The inclusion comes as Zomato’s shares have surged, rallying nearly 43% in the last six months and 126% over the past year. The company’s improved unit economics, especially in its quick-commerce segment, has bolstered investor confidence. Zomato also reported a robust 69% year-on-year increase in consolidated revenue to ₹4,799 crore in Q2 FY2024-25, with net profit rising fivefold to ₹176 crore.

With a market capitalization of ₹2.72 lakh crore, Zomato has surpassed JSW Steel’s ₹2.24 lakh crore valuation. Analysts from UBS attribute the stock’s 150% rally over the past 18 months to Zomato’s strides towards profitability. This milestone highlights the growing prominence of tech-based companies in India’s corporate ecosystem.

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SEBI revealed that Bharti leveraged his YouTube channels, with a combined 19.13 lakh subscribers, to promote unregistered investment advice and sell multiple plans to clients. His company’s employees allegedly provided limited trade input and incomplete risk disclosures, violating fiduciary duties and Investment Adviser (IA) Regulations. The regulator’s review found that inexperienced investors were lured by Bharti’s financial influencer reach, leading to significant regulatory breaches.

In addition to the market ban, SEBI ordered Bharti and his associates to repay ₹9.49 crore with 6% interest, imposed penalties totaling ₹15 lakh, and prohibited them from offering investment advisory services without proper registration. The entities are also required to cease operations under the names “Ravindra Bharti Education Institute” or “Ravindra Bharti Wealth.”

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Debashish Bhattacharya, deputy director-general of BIF, emphasized that CDNs function as private networks interconnected with telecom services through transit and peering arrangements. He warned that imposing telecom-specific regulations on CDNs could deter investments in India’s fast-growing CDN, cloud, and data center sectors, which are critical to economic growth. India’s CDN market is projected to grow from $435.2 million in 2018 to $2.85 billion by 2027, according to Nasscom.

While telecom operators supported market-driven governance for CDNs, companies like Bharti Airtel suggested minimum quality standards, compliance with content blocking orders, and infrastructure expansion to smaller cities. The open house discussion also explored whether CDNs should be brought under a network authorization regime, but the industry raised concerns over the potential impact on innovation and growth.

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The Republican leader, set to begin his second term in January after defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in last month’s election, is reportedly considering a “national Bitcoin stockpile.” This initiative aims to establish the U.S. as a leader in digital finance, though questions remain about its practicality. The influx of $12.2 billion into Bitcoin-focused Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and $2.8 billion into similar Ether products further underscores the bullish sentiment.

Market experts attribute the enthusiasm to expectations of a friendlier crypto policy framework. Aya Kantorovich, co-founder of August, a crypto platform, noted that the optimism is driving demand for ETFs investing in digital assets. These developments mark a turning point for the cryptocurrency market, with stakeholders eyeing long-term growth under a more accommodating administration.

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The scam, involving irregular recruitment through the School Service Commission, led to the Calcutta High Court annulling 24,000 appointments. The Enforcement Directorate recovered ₹49.8 crore in cash, gold bars, and jewellery from Chatterjee’s aide, Arpita Mukherjee, highlighting the scale of corruption. The Supreme Court, which reserved its verdict on December 4, had earlier noted the gravity of the charges under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), remarking on the substantial evidence against Chatterjee.

Chatterjee, arrested in July 2022, still faces pending charges in a separate CBI case for irregularities in government school recruitments. The Supreme Court directed the ED to complete evidence recording by mid-January and finalize charge framing by December 31. His release is contingent on these processes, ensuring accountability while respecting procedural fairness.

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Dr Thomas Nechupadam & Dr Nithia Sara Thomas

The Smiling Entrepreneur
Although Dr Thomas Nechupadam mends crooked teeth and corrects smiles, he nurtures a passion for entrepreneurship thanks to his zest for innovation. However, his entrepreneurial journey was never devoid of twists and turns. He has endured the painful process of learning, unlearning, and relearning to master the art of taking business along with his profession. His diversification drive has fetched him many feathers for his cap.
Mission Startups
He has invested time and dimes in numerous sustainable eco-friendly startups like Enerz, EcDenntistry, Payspoon, Learnstroke, Pet’M and many more. He is an advisor and mentor for startups to fend the initial bootstrap time efficiently. Interestingly, his clinic has a well-decorated meeting room that is effectively used for startup pitches, investor meetings, and reviews. The companies that come under his purview are diverse–from fintech like Payspoon and AI-based Dental software ECDentistry to millet-based pet food Pet’M and solar-powered transport system in Enerz.
ECDentistry & Enerz
This application is an effort of two brilliant youngsters Dr Ajai and Dr Prince mentored by Dr Thomas Nechupadam to build a learning platform for dental students and dentists alike. The power of Artificial Intelligence is used to simplify learning the different subjects of dentistry in an interactive and fun way. On the other hand, Enerz is an ambitious project to harness solar power to propel future transportation in a smart secure, and reliable way.
Maybe the fact that he hails from Kolenchery could be one of the reasons behind his entrepreneurial pursuit as the hamlet is known for its contractors, industrialists, and business houses. The business acumen and the quest for new horizons have always taken him to numerous business ventures he has founded, cofounded or catalysed. Dr Thomas and his better half, Dr Nithia Sara Thomas, made their mark on corporate grooming, appearance facelifts, and organic farming in the entrepreneurial journey.

Dr Thomas Nechupadam

Pageant Groomer and Judge
Perhaps, Dr Thomas Nechupadam could be one of the few doctors who are closely associated with beauty pageants. With the same ease with each he mends broken teeth and handles implants, he can handle grooming sessions for beauty contest participants. He teaches them how to smile in the right way to win hearts, and the correct manner to pose for shutterbugs. An expert in adult orthodontics and clear aligner therapy, Dr Thomas also grooms the contestants on how their facial appearance should be while sashaying on the ramp and what accessories to pick and choose. He has been the groomer for various national pageants since 2011 and served as the director of the Kerala Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Dr Thomas was also the sub-title committee chairman of beauty contests like Miss Queen of India, Miss South India, and Miss Asia. He used to put his judging skills to good use during the Miss Beautiful Smile category to select the contestant with the best ravishing smile. He also actively supports Pegasus Events and supports the cause of excellence in fashion.
The Media-Savvy Doctor
Dr Thomas Nechupadam is a familiar presence on TV Channels like Asianet, Kairali TV, and Jaihind to name a few. He appears before the camera to educate the public on dentistry and oral hygiene. His idea is to reposition dental treatment as a tool to save and beautify natural teeth rather than to replace them. When the social media revolution gained momentum, he shifted his focus in 2010 to online platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. He harnesses the power of social media to publish videos to educate people on advanced dental care and various treatment modalities. His Palludoctor Instagram page has 92.8k followers. He also offers dental insights through his Wikidontist channel on YouTube.
Foraying Into the World of Letters
In spite of his busy schedule, Dr Thomas Nechupadam finds time to pen blogs, articles for newspapers, and posts for social media platforms. Determined to explore the world of letters in a profound manner, he is also penning down excerpts from his professional life to enlighten readers, and provide oral care tips and diverse options for treatment. His book entitled “My Experiments with Tooth” will hit the stands soon.
Family

Dr Thomas Nechupadam Family

Dr Thomas Nechupadam is the eldest son of Dr Paulose, who was the first private practicing Orthodontist in Kerala and the founder of the Nechupadam Dental Clinic way back in 1965. His pillar of strength, Dr Nithia, is the Chief Dental Surgeon at Dr Nechupadam Dental Clinic at Marine Drive. The power couple is blessed with three children—Nissi, Nidhi, and Noah who are poised to take forward the illustrious legacy of the Nechupadam family.
Keeping Alive the Networking Spirit
Dr Thomas Nechupadam has proven his mettle in diverse networking platforms like the Kerala Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Young Indians, Indo-American Chamber of Commerce and many other business organisations. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of MOSC Medical College and Hospital in Kolenchery. He is on a journey of entrepreneurial excellence through collaboration and development.

Ravi Garg, Director of Business Messaging at Meta India, underscored the program’s significance in unlocking entrepreneurial potential. “We aim to create a meaningful, long-lasting impact by meeting businesses where they are—both physically and digitally,” he stated. The initiative complements WhatsApp’s recently introduced features like Meta Verified for enhancing credibility and AI-driven tools for streamlined customer interactions, further enabling businesses to build strong digital connections with their customers.

This initiative builds on WhatsApp’s earlier collaborations, including the WhatsApp Se Vyapaar program with the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), which aimed to upskill 10 million traders. India remains a vital market for WhatsApp Business, with 481 million app downloads as of February 2024, the highest globally. Through programs like WhatsApp Bharat Yatra, the platform reinforces its commitment to strengthening the digital entrepreneurial ecosystem across the country.

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What began in the 1980s as a modest entrepreneurial venture by a determined man, Naduvile Valamkottil Shamsu, has transformed into a multi-industry empire known as Veekay Group today. Rooted in the values of integrity and innovation, the journey of this family-run enterprise is a testament to vision, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Sowing the Seeds of a Dream

Born into an ordinary family in Kochi, Shamsu envisioned a future beyond the constraints of his circumstances. With sheer determination and meticulous planning, he laid the foundation for the Veekay Group in the 1980s. Starting with small businesses, Shamsu’s ventures quickly gained a reputation for quality and trust. His unwavering commitment and forward-thinking approach enabled the group to evolve steadily, paving the way for remarkable growth.

Legacy of Leadership

Shamsu’s leadership was defined by his ability to adapt to changing times while staying rooted in traditional values. Recognising the power of education and innovation, he ensured that his children inherited not just his business but also his entrepreneurial spirit. His eldest son, N.S. Ajas, stepped into the family business with a passion to build on his father’s legacy and take it beyond the horizon.

The Beginning of a New Era

In 2005, 21-year-old Ajas took the helm and launched Veekay Fuels in collaboration with Bharat Petroleum, marking the group’s entry into petroleum distribution. This bold move set the tone for Veekay Group’s expansion. By 2008, they ventured into retail with Veekay Mart, a hypermarket chain that quickly became synonymous with convenience and affordability.

Under Ajas’s visionary leadership, Veekay Group diversified into infrastructure, real estate, healthcare, education, and more. Each venture was guided by a commitment to sustainability and societal impact, reshaping industries and improving the quality of life for countless individuals.

N.S. Ajas, CEO, Veekay Group

Expanding Horizons

In 2015, Veekay Group ventured into commercial real estate with the N.K.S. Commercial Tower, followed by sustainable villa projects under Veekay Builders & Developers. In education, the group established Horizon Public School, offering world-class facilities and fostering future leaders.

Veekay Group didn’t stop there. In 2017, they forayed into the healthcare sector with Cochin Mental Health Solutions and ventured into hospitality with a resort in Vaikom, Kottayam district. Their involvement in large-scale projects such as Kochi Metro and national highways further solidified their status as an industry leader.

Beyond Business: A Commitment to Society
The Veekay Group’s purpose transcends profit. With a mission to empower communities and contribute to national progress, the group has made strides in addressing critical areas like mental health, education, and employment. Through the CareIt Charitable Trust, the group actively champions initiatives that uplift marginalized communities and foster inclusive development. Ajas, alongside his family, ensures that every endeavor aligns with its core values of innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, reflecting their unwavering dedication to creating a positive societal impact.

A Vision for the Future

As Veekay Group looks ahead, its ambitions remain as bold as ever. Plans are underway for large-scale infrastructure projects, an international sports school, premium shopping experiences through Veekay Mall & KM Mall at Kochi, and even ventures into mining and Stressed Asset Management. At the heart of these endeavours is a desire to create opportunities, uplift communities, and leave an enduring legacy.

The Pillars of Success
At the heart of the Veekay Group’s success is the unwavering support of Mr. N.K. Shamsu, Chairman, and his family. Leading the organization with vision and determination, Mr. N.S. Ajas, CEO, is supported by his brothers, N.S. Niyas and N.S. Shiyas, who serve as Directors of the Veekay Group, playing pivotal roles in its achievements. His wife, Smijas J, contributes her expertise to education as an academic and the principal of Horizon Public School. Their children, Mehreen Zaira and Mahmoud Al Zamar, exemplify excellence as national roller-skating athletes. Additionally, his sister, N.S. Minas, remains an integral part of the family’s strong foundation.

Building a Lasting Legacy

Today, Veekay Group stands tall as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership. From its humble beginnings to becoming a conglomerate shaping industries and communities, the group’s journey is a beacon of inspiration.

Looking to the future, Veekay Group is poised to reshape the landscape with bold infrastructure projects, including expansive hospitality ventures, state-of-the-art commercial spaces, and vital public works. As they continue to create businesses that uplift communities, Veekay Group is not just building for today but laying the groundwork for a sustainable and interconnected tomorrow. Under Ajas’s dynamic leadership, Veekay Group is not merely constructing businesses; it is shaping the future, one visionary step at a time.

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The initiative comes ahead of the upcoming launch of Hyundai’s first mass-market electric vehicle, the ‘Creta EV,’ set to debut in India in the coming months. Currently, HMIL offers only one electric model, the Ioniq 5, priced at Rs 46.05 lakhs (ex-showroom). The company’s comprehensive EV charging network will support the growing demand for electric vehicles as the market is expected to see significant expansion by 2030, according to Jae Wan Ryu, Function Head of Corporate Planning at HMIL.

As part of its broader strategy, Hyundai has already set up EV charging stations in major cities such as Gurugram, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Additionally, it has established stations on prominent highways like Delhi-Chandigarh, Delhi-Jaipur, and Mumbai-Pune. This move aligns with the government’s PM E-Drive scheme, which aims to accelerate EV adoption by establishing 88,500 fast charging stations across the country, backed by a Rs 2,000 crore fund.

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Although the new facility is focused on meeting India’s domestic needs, the export market for Indian solar modules has seen explosive growth. Over the past two years, exports of Indian-made solar modules have surged more than 23 times, with the United States accounting for over 97% of the shipments. Despite this, Indian manufacturers still rely on Chinese-made cells, with India’s solar module-making capacity at 80 GW, while its cell production stands at just over 7 GW.

Tata Power’s new plant has the potential to add an additional 4 GW of solar cell and module production capacity. The company plans to invest significantly in the renewable energy sector, with nearly 60% of its capital expenditure focused on this area over the next five years. Tata Power is also targeting ₹1 trillion in annual revenue and ₹100 billion in profit by 2030, as part of its broader growth strategy.

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