Business firms today are competing in a changing world. Consumers change fast, markets rise and fall, and growth is unpredictable. To this problem, the IMF has also predicted that the world economy in the year 2025 will record a paltry 3.2% growth, from nearly 4% before the pandemic. To survive and prosper is adaptability, the ability to adapt fast. Today, technology-driven adaptability has the potential not just to help firms survive, but also prosper sustainably.

Agility Is No Longer a Choice

Agility used to be a nice-to-have. Now it’s a survival prerequisite. McKinsey shows that agile resource companies are 2.7 times more successful in returns. Here’s what truly makes it happen, the magic of digital transformation. Digital technologies like real-time analytics and cloud platforms offer flexibility for companies to keep up and keep going amidst a volatile economy.

Technology Foundation Is an Absolute Must

Tech adoption isn’t a matter of luck, it’s a matter of painstaking design and smooth implementation. Those firms that have more durable digital systems recover more readily from disruption and change course more easily when markets shift. Agility is no longer a good competitive differentiator, it’s rapidly becoming a pillar of strategic adaptability. Today’s CEOs don’t need persuading that spending on technology is a priority, the issue is more one of how those investments can generate speed and sustainability in equal proportions.

Balancing Growth and Responsibility

Shareholders want growth, but society now demands responsibility. This dual expectation is shaping boardroom strategies around the globe. Technology is a prime enabler of ESG goals, whether in leaner data centers, digital replicas that reduce waste in production, or smarter operations in sectors. Technology-enabled agility shows that responsibility and growth don’t have to come at each other’s expense. In fact, done correctly, each underpins the other and builds sustainable momentum while meeting investor and societal imperatives.

Human and Technology Convergence Is the Key for Transformation

There is a common fallacy that tech-enabled agility makes human beings less relevant. In real terms, it makes individuals more empowered. Though the mundane can be replaced by automation, creativity, empathy, and judgment are uniquely human. Leaders must ensure that agility should not come at the cost of dignity at all costs. This means that reskilling, redeployment, and motivating should be priority areas of digital transformation agendas that allow people to move up alongside technology rather than become obsolete.

Conducive Culture Is the Driving Force behind Agility

The technology provides the tools, and culture specifies whether those tools are used effectively. In cultures that disapprove of experimenting, agility gets choked. In a culture that values flexibility, learning from mistakes, and considering failure as a road map to innovation, it’s in a better position to avail itself of technology. Agility succeeds not only by virtue of digital transformation, yet by virtue of a change-agile mindset. By aligning culture and technology, firms unlock growth and resilience in turbulent times.

Innovation-Driven Mindset and Not Just Resources

AI, cloud, or automation investment in itself does not render a company agile. The actual transformation lies in the desire to disrupt the established order. Most leaders confess that their companies are loath to experiment with transformational technologies. But in a volatile economy, risk-avoidance often proves the greatest risk. Successful leadership lies in delivering crystal clearness during times of uncertainty, inspiring experimentation, and taking the knocks, that teams may feel free to innovate and move onward.

The need for Technology-Driven Leadership

What will define the next decade’s successful firms is that they will be fast and transparent, human and technological, and sustainable and agile. Harvard Business Review discovered that digitally savvy CEOs have a shareholder return that is 5.3 times that of those CEOs that aren’t digitally savvy or proficient. The message is clear, those of us that are embracing use of technology, not a tool, a mindset, are going to define the future of business. The challenge for top leadership isn’t that it should be fearful of volatility, it’s that it should meet it head-on through tech-enabled agility and lead their companies toward growth that lasts, that adapts, that inspires.

This Article is Authored By- Sanjay Sehgal, Founder, Chairman & CEO, Aziro (formerly MSys Technologies)

Armed with policy support and digital technologies, Indian textile units are becoming global hubs of innovation, technology, and sustainability. India’s textile industry is transforming – and for good. The sector, which is the backbone of the employment generation, is embracing digitalisation like never before. Under Make in India 2.0, textile units are revamping digitally to deliver superior value to customers. The change doesn’t confine itself to the production firms but rather involves the entire value chain. So, what is this new era of digitalisation in the textile sector? Here are the details:

Digital Leap: Conventional vs Digital Printing

India’s textile sector is reimagining itself. Gone are conventional printing machines as new-age units make way for agile and data-driven machines in the textile sector. The integrated ERP, AI-driven forecasting, and blockchain-based supply chains are becoming a mainstay of the textile units. While achieving greater speed and efficiency are primary enablers behind this shift, the customers demanding greater transparency and traceability are also playing a crucial role in making this happen. Smart textile units with semi-to-full automated operations are enabling Indian firms to tap into global demand across the markets of the US and Europe.

Digitalisation Benefits: Speed, Flexibility, and Sustainability

From enhanced efficiency to cost optimisation, digitalisation is making textile units true all-arounders. The tech is also reducing manual errors and helping firms improve their turnaround times. IoT-enabled machineries allow predictive maintenance and, by minimising downtime, ensure that production quality remains consistent throughout. Reduced operational and inventory costs are also significant benefits associated with the digitalisation of textile units. The new-age innovations are also making the textile units more environmentally friendly. Digital textile printing, for example, uses significantly less water, has virtually no emissions, and is devoid of any harmful discharge. All these facets are wonderful from an ecological viewpoint. These high credentials are extremely beneficial for the textile sector to align itself with ESG norms. The integration of the digital is generating new employment opportunities and offering the sector a chance to absorb skilled staff into the smart units. In addition, the real-time tracking and decisions based purely on the data help the textile firms to stay ahead of the innovation curve.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the momentum, the adoption of digitalisation in the textile sector is not without hurdles. Especially when it comes to the small and medium textile enterprises, the current level of digital adoption leaves much to be desired. Limited digital literacy and high upfront costs are primary inhibitors keeping small textile players from realising the potential of digital tools. The fragmented nature of smaller units also poses a challenge for digital upgradation.

Policy Push: Aligning with Make In India 2.0

The Indian government is actively supporting the digital push in the textile industry. It is among the 27 key sectors identified for the focused intervention under Make in India 2.0. PM MITRA (Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel Parks) and PLI (Production Linked Incentive) offer incentives to textile units for modernisation and digital infrastructure initiatives. Additionally, the National Technical Textiles Mission is driving investment in smart textiles and AI-driven fabric innovation.

Conclusion

The digital transformation of India’s textile sector is driven by a strategic imperative. With demand for sustainable, traceable, and ethically produced apparel, India’s textile sector must scale digitally to stay competitive. The comprehensive digital revamping of textile units under Make in India 2.0 represents a national vision. By investing in digital infrastructure, India’s textile industry will transition to a high-tech and high-skill sector. The journey to this ambitious Digital Transition has just begun and is likely to achieve its share of milestones going forward.

Authored by: Satish Panchani, CEO & Co-founder, True Colors Limited

Kuldeep Shekhawat’s family Faces Serious Criminal Allegations and OFBJP Fund Scandal London, United Kingdom

Karan Shekhawat, the 34-year-old son of Kuldeep Shekhawat, President of the Overseas Friends of BJP UK (OFBJP), was arrested by London’s Metropolitan Police in February 2025 on charges related to online child grooming and sexual communication with minors, according to Fleetwook Enforcers UK and MaDebyRedRose. The arrest has sent shockwaves through the UK’s Indian diaspora, BJP officials and raised questions about the activities of Kuldeep Shekhawat and his family in Britain, linked with OFBJP.

According to the vigilante website Red Rose Database, which catalogues alleged sex offenders, Shekhawat was arrested following suspicious online activity detected in January 2025. The allegations include sexual communication with individuals he believed to be 14-year-old children and attempting to obtain indecent images of minors. The case was subsequently

handed over to the Metropolitan Police after being initially investigated by vigilante groups, including Fleetwood Enforcers UK, which has over 316,000 followers on social media.

The arrest carries significant political ramifications given Kuldeep Shekhawat’s position within the UK’s Indian diaspora network. As President of OFBJP UK, Shekhawat senior has been a key figure in mobilising British Indians and has previously been involved in controversial political activities.

In the past, some online news media reported Kuldeep’s alleged activities of diaspora fund scandal that seemed to bring another blow to the activities of OFBJP in the UK and Europe.

Recent allegations have emerged accusing Kuldeep Shekhawat of running questionable fundraising campaigns, with critics claiming these constitute “fake donation campaigns in BJP’s name” and describing them as “outright fraud”. These fundraising activities allegedly involved WhatsApp groups, a common tactic used by political organisations for mobilisation.

The case highlights the growing role of vigilante groups in child protection efforts across the UK. Fleetwood Enforcers UK, one of the groups involved in this case, operates as part of a network of approximately 90 vigilante organisations targeting suspected child predators. These groups typically create fake profiles posing as minors to attract potential offenders.

The Red Rose Database, which published information about Karan Shekhawat, describes itself as cataloguing over 64,000 alleged sex offenders. However, such vigilante-operated databases raise concerns about accuracy and due process. Legal experts have noted that these platforms can contain factual inaccuracies and may violate data protection regulations.

The reliance on vigilante evidence has created a complex legal landscape. While it has led to convictions, it has also diverted police resources and potentially compromised ongoing

investigations. The Crown Prosecution Service has issued specific guidance for handling cases involving evidence from Online Child Abuse Activist Groups (OCAGs), noting that their techniques “may involve the commission of offences”.

This scandal emerges against the backdrop of growing scrutiny of Kuldeep Shekhawat in UK politics.

OFBJP and Kuldeep Shekhawat’s alleged activities in the UK have been characterised by sophisticated use of WhatsApp groups and social media campaigns. Research has shown how Kuldeep’s networks spread targeted messaging, sometimes containing bullying, harassment, to influence the UK Indian diaspora.

It appears that the case against Karan Shekhawat remains under investigation by the Metropolitan Police, with no formal charges publicly confirmed at the time of reporting.

The scandal has broader implications for the credibility of OFBJP UK, Kuldeep Shekhawat and related organisations that have sought to influence British politics on behalf of Indian interests. It also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with online child exploitation and the complex relationship between official police work and vigilante activism.

The case underscores the importance of proper investigative procedures and due process, particularly given the serious nature of child protection cases and their potential for both legitimate prosecution and wrongful accusation.

Fourth edition of India International Brand Summit, the confluence of the best marketing minds in India to be held today at ITC Maurya, New Delhi.

Over the years, this annual event has become a beacon of thought leadership for the media & advertising industry, providing a platform for insightful discussions, networking, and recognition of marketing excellence. The Business Guardian is proud to be the print partner in the event.

This year’s summit will witness many of the brightest minds including CEOs, CMOs, Creative & Advertising Heads and MarTech Leaders and Brand Evangelists engage in thought-provoking conversations on themes designed to address current marketing realities and future trends. The extended format of the event now also includes keynote sessions, apart from panel discussions, and some interesting live performances as well!

The event is organized by Talentrack, India’s leading Talent-Casting & Content Marketplace. Magnon Group (part of the Fortune 200 Omnicom Group) is the Presenting Partner for the 2024 edition.

Announcing the summit, Vineet Bajpai, Founder & CEO, Magnon Group, said, “The paths we traverse as marketers and advertisers are in constant flux. The India International Brand Summit 2024, which Magnon Group has been proud to partner with for all four editions, is essential in this ever-evolving landscape. As we tackle the rapid shifts in digital strategies, analytics, content creation, social commerce, and AI, the market often seems to outpace even the most agile agencies. This summit excels in delivering unparalleled insights and fostering high-level discussions, making it crucial for staying ahead. It broadens our perspectives and provides transformative conversations that drive industry innovation. I eagerly anticipate the groundbreaking ideas and dynamic exchanges that will emerge this year. Together, we will continue to navigate the changing tides and shape the future of our industry.”

Manishi Singh, Co-founder, Talentrack, further added, “Organizing this premier event is a privilege for Talentrack, as we bring together marketing and creative stalwarts to redefine the future of marketing. Agency executives shaping brand narratives, and marketers leveraging the digital landscape gain fresh perspectives and strategies. It is also a platform to discover new avenues for creativity. Even the investors clout that’s always on the lookout for new venture ideas. Our goal is to drive forward the conversations on marketing innovation and create a dynamic environment for collaboration.”

The conference will be followed by recognition of the achievements of the best in the industry with an awards ceremony that honours excellence in various categories, recognizing those who have made significant contributions to the field of marketing.

The Business Guardian is proud to be the print partner in the event this year. Other brands joining to build the legendary event includes Magnon Designory, afaqs!, Konnect Insights, Best Media Info, TreeShade Books, India News Business, Candid Marketing, iAvatarZ, Talentown and Neo Group.

As per the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act, there is no restriction on couples who already have a daughter from seeking IVF treatment, as long as all legal and medical protocols are strictly followed. However, any form of sex selection or preference for a male child remains strictly prohibited under the PC&PNDT Act, regardless of the family’s existing composition.

This legal framework is designed to prevent gender-biased practices and help maintain gender balance in society by promoting the ethical use of reproductive technologies,” -said Dr. Satyajit Kumar, State Program Officer, PCPNDT Act, ART & Surrogacy Act, GNCT of Delhi.

He added, “It is a commendable initiative by the Haryana Appropriate Authority to strengthen monitoring and ensure gender balance in society.”

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, entrepreneurship has taken on new dimensions, driven by technological advancements and a globalised economy. Modern entrepreneurs are required to not only innovate but also adapt swiftly to market changes, navigate the complexities of digital transformation, and lead with a vision that transcends traditional business models. This dynamic environment calls for leaders who are not only forward-thinking but also possess the resilience and strategic acumen to turn challenges into opportunities. One of such leaders is Vineet Bajpai, Founder & CEO of Magnon Group.

Vineet stands as a formidable force in the realm of entrepreneurship, combining visionary zeal with pragmatic business acumen. Over the past two decades, Vineet has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary ability to identify market gaps, innovate solutions, and build businesses that not only thrive but also set industry benchmarks. He is one of the most successful CEOs of the A&M industry, a celebrated entrepreneur, and among the top selling authors in the country today. At 36, he became the youngest-ever CEO of a multinational advertising agency as the Group CEO of TBWA\India. As Founder of the Magnon Group, he has built one of India’s largest advertising group from grounds-up.

Early Career and Founding Magnon

Vineet’s entrepreneurial journey began at the cusp of the new millennium. A graduate in commerce and passionate about technology, he started a web agency ‘Magnon Solutions’ in the year 2000. Under his leadership, Magnon grew exponentially, transforming from a small startup into a key player in the digital marketing space. His strategic foresight was evident in the company’s expansion, which included an acquisition by Omnicom Group, one of the world’s largest media conglomerates. This move not only marked a significant milestone for Magnon but also positioned it on the global stage.

Today, Magnon Group comprises of three distinct, award-winning agencies, namely- Magnon eg+, Magnon Designory, and Magnon Sancus, and is counted as one of India’s largest and most respected media & advertising groups. The group has nearly 400 professionals across Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad and its clientele includes several Fortune Global 500 brands. Magnon integrates service verticals like advertising, production, digital, language services, media, and content-marketing into pillars of a new-age agency, delivering world-class marketing solutions to Indian and global clients.

Talentrack and Beyond

Never the one to rest on his laurels, Vineet founded Talentrack in 2015, a pioneering online marketplace that connects talent with opportunities in the media and entertainment industry. Talentrack quickly gained traction, leveraging Vineet’s knack for blending technology with industry needs. The platform democratized access to opportunities for artists, creators, and technicians, reflecting Vineet’s commitment to fostering talent and innovation. Today, the platform hosts more than 5,00,000 artists and 20,000 recruiters across the industry. It is one of the fastest growing online hiring and content crowd sourcing platforms which has proved to be an ally to the advertising industry. Apart from launching Talentrack to solve the problem and chaos of a scattered talent market in India, he has taken several other initiatives in this direction.

Author and Thought Leader: The Journey of Penmanship

In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Vineet is a celebrated author. His books, including “Build From Scratch,” “The Street to the Highway,” and the “The 30 Something CEO”, have garnered acclaim for their insightful take on business and leadership. These works highlight his multifaceted persona, seamlessly integrating his experiences as an entrepreneur with his literary craft.

Strategic Vision and Leadership

Vineet Bajpai’s leadership style is characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and an unwavering focus on launching growth initiatives. His ability to anticipate market trends and adapt to changing environments has been a cornerstone of his success. Whether it’s through organic growth or strategic acquisitions, Vineet has consistently demonstrated an ability to scale businesses while maintaining a strong organizational culture.

Awards and Recognition

Vineet’s contributions to the business world have been widely recognized. With sheer resilience and foresightedness, Vineet has emerged as one of the leading media-tech entrepreneurs and has won many entrepreneurship and corporate excellence awards, including the Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Award 2013, the CNBC MercedesBenz Young Turks Award 2014, and the Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2016. Business World listed him among the 100 Most Influential People in India’s Digital Ecosystem. He has been appreciated for his work by Forbes and Times of India.

Vineet Bajpai’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, innovation, and leadership. From building successful enterprises to authoring influential books, his contributions span multiple domains, each marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. As he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, Vineet remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders worldwide.