Top Startup News: Major Updates on EVs & Maharashtra’s AI Policy!

The startup ecosystem in India continues to thrive, bringing with it significant developments that promise to reshape industries and drive innovation. From leadership transitions at EaseMyTrip to Blinkit’s groundbreaking 10-minute ambulance service, the startup world is buzzing with change. Meanwhile, Maharashtra is gearing up to position itself as a leader in artificial intelligence with a progressive AI policy aimed at boosting governance, job creation, and startup growth.

Adding to the mix, Ather Energy’s IPO approval and OfBusiness’s AI-powered B2B platform signal the immense potential of tech-driven solutions. On the EV front, Bajaj and TVS Motor are gaining ground, challenging Ola Electric’s dominance. TICE Startup Spotlight brings a a comprehensive roundup of the biggest headlines from this week in the world of startups.

Top Startup News of the Week

EaseMyTrip CEO Nishant Pitti Steps Down After Offloading Stake

EaseMyTrip is undergoing a significant leadership transformation. Co-founder and CEO Nishant Pitti has stepped down, citing personal reasons, after selling a 1.4% stake in the company. His brother, Rikant Pittie, will take over as CEO starting January 1, 2025.

Nishant Pitti's shareholding now stands at 12.8%, bringing the overall promoter stake below 49%. This announcement sent Easy Trip shares into the red, reflecting investor caution. As the travel tech giant navigates this leadership change, industry watchers are keenly observing its next steps.

Read More: What is EasMyTrip? A Startup Making Bold Move Over Maldives Issue!

Blinkit Launches Ambulance Service and Expands to Jammu

Blinkit is redefining quick commerce by introducing a 10-minute ambulance service in Gurugram. With an initial fleet of five ambulances, the service offers Basic Life Support and can be accessed via the Blinkit app.

Simultaneously, Blinkit has expanded its delivery services to Jammu, covering areas like Trikuta Nagar, Roop Nagar, and Akhnoor Road. As competition intensifies among quick commerce leaders like Zepto and Swiggy Instamart, Blinkit’s strategic moves signal its ambition to capture more market share.

Ather Energy Secures SEBI Nod for IPO and Plans EV Expansion

Ather Energy has taken a crucial step toward public listing, securing approval from SEBI for its IPO. The Bengaluru-based EV maker plans to raise ₹3,100 crore, with ₹2,200 crore allocated for fresh equity and the rest as an offer for sale.

The funds will support the development of a new Aurangabad facility set to commence phased production in May 2026, with a capacity of 5 lakh units annually. Ather also plans to launch two new platforms—the 'Zenith' motorcycle and 'EL' scooter—marking an ambitious phase of growth.

OfBusiness Unveils Nexizo.AI to Revolutionize B2B Commerce

In a bid to empower SMEs, OfBusiness has introduced Nexizo.AI, an AI-powered platform designed for the infrastructure and manufacturing sectors. The platform offers tools for discovering new opportunities, connecting with buyers, and gaining competitive market insights.

This launch coincides with OfBusiness’s preparation for a $1 billion IPO, underscoring its commitment to building a robust vertical commerce ecosystem focused on materials, finance, and software solutions.

Bajaj and TVS Motor Surpass Ola Electric in December EV Sales

The EV market witnessed a shake-up in December, with Bajaj Auto taking the lead, securing a 24.93% market share. TVS Motor followed with a 23.48% share, while Ola Electric saw its market share drop to 18.78%.

Despite losing the December crown, Ola Electric retained its position as the annual leader with a 35.5% market share for 2024. Industry experts are closely monitoring these dynamics as competition heats up in the two-wheeler EV sector.

Read More: FAME II Subsidy: Government Releases INR 500 Crore in Subsidies for EV

ONDC Onboards 7 Lakh Sellers, Boosting Digital Commerce

The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has reached a milestone, onboarding over 7 lakh sellers and service providers. Since its launch in 2021, ONDC has facilitated over 150 million transactions, creating opportunities for small businesses and reducing the dominance of major players in e-commerce.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded ONDC for revolutionizing digital commerce and empowering small enterprises across India.

Maharashtra’s AI Policy to Drive Innovation and Employment

Maharashtra is gearing up to launch a comprehensive AI policy aimed at fostering industry growth and job creation. IT Minister Ashish Shelar highlighted the state’s ambition to become a leader in AI, aligning with the national AI mission.

The policy will focus on leveraging AI for governance, attracting businesses, and supporting startups. A robust database for the India AI Datasets Platform is also in the pipeline, with implementation starting in 2025.

Read More: Maharashtra AI Policy: How the State Plans to Shape Digital Future?

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