams can develop drastically accelerated transformation roadmaps, creating more value. Partners can also take this one step further by moving beyond technical information to empower customers with business-level data. By pulling from their deep knowledge of the business and wider industry processes, partners can offer invaluable insight that ties directly to business value for the customer. This will help partners to scale their impact for customers and maintain a competitive edge.

Over the next 12 months, it will be crucial for channel businesses to recognize the full potential of autonomous operations. AI can fundamentally transform their business models by automating even the most complex IT systems. Such approaches can enable them to predict and prevent problems, leading their customers into a future of self-healing software. For partners, this will be a critical goal to work towards – helping to deliver flawless services for customers while driving internal efficiencies that maximize margins.

Rahul Garg, CEO & Founder, Moglix

This year has been a game-changer for the manufacturing industry. Technologies like IoT, robotics, and AI have revolutionized how factories operate, making processes faster and more efficient. Sustainability has also taken centre stage, with renewable energy, eco-friendly materials, and circular production practices becoming key priorities for businesses. The use of digital twin technology has further improved operations by enabling real-time simulations and better maintenance, helping factories run smoothly and cut downtime. As we look ahead, these advancements motivate us to keep innovating and building a stronger, greener, and more future-ready manufacturing ecosystem

Anil Kumar, CTO, Exotel

“As Gartner highlights, the rise of Agentic AI—systems capable of autonomous decision-making and adaptive learning—is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. This trend is particularly impactful in customer engagement, where organizations are moving beyond basic automation to creating intelligent systems that can proactively resolve issues, make contextual decisions, and adapt to real-time scenarios.

The emergence of autonomous contact centers exemplifies this evolution. By integrating AI-driven insights with human oversight, businesses can achieve a balance between efficiency and empathy, redefining customer experiences while optimizing costs. Gartner’s vision for Agentic AI aligns closely with the need for systems that not only execute tasks but also learn and evolve, making them indispensable in scaling personalized interactions and operational excellence.

As we look toward 2025, the challenge and opportunity lie in leveraging AI responsibly to ensure both scalability and ethical decision-making. Industries must focus on designing AI systems that prioritize user trust, transparency, and adaptability. This transformative trend will shape not just customer service but also broader operational strategies, enabling organizations to set new benchmarks for innovation and success in a rapidly evolving digital economy.”

Aalok Kumar President & CEO, NEC Corporation India, Head of Global Smart City Business, NEC Corporation

“Over the past decade, India has rapidly evolved into a highly mature and dynamic market, emerging as a hub for digital disruption. The rise of cashless payments, quick commerce, and innovations like DigiYatra serve as tangible proof of this transformation—developments that would have seemed unimaginable just ten years ago. The extent to which technology has become integrated into the daily lives of ordinary citizens is nothing short of remarkable.

Looking ahead to 2025, we will continue to see pioneering advancements in logistics, smart cities, aviation, and banking, alongside the growth of emerging industries. India’s EV sector is expected to grow strongly, fuelled by government incentives, environmental concerns, technological innovations, and significant investments in EV infrastructure and manufacturing. These sectors will be critical in driving our progress toward becoming a fully developed nation by 2047. However, the next frontier of digital innovation lies in healthcare and agriculture—sectors that are vital to the Indian economy. Here, technology holds the potential to revolutionize operations, enhance precision, and drive significant economic growth.

India’s unique diversity and adaptability provide a fertile ground for innovation. Solutions developed here are infused with a level of agility that is rare anywhere else in the world. As a result, India is becoming a global capability center, where innovations are created not only for India but for the world. To capitalize on this, we must focus on two key areas: (a) scaling our talent and skill development by democratizing access for all, and (b) solidifying our position as the global knowledge capital.

By aligning digital transformation with principles of inclusivity and sustainability, India is uniquely positioned to lead on the global stage while improving the lives of its citizens. The next phase of this journey demands ongoing collaboration, innovation, and a collective commitment to achieving our shared vision of a prosperous future.”

Arun Awasthy, President & Managing Director, Johnson Controls India

“India’s sustainability journey gained significant momentum in 2024. We achieved key climate goals ahead of schedule. Our SDG Index score rose notably to 71, and India identified over $500 billion in clean energy investment opportunities, to name a few. This progress demonstrates that sustainable development is not only essential but also a powerful driver of economic growth.

As we look toward 2025, we hope to further build on this momentum and accelerate progress. With nearly 70% of the country’s building stock yet to be constructed, India stands at a crossroads that offers a unique opportunity to embed sustainability into the very foundation of its future growth. India is poised to set up 12 new industrial cities and associated infrastructure projects; making a strong push to make India a global hub for healthcare tourism; and strengthen India’s position as a tourism spot (as provisioned in the Union Budget 2024). All these developments point to the treasure trove of opportunities we have to get in on the ground floor, in the mission to decarbonise our infrastructure across the board – and technology is at the forefront of this.

India faces the dual task of developing new sustainable infrastructure while also retrofitting existing buildings, some centuries old, to align with current sustainability standards. This necessitates a collaborative framework that takes a customized approach to energy positivity, considering diverse needs and climatic zones. At Johnson Controls, we are committed to partnering with stakeholders to drive knowledge sharing and effect tangible change in India’s sustainability journey. As we enter 2025, I am optimistic that we will exceed our past achievements.”

Ms. Vijeta Soni ( Co-Founder & CEO, Sciative Solutions)

“2024 has been a landmark year of expansion and innovation for Sciative Solutions, solidifying our leadership in pricing intelligence across various industries. In the travel sector, we captured approximately 40% of the private bus industry in India and extended our global footprint into Ukraine, Brazil, and Poland, establishing a robust presence in key international markets. Our foray into the retail sector marked an exciting milestone as we entered the Australian market, offering dynamic pricing solutions that enhance operational efficiency and profitability for retailers. In hospitality, we introduced Zettaprice, an innovative product tailored to the needs of the industry, designed to optimize pricing strategies and improve revenue management. Additionally, we achieved an impressive 125% year-on-year revenue growth, further reinforcing our market position and the effectiveness of our solutions. As we look towards 2025, Sciative will continue to focus on refining and expanding our AI-powered pricing intelligence solutions across retail, travel, and hospitality. Our mission is to help businesses optimise pricing, increase profitability, and deliver better customer experiences in an ever-evolving and competitive landscape. With personalized strategies and smart technology, we aim to continue driving value for our clients while fueling our own growth in the year ahead.”

Mr. Girish Hirde – Global Delivery Head at InfoVision

“The year 2024 has been a year of measured progress for the IT industry, as businesses navigated global economic uncertainties, cautious investments, and delayed decision-making. However, as we look ahead to 2025, the outlook is decidedly optimistic. Increased IT spending and a growing urgency among traditional enterprises to accelerate digital transformation will drive the industry forward.

The adoption of Generative AI is no longer a choice but a necessity, as both enterprises and consumers actively integrate AI-driven solutions into their operations. Moving beyond proof-of-concept projects, businesses are now focusing on leveraging advanced AI capabilities to achieve tangible results. Key advances in the areas like security technologies, responsible AI, intelligent automation, and data intelligence will play a pivotal role in shaping successful digital transformation journeys across industries.

At InfoVision, we continue to drive innovation in specific areas such as Network APIs and autonomous networks in Telecom space, Omni-channel commerce and loyalty solutions in retail to mention a few and most importantly enable our customers to stay ahead in this dynamic landscape.”

Abhinav Lal, Co-founder of Practo

“Over the past few years, we have witnessed an unprecedented acceleration of healthcare technology. Telemedicine, driven by the pandemic, has proven its value in expanding access to care. Wearables are providing valuable insights into individual health, and 3D printing is revolutionizing surgical procedures. This rapid advancement is also reflected in the significant increase in medical research publications which has been growing by 5 – 10% in the last decade crossing 2MN+ by 2024.

In 2025, we can expect to see technology, specifically AI further integrate into every facet of healthcare. AI-powered tools will revolutionize clinical decision-making, enabling earlier disease detection, more accurate diagnoses, and personalized treatment plans thereby improving health outcomes. With India’s population of 1.4 bn and growing data source, it is set to become a powerhouse of health data enabling the development of value based care models. By leveraging AI and data analytics, we will see India develop innovative care models that improve health outcomes for its citizens and serve as a model for the world. Technology will empower both patients and providers, ensuring that high-quality care becomes a universal reality.”

Satyamohan Yanambaka, CEO, Writer Information

2024 has been a critical year for the IT & ITeS sector, marked by rapid advancements and widespread adoption of digital transformation initiatives. Industries such as BFSI, Telecom, and Healthcare have leveraged AI, Cloud Computing, and Cybersecurity to enhance efficiency and resilience. Gartner’s report on ‘India IT Spending in 2025’ forecasts India’s IT spending to reach USD 160 billion by 2025, highlighting the sector’s importance in shaping business outcomes.

According to statistics, a vast majority of enterprises—over 90% are now leveraging some form of cloud services, and hybrid models are gaining traction due to their ability to balance flexibility, data sovereignty, and operational efficiency. Organisations continue to rely on Business Process as a Service (BPaaS) for scalable and automated process management capabilities, highlighting its lasting value in operations.

Looking ahead to 2025, the expansion of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) will continue to transform the global IT landscape. India, in particular, is emerging as a strategic hub for these centres, driven by its skilled workforce and supportive government policies. This growth is accompanied by a rising demand for tailored digital solutions integrating advanced technologies such as automation, cloud services, and data analytics. For IT service providers, the opportunity lies in partnering as co-pilots to deliver solutions that streamline operations across global markets while addressing critical priorities such as data security, compliance, and scalability.

As businesses increasingly seek partners who can provide holistic, future-ready solutions, the ability to align tech with business objectives will be a key differentiator in the IT sector. We, at Writer Information are committed to enabling our client partners to navigate this evolving landscape. By combining secure storage, cloud solutions, and cutting-edge BPaaS technologies, we aim to empower organisations to adapt, innovate, and thrive in an increasingly dynamic digital world.

Rajan Nagina, Head of AI Practice, Newgen Software.

As we close the chapter on another remarkable year, the evolution of artificial intelligence, particularly Generative AI, has reshaped our understanding of what’s possible in banking and beyond. We are witnessing AI transition from a tool of automation to a partner in intelligent decision-making—one that places customer understanding and contextual insights at the center.

The emergence of AI agents is exemplifying this shift, enabling businesses to bridge data silos, unlock predictive insights, and foster meaningful, data-driven relationships.

While privacy, transparency, and scalability challenges remain, they also inspire us to innovate and create secure, adaptive, and trust-based products. As we look ahead, the journey is clear—embracing AI not just as a technology but as a catalyst for building smarter, more responsive ecosystems.

Arvind Vaishnav, Head, Philips Innovation Campus and Innovation Partnerships – Growth region, Philips, Bengaluru.

“The emphasis on automation across healthcare is likely to increase as globally, there is a concerted effort towards addressing staff shortages and at the same time relieving staff of repetitive tasks and processes. Needless to say, this will also save healthcare professionals time, allowing them to spend more time with what’s more critical, spending time with patients. We are already witnessing this with generative AI functioning as a virtual assistant, organizing clinical notes and simplifying ways patient information is communicated across teams. It is also now apparent that AI will be adopted beyond automation. It is proven that AI can help simplify complex diagnostics, enabling less experienced professionals to provide high-quality care with confidence. Imagine, AI embedded in ultrasound systems. It allows physicians to detect, diagnose and monitor cardiac conditions more confidently and efficiently.

From a technology perspective, it is also interesting to see how introduction of new technologies in interventional care, minimally invasive procedures are becoming more advanced and hence more common. Having said that, this implies the need for Physicians to collect and analyze data from a wide range of sources, such as live X-ray images, 3D ultrasound, Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS), to name a few all the while closely monitoring the patient. Hence, integration of systems, software and devices will become increasingly important. This integration allows interventional physicians to treat patients with greater control and confidence during every stage of minimally invasive cardiac procedures.

While we focus on technology trends in healthcare, it would not be complete without the mention of what is likely to gain traction in 2025: transition towards managing health outside of the hospital. Advances in technology solutions is expected to support remote detection of patient health risks based on vital signs and other data. According to our 2024 Future Health Index report, remote patient monitoring will be the biggest area of planned AI implementation over the next three years, with 41% of healthcare leaders intending to invest in it. This will not only help prevent complications and hospitalizations with timely interventions, but also improve quality of life for patients.’’

Kashyap Reddy, Co-founder & CEO, Hitwicket

2024 has been a transformative year for India’s gaming industry, with the market growing by 23% to $3.8 billion, and further projected to reach $9.2 billion by 2029. This year also marked a significant moment with the Prime Minister acknowledging India’s growing gaming community, when he met the top gamers of the country, signaling strong regulatory optimism for the sector’s future.

At Hitwicket, we’re proud to align with this vision, securing strategic partnership with Harsha Bhogle, earlier this year, expanding our reach to wider cricket communities, and becoming one of the first gaming studios to pioneer in-person meet-and-greet events across India. This helped us to build stronger connections with our users and create gaming communities across the country. As we step into 2025, I’m optimistic about the industry’s continued growth. A well-defined regulatory framework distinguishing real-money games from immersive video games like Hitwicket would further help drive long-term growth and innovation.

Priyesh Chheda, Founder, Arbour Investments.

Please find below the year-end insights for your reference, and the same inputs are also attached in the Word document for your convenience.

According to Priyesh Chheda, Founder, Arbour Investments, India’s economic momentum continues to astound, with a projected GDP growth of 7.2% for FY 2025, reaffirming its status as the fastest-growing large economy in the world. This robust expansion is driving transformative trends across industries, particularly in logistics, warehousing, and real estate, fueled by innovation, infrastructure, and investment.

The warehousing market, a cornerstone of India’s logistics sector, recorded 20% year-on-year growth in Q3 2024, with transaction volumes reaching 14.65 million sq. ft. Grade A spaces dominate with a 66% share, driven by manufacturing (38%) and surging retail and e-commerce demand (35% and 34% YoY growth, respectively). Meanwhile, residential property prices are expected to rise by 6.5% in 2025, led by premium and luxury segments. Tier II cities like Indore, Kochi, and Jaipur are poised for growth, supported by urbanization, infrastructure upgrades, and government initiatives such as PMAY.

Global Capability Centers (GCCs) are reshaping South India’s real estate landscape, fueling demand for commercial and residential spaces in cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Emerging hubs like Coimbatore and Visakhapatnam are also gaining traction. This expansion, driven by tech giants and multinational corporations, is catalyzing urban infrastructure development, creating dynamic live-work-play environments.

Sustainability and smart city initiatives are increasingly redefining real estate through green building practices and PropTech solutions. With private equity investments crossing $1.5 billion in the first nine months of 2024 and the real estate market projected to reach $51.54 trillion by 2029, India’s evolving urban landscapes offer unparalleled opportunities for innovation and growth.

Deepak Ramaraju, Senior Fund Manager, Shriram AMC

As per OECD growth projection for 2025, global GDP growth is expected to improve to 3.3% from 3.2% in 2024 and should remain stable even in 2026 with India reporting one of the best growth rates at 6.9%. Resilient domestic demand in India, Indonesia along with the recent stimulus measures announced in China augur well for strong growth in Asia. While global inflation should ease further in the coming year, risk remains in the form of any escalation in geo political tension.

Both gold and silver have gained ~30% over the last one-year period. Global uncertainties including the US election led to rally in gold as it is considered as safe haven. However, post Trump winning the election in US, gold has corrected in the last one-month period. After this rally, gold is expected to remain rangebound in 2025. Silver, on the other hand, may witness momentum on the back of its usage in various industrial applications including electronics, solar panels for renewable energy, advanced healthcare and electric vehicles. Various supply-side challenges also led to higher prices of silver – a situation unlikely to improve soon. We may expect the silver prices to remain buoyant. A reversal in the DXY index may be positive for commodities. Hence a rally in metals may be expected if the DXY reverses.

Indian equities were buoyant amidst a challenging and eventful year with higher volatility. The markets were volatile with multiple global events, a slowdown in the Indian economy, tighter liquidity conditions and delayed government spending. However, a recent cut in CRR is expected to ease the liquidity conditions followed by a pickup in government spending. These two factors are expected to improve overall consumption and pickup in industrial output. The weather conditions have improved and one can expect a better agricultural output and a pickup in rural consumption. All these improvements are pointing towards a relatively better forward earning growth in the medium term.

RBI has reduced the real GDP growth forecast for FY25 to 6.6% from the previous estimate of 7.2% though 1HFY26 growth could recover to 7.1%. Currently, the most pressing issues for the domestic economy are higher interest rates, slower urban consumption owing to inflation and delayed government spending. Not to forget the geo-political challenges, FII pullback and weakening domestic currency. All these factors will be key drivers for the market. The policies adopted by the new US government will be crucial as they will have an impact on the global economy.

One can expect the inflation to bottom out, a couple of rate cuts are on the cards, and the government is expected to continue to invest in infrastructure, boost manufacturing and focus on sustainable energy. The new direct tax code, if approved by the parliament, can improve consumption and boost savings. The domestic flows and the retail participation in the markets can increase. Overall, all these measures can lead to a resurgence in growth and we may expect the earnings to show improvement leading the markets to remain buoyant unless a global event or geo-political factor disrupt the growth or impact the inflation significantly.

Capital expenditure by the government till October 2024 stood at Rs 4,66,545 crores, only 42% spent of budgeted Rs 11,11,111 crores for FY25. This compares with ~55% spending in the year ago period. With government stepping up investments in the 2H, sectors such as infrastructure, defense and railways may witness recovery. Moreover, FMCG, Oil and Gas, Energy were some of the worst performing sectors in the 3-month period. FMCG, badly hit by urban consumption slowdown, could witness recovery as valuation looks attractive. Besides, with government spending revival and possible interest rate cut in 1HCY25, urban consumption should recover.

IT, which has already recovered from its lows after rate cuts, may do well in 2025 as discretionary spending picks up, provided Trump does not impose any surprise tariffs. Banks may also witness recovery post interest rate cuts resulting in possible pick up in credit growth. Moreover, the recent CRR cut by 50 bps (in two tranches) should boost liquidity and credit growth in the banking sector.

Santosh Sahu, VP Engineering, Moneyview

“As we look ahead to 2025, the convergence of AI and fintech will be a defining force in reshaping financial services. At Moneyview, we believe that advanced technologies like generative AI and machine learning will play a crucial role in driving greater personalization, automation, and security in digital finance. These innovations are not just about enhancing the user experience; they will also foster financial inclusivity by providing tailored financial solutions to underserved segments.

Moreover, at Moneyview, we are also focused on leveraging these technologies to enhance system auditability, ensuring full adherence to regulatory requirements. By integrating sophisticated AI-driven audit capabilities, we can maintain transparency and accountability across all processes, providing robust compliance measures that align with evolving industry standards.

As a technology-first company, we are focused on harnessing these trends to build scalable, secure, and user-centric solutions that empower India’s financial future.”

Prasanna Nirmal Kumar – Chief Credit Officer, axio

“As we enter 2025, India’s FinTech landscape is poised for a transformative shift, driven by emerging technologies and evolving consumer expectations. Key trends shaping the sector include the rapid adoption of AI and machine learning for enhanced risk management, advanced credit underwriting, and personalized financial services. Embedded finance is set to elevate customer experiences by seamlessly integrating financial services into everyday transactions. Meanwhile, cybersecurity remains a top priority, with FinTech companies focused on building robust systems to protect user data and transactions in an increasingly digital ecosystem. As the industry embraces these innovations, maintaining systemic stability will be essential to achieving sustainable growth. At axio, we are dedicated to harnessing these advancements to empower our customers and lead the next phase of financial inclusion.”

Ashok Vashist, Founder and CEO, WTiCabs

“The year 2024 has been a defining chapter for the travel sector, driven by the growing adoption of electric vehicles, deeper integration of technology, and an increasing focus on sustainability. We’ve seen customers actively choose eco-friendly options, while corporates are embracing shared and electric mobility to align with their ESG goals. At the same time, the rise of Mobility-as-a-Service platforms has transformed how we think about seamless travel. While challenges like charging infrastructure and battery recycling remain, the progress made this year highlights the sector’s resilience and ability to adapt. As we close the year, it’s clear that the future of travel lies in building sustainable, connected, and efficient mobility ecosystems.”

Pranav Dangi, CEO and Founder, The Hosteller

“2024 was a transformative year for the travel industry, marking a full revival of both domestic and international travel. Gen Z and Millennials remained at the forefront, seeking affordable, community-driven, and sustainable travel experiences. Domestic travel saw a surge, driven by the rise of remote work and a renewed interest in offbeat and regional destinations. International travelers also returned in greater numbers, bringing a vibrant mix of cultures to India’s backpacking scene. At The Hosteller, we welcomed travelers from across the globe who sought authentic experiences and meaningful connections.

Technology continued to shape the industry, with personalization, AI-driven recommendations, and seamless digital experiences becoming the norm. Sustainability also took center stage, with eco-conscious travelers prioritizing brands that shared their values. At The Hosteller, our commitment to vegetarian menus, energy-efficient operations, and community engagement resonated deeply with this audience. As 2024 concludes, it’s clear that this year solidified the new normal for travel, one focused on connection, purpose, and responsibility. We look forward to carrying these learnings into 2025 as we continue to redefine the backpacking experience.”

Ashok Vashist, Founder and CEO, WTiCabs

“As we step into 2025, the travel sector stands at the cusp of a transformative phase. The push for sustainable mobility will accelerate, with electric vehicles, alternative fuels, and shared mobility services leading the charge. Technology will continue to reshape the industry, with AI, automation, and Mobility-as-a-Service platforms creating more personalized and seamless travel experiences. Corporate and consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions will drive innovation, while investments in charging infrastructure and battery technology will bridge existing gaps. In 2025, the focus will shift towards building scalable, resilient, and inclusive mobility solutions that not only meet the demands of today but also pave the way for a greener, smarter tomorrow”

Pranav Dangi, CEO and Founder, The Hosteller

“In 2025, the travel industry will focus on innovation, sustainability, and personalization. More travelers will look for unique experiences like eco-tourism, adventure trips, cultural immersion, and workations. At The Hosteller, we aim to offer more tailored experiences for backpackers and digital nomads. Workations will grow as remote work becomes more common. Travelers will seek destinations that combine peaceful settings with strong internet and co-working spaces. The Hosteller plans to create more spaces that let people work and explore with ease.

Technology will play a bigger role in travel, with AI making it easier to plan personalized trips. For example, travelers will use apps to get real-time recommendations for places to visit and stay. Sustainability will remain important, as people prefer brands that care about the planet. At The Hosteller, we’ll keep focusing on eco-friendly practices like reducing plastic use, and supporting local communities.

We also expect more interest in lesser-known destinations as people move away from crowded spots. Gen Z and Millennials will drive trends like slow travel, spending more time exploring fewer places. 2025 will be all about meaningful travel, and The Hosteller will continue creating unforgettable journeys.”

Mr Krishan Agarwal, Director, DigiHaat, a subsidiary company of ONDC

2025 outlook for the E-commerce sector

2025 will be the year e-commerce transcends transactions to deliver immersive, personalized, and seamless experiences. As AI-driven personalization becomes the norm, shoppers will expect retailers to anticipate their needs, creating tailored journeys that blend online convenience with human-like interactions. The rise of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) will redefine how customers try before they buy, while fast-evolving logistics networks will make same-day delivery a global standard. Sustainability will no longer be optional, with consumers gravitating toward brands that champion eco-friendly practices and transparent supply chains. In this competitive landscape, businesses that invest in cutting-edge technology, data-driven insights, and genuine customer relationships will lead the charge in shaping the future of e-commerce.

E-commerce sector’s outlook for 2024

The year 2024 has been a transformative one for e-commerce, characterized by growing consumer demand for personalization, transparency, and inclusivity. Platforms have embraced cutting-edge technologies to enhance user experiences, from AI-driven insights to seamless payments, a continuous and unwavering appetite for innovation. The ONDC network has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of India’s digital economy, empowering countless businesses to succeed online. Their on-network Logistics has already proven to be a catalyst for growth, and an increasing focus on financial services promises to usher in the next wave of enablement for stakeholders. We remain committed to leveraging the power of the Network and collaborating to redefine customer experiences like never before.

Mr. Dinesh Gulati, COO, IndiaMART.

The need for businesses to build their business model online and build a strong social presence remained paramount in 2024. With the rapid acceleration of Gen AI, machine learning, and natural language processing, technology has become integral to daily operations. According to McKinsey’s State of AI report, 65% of companies now use Gen AI regularly—nearly double the share in 2023.

What trended in B2B ecommerce: Focus on personalisation, hyper-localisation, with significant participation from tier II & III cities dominated the world of B2B ecommerce in 2024. Use of WhatsApp for Business remained a key focus for both B2B and B2C brands across, with India being one of the largest markets for WhatsApp for Business.

Focus on Customer centricity: Our customer-centric interventions helped onboard 15 million new buyers, add 6 million more products, and further improve our matchmaking capabilities. Today, we have a strong network of 8.1 million sellers and 202 million registered buyers who place their trust in us.

Accelerating the digital transformation for businesses at IndiaMART: With the mission to make business doing easy, our network of 5000+ employees connected with our sellers via 15 lakh+ physical meetings throughout the year, helping them accelerate their digital transformation journey with us. We also launched a pilot skill training project – IM Gurukul to ensure skill readiness among our sellers and help them and their team use digital tools efficiently. Close to 1545 sellers received training via a series of 6 training sessions under IM Gurukul.

Focus for 2025:

As businesses look ahead, 2025 will be a pivotal year for technology and AI adoption. Deeper AI integration will become essential for growth, much like the internet’s impact—but success will depend on strategic, thoughtful implementation. Consumers will favour digital commerce ecosystems that deliver convenience and authentic, personalized experiences, driving a shift towards higher-quality, human-centric content & connections. Trusted recommendations—via word of mouth, reviews, or influencers—will remain pivotal, with B2B businesses increasingly leveraging digital influencers as key commerce channels.

At IndiaMART, we are dedicated to empowering businesses by fostering trust and building digital capabilities in the B2B ecosystem. Through our AI/ML integration within the platform, we will continue to strengthen our matchmaking capabilities , search capabilities (more than 65 lakh misspellings and Hinglish searches happening every month), simplify conversation commerce and ease out catalogue management further.

India, being such a diverse and language-rich country, currently our users can navigate our platform in English and Hindi and search in 200+ languages whereas Voice search is available in 9 languages namely English, Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, Gujarati, Bangla, and Malayal, we will further improve our services to cater to more and more Indic customers. We will continue to invest in technology and innovations in our pursuit to make doing business easy.

Nishchay Ag, Co-founder and CEO, Jar

2024 has been a significant year for the fintech industry , driven by the increasing financial inclusion and digital transformation across the country. With over a billion people getting access to bank accounts and more than 350 million Indians actively using UPI, the infrastructure is in place for a financial revolution.

Yet the basics are not in place – an appetite for savings and access to meaningful credit for all are still areas that require attention. The opportunity lies in bridging these gaps by offering simple and relatable ways for people to start saving, using assets that resonate with everyone. As the fintech ecosystem continues to evolve, the next frontier is providing flexible, low-friction financial products tailored to diverse income profiles, offered in local languages to make financial planning more intuitive and inclusive for all.

In 2025, language localisation will be the key driver to success and expansion in the fintech space, particularly in terms of digital savings and credit. The growing adoption of mobile-first financial products and services will be pivotal in reaching more people who are eager to embark on their financial fitness journeys. As the GDP and income levels rise, there will be a surge in demand for accessible and culturally relevant financial tools, which will drive the continued democratization of financial services. This shift will empower millions to take control of their financial futures, all from the comfort of their homes and in the language that they speak.

Goonmeet Singh Chauhan, Founding Partner, Design Forum International (DFI)

Real Estate Developments are one of the key engines of economic activity and a significant job creation engine for the skilled as well as unskilled workers

It’s a key contributor to percolation of wealth as it generates employment for both the materials industry workers in urban centres but also in the rural setup .

The Biggest Challenge the Real estate faces today is a mismatch between the skills needed to fulfil the aspirations of modern India and the skilled workforce available.

Going forward in 2025 the Nation and the Real Estate industry stalwarts would need to invest heavily in training both on the job and off the job to upskill the workforce and therefore serve the twin objective of nation-building by empowering the workforce financially and skill-wise, equally fulfill the purpose of creating a future worthy international habitat infrastructure that would allow India to fulfill its destiny.

Rahul Bahl, Managing Director, Krishna Buildestates Pvt. Ltd. (KBE)

As we enter 2025, the anticipated interest rate adjustments and enhanced government incentives could further boost market sentiment. The adoption of AI, smart building techniques and green certifications has transformed project execution and delivery standards across the sector. Sustained growth is forecasted, fueled by heightened demand from affluent buyers and an increase in home prices. At KBE, we’re excited to continue shaping future-ready spaces that resonate with the aspirations of India’s growing population.

Sachin Jain, Country Manager at ETS India & South Asia

“As 2024 draws to a close, the global education landscape continues to evolve, offering Indian students a wider array of opportunities than ever before. Countries like Canada, Australia, and the U.K. are refining post-study work visa options focusing on priority skills and occupations, while newer destinations such as Germany, Italy, and Singapore are introducing easier visa regulations to attract global talent. These shifts, coupled with India’s increased focus on internationalization of higher education through pathways, dual degrees, articulation agreements besides branch campuses of foreign universities in India such as Deakin, Wollongong and Southampton under the National Education Policy (NEP), is making studying at international universities more accessible and lucrative. Looking ahead to 2025, with nations in Americas, Europe and Australia prioritizing skilled migration, students will find more avenues to build careers in high-demand fields like STEM, Healthcare, Education and IT. This makes choosing the right program at a foreign university linked to the priority occupation in the destination country, extremely critical. Further, nations will be more than welcoming to genuine international students who intend to pursue a good program at a good university in their country. Assessments like TOEFL and GRE not only demonstrates the competencies needed by an international student to pursue a program in a good foreign university but also the intent as a genuine international student thereby improving the chances of receiving the study visa. Moreover, these assessments are continually evolving to meet students’ diverse needs. The shorter test duration or streamlined registration process for the TOEFL, for instance, makes it quicker and easier for students to pursue their dreams. These developments, alongside government and institutional efforts, are empowering students to access opportunities in high-growth sectors and prepare for success in an interconnected world.”

Aritra Ghosal, Founder & Director of OneStep Global

“The year 2024 brought significant changes to study-abroad policies across major destinations like Canada, the UK, Australia, and the US, with stricter visa regulations, enrollment caps, and higher financial requirements posing new challenges for students. These shifts have encouraged many Indian students to explore emerging destinations such as Ireland, Finland, New Zealand, and Germany, which offer streamlined processes, growing international student support, and favorable post-study work opportunities. We expect these destinations to see even more interest in 2025 as students seek out promising pathways. Looking ahead, it’s important for students to stay proactive—keep themselves informed, plan ahead, and choose programs that align with global career trends. Exploring alternative destinations, securing scholarships, and understanding visa and work policies will help them adapt to these changes smoothly and keep their study-abroad dreams on track.”

PK Agarwal, Dean, UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Professional Education

“In 2024, we saw a significant shift in how Indian students approach their study-abroad plans. Indian students, now the largest international student cohort in the United States, according to the recent Open Doors® Report on International Educational Exchange, are focusing increasingly on short-term, career-oriented programs, and practical skill-building courses. At UCSC Silicon Valley Professional Education, we’ve seen heightened interest in high-demand fields such as data science, artificial intelligence, and project management, reflecting a growing interest in non-degree programs under the U.S. F-1 visa program. We’ve been teaching AI courses for years at UCSC Silicon Valley and continue to expand our offerings to meet demand with courses such as “Generative AI for Marketers” in the Marketing program and “Machine Learning with Python.” We anticipate this trend to continue in 2025, as students prioritize programs that offer faster returns on investment such as the Optional Practical Training (OPT) which supports hands-on experience in U.S. companies. In this era dominated by artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and sustainable technologies, global companies are adapting by valuing skills over degrees, as reported by The World Economic Forum. Students and young professionals are naturally drawn to short-term professional programs that enable them to upskill quickly while leveraging Silicon Valley’s unique tech-driven ecosystem. The integration of AI-focused programs across fields, from marketing to data science, will further empower students to stay ahead in an evolving job market. For students planning to study abroad, I encourage a pragmatic approach: (1) align your academic choices with industry trends, (2) build a strong professional network, and (3) make the most of opportunities like OPT to gain valuable work experience and enhance employability.”

Abhijit Zaveri, Founder and Director, Career Mosaic

“The year 2024 was crucial for Indian students navigating global education, marked by both opportunities and challenges. The U.S. further solidified its position as the top destination for Indian students, as highlighted in the Open Doors Report. However, several factors, such as geopolitical tensions, visa delays, housing shortages, and caps on international students, impacted mobility to certain countries. Meanwhile, Europe emerged as a preferred destination, with countries like France, Germany, Ireland, and New Zealand taking proactive measures to attract international talent and promote workforce diversity. Looking ahead to 2025, the global education landscape offers a promising outlook for Indian students. While the U.S. remains a dominant destination, especially for STEM graduates, with expected growth in OPT and H1B opportunities, Europe is increasingly becoming the preferred choice for a broader spectrum of learners. Germany and France are leading the way, while countries like Georgia and the Czech Republic are gaining traction as promising hubs for medical education. Canada’s loss is Europe’s gain, as policy shifts and increased competition drive students to explore opportunities across the continent. These evolving dynamics reflect a deeper shift, as students are no longer just seeking high-quality education but also prioritizing pathways that align with long-term career prospects, global mobility, and their aspirations for a meaningful future. The rise of these alternative destinations signifies a more informed and deliberate approach by Indian students in charting their global education journeys.”

Anish Srikrishna, CEO, TimesPro

“2024 marked a transformative year for higher and early career education. The growing adoption of technology, coupled with the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), has unlocked new learning opportunities for students and professionals alike. At TimesPro, we have observed a significant increase in demand for employability-focused, skill-based programmes within the Early Career segment. Additionally, we are addressing growing interest from professionals by introducing specialised executive education programmes incorporating emerging technologies such as AI, Machine Learning and Data Science, fostering a future-ready mindset. As we look ahead to 2025, we anticipate a heightened focus on experiential learning, strengthened industry partnerships and expanded job prospects driven by targeted upskilling initiatives through online and blended learning. Our commitment remains unwavering in bridging gaps in accessibility, affordability, and industry-academia collaboration to create meaningful employability pathways. We are dedicated to supporting India’s vision of becoming a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by equipping learners with skills aligned with evolving global industry standards.”

Saurabh Arora, Founder & CEO, University Living

“The global education landscape in 2024 has been marked by significant policy changes in traditional study-abroad destinations and a rising interest in emerging European countries. Canada’s decision to discontinue the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, which previously facilitated streamlined visa processes for 34% of international students, has shifted focus to attracting serious applicants through the regular visa route. Although the new process has different financial requirements, it remains accessible to students with strong academic profiles, ensuring Canada’s appeal to genuine learners. Australia has further solidified its position as a desirable destination by extending post-study work rights for graduates in priority sectors to up to six years. This move has resulted in a 17% increase in international student numbers, now exceeding 570,000. The extended work opportunities are particularly attractive to those pursuing careers in healthcare, engineering, and technology. Similarly, the USA continues to lead with over 1 million international students, nearly half of whom are enrolled in STEM fields. Expanded Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM pathways have bolstered the country’s focus on science and technology education, reinforcing its reputation as a hub for innovation-driven learning. The UK, while still a top choice for international students with over 605,000 enrollments in 2023, has experienced a 6.2% decline in study visa issuance due to recent policy shifts. Despite this, the Graduate Route, which offers post-study work opportunities, remains a significant draw for students seeking world-class education and career prospects. Meanwhile, Europe’s emerging destinations, including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Austria, and Malta, are becoming increasingly popular due to their combination of affordability and quality education. According to University Living’s European Student Landscape: Beyond Beds and Benches, these countries offer tuition fees as low as €1,000 to €4,000 annually in Spain and Italy, along with lower living costs compared to traditional destinations. Beyond affordability, European countries are investing in modern infrastructure and support services to cater to the growing influx of international students, resulting in a 15–20% increase in interest over the past two years. Looking ahead to 2025, the global education sector is poised for dynamic growth. The Indian Student Mobility Report 2024 predicts that over 1.5 million Indian students will study abroad by 2025, highlighting the sustained demand for international education. With a broader spectrum of opportunities available, students are increasingly aligning their academic goals with financial considerations. The rise of Europe as a viable alternative to traditional destinations reflects a more diverse and accessible future for international education, driven by affordability, quality, and promising post-study prospects.”

Amit Baveja, MD, India & Southeast Asia at Burlington English India

“2024 has been a transformative year for education in India, marked by the rapid adoption of technology and a growing emphasis on competency-based learning. This focus on technology and skills is reflected in the 2024 Union Budget which allocated a massive ₹148,000 crore to education, employment, and skill building. There is a growing realisation that sector-specific soft skills are essential for a globally competitive workforce. This is particularly important in key sectors such as healthcare, logistics, and IT in both the domestic and international job markets. The demand for skill-development in tier 3 and tier 4 cities is higher than ever. This rising demand has been recognised by the National Skill Development Corporation through its Skill on Wheels and Centres of Excellence initiatives and its promotion of MOOCs to make skill development accessible to all. Technology has a crucial role to play in building a highly skilled workforce. Hybrid learning materials for example, provide the flexibility and accessibility necessary to cater to a diverse range of learners. Artificial Intelligence also has a major role to play. Here at Burlington English, we pride ourselves on integrating cutting edge technology into all of our products and services. Looking ahead to 2025, I see technology playing a much larger role in Indian classrooms. I also see delivery models becoming more inclusive, and classroom teaching more competency focussed. As these changes become institutionalised, India will be well placed to become a world leader in the global skill economy in years to come.”

Mr. Pankaj Gupta, MD and CEO of Pramerica Life Insurance

“The year 2024 has been a defining period for the life insurance industry, marked by a strong emphasis on customer centricity. Regulatory advancements have not only enhanced transparency and trust but have also created avenues for sustainable growth, making the industry more robust and resilient. The revised PPHI (Protection of Policyholders’ Interests) guidelines and new surrender value regulations underscore the sector’s commitment to improving customer experience and fostering policyholder confidence.

Product preferences also saw a notable shift, with Unit-Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) emerging as the top choice for policyholders. This was driven by robust equity markets and the growing appeal of wealth creation through insurance. Industry has witnessed rise in New Business Premium from ticket size INR100K & above from 40% in Q1FY24 to 45% in Q1FY25. The growth is largely driven by private insurers whose share of new business from ticket size above 100K has gone up from 55% in Q1FY24 to 60% in Q1FY25 as business mix moves more towards ULIPs, highlighting a rising inclination towards products that blend financial protection with investment benefits. Improved 13-month persistency metrics further reflect the industry’s focus on offering the right products and strengthening collection mechanisms.

At Pramerica Life Insurance, 2024 has been a year of meaningful strides, marked by our commitment to sustainable growth and excellence in serving our customers and stakeholders. We have made significant strides in expanding our reach, particularly in underserved segments, supported by our strong MFI business. This aligns with our commitment to championing the regulator’s vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’. Looking ahead, we see immense opportunities in addressing India’s underpenetrated pensions market, currently at just 3% of GDP. With the elderly population projected to grow 2.4 times by 2050, the demand for retirement-focused solutions is expected to rise steadily. Life insurers have a critical role in bridging this gap with innovative and tailored products. As we continue to empower customers with transparent, accessible and innovative solutions, we remain steadfast in our focus on ULIPs as a key component of our product mix. Meanwhile , Bima Trinity is set to revolutionise the sector for customers and distributors alike. By leveraging these opportunities, Pramerica Life Insurance is well-positioned to enter into a new era of growth, supporting India’s journey towards comprehensive financial protection by 2047.”

Mr. Vijay Sharma, Managing Director, Optoma Technology Pvt Ltd

Optoma is able to maintain leadership across all categories in the Indian market this year. In 2024, the surge in demand for Pro AV solutions and IFP panels is driving significant growth in the display industry. The expanding adoption of projection mapping by event organizers, museums, government bodies, and private sectors is fuelling our Pro AV business. The market is moving towards solid state light source projectors and Laser is the dominant technology in it. Optoma has revamped its entire projector line up with 80% composition of Laser light source projectors. In home segment the market is now clearly defined in Home Cinema and Home entertainment categories where former have well rounded products like UHZ50+ and UHC66LV for high end homes and UST and Portable projectors dominate the category.

Optoma is taking action today with product designs that have reduced carbon footprints, are free from hazardous chemicals, and make use of recycled and recyclable materials. What’s more, we are a driving force behind the transition to laser projection, a more energy-efficient technology that is superior to lamp projection in many ways.

Kaushik Khona, MD, Ceinsys Tech Ltd.

“India’s emergence as a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI) and data centre development is a testament to its exponential growth and its promising future in the digital economy. The Indian AI market is projected to reach $17-22 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25-35%. This rapid expansion is driven by advances in AI software, services, and generative AI technologies, with government initiatives like the India AI Mission playing a pivotal role. These efforts not only foster innovation and upskill the workforce but also ensure the ethical deployment of AI systems. By 2025, AI integration is expected to contribute $500 billion to India’s GDP, further solidifying its position as a global leader in AI.

Parallel to this, India’s data centre industry is experiencing remarkable growth, with its operational capacity set to more than double by FY-2027, backed by significant investments of ₹50,000-55,000 crore. The surge is driven by increasing demand for AI-driven applications, data localization policies, and the growing adoption of cloud computing. India’s ecosystem—characterized by a vast talent pool, low operational costs, and government support—makes it an attractive destination for global data centre players.

A notable trend is a shift towards Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities for data centre expansion, driven by lower capital expenditure, access to renewable energy, and government incentives. This decentralization not only boosts local economies but also creates quality jobs in fields like AI, cloud computing, and IoT. India’s digital transformation is further accelerated by international collaborations, such as its partnership with NVIDIA to develop “Sovereign AI,” ensuring India’s autonomy over AI technologies. With strategic focus and continued investments, India is poised to become a key player in the global digital economy.”

Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice Chancellor, Mahindra University

“The Indian education sector in 2024 witnessed a significant evolution, characterized by technological integration, an emphasis on inclusivity, and the fostering of global partnerships. The implementation of hybrid learning models has facilitated enhanced connectivity between students and educators, thereby expanding access to quality educational resources across diverse geographical locations. AI-powered tools and data analytics have personalized learning pathways, helping students achieve their full potential while bridging learning gaps. Moreover, the growing emphasis on skill-based education has aligned academic curricula with industry demands, fostering employability and entrepreneurship. As we move toward 2025, the outlook for education in India is promising. We anticipate a stronger integration of emerging technologies such as AR, VR, among others for creating immersive and secure learning experiences. Sustainability and social impact will increasingly influence curriculum design, reflecting the global call for responsible innovation. Collaboration between academia and industry will deepen, fostering research, internships, and real-world exposure for students. Furthermore, initiatives to internationalize Indian education will gain momentum, attracting global talent and building world-class institutions. Mahindra University is embracing these trends, ensuring our students are equipped to excel in a dynamic, interconnected world. Our focus remains on nurturing a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and lifelong learning to drive India’s progress in education and beyond.”

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice-Chancellor of World University of Design

“In India’s dynamic educational landscape, 2024 has been a year of profound transformation, defined by resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to shaping the future. Emerging disciplines such as Digital Product Design, Interior Architecture, Communication Design, Gaming, Fashion, Films and Performing Arts have captured the imagination of students, signaling a shift toward non-traditional courses that align with evolving industry demands and creative aspirations. Technological advancements in AI, VR, and AR have opened new frontiers, enabling us to redefine education for the modern era and create career opportunities in cutting-edge domains. At WUD, our QS Platinum rank in design education and innovative initiatives, like the introduction of B.Tech programs in Design and Computer Science, and a M.Des program in Game Development have positioned us as leaders in interdisciplinary and experiential learning.

Looking ahead to 2025, we foresee a continued surge in demand for high quality design education across diverse sectors, driven by global trends and the need for adaptable, creative thinkers. Personalized learning, interdisciplinary approaches, and global collaborations will reshape traditional paradigms, bridging cultural and academic gaps. At the World University of Design, we remain steadfast in our mission to sculpt future leaders, making education a dynamic and transformative force in an ever-changing world.”

Nitin Bansal, Managing Director, India Head-Networks, Market Area South East Asia, Oceania and India at Ericsson

‘’ The year 2024 has cemented India’s position as a front runner in 5G based on rapid 5G deployments across the country and the 5G coverage of over 90 per cent that we have achieved. 5G is unlocking transformative opportunities across industries such as healthcare, education, manufacturing to name a few, fuelled by the adoption of IoT, AR/VR, and AI-driven solutions.

According to the Ericsson Mobility Report, 5G subscriptions in India are expected to surpass 270 million, underscoring the country’s commitment to digital inclusion. India also leads globally in data consumption, with average monthly usage at 32 GB per user, projected to more than double to 66 GB by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 13%. Generative AI is accelerating this growth, with 21% of Indian users engaging with more than four AI-driven applications—significantly higher than 8% in the U.S.—boosting mobile traffic and innovation.

In addition to enhanced mobile broadband, Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) has emerged as a strong 5G use case delivering the benefits of anywhere, anytime connectivity and digital inclusion across markets. We are also seeing enterprises leveraging 5G to derive the benefits of automation and seamless connectivity.

Sustainability has also emerged as a priority, with telecom operators and infrastructure providers adopting energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources in alignment with India’s climate goals.

Looking ahead to 2025, the industry is poised for more innovation and expansion. Industry collaborations will play a central role in driving India’s digital transformation. Network densification, modernization of networks , 5G use-cases, open programmable networks based on the exposure of network capabilities to application developers will fuel innovation and advance the country’s Digital India vision. At Ericsson, we are excited to partner with service providers to drive the next wave of connectivity and innovation in India by delivering our advanced technology solutions.’’

Mr. S Sunil Kumar, Country President, Henkel Adhesives Technologies India.

“As we close 2024, Henkel Adhesive Technologies marks a year of progress driven by innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions. From advancing sustainable production processes to launching eco-friendly product lines, we have focused on delivering solutions that address evolving market demands while meeting environmental goals.

Looking ahead to 2025, key industry trends—urbanization, mobility, sustainability, and digitalization—will continue to drive growth. As urban areas expand, advanced bonding technologies are enabling the development of high-performance, sustainable building materials that improve liveability and reduce environmental impact. In e-mobility, adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings will play an increasingly critical role in advancing battery safety, efficiency, and performance—essential for the growth of electric vehicles.

Sustainability remains a defining priority for businesses worldwide. The focus on material science, emissions reduction, and circular processes underscores the industry’s commitment to delivering long-term value for both customers and the environment. Investing in digital transformation today empowers organizations to streamline workflows, use resources more efficiently, and improve decision-making. Thereby, enabling the futureproofing of businesses to ensure they remain resilient and relevant.

At Henkel, we are committed to leading this transformation. By leveraging our expertise, fostering strategic partnerships, and delivering innovative, sustainable solutions, we are positioned to help our customers drive progress and achieve growth in an evolving industrial landscape.”

Vivek Banka, Co-Founder, GoalTeller

The recently announced changes in RIA regulations have been a step in the right direction by SEBI to ease rules for genuine advisors coupled with limitations on influencers association with SEBI registered entities have surely added a ray of hope to the entire advisor community and also will go a long way in protecting the right of investors. I hope 2025 SEBI will act further to curb the unbridled run some of the influencers have had without any questioning which will level the playing field and most importantly ensure that euphoric messaging in social media about stocks and other exotic investments are curbed. This will greatly help in avoiding investment bubbles.

Prashasta Seth – CEO, Prudent Investment Managers LLP

The Indian capital market has seen significant growth over the past five years. Demat accounts grew 4.4x (179 million), NSE active accounts rose 4.9x (49 million), unique mutual fund investors increased 2.4x (50 million), and monthly SIPs expanded 3.2x (INR 253 billion) from FY20 to October 2024.

During this period, the Indian alternative investment industry has outpaced the broader market, with a current size of USD 400 billion, consisting of SEBI-registered AIFs (USD 130 billion) and other funds (USD 270 billion). The industry is expected to grow over five-fold, reaching USD 2 trillion in the next decade.

A key shift in the Indian market has been the decoupling from global trends, with local investors—including pension funds, mutual funds, alternative investment managers, and retail & HNI investors—taking a more dominant role. This trend is expected to strengthen, driven by a demographic dividend, with over 100 million people joining the workforce and 100 million households entering the middle class in the coming years.

In recent years, the growth of the Indian alternative investment industry has been fueled by deeper market sophistication. This includes individual fund managers launching their own firms, global players introducing strategies tailored for India, and SEBI accommodating new investment structures. As investors become more knowledgeable and financially capable, they are willing to take on greater risks, further propelling industry growth. With Indian markets still lagging behind global counterparts, this gap is expected to close in the coming years, supporting continued growth.

Sanjiv Kanwar, MD, Yara South Asia

“2024 has been a year of significant progress and resilience in Indian agriculture. Several key transformations are shaping the sector, such as advancements in digital infrastructure, public-private partnerships, and a focus on high-yielding, climate-resilient crop solutions. However, there is a need for some interventions to make 2025 a year for Indian agriculture.

Looking ahead, we foresee a year of opportunities and growth, driven by innovative practices and progressive policies. Enhancing crop nutrition will be pivotal in this journey. By focusing on balanced and efficient nutrient management, we can improve soil health, boost crop yields, and ensure the production of high-quality produce. This approach will not only support farmers in achieving better outcomes but also contribute to the overall sustainability of the agriculture sector.”

Tarun Mathur Co-founder and CBO, Policybazaar For Business

The B2B insurance sector has witnessed remarkable growth and innovation over the past year. What’s particularly striking is how this segment is catching up with the consumer insurance space in terms of pace and scale of advancements. We are striving to stay ahead by leveraging cutting-edge technology and developing innovative products to enhance service delivery.

In 2024, wellness and health insurance emerged as key priorities for businesses. There is a growing demand for comprehensive, 360-degree care solutions, and we at Policybazaar for Business are committed to meeting these needs. Additionally, the cyber insurance space has seen significant momentum. Organizations are becoming increasingly vigilant about cyber threats, driving a surge in demand for cyber risk management and insurance solutions. This heightened awareness has fueled innovation.

Looking ahead to 2025, the outlook is both promising and dynamic. Corporates are adopting a more cautious and proactive approach to risk mitigation. This shift benefits the entire insurance ecosystem—insurers, brokers, and clients alike.

Interest in areas like cyber insurance and enhanced group health coverage are on the rise. For industries like logistics and shipping, where marine insurance plays a critical role, technology is revolutionizing claims processes. What previously took months or years to resolve is now being completed within days, demonstrating the transformative power of innovation in the sector.

Our focus for the coming year remains clear: to make insurance processes faster, more efficient, and more accessible, ultimately simplifying risk management for businesses. We are confident that 2025 will be a year of significant advancements and exciting breakthroughs, particularly for the B2B insurance space and the MSME segment.

Sitashwa Srivastava, Founder & CEO, Stockal

According to Sitashwa Srivastava, Founder & CEO, Stockal, as we close out 2024, cross-border education payments have emerged as one of the most significant challenges for students and institutions alike. The rising costs and complexities are a direct result of regulatory constraints, high transaction fees, and traditional financial systems that struggle to accommodate global transactions efficiently. For students, this translates to increased expenses, while for educational institutions, the process becomes cumbersome and slow.

The trend in 2024 has been a growing push towards digital solutions that aim to address these challenges. Technologies like blockchain and cryptocurrency are beginning to play a crucial role in overcoming these barriers. By leveraging these advancements, financial systems can be more agile, transparent, and cost-effective, ultimately benefiting students, educational institutions, and service providers. Despite the potential, regulatory compliance remains a critical factor in ensuring that these solutions are sustainable and universally accepted.

Looking ahead to 2025, I believe we’ll see a continued shift toward a borderless financial ecosystem. Digital currencies and blockchain will become more mainstream in the cross-border education space, facilitating faster, cheaper, and more secure transactions. The real challenge, however, will be the balancing act between innovation and regulation. As governments and regulators catch up with technological advancements, we expect smoother, more streamlined processes for education payments across borders.

For students, the outlook is promising. We’re moving towards a time when paying for education abroad will be as simple as transferring money locally, with fewer barriers, better exchange rates, and less waiting time. The financial ecosystem is evolving, and the pace of change will only accelerate in the coming year.

Mr Anil Kumar Gupta, Sr Partner, MicroSave Consulting (MSC)

“India’s digital financial services are set for transformative growth in 2025. By November 2024, PMJDY accounts had accumulated over INR 2.37 trillion, with balances growing nearly twice as fast as regular savings accounts over the past five years—a testament to the nation’s strides toward financial inclusion. With the economy becoming increasingly formalized and targeted, initiatives like AePS facilitating cash-in services can reduce barriers at the last mile and integrate the underbanked population into the formal financial system. These advancements position digital financial services to capture a significant share of the INR 35 trillion cash in circulation, paving the way for a more inclusive, digital, and efficient financial ecosystem in India.”

Grégory Goba-Blé, Head of UPS India and Director of MOVIN Express

“This year marks a pivotal moment for the logistics landscape in India. The sector has witnessed remarkable advancements in infrastructure, driven by substantial investments that have enhanced the robustness and efficiency of operations. The PM GatiShakti National Master Plan has played a crucial role in improving multimodal and last-mile connectivity while reducing logistics costs. The booming e-commerce industry has spurred significant growth in the express logistics segment, while warehousing demands have surged in key markets nationwide.

Innovative last-mile delivery solutions, including drones and advanced tracking systems, are transforming the industry. Additionally, initiatives like LEEP are optimising efficiency and fostering a world-class logistics ecosystem. From strategic government programs to global trade partnerships, 2024 has laid a strong foundation for sustained growth and innovation in the coming years. Sustainable development is poised to define the future of logistics, empowering us to meet economic needs while safeguarding the planet for future generations through collaborative efforts and forward-thinking innovation.

The push for digitization in logistics and the emphasis on reducing logistics costs to GDP have provided an enabling environment for businesses like ours to thrive and innovate.

To achieve the ambitious goal of boosting India’s merchandise exports to $1 trillion by 2030, small, and medium enterprises must have greater access to cross-border trade opportunities. Streamlining the ease of doing business will be a key factor in enabling their success on the global stage.”

Arun Kumar, Product and Platform Leader at Altimetrik

“As we move into 2025, the Banking & Financial Services sector stands on the brink of a transformative era, driven by innovative technologies and evolving regulatory landscape.

The impact of AI will be significant across the value chain – from personalized experiences to contextual customer offerings, from evolved risk monitoring capabilities to real-time fraud detection models, and from WealthTech to RegTech and every facet in between. Generative AI will further elevate these capabilities, offering tailored financial planning and advice powered by vast datasets and predictive analytics.

Hyper-automation will streamline back-office functions and enhance crucial decision-making processes. Blockchain adoption will boost transaction transparency, security, and efficiency, and open new vistas for Decentralized Finance (DeFi). The rise of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC) and acceleration of Embedded Finance will complete the picture.

The cloud will be pivotal for facilitating scalable operations and robust security, providing financial institutions with the agility needed to respond swiftly to market shifts and customer demands. Cloud-based solutions will enable faster deployment of new services, reduce operational costs, and improve disaster recovery processes.

As regulatory and compliance frameworks evolve, they will enforce stricter controls on AI and data usage. To meet these challenges head-on, financial institutions must embrace a “compliance by design” philosophy. The future of innovation is poised to be driven by organizations that adopt cutting-edge technologies while fostering trust through ethical and transparent practices, ensuring they not only meet but exceed consumer expectations and regulatory requirements.”

Gaurav Jalan, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of mPokket

“As we step into 2025, digital lending in India continues to evolve, with technology enabling unprecedented access to credit for millions. Initiatives like the Unified Lending Interface (ULI) will be instrumental in simplifying credit access, particularly for underserved populations, showcasing the power of collaboration between regulators and the fintech ecosystem.

The next phase of growth in digital lending must focus on responsible practices that prioritize consumer protection and trust. Transparency in loan terms, ethical use of data, and embedding financial literacy into every interaction are no longer optional—they are essential. Borrowers should feel empowered to make informed decisions, and platforms must ensure lending remains a tool for progress, not a potential burden.

In 2025, I see tremendous opportunities in Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets, where localized, tech-enabled solutions can bridge the gap for first-time borrowers. AI-driven personalization and alternative data will continue to reshape credit delivery, ensuring inclusivity without compromising on risk management.

As we scale, the emphasis must remain on lending responsibly and protecting consumers. The responsibility we bear as an industry is to not just innovate but to innovate with purpose—creating systems that are fair, transparent, and aligned with the long-term financial well-being of the communities we serve.”

Rajesh Ghanshani – Director of Partnerships, STAAH

“India’s hospitality landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, fuelled by surging travel demand, evolving consumer preferences, and robust digital infrastructure. Increasingly, hoteliers across the country are not just recognizing technology as a strategic asset but they are embracing it as the cornerstone of future success. In fact, many no longer ask ‘if’ they should invest in technology; instead, the focus has shifted to ‘when’ and ‘how’ to deploy advanced solutions that boost operational efficiency, revenue, and guest satisfaction.

Our own experience with Indian hoteliers highlights this transformation. With STAAH solutions—such as the Channel Manager, Booking Engine, and ReviewMinder, hoteliers have reported significant revenue gains and enhanced guest journeys, from pre-arrival research to post-stay feedback. The momentum is tangible: we now partner with over 5,000 hotels across India, and forecasts suggest an even more substantial expansion in 2025. This adoption is not limited to high-end chains or luxury resorts; even boutique and budget properties are adopting innovative distribution platforms to deliver seamless, personalized experiences. As Indian travellers become increasingly digitally savvy, their expectations continue to rise, and technology providers are poised to respond with more adaptive, predictive, and intuitive solutions that define the future of Indian hospitality.”

Sameer Kanodia, Managing Director & CEO at Lumina Datamatics

“As we look ahead to 2025, strategic acquisitions will remain a cornerstone of our growth strategy, enabling us to tap into emerging markets, deliver tailored solutions, and reinforce our leadership across digital content, publishing, and ecommerce. This integration underscores Lumina Datamatics’ unwavering commitment to driving operational excellence, enhancing service delivery, and providing cutting-edge solutions that empower our partners to succeed in an ever-changing landscape.Our recent acquisition of TNQTech marks a pivotal milestone in strengthening our leadership within the global journals market and expanding our capabilities across the publishing value chain. By seamlessly integrating advanced solutions—from editorial development and peer review management to production and digital content delivery—we are uniquely positioned to address the evolving needs of our clients.In parallel with our acquisition strategy, we are equally committed to organic growth through innovation and expanding our service offerings. By focusing on enhancing our capabilities in publishing and ecommerce, we are continuously evolving our solutions to better meet the dynamic needs of both industries. Our organic growth efforts aim to leverage new technologies, foster deeper customer relationships, and scale our solutions across digital platforms, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of these sectors.”

Yug Bhatia, Founder & CEO, Control Z

“The refurbished smartphone market in 2024 has been a transformative year, highlighting a significant shift in consumer behavior and industry dynamics. India, with its growing digital population, saw a remarkable rise in demand for high-quality refurbished devices, driven by organized players like Control Z who offer transparency, standardization, and premium experiences.

The market, valued at over $7.2 billion, reflects the evolving aspirations of consumers. Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are emerging as key drivers, with buyers seeking affordable access to high-end technology. This demand is fueled by faster replacement cycles for premium devices, especially with features like 5G and AI capabilities.

At Control Z, we take immense pride in our role as innovators in this space. Our advanced renewal processes, cutting-edge AI diagnostics, and industry-first offerings like 100% battery health and an 18-month warranty have set new benchmarks. Our Renew Hub embodies our mission: to provide sustainable solutions while inspiring a shift toward smart consumption.

As we look ahead to 2025, we anticipate further growth in the refurbished market, with sales expected to exceed 10 million units. Consumer trust in organized platforms will deepen, and sustainability will continue to drive purchasing decisions. Control Z is committed to leading this change by expanding our offerings, enhancing customer experiences, and ensuring that every device we renew represents the perfect intersection of quality, value, and environmental responsibility.

Our vision is clear: to make sustainability aspirational and position India as a global leader in the circular economy for electronics. Together, we can redefine what it means to upgrade technology—for ourselves and the planet.”

Sammeer Pakvasa – Managing Director & CEO, Eleganz Interiors

“As we close out 2024, the commercial interior design landscape in India has undergone a remarkable transformation, shaped by evolving workplace dynamics and a growing emphasis on sustainability. At Eleganz Interiors, we have been at the forefront of this evolution, transitioning from general contracting to becoming a full-service design and build fit-out firm. This step-by-step transformation has enabled us to deliver integrated solutions that optimize processes, reduce costs, and elevate quality. Our journey into new sectors continues to redefine how spaces are designed, built, and utilized.

This year, design trends have leaned towards warm, earthy tones that reflect India’s rich heritage and grounded aesthetic. Shades like terracotta, ochre, and deep burgundy have dominated, with 48% of commercial design projects opting for these hues to create environments that foster calm and comfort. These tones align seamlessly with Pantone’s 2024 Colour of the Year, ‘Apricot Crush,’ a shade that blends traditional charm with modern sophistication, perfectly suited to India’s urban workspaces.

Flexibility and ergonomics remain at the heart of workplace design, with over 65% of offices adopting modular and adaptive layouts. This shift caters to diverse work styles, ranging from open collaborative areas to private, focused zones. Such customizations not only enhance functionality but also contribute to employee well-being and satisfaction, helping organizations reduce turnover and foster a positive workplace culture.

Sustainability continues to be a cornerstone of our projects, as more than 70% of new buildings in India achieve green certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). At Eleganz Interiors, we have integrated eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and waste reduction practices into every stage of our projects. From recycled wood and low-VOC paints to energy-saving LED lighting, our solutions aim to minimize environmental impact while meeting our clients’ needs.

The rise of biophilic design has further enriched workplaces, with more than 50% of projects incorporating natural elements such as indoor greenery, wood textures, and ample natural light. These features not only enhance aesthetics but also improve air quality and productivity, with studies showing a 27% boost in workplace performance in spaces designed with biophilic principles.

At Eleganz Interiors, we are proud to blend the principles of design and build with cutting-edge trends and sustainability practices. By leveraging locally sourced materials, optimizing space planning, and embracing innovation, we are creating work environments that inspire and elevate. As we move forward, we remain committed to redefining industry standards and championing sustainable, functional, and aesthetically inspiring commercial spaces.

In an era where design, functionality, and sustainability converge, Eleganz Interiors continues to set new benchmarks in the commercial interior design industry.”

Smita Shetty Kapoor, CEO & Co-founder of Kelp

“As we bid farewell to 2024 and prepare to embrace 2025, it’s inspiring to see the transformative strides made in workplace safety, inclusivity, and employee well-being. This year, the corporate world has demonstrated an enhanced commitment to the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH), with many organizations moving beyond mere compliance to proactively fostering cultures of respect and trust. Industry trends reveal a growing reliance on technology to enhance PoSH monitoring and employee awareness, alongside a deeper integration of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies into business practices. Notably, there has been a surge in leadership accountability and a stronger focus on employee mental wellness, underscoring the interconnectedness of safety and well-being.

At Kelp, 2024 was a year of incredible collaboration and growth. We continued our mission of creating safer and more inclusive workplaces, working with over 1000 organizations across diverse sectors. The 5th edition of the Kelp PoSH Awards® celebrated companies that went above and beyond to make their workplaces safe and inclusive. We also shepherded organizations through formulating their commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity through internal diagnostics, leadership interventions and learning. Some of the most treasured memories stem from being part of our client’s DEI journey, from inception to execution.

As we step into 2025, I am excited to see how our workplaces will further evolve to propel a shared -vision for safety, diversity and inclusion. My hope is that organizations worldwide continue to recognize that safety and respect must go beyond compliance and be seen as what they truly are -essential drivers of innovation, engagement, and long-term success. Together, we can shape workplaces that are not only compliant but also empowering ecosystems where every individual—irrespective of gender, orientation, or background—feels valued, heard and can realize their full potential.

At Kelp, we remain steadfast in our vision of creating safe, happy, productive and inclusive workplaces, and I look forward to another year of meaningful impact and collaboration.”

Dilip Dassani, Partner at Dassani Brothers

“2024 has been a fulfilling year for Polki jewellery, with its timeless elegance continuing to captivate people across different generations. At Dassani Brothers, we’ve witnessed an increased appreciation for jewellery that is both handcrafted and meaningful—offering a balance between preserving traditional craftsmanship and embracing unique personal styles. The year also saw an encouraging rise in consumer interest, especially within the wedding sector, where demand for both bridal and groom jewellery, including lightweight and statement jewellery, grew significantly.

Additionally, there has been steady growth in the demand for export jewellery, with international markets recognizing Polki jewellery as an essence of luxury and heritage. Participation in leading trade shows like IIJS and JJS has further fueled industry exposure, enabling us to showcase our craft to a wider audience and connect with discerning clientele.

As we look toward 2025, we remain hopeful for another exciting year for the jewellery industry. With the growing trend of destination weddings and custom-made designs, there is an increasing desire for jewellery that combines tradition with contemporary flair. We believe Polki jewellery will continue to gain global recognition for its intricate beauty, acting as a bridge between India’s rich cultural legacy and modern luxury. Dassani Brothers is eager to continue leading this evolution, creating jewellery that reflects both timeless tradition and the ever-changing tastes of today’s sophisticated clientele.”

Raman Khanduja, Co-Founder, Mintoak

“2024 has been a pivotal year for P2M payments in India which caught our attention, fueled by the rapid digital adoption among SMEs. At Mintoak, our merchant portfolio has grown significantly, with transaction volumes on our platform increasing across our acquiring partners.

The momentum is particularly strong in Tier 2 and 3 cities, where QR-based payments have expanded access to digital solutions, and businesses are increasingly adopting digital payment and commerce solutions. By integrating value-added services such as Credit facilitation, B2B bill payments, and Engagement programs alongside payment solutions, we are enabling merchants to streamline operations, boost customer engagement, and achieve sustainable growth.

Built in India, the Mintoak platform has been catering to the diverse needs of Acquirers & SMEs across six countries. This has helped us deliver scalable and adaptable solutions to seamlessly facilitate payments and commerce beyond India.

With over 65 million SMEs in India, the potential to drive financial inclusion and business transformation is immense. As we look ahead to 2025, Mintoak remains dedicated to advancing this digital revolution and empowering merchant acquirers to build a more connected, efficient, and thriving merchant ecosystem.”

Mr. Arun Awasthy, President & Managing Director of Johnson Controls India

“India’s sustainability journey gained significant momentum in 2024. We achieved key climate goals ahead of schedule. Our SDG Index score rose notably to 71, and India identified over $500 billion in clean energy investment opportunities, to name a few. This progress demonstrates that sustainable development is not only essential but also a powerful driver of economic growth.

As we look toward 2025, we hope to further build on this momentum and accelerate progress. With nearly 70% of the country’s building stock yet to be constructed, India stands at a crossroads that offers a unique opportunity to embed sustainability into the very foundation of its future growth. India is poised to set up 12 new industrial cities and associated infrastructure projects; making a strong push to make India a global hub for healthcare tourism; and strengthen India’s position as a tourism spot (as provisioned in the Union Budget 2024). All these developments point to the treasure trove of opportunities we have to get in on the ground floor, in the mission to decarbonise our infrastructure across the board – and technology is at the forefront of this.

India faces the dual task of developing new sustainable infrastructure while also retrofitting existing buildings, some centuries old, to align with current sustainability standards. This necessitates a collaborative framework that takes a customized approach to energy positivity, considering diverse needs and climatic zones. At Johnson Controls, we are committed to partnering with stakeholders to drive knowledge sharing and effect tangible change in India’s sustainability journey. As we enter 2025, I am optimistic that we will exceed our past achievements.”

Amit Mehta, Managing Partner, Asha Ventures

“As we look ahead to 2025, the Indian venture capital ecosystem is poised for a transformative year, with sustainability and financial inclusion at the forefront. In 2024, impact investments in India crossed $10-12 billion, growing 15-20% year-on-year and accounting for 8-10% of global impact investments. This momentum sets the stage for sustainability to dominate, with nearly 45% of total impact investments expected to flow into areas such as renewable energy, green manufacturing, and EV infrastructure. Similarly, over $1 billion is projected for financial inclusion, fueling digital banking, microfinance, and fintech innovations that cater to underserved markets.

At Asha Ventures, a significant portion of our fund in 2025 will be dedicated to sustainability startups. We believe these ventures hold the key to addressing climate resilience, renewable energy scalability, and sustainable supply chains. Additionally, we aim to support early-stage entrepreneurs using technology like AI and blockchain to drive measurable impact in financial inclusion and affordable healthcare.

Global collaboration will be a cornerstone of our approach. With international investors contributing over 30% of India’s impact capital in 2024, we see immense potential to bridge global resources with local innovation. By fostering partnerships, we can enable startups to scale solutions that combine purpose and profitability.

Despite challenges such as regulatory complexities and funding gaps for early-stage enterprises, India’s potential as a global hub for impact investments is undeniable. As industries, policymakers, and investors align their efforts, 2025 could mark the beginning of a new era for sustainable and inclusive growth. At Asha Ventures, we are committed to empowering changemakers to redefine the social and environmental fabric of our country and setting benchmarks for global impact-driven innovation.”

Mr. Steve Hardgrave, CEO & Co-Founder Varthana

As 2024 draws to a close, the Indian school loan market is still one of the fastest-growing segments of the financial services sector. The growing demand for quality and affordable education continues to drive significant development, with non-banking financial corporations (NBFCs) estimated to manage over Rs 60,000 crore assets. In the competitive job market, the need for students to obtain quality education has become even more critical. NBFCs have established a niche by providing tailored financial solutions based on market research and student insights, driving a projected 40-45% AUM growth. Their strong credit underwriting ensures effective risk assessment, quick turnarounds, and low default rates.

As we approach the end of 2024, the education loan sector for schools under NBFCs is witnessing a transformative phase. With increasing demand for affordable quality education, particularly in Tier 2 and 3 cities, NBFCs are playing a pivotal role in bridging the financing gap for private schools striving to upgrade infrastructure and meet student needs.

The sector’s outlook remains strong, with continued government support through initiatives like the Vidya Lakshmi Portal and growing private participation. However, addressing challenges such as loan defaults and enhancing financial literacy among borrowers will be critical.

Looking ahead, NBFCs must leverage technology and data-driven insights to design innovative, scalable solutions that align with the unique needs of schools. By focusing on sustainable growth and fostering partnerships, the education loan sector can unlock new opportunities to empower schools, uplift communities, and drive India’s educational progress.

Mr. Brajesh Mishra Co-Founder & COO Varthana.

As 2024 ends, India’s student loan industry, with debt surpassing ₹90,000 crores and growing at 15% annually, highlights the rising demand for financial support to bridge the gap between affordability and educational goals. The growth reflects the increasing cost of quality education and the global ambitions of Indian students but brings challenges like 7–8% default rates, contributing significantly to NPAs.

Government initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Vidya Lakshmi Portal and interest subsidy schemes have improved access to affordable loans. However, addressing default rates and enhancing financial literacy remains critical.

Moving forward, innovation, targeted policies, and collaborative efforts are essential to ensure the sector’s sustainability. By overcoming these challenges, the student loan market can empower India’s youth, making education an enabler for both individual and national progress.

Vishal Sacheendran, Head of Regional Markets, Binance

“As we conclude the year 2024 on a remarkable note in the crypto space, we are pleased to see that this year has been transformative for the industry as a whole. Ending the year with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high, surpassing $100,000 for the first time, is a significant milestone for the sector, showcasing its impressive growth despite some volatility because of a dynamic market.

The crypto market has undergone significant changes this year, driven by increasing investor interest and a recovery in the values of virtual digital assets like Bitcoin. This momentum was further bolstered by the legalization of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the United States, along with growing institutional interest, which has extended to the altcoin market, signaling a broader shift. The debut of Bitcoin and Ether ETFs, coupled with rising institutional demand for diversified crypto exposure, has showcased the industry’s resilience in overcoming the various challenges it faced in 2024.

Recognizing the importance of India in the crypto space, we registered with the Financial Intelligence Unit – India. This step reflects our response to regulatory shifts and our renewed commitment to providing secure and compliant crypto services.

Looking ahead to 2025, the focus will be on increasing knowledge and trust within the crypto community, fostering stronger collaborations with authorities, and enhancing blockchain utility to address real-world challenges. The future of crypto is about more than just trading; it’s about building a decentralized, inclusive, and innovative digital ecosystem.

We are hopeful that in 2025, India will take the lead in forming progressive and comprehensive crypto regulations.”

Rahul Pagidipati, CEO, ZebPay

“2024 was a year of tremendous growth and crucial milestones for the crypto industry, driven by groundbreaking events, regulatory milestones, and positive market dynamics. India is now home to 11.8% of crypto developers and 5.4% of Web3 creators worldwide. This year, crypto rose beyond its niche status, becoming a central talking point at a global scale, including the 2024 US presidential elections. Bitcoin not only reached but broke its all-time high, crossing $100,000, while the global crypto market capitalisation soared beyond $3.5 trillion.

Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, institutional inflows, and the rise of altcoins like XRP reinforced the increasing confidence in crypto as an asset class. Stablecoins issuers, now among the top holders of US Treasury securities, are redefining liquidity and monetary policies, signalling their integration into traditional finance. The surge in tokenisation, blockchain applications, and advancements in cross-border payment systems promise to set the stage for transformative growth in 2025.

At ZebPay, we remain committed to empowering users, advancing education, and building trust as we navigate this new era of crypto. We expect 2025 to be an even better year than 2024 for the crypto market. With a massive rise in adoption on a global front and the incorporation of Bitcoin into institutional treasuries, Crypto is now more mainstream than ever before.”

Mr. Amit Jain, Chairman and Managing Director, Arkade Developers Limited

“2024 has been a positive year for residential real estate with significant sales milestones, especially for Mumbai where the home sales touched 1 lakh homes in the first 9 months. 2024 witnessed a substantial spike in luxury home buying due to a preferential change in home buying where exclusivity, lifestyle value upgrades, and high-end living spaces took centre stage. Despite global economic worries, demand for luxury real estate has remained high, indicating long-term confidence. Also, stable interest rates helped influence the home-buying decision.

Cities like Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, and Bengaluru have emerged as leaders in this category. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) maintained its supremacy, with a constant average ticket size of ₹1.47 crore and a 2% increase in sales value to ₹114,529 crores as per a recent report by CREDAI MCHI. For instance, At Arkade, we reported sales booking of INR 215CR for Q2 FY25 alone with an average ticket size of INR1.5CR. Other cities, such as Hyderabad, Chennai, and Pune, have also reported large increases in average ticket sizes, indicating a national trend. Historically, Mumbai has managed to 1.2 lakh homes mark for the last 4 years with a 2% to 4% increase Y-o-Y, for 2024, we anticipate the numbers to reach 1.4 to 1.45 lakh homes. The future of real estate promises to be both dynamic and forward-thinking, driven by a vision that balances environmental responsibility, technological advancement, and enhanced living experiences for all”

Mr. Chitranshu Mahant, CEO & Co-Founder of Primebook

“2024 had been a pivotal year for Primebook, with major turning points as we increased our presence in the market for affordable laptops. Given the growing need for affordable, high-performing gadgets, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, we focused on providing students and learners with cutting-edge technology that meets their specific requirements.

The industry saw a paradigm shift this year, with consumer electronics prioritizing cost and affordability. The growing recognition of e-learning and government-sponsored digital education programs has increased the demand for internet-ready, lightweight laptops with extended battery life. Also, the emergence of AI in consumer electronics has fuelled innovation by allowing for smarter, more personalized gadgets that meet changing customer needs. These trends have made the Indian market a hub for educational technology.

We look forward to 2025, which for us would mean integrating AI-driven functionalities and cloud computing as an integral part of Primebook’s offerings, with a goal of reshaping the way students and learners engage with technology. Empowering the next generation of people with tools that are affordable and adaptive to the evolving digital landscape is at the forefront of our goals for the coming year.”

Mr. Anji Maram, Founder and CEO of CriticalRiver.

As we reflect on 2024, perhaps the most consequential change we must reckon with is the impact of AI and automation on workforce dynamics. Automation is no longer solely about pursuing efficiency; it’s about empowering humans to focus on thoughtful, strategic, creative, and exploratory work while routine tasks are managed by intelligent systems. During this transformative period, we at CriticalRiver are witnessing the evolution as organizations worldwide embrace AI-powered tools to strengthen their workforces.

Our Digital Science Innovation Lab (DSiL) plays a pivotal role in this journey, leveraging data science and advanced analytics to provide actionable insights that complement AI-driven collaboration. Finding the right balance will require upskilling employees to work alongside AI while fostering an environment that champions human ingenuity. This partnership paves the way for a collaborative future where human-AI synergy drives innovation and productivity.

Prem Kumar, CEO & Co-Founder, Marut Drones

The Indian drone industry is on an impressive growth trajectory, driven by innovation, supportive policies, and a committed ecosystem. To achieve our vision of becoming a global drone hub by 2030, we must address challenges like certification delays, subsystem reliability, and cost competitiveness. By investing in advanced technologies like AI, autonomous navigation, improved batteries, and fostering a skilled workforce through training and education, we can unlock groundbreaking advancements and expand drone applications across industries.

Small startups, the backbone of innovation, often struggle with the scale needed for substantial investments, especially when competing against China’s mass production and low-cost pricing. With continued support from government policies and proactive regulators, we remain optimistic that 2025 will be a transformative year for Indian drone manufacturers, driving growth and self-reliance.

Radhika Choudary Co-Founder and Director, Freyr Energy

As the solar industry continues to grow rapidly, the focus is shifting toward quality solar solutions and enhanced customer experience. Over the last decade electricity tariffs have risen by nearly 60%, and by 25% in the last year alone, while solar adoption in India has surpassed 3 million households. Yet, a significant gap remains, with over 300 million potential consumers still untapped. Solar has emerged as the most affordable energy source, supported by abundant financing options and government subsidies. This rapid growth is also expected to create more employment opportunities and drive technological innovation. Companies that prioritize quality products and customer-centric initiatives, such as Solar Experience Centers, are poised to lead the industry and deliver long-term value

Saurabh Bhardwaj, CEO of Verge Cloud

Motes that the coming years will require businesses to adapt to the rapidly changing tech landscape, where cybersecurity threats are expected to grow exponentially and cloud infrastructure must evolve to stay ahead. At Verge Cloud, the focus remains on providing cutting-edge solutions, including zero-trust security models and AI-driven threat detection, ensuring that businesses can scale securely and efficiently in 2025.

In healthcare, the power of AI is already changing the game. Saurav Kasera, Co-founder of Clirnet, shares an optimistic vision for the role of AI in transforming diagnostics, patient care, and operational efficiency. As we move into 2025, AI’s role in healthcare will deepen, addressing both preventative care and the growing demand for accessible, efficient services. The industry’s adaptability to digital platforms, embraced by both doctors and patients, has already sparked a shift toward healthier living, where wellness takes precedence over mere survival. However, Kasera urges that as this digital shift grows, healthcare must ensure proper guidance to avoid misinformation and promote better outcomes for all.

Ravinder Goyal, Co – Founder of Erekrut

Reflects on a year marked by innovation and flexibility. The rise of remote work, AI, and evolving workplace dynamics has tasked HR professionals with fostering more adaptable, data-driven environments. But as Goyal looks to 2025, he foresees HR focusing on employee well-being, personalized learning experiences, and creating agile, resilient teams. For him, the future of HR isn’t just about technology; it’s about human-centered leadership, where technology supports and enhances human connection—building a workplace that thrives on adaptability and innovation.

As 2024 draws to a close, the integration of technology, cloud, healthcare, and HR promises to create an exciting new era. The challenges are real, from cybersecurity threats to the need for better healthcare solutions, but the opportunities are vast. By harnessing the power of innovation, AI, and digital transformation, businesses and industries across the globe are preparing to not just survive but thrive in 2025 and beyond.

Shreyes Kumar, Director, SDME Society

“In the year gone by, the education sector has witnessed significant trends, notably increased government investment aimed at expanding access to quality education. Many institutions have made strides in embracing digital learning, recognizing the importance of technology in enhancing student engagement and educational outcomes. Additionally, there has been a growing emphasis on integrating skill development and practical learning into curricula, preparing students for the challenges of the job market.

As we move into the upcoming year, we can expect this trend to continue, with a heightened focus on holistic education that combines academic excellence with industry-relevant skills. Educational institutions play a crucial role in catalyzing this transformation. By fostering environments that prioritize experiential learning and moral grounding, we can ensure that our students are not only knowledgeable but also equipped to succeed in their careers.

To truly empower and nurture the next generation, institutions must commit to inclusivity and innovation in their teaching methods. By doing so, we can cultivate a workforce that is not only skilled but also ready to contribute to society, driving economic growth and progress for all.”

Mr. Anshul Singhal, Managing Director, Welspun One & Chairperson of ASSOCHAM National Council on Logistics & Warehousing

“The Indian warehousing and logistics ecosystem has experienced seismic shifts over the past decade, evolving with changing consumer behavior and technological advancements. As e-commerce took root between 2014-14, the industry recognized the critical role of organized warehousing in enabling faster and more reliable deliveries. Today, with the emergence of quick commerce and the promise of 10-minute deliveries, we are witnessing another inflection point that demands innovation, agility, and foresight.

Looking ahead to 2025, the future lies in apprehending the needs of the dynamic consumer and staying ahead of market trends. The growth of last-mile infrastructure will be pivotal as quick commerce, slot-based deliveries, and micro-fulfillment centers become integral to supply chains. Hybrid spaces that combine storage, experience, and retail functions will redefine how businesses operate, catering to the need for flexibility in an increasingly omnichannel world. Moreover, technology adoption, particularly AI-driven insights, will be instrumental in optimizing operations, reducing costs, and enhancing customer acquisition strategies.”

At Welspun One, we pride ourselves on identifying opportunities early and investing in solutions that create value for our clients. By combining robust consumer behavior research, efficient infrastructure development, and innovative hybrid models, we aim to redefine warehousing as not just a cost center but a strategic growth enabler.”

Mr. HS Bhatia MD Of Daewoo India

As we bid adieu to another eventful year, the Indian consumer durable industry has showed a remarkable resilience and growth. The year saw a significant surge in demand for smart, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly products, driven by increasing awareness and affinity for sustainable living. At Daewoo India, we’ve been at the forefront of this trend, introducing cutting-edge products that seamlessly blend technology, style, and sustainability.

As we look to the future, I’m optimistic about the industry’s prospects, driven by favorable demographics, rising disposable incomes, and the government’s initiatives to boost manufacturing and consumption. We’re also committed to continuing our innovation-led growth journey, delivering exceptional value to our customers, and contributing to the industry’s ascendance.

Rajesh Kapese, CEO, Trackon

“2024 has been a transformative year for the logistics sector, driven by advancements in AI, automation, and the rise of decentralized delivery networks. As businesses adapted to increasing consumer demand for speed and precision, the focus shifted toward sustainability and tech-enabled solutions. Looking ahead to 2025, we foresee a greater integration of digital commerce platforms, widespread adoption of green logistics practices, and an emphasis on hyper-local delivery systems powered by real-time data and predictive analytics. The year promises to be one of innovation and collaboration, setting new benchmarks for efficiency and inclusivity in logistics.”

Mr. Alok Nigam, Managing Director, Brother International India Pvt. Ltd.

“This past year has been nothing short of extraordinary for Brother India. The tremendous growth we’ve seen in the L&M sectors and the overwhelming response to our new range of laser printers have been deeply encouraging. It’s especially rewarding to see our products resonate so strongly with the B2B segment and gain traction across various industries.

As we look ahead to the new financial year, We’re excited about the potential for growth across all segments—printing, L&M, and sewing machines. We’re aiming for nothing less than a threefold expansion, driven by our commitment to innovation, quality, and meeting the evolving needs of our customers.”

Ashish Bagadia, Corporate Finance and Investment Banking Partner at BDO India

2024 saw the mass-market adoption of EVs gaining momentum. It also witnessed traditional ICE players like Mahindra, among others, making their EV ambitions more prominent. Segments like Vehicle-as-a-Service (VaaS) and Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) made significant progress with newer players entering the market and the emergence of innovative revenue models. The year also saw significant initiatives from state governments aimed at driving the growth of the EV industry. Reduction in raw material prices further improved the total cost of ownership of EVs, making them more affordable.

Looking ahead to 2025, we expect these adoption trends to continue. Emerging segments such as the resale market for EVs and battery recycling are expected to gain prominence. From a funding perspective, the investing landscape is becoming more broad-based, with traditional and homegrown growth private equity investors showing increased interest. These investors are likely to focus on proven business models and write larger cheques. 2025 may also mark a pivotal year for segment creators, as entry barriers are expected to rise significantly.

Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, CEO and Lead Medical Advisor: City X-Ray and Scan Clinic Founder and Partner: City Imaging & Clinical Labs

Achievements In Healthcare & Diagnostic Industry 2024

“ In the realm of healthcare, diagnostics serves as a cornerstone of effective care. It allows for early diagnosis, accurate diagnosis and accurate treatment planning, leading to better health outcomes for patients.

Moving forward, technology is transforming your healthcare experience, from better diagnostic tools to more individualized patient care. AI is making waves, assisting doctors in providing more precise therapies. Mobile applications enable you to maintain your health on the go, and data analysis reveals patterns for improved healthcare delivery.

A growing market

The Indian diagnostic laboratory market witnessed phenomenal growth, valued at US$ 18.41 billion by 2024. The market is expected to grow at a spectacular CAGR of 10.90% till 2030. Factors such as increasing healthcare expenditure, expanding healthcare facilities and advances in diagnostic technology are driving this growth.

The advantages of technology are tremendous. Advanced algorithms and machine learning enable data analysis technology to filter through massive volumes of information, yielding previously unavailable insights. This allows healthcare organizations to make better informed clinical choices, lowering the risk of medical mistakes and improving patient care.

Point-of-care testing (POCT) has made it easier for underserved populations to be diagnosed. Molecular diagnostics methods such as RT and PCR, which were widely accepted during the COVID-19 pandemic, are now being used for a variety of conditions, including infectious diseases and cancer.

Likewise, Wearable devices, such as fitness trackers, smartwatches, and medication monitoring software, have grown common, allowing people to check their fitness and health levels in real time. These gadgets monitor vital signs, physical activity, sleep habits, and other indicators, allowing for more proactive healthcare management.

These medical technology innovations have had a tremendous influence on healthcare delivery, improving patient outcomes, increasing efficiency, and revolutionizing how healthcare is done.

As you negotiate the changing healthcare landscape, remember that technology is more than just optimizing procedures; it is also about harnessing data to create a safer patient environment. Technology can save lives by decreasing the possibility of human mistake.

Furthermore, data analysis technologies can detect patterns and trends that otherwise go undiscovered. This can lead to earlier illness identification, more precise diagnosis, and more successful treatment regimens.

Focus on preventive care

Today’s consumers have evolved as they prioritize preventive healthcare allowing early intervention. Preventive health care and diagnostics plays an important role. Routine health checks and tests for chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and osteoporosis are becoming more common. Early detection through diagnosis not only improves outcomes but also reduces healthcare costs.

Despite rapid growth, the diagnostic profession faces challenges such as increasing cost of advanced diagnostic equipment, lack of skilled personnel to perform and interpret complex tests and the need for a they need diagnostic laboratory accuracy

However, these challenges present opportunities for innovation, collaboration and investment in training programs to enhance the skills of health professionals.

From enhanced diagnostic tools to personalised patient care, technological advancements are transforming the healthcare experience for you. AI is making waves, assisting doctors in providing more precise therapies. Mobile applications allow you to manage your health on the go, and data analysis is revealing trends for improved healthcare delivery.

Technology is truly transforming healthcare, with future trends promising even greater breakthroughs. So, welcome it, for technology is not just the future of healthcare, but also the present.”

Peter Marelas, Field Chief Technology Officer, APJ New Relic:

The Future of Observability with AI-Driven Automation and Evolving Job Roles.

“Observability stands to gain immensely from AI-driven automation. Currently, identifying and resolving issues within complex systems relies heavily on skilled humans to analyse patterns and isolate root causes—a time-consuming process with combinatorial levels of complexity. With AI, observability can shift toward intelligent automation, where AI systems explore the space of hypothetical outcomes, using historical data and prior experiences to guide problem-solving, and eventually take corrective actions independently to mitigate and resolve them. This will streamline incident response, reducing reliance on human intuition and enable faster response and resolution. As this transition unfolds, new roles will emerge that provide oversight and optimise AI-driven automation to strengthen and improve its utility.

As AI gains autonomy, job roles are evolving to support and enhance its learning. Specialists are needed to engineer model prompts, produce curated datasets that can fine-tune models and address unwanted behaviours. Data and AI engineers can bridge the gap between human expertise and machine learning, requiring AI skills and domain knowledge only afforded by human experts that AI needs to imitate. These roles demand a blend of deep experience, strategic thinking, and technical expertise to translate human skills into expert knowledge that models can absorb. As businesses invest in this process, they’re shaping a workforce that becomes integral to the future of smarter AI.”

Mr. Srinivas Shekar, CEO and Co-founder, Pantherun Technologies

“Cybersecurity in 2024 is both a battleground and a proving ground, where the same tools—AI and machine learning—are wielded by defenders and attackers alike. On the one hand, organizations are leveraging these technologies to predict, detect, and neutralize threats faster than ever. On the other, cybercriminals are using them to orchestrate sophisticated ransomware attacks and craft phishing campaigns that feels personal. Add the rapid growth of IoT, edge computing, and cloud services, and the stakes have never been higher. Frameworks like Zero Trust and Secure Access Service Edge have become essential safeguards in this expanding digital landscape.

As we step into 2025, we’re on the verge of a transformative shift. Quantum computing, still in its infancy, is already pushing industries to adopt post-quantum cryptography to future-proof sensitive data. Cybersecurity systems will continue to grow smarter and more adaptive, capable of responding to threats with unprecedented speed and precision. At the same time, generative AI will test our defenses, giving attackers the ability to create deeply targeted and convincing threats. With stricter regulations on the horizon, organizations will need to think beyond compliance—they’ll need to make security a core part of their culture and strategy.

This is an exciting and challenging time for cybersecurity. Staying ahead will demand not just the latest technology but also creativity, collaboration, and constant vigilance. The battle is ongoing, but with the right mindset and tools, we can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s breakthroughs.”

Liat Hayun, VP of product and research, Tenable Cloud Security:

Post-Breach Costs Will Spike, Forcing a Focus on Recovery Tools.

“As breaches become more frequent, post-breach costs will rise, pushing businesses to think critically about what data has been compromised and rethink their recovery strategies. The average cost of a data breach rose to almost $5 million in 2024 – a 10% increase YoY – but the true damage lies in downtime, reputational damages and regulatory fines, particularly in cloud-heavy industries. In 2025, businesses will pivot toward more robust post-breach playbooks, focusing on rapid incident response, data visibility, better containment protocols, and enhanced forensic capabilities to minimise fallout. This shift signals a broader evolution in cybersecurity, with organisations embracing a more balanced approach that prioritises both breach prevention and effective recovery.”

Rohan Rai, Co-Founder, Edupull

“The education sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by technological integration and shifting global dynamics. Technology is no longer an add-on in education—it has become indispensable. Globally, we are observing a surge in student interest in STEM programs, aligning with the increasing demand for technical skills. While traditional destinations like the USA, Canada, and Australia remain popular, countries such as Germany and South Korea are emerging as strong contenders, offering affordable, high-quality education options.

Looking ahead to 2025, mental health and well-being are set to become priorities for universities, with enhanced support systems for international students. Additionally, advancements in mixed reality—blending virtual and augmented reality—are poised to transform how complex subjects are taught, making them more engaging and relatable. This interactive approach is expected to deepen comprehension and bridge the gap between theory and practical application. Sustainability is also gaining traction as a decisive factor in student preferences, with many gravitating toward institutions that demonstrate a commitment to green practices.

These developments highlight the need for an education system that is adaptive, inclusive, and forward-looking. By embracing innovation, prioritizing mental health, and promoting sustainability, the sector can equip students not only with knowledge but with the skills to lead and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.”

Raj K Gopalakrishnan, CEO & Co-Founder, KOGO.ai

“2025 will mark a transformative year for AI, with BFSI, defence, and healthcare leading the charge in AI adoption. These industries will prioritise scalable, secure, and outcome-driven solutions. On-prem deployments will take centre stage, especially in regulated environments where data sovereignty and compliance are critical.

In BFSI, AI will be indispensable for fraud detection, risk management, and personalised customer experiences, all while meeting stringent regulatory requirements. Defence and government services will leverage AI for threat detection, surveillance, and operational automation, emphasising secure, sovereign solutions. In healthcare, AI will play a pivotal role in diagnostics, patient monitoring, and streamlining operations, ensuring sensitive patient data remains protected.

The year ahead will highlight the balance between innovation and responsibility, as organizations navigate the challenges of scaling AI securely, integrating with legacy systems, and up-skilling teams to fully realise the potential of these technologies.”

Sandeep Agarwal, MD & Global CTO, Visionet Systems

“As we wrap up 2024, AI has rapidly moved from promise to reality, with scaled deployments bringing significant impact across industries and specific use cases in healthcare, manufacturing, and finance. However, it brings with it the responsibility for ethical deployment of AI and governance within the boardroom discussions, while the governments of different nations are at work with their new policies for equitable adoption.

Moreover, government policies and country-specific AI guidelines are emerging as definitive factors in accelerating adoption and specifically India is on its path to dominating the AI scene on the world map, thanks to its booming ecosystem of startups and ambitious initiatives on 6G technology.

This year, cybersecurity also caught the limelight, with 68% of organizations giving more priority to the safety of AI. Meanwhile, sustainability remains high on the agenda as companies realign their 2030 agenda by taking steps towards more permanent changes in their environment.

As we step into 2025, we hope to team up with organizations all over the world to realize the full potential of artificial intelligence and to contribute to a better tomorrow for all.”

Amol Deshmukh, Founder and CEO of MedRabbits Healthcare

“The home healthcare sector in India witnessed remarkable progress in 2024, driven by key trends and milestones that are reshaping the industry. The inclusion of home healthcare coverage by insurance companies marked a significant leap, making quality care more accessible and affordable for patients across the country. This year also saw the consolidation of organized players, alongside the emergence of new entrants, further strengthening the ecosystem.

For MedRabbits Healthcare, 2024 was a milestone year as we expanded our presence to Chennai, bringing our trusted home healthcare services to yet another major city. This expansion reflects our commitment to meeting the growing demand for professional, patient-centric care in both urban and emerging markets.

A notable trend this year was the introduction of domiciliary care coverage by insurers, a development that has the potential to significantly enhance the affordability of home-based care solutions. As we look ahead to 2025, the rise of rehabilitation centers is expected to complement the growth of home healthcare, providing patients with more comprehensive and specialized care options.

The future of home healthcare in India is bright, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where demand is steadily rising. At MedRabbits Healthcare, we are excited to continue playing a pivotal role in this transformation, ensuring quality care reaches every home and every patient who needs it.”

Vineet Dhawan, CEO, DCT

“2024 has been a defining year for the Indian OTT industry, marked by the growing prominence of regional content, interactive viewer experiences, and advancements in monetization strategies. At DCT and d’café, we have been at the forefront of enabling content creators to meet these evolving demands through scalable, tech-driven solutions that enhance accessibility and engagement.

For my team and I, 2024 has been a year of reflection, resilience, and progress. We set out to bridge gaps in the OTT fraternity and deliver solutions that genuinely make a difference, especially for mid-market creators. Achievements in these areas have been a reminder that even in the face of complexity, staying grounded in purpose and staying true to our vision pays off.

This year, our work expanded beyond the OTT space into creating impact through our Global Capability Centers (GCCs). DCT’s GCC model has become an integral part of our strategy to empower medium-large enterprises and start-ups to efficiently build, manage, and scale high-performing capability hubs. By weaving domain and tech expertise into every thread of our Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, we offer clients a comprehensive approach that goes beyond the traditional BOT frameworks.

Looking ahead to 2025, we foresee the OTT industry moving toward greater consolidation and innovation, with trends like hyperlocal content strategies, multi-language delivery, and integrated e-commerce redefining audience engagement. Simultaneously, we aim to further contribute to and grow India’s reputation as a leading hub for GCCs, enabling organisations to unlock unparalleled potential through local talent, strategic innovation, and operational excellence.

Building a business, much like life, is about growth, learning, and giving back. Whether in the OTT space or through our GCC initiatives, our mission remains to empower industries and individuals to thrive while driving the next phase of growth for India’s digital and economic landscape.”

Mr. Padmakumar Nair, CEO & Founder of Ennoventure, Inc.

“The year 2024 has been a pivotal one in the fight against counterfeiting, particularly in India, where industries continue to grapple with the economic and reputational challenges posed by counterfeit goods. The surge in counterfeit notes and the staggering valuation of the illicit market in key sectors like textiles, FMCG, and alco-bev, underscore the urgency of adopting advanced anti-counterfeit measures.

At Ennoventure, we are proud to contribute to addressing this challenge through innovative and seamless solutions that safeguard brand integrity. Our patented cryptographic technology, which encrypts a unique digital signature directly onto product packaging, is transforming how industries combat counterfeiting. Unlike conventional methods, our solution requires no changes to manufacturing processes, allowing rapid implementation while being compatible with any smartphone for authentication.

Globally, we’ve seen significant advancements in anti-counterfeiting technologies, especially in the pharmaceutical sector, where the demand for secure packaging solutions is at an all-time high. AI and SaaS-based tools are playing a transformative role in enabling brands to detect counterfeits proactively. This trend will only strengthen as governments enforce stricter regulations to safeguard consumers and brands from counterfeit risks.

Looking ahead to 2025, the market for anti-counterfeit solutions is projected to reach $345.93 billion by 2030, driven by increasing e-commerce penetration and the heightened emphasis on consumer safety. The rising importance of advanced anti-counterfeit measures highlights a critical shift towards prioritizing innovation and vigilance in protecting global supply chains.’’

Dinesh Gupta, Founder & CEO, Vikalp India

“In the past decade, we all have seen rapid growth of online learning and distance learning courses. But K12 education remained unchanged. Traditional schools are still considered as custodian of all knowledge. This will change in 2025 and beyond. Public schools will not remain the only option for K12 education. Homeschooling will become more popular.

Students are learning how to interact with Chabot, ask questions and solve their doubts at home. In the coming years, students will get Dialogue-based tutoring systems (DBT). This AI based system will talk to students as per their learning needs and help them discover solutions. Students would not need a school teacher for their learning needs, but would require them for mentorship and development of critical thinking.

School will still be required for certification. Consequently, 2025 will see a rapid growth of Online Schools. But all will not survive. Online schools which are replica of traditional schools will gradually die with them. But Online Schools focusing on personalised learning & critical thinking will become the trend.’’

Suresh Bansal, Founder & CEO of DCGpac

”As we approach the close of another transformative year, the spotlight on sustainability and e-commerce has never been brighter. At DCGpac, we have witnessed how businesses are increasingly embracing eco-friendly practices as a core part of their operations. The growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions reflects a significant shift in consumer behavior, where convenience aligns seamlessly with environmental responsibility. E-commerce, as a rapidly evolving sector, has challenged us to innovate by offering branded, sustainable packaging solutions and scalable logistics frameworks, blending efficiency with eco-consciousness to meet these changing demands.

Looking ahead to 2025, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing sustainability and growth hand in hand. Our focus is on creating packaging solutions that not only reduce environmental impact but also empower businesses to scale effectively. By continuing to innovate, collaborate, and prioritize responsible practices, we aim to lead the way in building a future where packaging serves as a tool for progress, protecting both products and the planet. Together, let’s make 2025 a landmark year for sustainable innovation and conscious business growth.”

Vaibhav Anant, Founder & CEO, Bambrew

2024 witnessed significant strides in India’s journey towards a sustainable future, with a growing emphasis on combating climate change and minimizing the impact of Single-Use Plastics (SUP). The week-long talks in Busan for the Global Plastics Treaty; Introduction of the Ecomark Rules by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; the strengthening of ERP regulations under the Plastic Waste Management Rules amended this year, to name a few. While all of these point to a collective intent to bring about positive change, they are also symptomatic of the challenges that continue to exist in addressing the mounting SUP issue. India was also named among the top plastic waste producers globally this year. Downstream strategies for plastic waste management still have much ground to cover, and there is a significant resistance to production caps globally!

In light of this, as we inch one year closer to our set target date, the clock is ticking! I believe that the next concrete step to bring India significantly closer to the finish line, we must redouble our efforts by prioritizing research and development of sustainable alternatives like bamboo and biophils, while simultaneously strengthening downstream solutions through improved waste segregation and recycling. Combating greenwashing and ensuring accurate labeling of eco-friendly products, while aggressively spreading awareness, will be crucial to guide consumer choices. At Bambrew, we are committed to supporting the mission to chart a steady path towards complete independence from SUPs. We have, through our R&D and innovation, seen first hand, the efficacy and scalability of certain alternatives that can be game changing in this regard. This demands a lateral approach, with collaboration, and the coming together of multiple moving parts. The pieces of the puzzle are there – it’s time to bring them together!

Mr. Nirav Choksi, CEO and Co-Founder of CredAble

“In 2025, there will be major business opportunities in the FinTech lending space, with the likes of invoice-based lending and cash flow-based lending expected to gain more momentum. Additionally, in today’s experience economy, contextual FinTech solutions powered by a reliable technology suite will play a central role in enhancing customer experiences and unlocking steady revenue growth. Against this backdrop, while embedded finance has made great headway in the banking sector—to deliver the one-stop shop many customers now demand—embedded FinTech will be a top priority for banks as they look to upgrade their tech offerings. With embedded FinTech, banks will integrate FinTech’s AI-powered and low-code digital solutions to stay competitive technologically. FinTechs like CredAble are speeding up underwriting with local Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) integration and building a strong ecosystem of working capital financing technology for banks with globally integrated, yet locally relevant financing solutions. To ensure continuous risk assessment and define the next chapter of working capital financing, we will see banks and FinTechs forge partnerships to leverage a flexible, cost-effective, and DPI-enabled lending core to build solutions on.”

Subramaniam Thiruppathi, Director, India and Sub-continent, Zebra Technologies

As India transforms into a digitally connected hub, digitalization is reshaping sectors like healthcare and transport. In 2024, healthcare technology adoption surged due to initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. From a manufacturing perspective, national flagship schemes such as the PLI program targeting 14 sectors, alongside state-specific industrial policies, have strengthened the sector. In 2023, India’s manufacturing sector’s GDP share stood at around 13%, with a value addition share of 15.9% in 2023-24. Aiming for 25% GDP share by 2030 or earlier, industries such as electronics, automotive, and pharmaceuticals are increasingly leveraging advanced technologies for greater efficiency.

Logistics and warehousing play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations across these sectors, making the adoption of wearables essential for streamlining processes. Supporting this drive toward innovation, Zebra Technologies enhances clinical mobility in healthcare with mobile devices while offering augmented reality glasses for the warehousing sector. These tools provide real-time data to front-line workers, enabling swift and accurate decision-making.

With expertise in scanning and automation, Zebra has built a robust ecosystem of software, robotics, and machine vision solutions. Collaborating with over 10,000 partners globally, Zebra supports 80% of Fortune 500 companies, including 80% of top Indian manufacturers, enhancing operational efficiency through advanced technology

Anand Sahay, Global CEO, Xebia

“2024 marked a significant shift as AI matured from experimentation to becoming a true business engine. Industries like BFSI, consumer goods, retail and travel moved from pilots to production-grade AI workflows, transforming critical decisions around claims, pricing, and customer experiences. At Xebia, we progressed from policy to practice—embedding trusted AI models into live decision engines, ensuring both scalability and accountability.

As we look ahead, Agentic AI is leading the next wave of transformation, enabling autonomous decision-making and enhancing operational efficiency across industries. Simultaneously, the Agentic Development Life Cycle (ADLC) has emerged as a critical driver for scaling AI across complex business ecosystems.

The future will be defined by three imperatives: scalability, sustainability, and trust. Businesses that integrate explainable, production-grade AI into their workflows will not only lead the charge but set new benchmarks for resilience and growth in a dynamic, competitive world.”

A view on 2024

As we close 2024, the IT landscape has experienced transformative shifts. According to Nasscom, the Indian IT sector is set to reach $254 billion by FY24, growing at 3.8%. This year, we saw accelerated demand for digital transformation, especially across BFSI, healthcare, and retail, reinforcing the sector’s resilience and its central role in driving global innovation.

Key trends that defined the year include:

The Rise of Ethical AI

Ethics is no longer optional—it’s foundational. Early AI adoption may have overlooked it, but today, fairness, accountability, and transparency are essential. Deloitte’s 2024 AI Ethics Report indicates that 86% of C-level executives have committed to AI ethics policies to align with business and ethical standards. Xebia leads in this space, developing frameworks that foster responsible innovation and build trust in AI across industries.

Generative AI: Transforming B2B Industries

Generative AI is revolutionizing IT services—from intelligent search engines to automation in telecommunications and design. It’s reshaping business models and delivering significant ROI. A McKinsey report forecasts that Generative AI could add $4.4 trillion annually to the global economy, with sectors like BFSI, healthcare, and retail leveraging its power to enhance customer experiences and streamline operations.

Cloud, Data, and Automation: Key Forces in Transformation

By 2025, 85% of enterprises will adopt multi-cloud integration strategies, reinforcing cloud-native technologies as the backbone of IT infrastructure. This trend is driving agility and cost-efficiency across industries.

Agentic AI and Intelligent Automation

Agentic AI, which enables autonomous decision-making, is gaining traction. It is estimated over 40% of enterprises have integrated it into their workflows, enhancing operational efficiency, according to Forum Ventures. While there are trust concerns around data security, intelligent automation combined with cloud and data analytics is reshaping how businesses operate.

Cloud and Data

The cloud and data are pillars of digital transformation. This year, we saw an uptick in cloud repatriation, with organizations adjusting their cloud strategies to better align with cost optimization and business goals.

2025: Ushering in the Future of AI

India’s AI strategy, backed by initiatives like the IndiaAI Mission, aims to deploy over 10,000 GPUs and enhance high-performance computing capabilities. This positions India as a leader in AI innovation on a global scale. Talent is also at the forefront of this transformation, as businesses race to acquire and upskill professionals.

As we look to 2025, there will be increased emphasis on ethical AI across industries. Gen AI will witness industry-specific models, and AI solutions will prioritize energy-efficient, sustainable practices. The demand for customizable intelligent automation solutions will only grow.

Anil Chawla, India MD, Verint

By 2025, Generative AI and advanced LLMs will revolutionize industries in India, driving productivity, innovation in customer experience, and hyper-personalization. Customers will enjoy safer, seamless transactions as AI plays a vital role in fraud detection and cybersecurity through next-gen models.

In customer experience (CX), these advancements align with the rise of Open CCaaS (Contact Center as a Service) platforms, enabling businesses to transform engagement strategies. Verint’s Open CCaaS solutions empower organizations to integrate, scale, and personalize CX tools seamlessly. Generative AI enhances this further by enabling hyper-personalized interactions, proactive resolutions, and optimized customer journeys.

Equally crucial is measuring CX and employee experience (EX), which will become key benchmarks for service excellence. Businesses must prioritize a “2025 CX wishlist” that includes real-world AI integration, open platforms to avoid vendor lock-in, and scalable solutions that evolve with market demands.

Verint’s AI-powered CX platform addresses these needs by automating workflows, expediting deployment, and delivering meaningful, consistent experiences across all touchpoints. By investing in Verint’s open, AI-driven CX solutions, organizations can elevate customer engagement, drive operational excellence, and adopt a secure, customer-first approach in an ever-changing marketplace.

Kyndryl

With a rise in high-profile breaches, healthcare leaders are prioritizing cybersecurity to protect sensitive data while managing outdated IT systems. But only 36% feel fully prepared to handle future risks, highlighting a significant area for improvement. Moreover, while 74% of healthcare leaders are investing in generative AI, only 45% report a positive ROI. In 2025, the focus will shift towards integrating generative AI into everyday operations through training and cultural change to maximize its potential.

“Traditional approaches to technical leadership won’t be enough to achieve the 360-degree approach to digital healthcare that today’s consumers demand. To overcome multiplying challenges in a fast-changing market landscape, technology leaders must operate as business leaders first — executives armed with compelling data who are focused on accomplishing the most critical business goals.” — Trent Sanders, Vice President, Healthcare

Key predictions for 2025-

 

  • Operating margins are slowly stabilizing as the pandemic’s shockwaves subside, but many health systems are still in financial recovery. In the next year, CIOs will start thinking more like CFOs to accelerate transformation. This mindset shift — melding technical expertise with a relentless focus on achieving business outcomes — will be key to accomplishing a growing to-do list of IT projects, breaking down organizational silos that stand in the way of innovation and bridging the readiness divide.
  • Generative AI has transformative potential for the healthcare sector, with use cases that support earlier disease detection, faster and more accurate claims processing, improved electronic health record (EHR) processes and supercharged capabilities for medical researchers. But while 74% of healthcare leaders report they are investing in generative AI, only 45% report a net positive return on investment. To turn generative AI into a business catalyst, healthcare organizations will shift their focus from technological change to behavioral change. In the next year, the sector’s leaders will work to turn generative AI into a core component of the modern healthcare workplace through educational training and cultural transformation.
  • In 2024, four major health systems announced they had come together to launch a new company dedicated to tackling the industry’s biggest challenges. This trend will grow in 2025, as healthcare systems seeking to benefit from shared technology investment and innovation look for more opportunities to collaborate rather than consolidate. Health systems will explore new avenues for partnership and build strategic alliances that aim to overcome the inherent challenges of operating with limited skillsets and budgets.
  • Healthcare providers will focus on simplifying their platform footprint to drive operational efficiency, support the integration needs of newer technologies like generative AI and chart a path to profitability. These major technology decisions will drive long-term investments in systems that support clinical workflows and collaboration, enterprise resource planning and integration. Embracing a core set of platforms can also create opportunities for organizations to force change throughout other systems in need of a refresh.

Mr. Amjad Raza Khan, Co-founder & CEO of Cashaa

“As we reflect on an exceptional year, Cashaa continues to build on its commitment to innovation in the decentralized finance sector. This year, we successfully transitioned from a B2B banking model to focusing on retail users, with a strong increase in the adoption of our platform. Our decision to launch Cashaa’s retail wallet has been instrumental in this transformation, marking a significant milestone for the company. We offer best-in-class yields of up to 34% APR on holding digital assets with us on the Cashaa app, as well as instant crypto-backed loans starting at interest rates of 0% p.a. All our product lines now have immense utilities built-in for $CAS holders, which is the native cryptocurrency of the Cashaa ecosystem. With this shift, we remain focused on expanding our global reach and reinforcing our position as a leader in decentralized finance. As we move into the new year, we are determined to continue driving growth and delivering seamless, secure financial services to our ever-expanding community of users in pursuit of achieving financial independence through crypto.”

Mr. Anshul Khurana, Co-founder and CEO, Entitled Solutions

“By 2025, India’s fintech space will find itself navigating a tricky regulatory landscape, but there’s no doubt about the sector’s incredible potential and transformative power. With the total market for fintech solutions in India projected to hit $1.5 trillion in just a year and revenues likely to reach $200 billion by the decade’s end, the momentum is undeniable. Fintech players are poised to roll out game-changing solutions while adapting to tighter regulations that are reshaping digital lending, payments, and financial inclusion. What’s remarkable is how resilient this sector has shown itself to be, leveraging technologies such as UPI and India Stack to bring financial services to even the most remote corners of the country. Emerging markets such as Insurtech and wealth management will lead this charge amidst rising insurance adoption rates, greater awareness about savings and investments, and increasingly innovative distribution channels. In 2025, expect the best fintech companies to not just overcome regulatory challenges but turn them into opportunities to build a more inclusive, secure, and robust financial ecosystem for everyone.

Mr.Vasu Naren, Chairman & Managing Director, Sona Machinery

“India’s ethanol blending program has transformed from a modest initiative to a pivotal national strategy. We’ve witnessed a remarkable journey from just 1.53% blending in 2014 to 15% in 2024, with our sights set firmly on the 20% target by 2025. This isn’t just about meeting renewable energy goals – it’s about creating a comprehensive ecosystem that benefits our farmers, reduces our fossil fuel dependence, and contributes significantly to our economic and environmental objectives.

The government’s proactive policies, from lifting sugar diversion caps to introducing financial incentives for diverse feedstocks like maize and damaged rice, have been game-changers. We’re not just talking about incremental changes; we’re looking at a potential industry valuation leap from ₹9,000 crore to over ₹50,000 crore by 2025. With infrastructure developments, including over 400 ethanol pumps and discussions around E20-compatible vehicles, India is building a robust, forward-looking biofuel landscape that promises substantial economic and ecological dividends.”

Mr. Kunal Patni – Executive Director and Country Head, Natural8 India

“2024 has been a pivotal year for the poker industry in India, marked by steady growth and increasing recognition. With poker officially acknowledged as a mind sport by the International Mind Sports Association, its appeal has broadened, especially among younger demographics and players from Tier 2 cities and beyond. Despite the challenges posed by GST, online poker platforms have managed to sustain their growth, often bearing the tax burden on behalf of players—a practice that may not be viable in the long term.

As we look to 2025, the industry hopes for more supportive regulatory measures, including uniform national-level governance, which could unlock its full potential. A clear, player-friendly tax framework would ensure sustainable growth and foster trust. Poker is no longer confined to urban hubs, it is becoming a mainstream sport in India. The future holds immense promise if addressed with the right policies and vision.”

Krishanu Mukherjee, AVP – Growth (ADDA.io)

2024 has been a landmark year for ADDA.io and the Proptech industry in India. Few trends we saw in 2024 are – RWAs/Management Committee members realising the need for a serious software for managing their communities, started moving out of some popularly available Free housing society softwares. Also, the rising threat of cybercrime has made community residents more wary towards these Free Community Apps who use residents data for generating revenue through advertisements. This year also has been a year of Homecoming, where many residential communities started coming back to ADDA.io, after trying out Free software for some time.

2024 was also the year where ADDA.io entered new markets like Mexico, consolidated USA market entry with robust deployments. We also focussed our product development to embrace cutting edge technology like AI and IoT.

For ADDA, 2025 is about scaling impact, penetrating deeper into existing markets, and continuing to innovate. By collaborating with customers and partners, we aim to shape a future where communities thrive through technology, fostering connection and progress for all.

Overall, we hope to be able to power residential communities towards a better living experience – helping them get away from the threats of cybercrimes and annoying Ad based community Apps.

Navneet Sharma, COO, ACT Enterprise

“2024 has been a fulfilling year for the enterprise business. We have been able to increase our customer satisfaction by offering more solutions, as we expanded into SD-WAN and managed Wi-Fi, and delved deeper into verticalisation. Our major progress was from connectivity to managed service. Moving forward into 2025, we expect further growth with new technologies coming in and businesses and startups pacing the adoption. Riding on the same, we will be scaling up across portfolios, verticals and geographies We are excited for the year to come and see the development of the industry unfold.”

Subburathinam P, Chief Operating Officer, TeamLease Services

“In 2024, the telecom sector experienced rapid growth driven by 5G rollouts and government initiatives like the PM GatiShakti program, which emphasised digital connectivity across rural and urban India. The sector created significant demand for fibre technicians, NOC personnel, and field engineers, but a shortage of skilled professionals remained a challenge. With India’s broadband market expanding, we anticipate densification, rural connectivity initiatives, and smart city developments to further boost hiring, particularly in roles requiring expertise in advanced network operations and IoT integration in 2025.”

Ram Sellaratnam, Group CEO and Managing Director, iBUS Network and Infrastructure

5G Deployment:

Telecom Operators deployed extensive 5G coverage, investing heavily in spectrum and infrastructure. However, consumer-centric use cases lagged, leading to only modest revenue growth. India ranked 33rd in the 5G Connectivity Index Q2 2024 (GSMA Intelligence), excelling in affordability and video quality but falling short in innovation-driven adoption. The Department of Telecommunications has also tied up with 60 universities to provide 5G test beds for them to be able to experiment on various aspects of the technology. The telecom industry faces a pivotal decision: invest further in 5G or wait for “killer applications” to catalyze consumer adoption.

Fixed Networks (Hospitality, Retail, and Education):

  • Hospitality: Post-COVID “revenge growth” spurred demand, inventory was restructured, this increased occupancy rates. Over 30,000 hotel rooms were signed across 128 Indian cities during 2023/24. The nationwide branded inventory breached 1,80,000 rooms last fiscal, with Upscale-to-Luxury representing 39% of operating rooms, while Mid-to-Upper Midscale contributed 45%, and the remaining 16% were Budget & Economy category Hotels.
  • Retail: Malls thrived, supported by increased consumer spending and infrastructure upgrades.
  • Education: Rising student enrolment drove demand for reliable internet.

IoT for Energy Efficiency:

Businesses like hospitality, hospitals, etc. have 24*7 operations, resulting in high energy usage. This led them to search for more efficient and cost-effective solutions, resulting in an increasing adoption of IoT technology that enabled businesses in energy-intensive sectors to optimize operations.

Darshil Shah, Founder and Director, TreadBinary

“In 2024, the technology industry made significant strides in a number of areas. Machine learning and generative AI transformed industries by boosting productivity and creating new possibilities. Investments in green technology showed a strong focus on sustainability. Edge computing became more popular, helping process data closer to where it is generated, improving real-time applications. Blockchain technology moved beyond cryptocurrency, finding uses in supply chains, digital identity verification, and secure voting, making processes more trustworthy and efficient. These advancements reflect a growing effort to make technology more efficient, sustainable, and integrated into everyday life.

Looking ahead to 2025, cybersecurity will remain very important as digital transformation grows, with new solutions needed to protect data and networks. Governments are likely to make rules about data privacy, AI ethics, and monopolies clearer and ensure tech companies understand them. AI is expected to become even more embedded in business, with improvements in natural language processing and machine learning making processes faster and smarter. Efforts in green tech will focus on energy-efficient products and innovative ideas to fight climate change. Health technology will advance, improving patient care, remote monitoring, and personalized medicine. Blockchain will become more widely used as industries realize its potential to build trust and improve efficiency.”

Kartik Narayan, CEO-Staffing, TeamLease Services

“The contract staffing industry in FY 25-26 will witness significant transformation driven by seven major trends: Cost and demand pressures would require enterprises to become more efficient and productive which will lead to more organisations formalising their extended workforce and focus on growth and productivity. Geographical sourcing will accelerate as improved migration corridors facilitate talent movement from North and Northeast to Western and Southern India. There is a rising demand for women employees, particularly in manufacturing, due to higher retention, productivity, and advancements in machinery. Regulatory scrutiny will increase as governments push for formal employment and stricter labor law compliance. Businesses will prioritize flexibility and cost efficiency, leveraging contract staffing to manage shorter, unpredictable cycles and optimize labor costs, especially around micro-events like festivals. The focus on learning and skilling will shift towards retaining and upskilling contract workers to improve productivity, reduce attrition, and integrate them into core roles. Finally the gig economy is set to surge from 7.7 million to 23 million by 2030, pushing governments to focus on social security and efficient workforce utilization. These trends collectively highlight a shift toward workforce agility, regulatory adherence, and skill-driven growth.”

Gururaj, Managing Director, Optiemus Electronics

“2024 has been a milestone year for the Indian electronics manufacturing industry witnessed a significant growth with the government initiatives, policies and industry’s efforts. The electronics manufacturing in India has pegged around $115 billion market in 2024 nearly doubling itself in the last six years and the government’s industry-specific initiatives like PLI, ease of doing business policies and more importantly, changing geo-political scenario have given a significant push to India’s ambition in electronics manufacturing.

As India’s trajectory in the electronics manufacturing industry continues to ascend, we are witnessing a significant shift in how global companies view India—not just as a market but as a major hub for their manufacturing operations. The increasing number of strategic alliances between Indian companies and global giants underscores the growing confidence in the capabilities of Indian electronics manufacturers. We can already witness the government’s focus to further expand the Make in India vision by building and supporting an entire ecosystem where the announcement for the PLI for electronics components has come as a major move which will cover a wide range of components.

At Optiemus, we continue to strive with our focus on innovation and our belief in the capabilities and significant market potential remains intact. Today, we are actively working in the telecom equipment and hearable/wearable categories with a number of brands, especially manufacturing for Tejas Networks and other brands like Xiaomi, etc. We are also further delivering innovation in the Drone business and have launched a number of products and initiatives. In a path-breaking move, we have also partnered with Corning International and laid the foundation stone for the manufacturing plant in Chennai.

In 2025, we are looking forward to continuing the momentum and forging further partnerships with the brands especially in telecom and IT hardware products like servers. We are confident that we will be able to almost double our revenues in the next two years. In the coming year, we will foray into various areas in the electronics supply chain for greater value addition in India. We also plan to partner with companies from other countries to promote greater ODM capabilities in India.

To be successful, the new PLI scheme for electronics components manufacturing needs to adopt a multi-pronged approach, such as having adequate capital expenditure support, providing necessary operational expenditure incentives, addressing non-tariff barriers, and providing access to global markets to allow Indian companies to compete globally. The industry also needs to create products where produced can be used to create new markets. From that point of view, we need access to global markets, support for testing, getting global approvals, etc. Another aspect that needs to be looked at when it comes to developing a full-blown electronics manufacturing ecosystem is the potential to create high-value jobs. Unlike assembly of finished goods, where floor staff are required, we would need a highly skilled workforce to reach this next level.”

Puneet Arora, Managing Partner, Biz Staffing Comrade

People leaders have had their hands full this year, characterized by constant change, continuous technological advancements, uncertainty, restructuring and job cuts, geopolitical upheaval etc, and they were challenged on all fronts. The growing skills gap, job flexibility, shifting organizational priorities and the rise of AI are reshaping business, markets and the talent landscape right now. Recruitment continues to be competitive, with companies vying for top talent to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Organizations continue to prioritize upskilling, reskilling and cross-skilling their existing workforce to bridge skill gaps, especially in tech and other high-demand sectors. To tackle talent shortages, organizations are currently shifting from credential-based hiring to a skills-first approach. Over the past few years, many organizations have also taken strides to build diversity, equity, and inclusion into their policies and hiring practices. The emphasis on leadership development remains critical this year and beyond, to excel in adapting to new opportunities and meet strategic goals.

The job market is set to navigate a multifaceted path as we move forward driven by rapid technological advances, economic uncertainty, increasing importance of employee well-being and shifting job dynamics. Hence, the coming year promises to be both a challenge and an opportunity for organizations ready to adapt. As industries transform due to technological innovation, the demand for new skills – especially in tech, digital, and data-related fields – will continue to grow, fuelling a heightened demand for skilled professionals. Companies will also continue to face their fair share of challenges as AI and other evolving technologies continue to advance faster than organizations can react. HR leaders will continue to be instrumental in identifying and grooming future leaders, ensuring that the organization has a sustainable leadership model in place, even during transitions. As we move forward, companies will refine their approaches experimenting with models that best fit their culture and workforce needs. The consideration of HR’s role and capacity to support both the organization and employees will be crucial to adapt to both known and unknown changes.

Rakesh Prasad, Senior Vice President – Digital Business at Innover Digital

“AI has demonstrated immense potential as a driver of innovation in 2024 with unique use cases for diverse industries, impacting how businesses operate globally. Generative AI, in particular, is leading the way, unlocking unprecedented opportunities to solve complex challenges, accelerate decision-making, and create entirely new possibilities.

At Innover, we have worked with several enterprises in 2024 to have witnessed firsthand how AI-powered tools streamline workflows, optimize resources, and enhance decision-making processes within organizations.

We have made significant investments in talent and AI training across key roles, ensuring we are strategically positioned to harness and lead the change.

With the Generative AI market expected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 40% from 2024 to 2030, businesses worldwide are scaling their AI investments to drive innovation and maintain competitive advantages. Research from ISG indicates that spending on Generative AI initiatives will surge by 50% in the coming year, with major applications focused on Customer Service chatbots, business process workflow management, customer support, and market research. This momentum underscores the growing recognition of Generative AI as a critical enabler in an increasingly competitive digital ecosystem, reshaping how businesses operate globally.

As we move into 2025, we see AI-powered autonomous systems emerging as a transformative force. Agentic AI, leveraging frameworks like Domain Data Encapsulation (DDE), will transcend traditional Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG). By utilizing Knowledge Graphs, it will enable large language models (LLMs) to deliver precise, context-aware responses, making AI systems more intelligent and self-sufficient in analyzing data, adapting to dynamic conditions, and making informed decisions with minimal human intervention.”

Kunal Aggarwal, Founder and CEO, Credflow

Voices of Innovation: Industry Leaders on 2024’s Tech Milestones and 2025’s Promising Trends

“2024 has been a transformative year for technology, with significant milestones redefining the way businesses operate and innovate. From the continued evolution of artificial intelligence to the seamless integration of blockchain in financial ecosystems, we have witnessed a year where technology has not only solved problems but also unlocked new opportunities for growth and efficiency. At Credflow, we’ve seen firsthand how automation and data-driven insights are empowering SMEs to gain control over their cash flows, optimizing working capital management in ways that were previously unimaginable.

As we step into 2025, I foresee an era of hyper-personalization and interoperability becoming key drivers of change. Technologies like generative AI and advanced machine learning will enable businesses to tailor solutions at an unprecedented scale, delivering value that aligns closely with customer needs. Moreover, the convergence of fintech with other verticals like healthcare, retail, and logistics will push boundaries, fostering a more interconnected and dynamic ecosystem.

Another promising trend is the increasing emphasis on sustainability through tech-driven solutions. Green fintech, for example, is set to grow, enabling businesses to align their financial strategies with environmental goals. Additionally, the rise of embedded finance and real-time analytics will offer unprecedented convenience and insights, allowing SMEs to make more informed decisions with agility.

The year ahead holds immense promise for industries willing to embrace change and invest in innovation. At Credflow, we remain committed to being at the forefront of this transformation, enabling businesses to thrive in an environment shaped by technological progress and strategic foresight.”

Sumit Rai, MD & CEO, Edelweiss Life Insurance

As we reflect on 2024, the Indian insurance sector continues to transform, driven by significant industry growth and a persistent commitment to meeting customer needs. While the global insurance landscape has faced turbulence, India’s sector has not only remained resilient but has also shown remarkable dynamism. Despite being at the early stages of insurance penetration, with vast untapped potential, it is one of the fastest growing in the world. The country’s insurance market is expected to grow 3-5 times its current size over the next decade, unlocking new opportunities. This growth will be fuelled by progressive regulatory policies, enhanced collaboration among industry players, and a strong emphasis on improving distribution and technical capabilities.

A robust economic foundation: Despite global challenges, India’s economy remains resilient, underpinned by strong consumption, robust investment activity, and a rapidly expanding middle class. Progressive reforms and a deep commitment to digital transformation have positioned India to outperform many of its regional counterparts. This economic strength lays a fertile foundation for the insurance sector, which continues to evolve and expand in line with changing market dynamics

Accelerating digital transformation: In 2024, digital transformation has evolved beyond being a mere trend—it now forms the backbone of the insurance industry. The adoption of advanced technologies allows insurers to streamline operations, elevate customer experiences, and engage distributors more effectively. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has been pivotal in fostering a digital-friendly ecosystem while safeguarding policyholders’ interests. This digital-first approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures the industry remains competitive on a global scale in an ever-evolving market. Looking ahead to 2025, the emphasis will be on improving accessibility and simplicity, making insurance products easier to understand and claim, particularly for rural communities. Leveraging technologies like data analytics and AI enables insurers to offer personalized products, optimize pricing, and enhance customer service

Bancassurance: In recent months, there has been significant discussion around the bancassurance practices in India, particularly relating to protection of customer interests. Against this backdrop, we may expect a higher emphasis on upgrading the Bancassurance framework with a focus on strengthening the quality of advisory

Insurance Amendment Bill: The government might table the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024 in the Budget Session, therein proposing a score of changes to capital requirements, permissible FDI limit, opening up of the agency channel, minimum capital requirements, and more. These changes will significantly accelerate the growth of the industry and support the government as well as the regulator’s financial inclusion agenda

The future of insurance in India is one of inclusivity, accessibility, and unparalleled opportunity. As we work towards the vision of “Insurance for All by 2047,” the sector will continue to drive economic resilience, foster financial inclusion, and deliver lasting value to customers. As we enter 2025, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose—a collective drive to build a more innovative, customer-centric, and resilient insurance industry for the future.

Navkaran Singh Bagga, Founder & CEO, Akvo

“2024 has been a pivotal year for the water sector, reflecting both the escalating urgency of water security and the remarkable resilience of innovative solutions in addressing this global challenge. Across the industry, we have witnessed considerable momentum in designing and deploying technologies that harness atmospheric moisture, reduce reliance on diminishing groundwater reserves, and minimize environmental footprints. Governments and private stakeholders alike have begun acknowledging that ensuring a sustainable water supply is not a luxury but an absolute necessity for thriving communities and economies.

In the year ahead, I anticipate a surge in cross-sector collaborations that will drive greater awareness about alternative water sources and the critical need for holistic water management. By 2025, I believe we will see advancements in atmospheric water generation technology that make systems more compact, cost-effective, and energy-efficient. This evolution will not only bolster water-scarce regions but also help industries adopt innovative water stewardship practices. Additionally, stronger policy frameworks and incentives at both national and global levels are likely to fuel wider adoption, leading to a more concerted approach in protecting our planet’s most precious resource.

At Akvo, we remain committed to our mission of delivering high-quality and sustainable water solutions. Our goal is to continuously refine our technology, forming meaningful partnerships to expand our reach and create a lasting impact. As we close out a year marked by challenges and achievements, I’m confident that 2025 will usher in even more transformative breakthroughs, ultimately bringing us closer to a future where every individual and community has reliable access to clean water.”

Dr. Sharmila Tulpule ,Founder & Director, Orthobiologix Biotech Pvt. Ltd.

“Regenerative Medicine is rewriting the rules of healing, making impossible things possible in everyday life. In orthopedics, our primary focus, RM therapies are enabling patients to regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve their quality of life.. 2024 has seen the acceleration of both innovation and adoption of RM across the world and in India. Over the past two years, we have treated over 200 patients using advanced techniques using micro-fragmented adipose tissue (MFAT) stem cells, autologous conditioned serums using gold salts and combination therapies such as PRP and MFat. These personalized interventions have revolutionized the treatment of degenerative joint conditions and soft tissue injuries.

However, wide acceptance of RM remains a challenge. Lack of standardization in protocols creates variability among practitioners, which further creates skepticism in the minds of doctors and patients. Bridging these gaps is very much a part of our mission. Initiatives such as the ABRM Diplomate course – the first formal and most comprehensive course in this field which we brought to India this year – would help standardize treatment methodologies and prepare practitioners to offer personalized therapies effectively. This dual approach promotes both safe clinical results and wider adoption of RM.

Beyond orthopedics, RM has made tremendous strides in 2024. Cardiology stem cell therapies are now showing promise in repairing damaged heart tissue, and in endocrinology, it is opening up the possibility of reversing diabetes through pancreatic beta cell regeneration. In neurology, RM is breaking new ground with stem cell treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis, giving hope to conditions that have limited treatment options. Similarly, in immunology and rheumatology, stem cell therapies are showing promise in managing autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions, reducing inflammation and potentially halting disease progression.

Innovations in cell engineering and AI-driven manufacturing are enhancing scalability and precision, further expanding the field’s potential. In the future, RM will not only restore but rejuvenate—be it the reduction of the biological age of joints or the revitalization of the skin, and the reparation of damaged organs. Overcoming current barriers while driving innovation, RM can become a cornerstone of personal and transformative healthcare in 2025 and beyond.”

Rajeev Sinha , Founder & CEO, Onlygood.ai

As we close the chapter on 2024, I find myself reflecting on a year filled with pivotal global events that have profoundly impacted our world. The COP29 summit in Baku brought to light the pressing concerns of developing nations regarding climate funding, culminating in a commitment of $300 billion annually—still a far cry from the $1 trillion needed to address climate challenges effectively. Meanwhile, the U.S. election saw Donald Trump regain power, buoyed by significant support from influential figures like Elon Musk, while geopolitical tensions simmer between Israel and the Arab world and continue to escalate in Ukraine.

In this tumultuous landscape, it is easy to become distracted and continue with business as usual, even as our planet suffers. We must shift our focus from daily distractions to cultivating sustainable habits that foster a better future. Each day is an opportunity to improve ourselves and our environment.

At Onlygood, we are committed to embracing new norms that drive efficiency and accountability. This year has underscored the importance of reducing emissions, enhancing our ESG practices, and striving for decarbonization.

As we move into 2025, let us be mindful of our impact and work diligently toward a sustainable future. Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities for inclusive growth and development. By improving our processes, increasing efficiency, and investing in renewable energy sources, we can create meaningful change for our planet and future generations. Every action counts; let’s make them matter.

Gaurav Maulikhi – Senior VP – Solv

“As 2024 ends, we reflect on the strides made in digital transformation across the Indian business ecosystem. The sole focus of the journey has been technology adoptions and empowerment, particularly for MSMEs. Technology adoption has been a cornerstone

of this journey, empowering businesses to overcome challenges and unlock new growth opportunities through innovation and digitization.

This year has witnessed a pivotal shift as MSMEs embraced digital solutions, with over 70% adopting at least one digital tool in 2024—a significant rise from 50% in 2023. With a focus on creating inclusive, scalable platforms that thrive in the digital-first

economy. We are more committed than ever to helping businesses get the technology they need to grow and succeed. At Solv, we emphasized on bridging the gaps in supply chains, enhancing access to financing and enabling businesses with scalable solutions.

Looking ahead to 2025, the potential for further digital empowerment is immense. With the MSME sector contributing approximately 30% of India’s GDP and employing over 110 million people, technology is poised to play an even more critical role in creating

a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem. As MSME businesses continue to leverage innovative tech-enabled solutions, we foresee accelerated growth, resilience, and scalability across the sector, driving India’s economy toward a more robust digital future.”

Mr. Konark Trivedi, Founder and CEO, Frog Cellsat Ltd.

“The year 2024 has been transformative for India’s telecom sector, marked by significant policy initiatives and remarkable achievements that have strengthened the national digital infrastructure. Key initiatives such as the Telecom PLI Scheme and the BharatNet project have played a central role in expanding broadband access, boosting local manufacturing, and fostering over 22,000 job creation; positioning India as a global manufacturing hub.

The Telecommunication Bill 2024 was a milestone in modernizing regulations, addressing issues like spam calls and ensuring consumer protection. Similarly, the accelerated rollout of 5G, supported by programs like GatiShakti, tackled deployment challenges through coordinated efforts between the government and private players. A focus on energy-efficient networks and infrastructure sharing also helped manage rising operational costs, ensuring growth remained sustainable.

Looking ahead to 2025, the sector must build on these achievements by fostering innovation in areas like public-private partnership, facilitating R&D and promoting penetration of better connectivity in lesser connected areas. Ensuring data security and stringent policies to avoid surpassing any regulation should also be the key focus to ensure privacy rights of the patrons.”

Saurabh Arora, Founder & CEO, University Living

The global education landscape in 2024 has been marked by significant policy changes in traditional study-abroad destinations and a rising interest in emerging European countries. Canada’s decision to discontinue the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, which previously facilitated streamlined visa processes for 34% of international students, has shifted focus to attracting serious applicants through the regular visa route. Although the new process has different financial requirements, it remains accessible to students with strong academic profiles, ensuring Canada’s appeal to genuine learners.

Australia has solidified its appeal by extending post-study work rights for graduates in priority sectors like healthcare, engineering, and technology to up to six years. By September 2024, the country saw a significant rise in international student numbers, reaching 824,951-a reflection of an 11% growth compared to the previous year, demonstrating the country’s commitment to fostering career-ready graduates. Similarly, the USA continues to lead with over 1 million international students, nearly half of whom are enrolled in STEM fields. Expanded Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM pathways have bolstered the country’s focus on science and technology education, reinforcing its reputation as a hub for innovation-driven learning.

The UK, while still a top choice for international students with over 605,000 enrollments in 2023, has experienced a 6.2% decline in study visa issuance due to recent policy shifts. Despite this, the Graduate Route, which offers post-study work opportunities, remains a significant draw for students seeking world-class education and career prospects. Meanwhile, Europe’s emerging destinations, including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Austria, and Malta, are becoming increasingly popular due to their combination of affordability and quality education. According to University Living’s European Student Landscape: Beyond Beds and Benches, these countries offer tuition fees as low as €1,000 to €4,000 annually in Spain and Italy, along with lower living costs compared to traditional destinations. Beyond affordability, European countries are investing in modern infrastructure and support services to cater to the growing influx of international students, resulting in a 15–20% increase in interest over the past two years.

Looking ahead to 2025, the global education sector is poised for dynamic growth. The Indian Student Mobility Report 2024 predicts that over 1.5 million Indian students will study abroad by 2025, highlighting the sustained demand for international education. With a broader spectrum of opportunities available, students are increasingly aligning their academic goals with financial considerations. The rise of Europe as a viable alternative to traditional destinations reflects a more diverse and accessible future for international education, driven by affordability, quality, and promising post-study prospects.

Sanjay Kedia, CEO, Marsh McLennan India and President & CEO, Marsh India Insurance Brokers Pvt. Ltd

“As we reflect on 2024, the insurance sector has undergone transformative shifts, setting a strong foundation for inclusive growth and innovation. Insurance penetration in India has made significant progress in recent years, but there’s still much to be done. The regulator has already introduced pivotal changes, starting with giving insurers the freedom to design bespoke products. Earlier, the same products were offered in both urban and rural markets, limiting relevance and accessibility. Now, insurers have the flexibility to create customised solutions tailored to specific demographics and regions. Key reforms such as Bima Trinity and introduction of composite licenses, is reshaping the landscape to ensure broader access and deeper impact. Simultaneously, advances in digital transformation, driven by InsurTech and regulatory sandbox revisions, are empowering insurers to provide highly tailored solutions to a wider customer base.

Innovative offerings like Surety Bonds have bolstered critical infrastructure growth, while the rising adoption of cyber insurance has become essential for businesses navigating the financial risks of an evolving digital ecosystem.

With a 13% YoY growth in premium collection, insurance is increasingly recognized as a strategic enabler of business resilience and sustainability across industries. Alongside, India’s economic progress is continuing to capture global attention, driven by advancements in digitalization, infrastructure, and international collaboration. However, alongside this growth, we face escalating risks, a 46% rise in cybersecurity threats, widening skill gaps in emerging technologies, and supply chain disruptions linked to geopolitical uncertainties that are all emphasizing the need for proactive and adaptive risk management.

Looking to 2025, Marsh McLennan will focus on delivering transformative risk solutions that will enable businesses adapt to a dynamic risk environment. Bridging critical skill gaps, enhancing workforce well-being, and deepening insurance penetration will remain a key priority. Primary healthcare and role of OPD insurance benefits for employees continues to be crucial to reduce severity of Inpatient Care (IPD) claims. By encouraging innovation, collaboration, and resilience, we aim to support India’s journey as a global economic leader, ensuring a secure and sustainable future for its people and businesses.”

Mr. Nishith Maheshwari – Head, Digital Business Loans, InCred Finance

“Innovative credit models such as cash flow lending have helped provide access to credit to the new age digital economy, including D2C brands, online sellers, SAAS companies, etc. The increase in government allocation for CGTMSE and CGFMU schemes have further helped fuel the growth in MSME credit, helping provide MSMEs with timely capital for expanding working capital requirements.

Going ahead, there would be an increasing demand for capital by cleantech/EV companies. This would in turn require lenders to innovate on their credit policies, to better cater to the increasing capital demand from these sectors. As the Ecom ecosystem and D2C brands grow, the demand for these brands/products on the global marketplaces and online platforms also grow in tandem. This directly translates into a massive opportunity to provide working capital to this segment.

The recent bureau reporting modification requires credit reporting to be done on a fortnightly basis. Set to come into force at the beginning of the new year, the new modification would essentially change how bureau data is consumed, and would help push more discipline in borrowers to ensure timely repayments leading to maintenance of healthy credit scores.”

Mr. Rishi Kohli CIO – Hedge Fund Strategies, InCred Alternative Investments

Category III AIFs (Alternative Investment Funds) have shown the highest year-on-year and three-year compounded annual growth rates in total AUM at approximately 79% and 43% respectively. Even the number of new Funds in this category has been the highest by far over the past year compared to Category I and II with a 43% increase.

While long-only strategies dominate the Cat-III AIFs with 61% of the share, the interest in long-short strategies in Cat-III has been slowly increasing and gaining ground over the past few years with more players entering the segment and more types of strategies being launched in the long-short segment.

The big news for the Indian equity derivatives market was SEBI clamping down on weekly index options and asking both NSE and BSE to have only 1 index each on which weekly options were allowed leading to NSE choosing Nifty and BSE choosing Sensex. This meant that weekly options for BankNifty, FinNifty, Bankex and MidcapNifty were discontinued from November 2024. The other indices were relatively less liquid but the BankNifty weekly options had the highest liquidity among all the indices and hence discontinuation of the same came as a shock to most market participants and pure option traders and managers will have to modify/tweak their strategies and style to diversify their BankNifty weekly options exposure to Nifty/Sensex weeklies and other indices and stocks monthly options. So this was an unexpected market regime change forced by the regulator!

The big news for long-short strategies in 2024 was SEBI’s announcement of a New Asset Class (NAC) which would basically allow Mutual Funds to launch long-short strategies using derivatives with gross exposures being within the MF regulations of 100% and focused on investors with minimum ticket sizes of INR 10 lakhs for whom SEBI believes this NAC can fill the gap between MF and PMS. Derivatives exposure will be capped at 25% of the AUM for non-hedging and rebalancing purposes.

While SEBI’s intention for announcing the NAC is to curb the unregulated and unregistered investment schemes by providing a regulated and transparent alternative, there is a lot to be desired in the same. Firstly, most MF managers are not experts in long-short and derivative strategies hence some rules around AUM managed previously by fund managers of NAC needs to be toned down. Further, AIF Cat-III allows long-short strategies and there are many fund managers in this space who have many years of experience and hence are more suited to manage NAC compared to MF fund managers so either such AIFs should be given a NAC-MF license else regular MFs should be allowed to potentially tie-up with such AIFs for NAC. Else the risks could increase rather than decrease due to people not well versed with long-short strategies managing the same, thereby defeating the entire intention of introducing NAC.

The Indian equity markets as denoted by Nifty index were ranged till the beginning of May within a 4-5% band post which went upwards till end of September but with high volatility, first at the result announcement of General Elections in early June and then mini-bouts in early August and early September. Then from end-Sep to end-Nov it had the first 10% correction for the year, a double digit decline seen after a long time!

Mr. Saurabh Jhalaria CIO – Alternative Credit Strategies, InCred Alternative Investments

The private credit space in India has seen new entrants as well as subsequent fund launches from existing players, across Venture Debt, Performing Credit and Special Situations Credit. One of the key themes identified in 2024 is the rise of interest in ‘CleanTech’ as a space, encompassing renewable energy, Electric Vehicles, Alternate Fuels & Recycling.

As private equity capital slowed down in the year, private credit provided the much-needed growth capital for emerging corporates in India. Private Credit has been particularly useful, both at an operating company level as well as at holding company level for various use cases.

We believe the space is under-penetrated vis a vis the global scenario and is poised to grow at a much faster pace in 2025, with greater acceptance among promoters, who are looking at private credit as a significant source of growth capital without diluting equity. New themes in the form of manufacturing and industrials are poised to fuel growth of the segment, with the existing themes staying strong.

On the other hand, we see emergence of dislocated credit due to the liquidity needs of the existing lenders and cash flow mismatches of the corporates. On the back of this, special opportunities credit will also be a space to watch out for.

InCred Alternative Investments claimed the top spot by deal count in the India Private Credit: Deals & Rankings Report by Reorg Inc. for 9M2024, with 17 deals and an impressive 11.11% market share.

Mr. Ashish P. Dhakan, MD & CEO, Prama Hikvision India Private Limited

We at Hikvision India are sharing thoughts about the year gone by. It was a moderate year filled with market challenges and upheavals. It was test of our technology prowess. Due to sheer determination, we were able to win over the odds. We express our sincere gratitude to all the partners who supported us all the way.

As the year 2024 fades, a fresh new year filled with limitless opportunities beckons. Now, we are engrossed in the planning of a roadmap for the New Year i.e. 2025; the security industry is looking forward to a new growth phase. Hikvision India stands firm with integrity as one of the market leaders and technology innovators. We are here to guard the interest of our ecosystem partners, system integrators and end-users. India is one of Hikvision’s top three markets for video security solutions. We are spearheading the Indian market with positive initiatives to empower Indian youth by providing training. We are committed to the ‘Make-in-India’ 2.0 with the spirit of excellence to provide cutting-edge technologies in the space of AIoT Security Solutions, Automation, Robotics, Machine Vision, Thermal and Medical Imaging Technologies. We are taking the latest security trends to Tier-II and Tier-III cities, by reaching out to the end-users with bespoke solutions.

Dr. Sabine Kapasi, Co-Founder and MD, Enira Consulting Pvt Ltd

“In 2024, healthcare saw a gradual move toward adopting digital tools like telemedicine and AI. For patients in remote or underserved areas, telemedicine provided a way to access medical expertise without the hurdles of long travel or limited availability of specialists. AI became a helpful tool for healthcare providers, aiding in complex diagnoses and treatment strategies. Instead of overshadowing human judgment, it complemented the decision-making process, particularly in scenarios where resources were stretched thin.

A stronger emphasis on outcomes rather than procedures became evident, with value-based models taking priority. This approach focused on preventive measures and improving overall well-being, which helped families experience fewer unnecessary treatments and manage healthcare expenses more effectively.

A significant wave of investment is anticipated in 2025 as AI technologies and healthcare use cases mature, building upon the advancements and lessons of 2024. These investments are expected to drive innovation in diagnostics, personalized medicine, and operational efficiencies, making healthcare more accessible and effective for all.

Looking ahead to 2025, collaboration is expected to play a key role in addressing inclusivity and scalability within healthcare systems. Governments, technology innovators, and medical professionals are working together to create frameworks that ensure advancements reach everyone equitably. There’s also growing attention on sustainable practices in healthcare—ensuring innovation doesn’t exclude those who need it most while promoting environmentally responsible approaches to health services.

Sumit Shukla, CEO, Scholars Merit

Education in 2024 has seen significant changes, particularly with the rise of AI and data-driven tools that are helping to personalize learning. However, there are still gaps in sectors like IT, where many students graduate with a strong theoretical understanding but lack the practical skills that employers demand. The curriculum in many colleges and universities is often outdated, relying heavily on theory while not keeping pace with the rapid advances in technology. As a result, graduates can find themselves unprepared for the realities of the job market.

In 2025, one of the key trends will be increased collaboration between colleges, universities, and EdTech platforms. These partnerships are set to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry needs. The focus will shift towards offering a comprehensive blend of technical expertise and soft skills. It’s important not only to master technologies like cloud computing, NoSQL databases, AI, and machine learning but also to develop skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—skills that are crucial in today’s job market.

Moreover, integrating tools like Python, Java, and platforms for data visualization like Jupyter notebooks will allow students to gain practical, hands-on experience. These collaborations will enable students to work on live projects, complete internships, and be exposed to industry-standard tools, ensuring they are ready for the challenges of a fast-paced, evolving job market. By aligning the curriculum with real-world needs, colleges, universities, and EdTech platforms can better prepare students for successful careers.

Arpit Mittal, Founder and CEO, SpeakX

In 2024, generative AI transformed language education by offering personalized approaches, moving away from outdated standardized methods. AI-driven tools now adapt to individual learning needs in real-time, making language acquisition more accessible and effective. For many Indians, especially in underserved regions, improving English proficiency continues to unlock better job prospects. However, concerns around data privacy and ethical AI practices remain critical and need focused attention.

By 2025, the emphasis will likely shift to integrating technology with innovative teaching strategies. Generative AI is expected to go beyond grammar instruction, fostering cultural understanding through contextual learning. Such advancements could make language learning more meaningful, enabling deeper connections across diverse communities.

Regional languages are also poised to gain greater prominence as AI tools make them digitally accessible, ensuring inclusivity while preserving linguistic heritage. Strengthening both English and regional language skills will play a vital role in shaping India’s multilingual future. For these advancements to create widespread impact, collaboration between ed-tech platforms, educators, and policymakers will be essential. The focus must now be on democratizing these tools for rural educators and learners, ensuring technology serves as a true enabler of change.

Ankit Anand, Founding Partner, Riceberg Ventures

As 2024 comes to an end, the deeptech sector has emerged as a key driver of innovation, with technologies like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing continuing to shape industries and tackle global challenges. This year, we have witnessed the growing importance of government intervention in nurturing the sector, with several states setting a strong example of how to create an environment conducive to deeptech growth. States like Andhra Pradesh have taken the lead by developing dedicated funds, building research hubs, and fostering collaborations between startups, academic institutions, and global experts. These initiatives not only de-risk deeptech ventures but also provide the essential resources that startups need to thrive.

Adding to this momentum, the Indian government’s announcement of a ₹1,000 crore spacetech fund managed by InSpace stands out as a bold step toward boosting innovation in the space sector. This fund, alongside reforms such as FDI regulation in spacetech and the privatization of nuclear energy to facilitate the development of small modular reactors, underscores the government’s commitment to driving growth in high-impact industries.

Looking toward 2025, the focus will be on scaling these efforts—ensuring that deeptech innovations are not just groundbreaking, but also scalable and accessible across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and clean energy. As we enter the new year, the role model set by progressive states will be crucial in guiding other regions, helping to establish deeptech as a fundamental pillar of sustainable growth, economic resilience, and societal progress.

Vinay Singh, co-founder of Digixpressions

Digital marketing, especially in finance is leveraging multiple solutions on a large scale, and 2024 witnessed the country move towards comprehensive financial inclusion. Several trends have emerged, which are being influenced by and further influencing consumer behaviour -Personalisation, Mobile Optimisation, Video Content, AI, Chatbots and many more. Hyper-Personalisation has been at the forefront of digital marketing trends this year, where banking, insurance, payment wallets, loans, mutual funds, stocks etc, almost all financial channels have integrated hyper-personalization to reach out to consumers.

Video content gained significant momentum in Tier 2 and 3 cities and beyond, where consumers increasingly engaged with video content from financial influencers, tutorials, webinars, and promotional materials. Generative AI has been another major breakthrough which has been instrumental in building hyper-personalized content, building emotional connect and impacting buying decisions of consumers. This technology has also helped companies detect frauds and improve cyber security experience. Along with these, mobile optimization, chat bots, and financial influencers have been significant in making India financially inclusive and helped companies reach out to masses, specially in the smaller pockets of India. 2025 will witness 2x growth in digital marketing, in the financial sector introducing more innovations and advancements to increase consumer outreach.

Pinkesh Kotecha, Chairman and Managing Director at Ishan Technologies

“This year has been a game-changer for India’s tech sector, marked by the rapid adoption of AI, cloud computing, data center expansions, and advanced cybersecurity solutions. Additionally, communication platforms are breaking barriers with real-time voice, video, and messaging solutions, while cybersecurity frameworks are evolving to counter the rising tide of AI-driven threats.

At Ishan Technologies, we have embraced this transformation by integrating AI-driven analytics, automation, and personalized solutions into our services. A key milestone has been our partnership with Nokia, enabling us to deliver cutting-edge broadband solutions. Furthermore, the launch of our Unified CCaaS platform is redefining the customer experience, offering seamless voice, video, and messaging integration, and bridging gaps across business ecosystems. By advancing AI-powered solutions, we are addressing critical challenges such as data privacy, bias, and security through robust managed XDR and AI-driven threat detection.

Looking ahead to 2025, the rise of Global Capability Centers (GCCs) is expected to increase demand for scalable tech services and put pressure on Indian tech companies to ramp up their offerings. At Ishan Technologies, we are committed to revolutionizing last-mile connectivity by building a Giga Network that delivers reliable, high-speed solutions across urban and rural landscapes. Our vision includes enhancing customer experiences, expanding network capabilities, and empowering businesses and communities with accessible and impactful technology in an increasingly competitive landscape.”

Mr. Satish Shukla, Co-Founder of Addverb,

“Automation capabilities across industries have witnessed remarkable growth in 2024 because of wonderful developments around emerging technologies. The convergence of advanced robotics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence has made robots more cooperative, flexible, and perceptive, enabling seamless human-robot collaboration even in the most challenging of environments. These have allowed more advanced sensors and AI-enabled vision systems to facilitate robots’ ability for performing advanced tasks without a hitch. For instance, Cobots are already changing industrial production by having significantly improved safety and efficiency in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Also, growing attention to R&D in material and sensor technologies nurtures further innovation within the industry. They foster increased adoption of automation by companies and help boost productivity, thus bringing down costs of operations. In the forward-looking paradigm toward 2025, it will be important to note that robotics and automation will continue to be tools that dictate the way forward. These technologies shall drive forth a different era of innovation, bringing forth the possibilities of human-robot collaboration. At Addverb, we are proud to be the harbinger of this change, with solutions defining the next generation of industrial automation and pave the way for more efficiency and a more sustainable world.”

Saurav Ghosh, Co-founder, Jiraaf.

“2024 has turned out to be the year when Indian bonds, especially government securities and high-rated corporate bonds, have come of age. Strong domestic demand and increasing retail investor participation have acted as key demand drivers; with the inclusion of IGBs in the JPMorgan-EM Bon Index attracting sustained foreign fund inflows into the Indian bond market. Moreover, with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) reducing the minimum face value criteria on corporate bonds from Rs.1,00,000 to Rs.10,000 in June 2024, the entry barrier for investors has been lowered substantially and has subsequently promoted increased retail participation. What’s more, while policy shifts in developed economies like the United States could act as a potential headwind for bond prices in 2025, the case for investing in the Indian bond market has never been stronger. Retail investors would do well to allocate capital towards a mix of government and corporate bonds while making sure to use bond laddering strategies to minimize volatility risks. Lastly, it is highly recommended that they choose to invest via trustworthy Online Bond Platform Providers (OBPPs) and make the best use of upcoming investment opportunities by leveraging the range of insights and market analysis provided on these platforms.”

Bharat Gite, MD & CEO, Taural India

A leading player in the advanced aluminium casting domain, is at the forefront of this transformation. 2024 has been a defining year for India’s manufacturing sector, underscoring its pivotal role in driving self-reliance, import substitution, and global competitiveness. Amid external and economic challenges, India’s manufacturing industry has risen to the occasion, guided by visionary government programs like Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India. These initiatives have strengthened domestic production, reduced reliance on imports, and bolstered the resilience of key sectors like transport, defense, energy, and healthcare.

The indigenization of the defense sector, with $17 billion worth of acquisitions sourced domestically, exemplifies the impact of these programs. Similarly, strategic policies such as anti-dumping duties and reforms in customs duties have fortified local industries. These measures, combined with investments in infrastructure modernization and advanced technologies, reflect India’s commitment to becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse.

The aluminum industry’s growth is a testament to this focus on domestic manufacturing. As the world’s second-largest aluminum producer, India’s production has reached 10.43 lakh tons in the first quarter, with the market projected to grow to $18.84 billion by 2030. This expansion is fueling advancements in infrastructure, transport, and renewable energy, further cementing the sector’s significance.

As we look to 2025, the momentum in manufacturing is set to accelerate, with critical industries like railways, marine, automotive, aerospace, energy, and healthcare driving innovation and economic progress. The manufacturing sector will remain at the forefront of India’s growth story, shaping a future defined by resilience, sustainability, and global leadership.”

Bal Rohit Chopra, Co-founder – Sunny Side Up ( Creative Consultancy)

As AI takes over our lives in many ways, clairvoyants are predicting it will kill the business of agencies. Of course, nothing could be further from the truth. At Sunny Side Up, we believe that the heart of creativity will always beat with human talent. AI will help you conduct research, simplify laborious processes, or even generate thought starters, but it cannot bring the emotional depth, cultural insights, or human instincts that make creativity truly magical.

I also believe independent agencies need to rethink their identity. They shouldn’t see themselves merely as storytellers for communication, but as business problem solvers. When we started Sunny Side Up, we wrote this belief on sticky notes pinned to our softboard. The years since COVID have only reinforced this. Businesses don’t just need a voice, they need a partner who can identify business challenges and execute with creativity and agility. Our work positions us as the creative alternative to the big consultancies. We bring something they can’t – the ability to merge research, business context and strategic thinking with consumer insights, bold ideas, and last-mile execution. This is the one shift that will define the future of independent creative agencies.

Ryana Kuruvilla, Head of People and Culture, Kelachandra Coffee

“This year, India reaffirmed its status as the world’s 7th largest coffee producer and 5th largest exporter, with exports soaring to $1.19 billion—a notable 45% increase over the previous year. This surge underscores growing global demand for India’s shade-grown, sustainable coffees, particularly in key European markets. On the domestic front, the rise of artisanal and specialty coffees, coupled with renewed interest in South Indian filter coffee, highlights evolving consumer preferences focused on provenance, quality, and a richer coffee experience.

At Kelachandra Coffee, we embraced this momentum by incorporating advanced Brazilian and Colombian processing technologies to produce beans of the highest quality. Our work with local farmers in Chikmagalur also emphasized sustainable practices and fair trade, aligning with global trends. In the past year, we introduced new single-origin blends that received widespread acclaim, both domestically and internationally, further cementing our status as a premium coffee brand.

As we look ahead to 2025, we plan to host educational workshops on coffee brewing and tasting, helping enthusiasts develop a deeper appreciation and knowledge of the craft. Guided by sustainability and innovation, we remain committed to nurturing the growing love for Indian-grown coffee, both within our borders and beyond.”

Mr. Tarun Chugh, MD & CEO, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance

“2024 has been a pivotal year for the Indian life insurance industry, marked by significant reforms and policy changes. Initiatives by both IRDAI and the Indian Government have focused on enhancing customer experience, expanding insurance access across all segments, and adding greater value to the products customers purchase. The industry demonstrated remarkable agility in adapting to these reforms, and I believe this adaptability will remain a key strength, ensuring the delivery of long-term benefits to customers. The year also saw the industry adapt new age tech and invest in AI to remain future ready.

2025 will be a key year as we will see further movement in industry and government efforts towards the Insurance for all by 2047 vision.

At Bajaj Allianz Life we are geared to strengthen our leadership position in the new year as well. We will continue to stay focused on our vision of Life Goals enablers of India, introduce value-packed products and continuously enhance the experience of all our stakeholders as they engage with us. Thereby ensuring sustainable and profitable growth through the year 2025.”

Mr. Sumit Singh, CEO and Co-founder of DashLoc

“As we move into the close of 2024, the local business ecosystem has witnessed significant shifts, driven by the increasing demand for hyperlocal and digital-first solutions. At DashLoc, we’ve been able to capitalize on this evolving trend, achieving over 600% year-on-year revenue growth and an impressive 45% month-on-month growth in revenue. The market’s growing inclination towards personalized, data-driven marketing solutions, combined with the success of our new product offerings like Call Intelligence, Call Campaigns, and our 360-degree hyperlocal platform, has positioned us well within the industry. With over 110+ clients and counting, placing their trust in our platform, we believe 2024 has been a transformative year, marking our continued commitment to helping businesses thrive locally while embracing digital innovations.”

“As we look ahead to 2025, we are optimistic about the expanding opportunities for DashLoc. With a target revenue of $5 million for the 2025-26 period, we are confident that the market will continue to embrace hyperlocal solutions, particularly as businesses seek deeper connections with customers in their immediate vicinity. The market behavior will likely focus on more personalized, data-centric strategies, and we expect an increased inclination towards advanced offerings like AI-powered call campaigns and enhanced customer engagement tools. As businesses continue to recognize the importance of local visibility, we foresee a surge in demand for our 360-degree hyperlocal platform. Funding will play a critical role in accelerating innovation, and we expect investors to see the value in businesses driving digital transformation at a local level. With a growing employee base of 90+, DashLoc is excited to not only contribute to the success of our clients but also navigate these market changes to drive sustained growth.”

Deepak Pahwa – Chairman, Pahwa Group & Managing Director, Bry-Air

The EV industry has come a long way in steering the transition to green mobility. Reflecting the same, in July 2024, the country clocked a 53% surge in EV sales. Taking the number to 179,000 unit sales, the sector achieved a milestone of surpassing the million-unit milestone in the same month. Projecting a strong year-on-year increase, the sector is poised to outpace ICE vehicles in years to come. For making significant progress along similar lines, even the government rolled out a new EV policy this year, aimed at making India the manufacturing hub for EVs.

Similarly, the PM E-Drive supported the endeavour by incentivizing EV manufacturing to boost sales across the country. With the year performing fairly well for EVs, to further expedite the deeper penetration of EVs across the country, industry players should focus on innovation and research to come up with ground-breaking battery technologies. This can play a significant role in alleviating the challenges of EVs, such as range anxiety and concerns around safety, deterring potential consumers from buying EVs. Making advancements in Li-ion batteries by manufacturing high-quality batteries devoid of any defects, the industry can amplify the performance of the vehicle and even curb the instances of EVs catching fire. Likewise, by boosting the capacity of energy storage, the batteries can overcome the fear of EVs running out of charge. Making development along similar lines, the year saw an upsurge in the transition towards solid-state Li-ion batteries.

Looking at the future of EVs, it is evident that the sector is still in need of strong government policies, subsidies, and incentives to give the desired push to EVs. In the meantime, the industry players should focus on contributing to the resilience of the sector. To achieve this, the adoption of innovative solutions should be encouraged to drive the efficiency and sustainability of EVs. An incessant focus on advanced R&D aimed at green innovation, and devising a net-zero roadmap can further aid in promoting sustainable manufacturing, contributing to reducing the environmental impact in turn. Making progress on these fronts not only bodes well for addressing the current challenges but also plays a pivotal role in steering the transition to green mobility successfully over a period of time.

Gunjan Malhotra, co-founder, Komaki Electric.

The Indian electric vehicle (EV) industry has witnessed transformative growth this year, especially in the two-wheeler (2W) and three-wheeler (3W) segments. As the year bidding adieu, the electric two and three-wheelers have registered a robust double-digit growth, contributing to the EV industry inching towards the two million-units milestone.

In the first 11 months of the year, electric two-wheelers, entailing electric scooters, motorcycles, and mopeds, made up for 60% of the total 1.80 million units of EV volume of the country between January and November 2024. Along with this, it also projected a robust 85% sales growth on a Y-o-Y basis in the month of October, accounting for sales of 1,39,031 units during the month. Similarly, even electric three-wheelers clocked a 20% surge in sales between January and November 2024, surpassing the 583,597 units sold the previous year, reaching 631,855 units.

Giving impetus to the momentum, the government recently replaced the flagship scheme FAME with PM E-Drive to speed up EV adoption and create a charging ecosystem nationwide, which will encourage cleaner and more sustainable transportation. With such progressive efforts, EVs have steadily become a viable and preferred option for millions. At Komaki, we are proud to have contributed to this momentum, introducing innovative and sustainable mobility solutions that cater to both urban and rural needs.

Looking ahead to 2025, the trajectory for the Indian EV market is promising. We anticipate exponential adoption fuelled by further infrastructure developments, such as expanded charging networks and battery swapping solutions. Additionally, the government’s commitment to achieving a greener future will continue to incentivize both manufacturers and consumers to embrace EVs. 2025 will not just be a year of growth, but a milestone for India’s journey towards clean and green mobility,”

Kunal Sethi, CEO, The Detailing Mafia

“2024 as a year performed fairly well for the car detailing industry. With car enthusiasts opting for professional car services and products, the sector experienced gradual growth during the year. At the same time, there were various factors that contributed to the rising preference for professional car detailing services. The customers are continuously in search of high-end detailing and premium services such as ceramic coating, PPF, graphene-based solutions, etc., for their cars to prolong the longevity of their vehicles. In the pursuit, the sector has been gaining a lot of traction across the year. With the year coming to an end, the sector saw some major progress with the integration of sustainable practices in the form of biodegradable products and waterless car washing.

Looking at the performance of the industry in 2024, it is expected that the momentum will continue even in the upcoming year, with car owners prioritizing high-end car maintenance more than ever before”.

Himanshu Arya, Founder & CEO, Luxury Cart

“India’s pre-owned luxury car market is set to accelerate and is projected to grow at 16.30% CAGR by 2032. With consumers becoming increasingly value-conscious, pre-owned luxury vehicles offer an attractive combination of premium features, performance, and significant cost savings. Likewise, the year witnessed a surging preference for pre-owned luxury vehicles in the first quarter of 2024 clocking a growth of 14% Y-o-Y basis. Moreover, with the Indian luxury car market experiencing remarkable growth in the year, it has been invariably giving impetus to the pre-owned luxury car market as well.

Along similar lines, the surge in demand for hybrid and electric luxury vehicles is becoming a trend as India’s EV infrastructure improves and environmental consciousness grows, models from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi are likely to dominate pre-owned luxury car searches. Advanced technology features like AI-enabled systems, autonomous driving capabilities, and connected infotainment solutions will also become essential criteria for buyers.”

Aditya Dadia, Founder, Alwrite

India’s insurance sector witnessed a significant transformation in 2024 amidst rising challenges such as cyber threats, data privacy issues, climate change, geopolitical uncertainties and regulatory complexities. Therefore, we will see the insurance industry to embrace a technology-first mindset in 2025, complemented by human expertise. This balanced approach will be essential for driving sustainable growth and resilience, enabling businesses to not only adapt but thrive in an increasingly dynamic digital landscape. By implementing tech based solutions that improve efficiency, strengthen global resilience, and reduce costs, businesses in the sector can pave the path toward a more sustainable and prosperous future. Technology will pave the path especially artificial intelligence is set to revolutionize the insurance industry by transforming processes ranging from underwriting to claims management. In the commercial insurance sector, AI will streamline operations, boost efficiency, and enhance accuracy. It will enable personalized pricing models, empowering insurers to deliver more customized and cost-effective coverage options that better meet individual needs.

Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, CEO and Lead Medical Advisor: City X-Ray and Scan Clinic Founder and Partner: City Imaging & Clinical Labs

“The healthcare sector is poised for considerable transition in 2025, spurred by technological developments and a desire to improve patient experience. This evolution is dependent on a thorough knowledge of the patient’s experience at each stage of their disease, identifying all stakeholders in the care process (including healthcare professionals and family members), and recognizing their specific requirements, obstacles, and pain spots.

By delving deeply into this journey, we can begin to build solutions that not only improve quality and accessibility, but also empower patients and promote proactive treatment. The primary focus is on enhancing patient-centered care by adopting advanced technologies for quicker, more accurate diagnostics and personalized treatment plans.

Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) uses technology such wearable gadgets and sensors to remotely monitor patients’ health data in real time. This continuous monitoring enables early diagnosis of health concerns and preemptive actions, resulting in better patient outcomes and lower healthcare expenditures.

A primary priority in RPM is ensuring that the technology is user-friendly, particularly for older patients or those with poor digital literacy, allowing for smooth incorporation into everyday activities with minimal complexity. Equally crucial is the data’s quality and accuracy. High-quality, trustworthy data is essential for healthcare practitioners to make educated decisions in real time and deliver timely treatments.

AI and Machine Learning (ML) algorithms are transforming healthcare by improving diagnoses, treatment planning, and predictive analytics. These technologies enable individualized treatment plans that are tailored to specific patient needs, hence improving the efficacy and efficiency of healthcare delivery.

Blockchain technology shows promise for protecting the security and integrity of healthcare data exchange. By offering a tamper-proof and transparent mechanism for storing and exchanging patient information, blockchain improves data privacy and interoperability across healthcare networks.

With developments in genomics, molecular profiling, biomarkers, and patient monitoring devices, an unprecedented quantity of data is being produced. This data is crucial for driving research, generating focused therapies, and improving patient outcomes, but it may be difficult to manage, analyze, and use efficiently.

With the rising digitalization of healthcare data, cybersecurity is critical to protecting patient information and preventing data breaches, and it is a top healthcare trend in 2025. Healthcare industry is investing in strong cybersecurity solutions to secure sensitive patient data and retain confidence in healthcare systems.

Digital therapeutics solutions use digital platforms to offer evidence-based remedies while also empowering patients to take an active role in their own health management. In 2025, the emphasis will be on validation and reimbursement of solutions.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies are revolutionizing medical education, patient care, and therapeutic treatments by providing immersive, hands-on experiences. These tools allow healthcare practitioners to replicate difficult operations, resulting in safer and more efficient learning, while also empowering patients to better understand their own illnesses. Furthermore, VR and AR have been demonstrated to reduce pain, anxiety, and tension during treatments using immersive distraction tactics. As these technologies advance, they are positioned to contribute to more individualized and effective therapies, faster recovery periods, and increased patient engagement and empowerment in their care journey.

The future of healthcare and diagnostics is more than simply technology; it is about developing a whole ecosystem in which all stakeholders—patients, providers, and policymakers—work together to improve health and wellbeing. By using new technology and promoting patient interaction, we can create a healthcare system that is not just efficient but also empathetic and sensitive to individual needs.”

Ms. Madhumita Agrawal, Founder & CEO, Oben Electric

2024 has been a pivotal milestone in India’s EV evolution, setting the stage for transformative growth. Between April and November alone, India achieved an impressive 13.06 lakh EV registrations reflecting a 25.64% growth compared to the previous year. This momentum has been fuelled by the rise of indigenous manufacturers delivering groundbreaking innovations, supportive government policies, and a growing shift toward eco-conscious consumerism.

The expansion of ‘Make in India’ manufacturing has strengthened the nation’s EV sector, while initiatives like PM E-DRIVE, FAME II, and reduced import duties have fuelled adoption. Key milestones this year included March, when subsidy-driven sales peaked at 213,064 units, and October, which saw festive-led sales reach 219,322 units. India’s charging infrastructure has also witnessed a transformative leap. From around 12,000 public charging stations previously, the country now boasts over 25,202 such facilities, thanks to initiatives like PM E-Drive, which allocated ₹10,900 crore, including ₹2,000 crore exclusively for charging infrastructure

Looking ahead to 2025, resolving the inverted GST structure in the two-wheeler segment is crucial. While the lower 5% GST on EVs encourages adoption, the 18-28% GST on raw materials creates high working capital demands, increasing costs unnecessarily. Addressing this taxation disparity and refining policies will create a stronger foundation for the sector’s efficiency and competitiveness, providing a much-needed boost for sustainable growth.

As we look to 2025, India stands at the cusp of becoming a global EV leader. Enhanced affordability, improved range, robust charging networks, and rural penetration are set to define the next phase of growth. Indigenous manufacturers are set to raise the bar with groundbreaking offerings, while the government’s continued investment will fuel adoption across urban and rural markets alike. At Oben Electric, we are proud to lead this revolution with high-performance, innovative, and affordable electric two-wheelers, redefining mobility for Indian consumers.”

Mr. Sandeep Aggarwal, Founder & CEO of Droom

Droom is an AI and data science-driven online platform revolutionizing the Indian automotive market through its suite of AI-driven marketplaces, products, and services. Droom has helped 1.5 million customers buy, sell, finance, and insure vehicles via Droom marketplace.

For buyers, Droom offers 21st century and finest experience in buying and selling of used and new automobiles with trust, selection, low price, and convenience second to none. Every vehicle sold at Droom goes through a proprietary and technology-driven rigorous 1,100-point inspection and certification for its condition, pricing, and history. Droom offers India’s largest selection of automobiles with over 250k vehicles online in 1,176 cities — both used & new, cars & 2-wheelers, and other vehicles too. Because Droom invests in technology and AI vs. physical dealerships and heavy operations, the automobiles sold at Droom are cheaper than other options available to consumers.

In order to build trust and convenience, Droom has built an entire ecosystem of technology-driven products around used automobiles online, including Orange Book Value (algorithmic used vehicle pricing engine | 725 Mn+ Queries), ECO (tech, AI and IoT driven 1,100+ points vehicle inspection), History (India’s largest repository for used vehicle historical records | Database of 250 Mn+ vehicles | up to 50 vehicle historical records), Droom Fintech (Loan & Insurance), and Velocity (last mile fulfillment and delivery services). Large enterprises like HDFC, IDFC, Yamaha, TVS, Toyota, and many more harness Droom’s tech stack as cloud services to grow market share across the rapidly growing Indian economy.

Droom was founded by Sandeep Aggarwal, who is the only tech founder in India to have founded two unicorns back-to-back in the last 10 years backed by an all-star team. Droom is among the most trusted consumer Internet brands in India often recognized for its innovative approach and technology and is backed by marquee global investors including Lightbox, Digital Garage, Toyota Group, Beenext, Beenos, 57 Stars, Lightbox, and many multibillion-dollar family offices in SE Asia and Hong Kong.

Mr. Girish Hirde – Global Delivery Head at InfoVision

“The year 2024 has been a year of measured progress for the IT industry, as businesses navigated global economic uncertainties, cautious investments, and delayed decision-making. However, as we look ahead to 2025, the outlook is decidedly optimistic. Increased IT spending and a growing urgency among traditional enterprises to accelerate digital transformation will drive the industry forward.

The adoption of Generative AI is no longer a choice but a necessity, as both enterprises and consumers actively integrate AI-driven solutions into their operations. Moving beyond proof-of-concept projects, businesses are now focusing on leveraging advanced AI capabilities to achieve tangible results. Key advances in the areas like security technologies, responsible AI, intelligent automation, and data intelligence will play a pivotal role in shaping successful digital transformation journeys across industries.

At InfoVision, we continue to drive innovation in specific areas such as Network APIs and autonomous networks in Telecom space, Omni-channel commerce and loyalty solutions in retail to mention a few and most importantly enable our customers to stay ahead in this dynamic landscape.”

Mr. Amjad Raza Khan, Co-founder & CEO of Cashaa

“As we reflect on an exceptional year, Cashaa continues to build on its commitment to innovation in the decentralized finance sector. This year, we successfully transitioned from a B2B banking model to focusing on retail users, with a strong increase in the adoption of our platform. Our decision to launch Cashaa’s retail wallet has been instrumental in this transformation, marking a significant milestone for the company. We offer best-in-class yields of up to 34% APR on holding digital assets with us on the Cashaa app, as well as instant crypto-backed loans starting at interest rates of 0% p.a. All our product lines now have immense utilities built-in for $CAS holders, which is the native cryptocurrency of the Cashaa ecosystem. With this shift, we remain focused on expanding our global reach and reinforcing our position as a leader in decentralized finance. As we move into the new year, we are determined to continue driving growth and delivering seamless, secure financial services to our ever-expanding community of users in pursuit of achieving financial independence through crypto.”

Mr. Satish Shukla, Co-Founder of Addverb

“Automation capabilities across industries have witnessed remarkable growth in 2024 because of wonderful developments around emerging technologies. The convergence of advanced robotics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence has made robots more cooperative, flexible, and perceptive, enabling seamless human-robot collaboration even in the most challenging of environments. These have allowed more advanced sensors and AI-enabled vision systems to facilitate robots’ ability for performing advanced tasks without a hitch. For instance, Cobots are already changing industrial production by having significantly improved safety and efficiency in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Also, growing attention to R&D in material and sensor technologies nurtures further innovation within the industry. They foster increased adoption of automation by companies and help boost productivity, thus bringing down costs of operations. In the forward-looking paradigm toward 2025, it will be important to note that robotics and automation will continue to be tools that dictate the way forward. These technologies shall drive forth a different era of innovation, bringing forth the possibilities of human-robot collaboration. At Addverb, we are proud to be the harbinger of this change, with solutions defining the next generation of industrial automation and pave the way for more efficiency and a more sustainable world.”

Mr. Hitesh Garg, Vice President and India Managing Director, NXP Semiconductors

“The Indian semiconductor industry has made remarkable strides in 2024, with the government’s transformative Semiconductor Mission and cumulative incentives surpassing ₹76,000 crore, attracting investments in state-of-the-art fabrication facilities and design ecosystems. The sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 19% between 2023 and 2027, reflecting the nation’s commitment to becoming a global semiconductor powerhouse. This progress is propelling India into a key position in the global semiconductor value chain.

As we step into 2025, the focus will shift towards system design and AI-driven innovations, with semiconductors at the heart of India’s transition into the intelligent age. Initiatives like the India AI mission and advancements in edge computing, 5G, and IoT are creating unparalleled opportunities to integrate cutting-edge AI capabilities into system design. These innovations will accelerate industries such as automotive, healthcare, and telecommunications, enabling smarter, more efficient solutions. With a vibrant talent pool and robust digital infrastructure, India is well-positioned to leverage its semiconductor & ESDM ecosystem to shape a future defined by intelligence on the edge and connectivity.

At NXP Semiconductors, we are proud to contribute to this transformative journey, working closely with industry leaders and policymakers to create solutions that shape a smarter, more connected future.”

Mr. Pankaj Balani, Co – Founder & CEO, Delta Exchange

“Bitcoin’s recent surge beyond the $106,000 mark is a monumental milestone that reflects a confluence of factors driving the market. The optimism surrounding pro-crypto policies from the incoming U.S. administration, particularly with Donald Trump’s election and the appointment of Paul Atkins as SEC Chair, has reinvigorated investor confidence. The discussions around the US Government establishing a Bitcoin reserve have intensified. This shift signals a potential easing of regulatory pressures that have historically weighed on the cryptocurrency sector.

Moreover, the growing institutional interest in Bitcoin, highlighted by significant inflows into exchange-traded funds (ETFs), has bolstered its standing as a mainstream asset. The price has surged ~2.5X in this year triggered by the ETF approval earlier this year. There is also news of large corporations such as Amazon and Microsoft debating about including BTC in their corporate treasuries. The market’s momentum has been palpable, with Bitcoin appreciating over 140% this year alone, particularly in the weeks following the election. Sentiment and price action around Bitcoin remains strong and there have been only 2 red weekly closes since October. Market participants remain long with current OI hovering around record OI levels and expect further move up here.

At Delta Exchange, we’ve witnessed this excitement first-hand, with our daily trading volume reaching an impressive $1.5 billion (approximately 13,100 crore INR). Our weekly Options & Futures volumes have grown to $3.6 billion and $6.7 billion respectively, placing consumer sentiment in line with market movement. F&O activity in Crypto is still in an emerging phase with a potential 100x growth opportunity in Crypto Options. We see market share of F&O volume continue to increase as crypto becomes a more mature asset and less volatile. BTC’s volatility has come down sharply in the last 5 years. That trend is expected to continue with greater institutional participation.

This surge in activity underscores the increasing engagement from both retail and institutional investors eager to participate in this dynamic Crypto F&O market. As we move forward, I remain optimistic about the future of Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency landscape.”

Narasimha Goli, Chief Technology and Product Officer, Iron Mountain

AI agents are a relatively new wave of digital workers, slowly permeating businesses, which we can only expect to see increase in 2025. Designed to operate independently, these agents can be trained much like human workers, assuming roles such as accountants or IT service desk operators. By training them with specific skills and knowledge, organisations can deploy a digital workforce capable of executing tasks with minimal human oversight. But to be ready for AI agents, organisations face the challenge of transforming their physical and digital data from an ungoverned liability into a well-managed asset.

The explosion of unstructured data, including documents, images, videos, and communications, has intensified the challenges organisations face. They must ensure they are taking the right steps to utilise their physical and digital assets to extract the maximum value for AI models.

2025 will be the year enterprises begin to invest in agent platforms, and at the same time, they will invest in creating AI-ready data – centralised, clean and governed – to fuel these digital workers. Organisations should develop data management strategies to protect, manage, and optimise assets while preparing for emerging AI-centric use cases that leverage digital and physical assets. By tailoring information governance strategies to meet their requirements, business leaders can ensure their data management practices are not only effective but also enable AI to extract the most value from their data. Without this, even the most sophisticated agentic frameworks will struggle to deliver the promised benefits.

Sindhu Gangadharan, MD, SAP Labs India; Chairperson, nasscom

“As we look ahead to 2025, AI isn’t just an enabler anymore—it’s becoming the backbone of how industries innovate, scale, and solve their most complex challenges. We’re entering an exciting phase where AI is evolving from being assistive to becoming truly intelligent, with autonomous agents capable of making decisions and orchestrating entire ecosystems.

Custom AI in particular is emerging as a transformative force in 2025, allowing organizations to design AI solutions tailored to their specific needs. By leveraging domain-specific data and advanced model customization, businesses can develop AI applications that address unique challenges, from personalized customer experiences to industry-specific innovations. Industry analysis underscores the growing demand for differentiated AI solutions as enterprises seek to differentiate themselves in competitive markets. Custom AI empowers organizations to extract maximum value from their data while ensuring alignment with business goals. It enables organizations to gain a strategic edge by solving niche problems with precision and scalability. This trend is set to democratize AI innovation, making it accessible across industries and geographies.

For India, this is an incredible opportunity. As a global hub of technology and talent, we’re perfectly positioned to lead this AI-driven transformation. 2025 is where innovation meets purpose, and I truly believe India will play a defining role in shaping the future of AI for the world.”

Ashish Sahay, Country Manager & Sales Director – SEA, Wirepas

“As we step into 2025, the IoT ecosystem in India is witnessing exponential growth, fueled by the country’s ambition to become a $1 trillion digital economy by 2026. With over 2 billion IoT-connected devices projected to be deployed in India by 2025, the need for scalable, resilient, and cost-effective connectivity solutions has never been more pressing.

At Wirepas, we see this as a pivotal moment to drive innovation and adoption of decentralized mesh technology that addresses India’s unique challenges. Our technology already enables connectivity for over 4 million smart meters under the Advanced Metering Initiative (AMI), contributing significantly to India’s energy transition goals and ensuring accurate, uninterrupted data collection even in remote rural areas.

The Indian smart metering market alone is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2%, with over 250 million smart meters targeted for deployment by 2030. This presents a tremendous opportunity for solutions like ours, which are designed to be highly scalable, reliable, and adaptable to diverse environments.

Furthermore, as India invests heavily in its smart cities mission—set to reach $28.7 billion by 2027—IoT solutions are becoming the backbone of initiatives aimed at improving urban infrastructure, energy management, and logistics. Technologies like Wirepas Mesh and NR+ will be instrumental in supporting these projects by delivering decentralized, energy-efficient, and cost-effective connectivity at scale.

The convergence of IoT, AI, and big data analytics is also unlocking immense possibilities in predictive decision-making, particularly in energy management. For example, smarter insights into consumption patterns can help utilities reduce distribution losses, a critical issue for India, which currently sees an average of 20% loss in electricity distribution.

Wirepas remains deeply committed to India’s vision of a sustainable, interconnected future. By delivering innovative solutions that enable industries to optimize their operations, reduce costs, and achieve sustainability goals, we aim to play a key role in shaping India’s IoT revolution. As 2025 unfolds, we look forward to continuing our partnership with Indian enterprises and contributing to the country’s journey toward becoming a global leader in IoT adoption.”

Mr. Srinivas Rao Ravuri, Chief Investment Officer, Bajaj Allianz Life.

“Amidst a mixed global and domestic economic environment, India’s financial markets displayed resilience in 2024. While the large cap Nifty 50 index delivered a modest ~9% return during the year, mid and small cap indices delivered ~24% return for the second successive year. Inflation so far this year averaged at ~5%, staying above the RBI’s 4% target, which led the central bank to hold policy rates steady while easing liquidity through a reduction in the cash reserve ratio.

GDP growth for FY24-25 is projected at 6.6%, slightly moderating as inflationary pressures impacted consumption and economic expansion. The consumption sector faced headwinds, with subdued demand growth, while corporate earnings in reflected muted growth amid challenging conditions.

Globally, with inflation moderating in the U.S., the Federal Reserve started cutting rates, providing relief to financial markets and improving sentiment. However, domestic headwinds, including a slowdown in consumption and tepid earnings growth, highlighted vulnerabilities in India’s recovery. Despite these challenges, strong government spending and robust economic fundamentals continue to position India as one of the fastest growing economies, offering long-term potential for wealth creation.”

Praveen Grover, Vice President and Managing Director, AHEAD

2024 has been a year of evolution for IT services, driven by enterprises recalibrating their priorities around cloud-native technologies, enhanced cybersecurity, and automation. The acceleration of digital transformation initiatives has placed unprecedented demands on IT teams to deliver agile, scalable solutions that align with business needs. In 2025, we anticipate the convergence of cloud, AI, and cybersecurity to deepen, with automation playing a pivotal role in reducing operational complexities. Industries will focus on creating resilient IT ecosystems that enable faster decision-making and

improved customer experiences. At AHEAD, we are excited to help organizations stay ahead of these trends by integrating innovative solutions into their workflows. These trends, in my view, will define the IT landscape and pave the way for enterprises to achieve long-term growth and stability in an increasingly competitive environment.

Rahul Sharma, AVP-Sales, Salesforce India

In 2024 we witnessed technology transforming the way work gets done across every role, workflow, and industry, delivering massive operational scale with AI allowing human employees to focus on what they do best. AI agents represent a transformative leap in software, augmenting employees, enhancing customer experiences, and unlocking a limitless digital labour force for every industry vertical. No company is better positioned to help companies realize the promise of AI over the next decade and Slack, the AI-powered platform, is at the forefront of this wave of innovation in workplace collaboration. According to a recent Salesforce study the most important factors driving the importance or priority of integrating AI for business success in the next three years are customer expectations for faster, more personalised experiences (56%) and to boost productivity and efficiency (55%). AI has become a cornerstone for leaders striving to stay competitive in an ever-evolving market. Looking ahead, in 2025, AI agents are transforming the workforce by automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks, freeing employees to focus on higher-value work that drives innovation and growth. This provides a single platform with the apps, the data, the platform service, and the agents all tightly integrated to lower operational costs and speed time to value. We believe this is what AI is meant to be. Purpose-driven AI agents designed to address specific workflow needs and provide measurable benefits will help organisations move beyond experimentation to achieve tangible outcomes. For this to happen, generative AI needs to be grounded in the right data and delivered in the flow of work to offer meaningful impact. This presents an opportunity for the workforce to transform their skill sets and take on more strategic roles. As AI agents become increasingly integrated into the workforce, employees will need to develop new skills to manage and optimise them. They will also have to leverage their industry knowledge to train these agents so that they can deliver the desired business outcomes. By blending human expertise with AI, companies can create a more agile workforce focused on driving growth and preparing employees for roles that require creativity, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.”

Mr. Harsh Pareek, Regional Sales Director, India and SAARC, Trimble Solutions

“As we reflect on 2024, Trimble acknowledges the significant strides made by the Indian construction sector in embracing digitalization, leading to notable productivity and efficiency gains. The accelerated adoption of connected construction signals a promising future for the industry.

With 2025 on the horizon, this sector is set to play a vital role in India’s goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy, supported by ambitious government infrastructure plans. The integration of advanced technologies like BIM and robotics will revolutionize project management, enhance productivity, improve safety, and optimize resource allocation while reducing delays and costs.

Sustainability is poised to remain a focal point, with a shift towards greener construction methods to meet national targets for net-zero emissions by 2070. This transition is reshaping project planning and execution, fostering timely, sustainable, and environmentally friendly construction practices.”

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