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Gupshup announces India’s first Conversational Buyer App for ONDC

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Beta showcase to support commerce and food ordering on WhatsApp

MUMBAI, India, June 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Gupshup, the world’s leading Conversation Cloud has announced India’s very first Conversational Buyer App on the ONDC network, at their flagship event Conversations 2024 in Delhi. It enables buyers to use a WhatsApp-based conversational UI to discover, browse, and buy products from sellers across the ONDC network, without needing to download any other mobile app. Soon, Gupshup will also offer this product capability to its enterprise customers that want to integrate conversational commerce into their chatbots. This launch demonstrates the perfect alignment of Gupshup’s vision of a conversational internet with ONDC’s mission of democratizing digital commerce.

 

India’s diverse population uses different mobile tools, varied languages, and possesses different levels of tech-savvy. But they all know how to chat via WhatsApp. Delivering conversational experiences via the messaging app is the only way to reach everyone. Gupshup’s Buyer App on ONDC brings the vast commerce network to users nationwide, usable in any language, quickly and easily. This will truly transform digital commerce on a population scale in India.” said Beerud Sheth, CEO, Gupshup.

More than 650 million Indians are now active on social media and messaging platforms. Despite this massive engagement, only 30% of users (approximately 200 mn) shop online. And a whopping 50% of the remaining 450 million haven’t even used any apps beyond social media and entertainment. Furthermore, 65% of savvy digital users find app downloads frustrating and 40% abandon a purchase if pushed to install apps.

“Gupshup Conversation Cloud makes it easy for businesses to build rich conversational commerce experiences with AI-powered natural language interactions, in any language, over text and voice, with deep personalization, across the entire customer lifecycle. This ONDC Buyer App is the perfect demonstration of the significant impact of conversational experiences and the unique ability of Gupshup’s platform to enable them”, said Gaurav Kachhawa, Chief Product Officer at Gupshup. 

The Buyer App is in Beta and will initially have limited availability, allowing users to order food & beverages like biryani on WhatsApp. Customers will be able to share their location over chat, browse sellers close to them, order food, and make payments right from WhatsApp. Support for additional conversational channels such as Google RCS and Voice is also coming soon. With these capabilities, merchants, and businesses looking to participate in the ONDC eCommerce ecosystem can leverage the Gupshup ONDC Commerce Platform and speed up their time to market.

ONDC, which stands for Open Network for Digital Commerce, is a collaborative initiative that brings together various merchants and brands on a unified digital commerce platform. This interconnected network was developed by the Indian government’s Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. The primary goal of ONDC is to foster an open and inclusive e-commerce ecosystem in India.

According to various reports, the initiative has seen significant traction since its official introduction in January 2023. It has processed over 49.79 million transactions to date with transportation services, particularly ride-hailing apps like Namma Yatri accounting for more than half of the monthly order volume. Among other sectors, the food and beverages category is another one experiencing rapid expansion.

To understand how Gupshup is building an inclusive e-commerce ecosystem with ONDC, watch this video.

About Gupshup

Gupshup is the world’s leading Conversation Cloud that enables businesses to advertise, communicate, and converse with their customers by leveraging AI and CPaaS. Gupshup’s conversational engagement solutions enable 45,000+ brands across India, Latin America, Europe, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the United States to deliver better customer experience, and increased revenue while saving costs. Citibank, AkzoNobel, Khan Academy, Unilever, Dream11, Netflix, Flipkart, and Ola are a few of its leading clients. With an industry-trained Conversational AI platform and real-time unified profiles, Gupshup powers over 10 billion messages per month. Valued at $1.4 billion, the company has marquee investors such as Tiger Global, Fidelity Management and Research Co. LLC, and others on its cap table. For more details, please visit www.gupshup.io.

Contact:
Vandana.v@gupshup.io 

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9zaD8q3RW4
Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2447598/Gupshup_ONDC.jpg
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2182479/Gupshup_Logo.jpg

 

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Vidrio Financial Unveils Alternative Investment (VIP) Ecosystem: A Unified Platform Hub for Data, Decisions, and Deal Flow

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NEW YORK, June 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In the first quarter of this year, Vidrio Financial (“Vidrio”) saw significant growth and demand for our institutional portfolio management platform, highlighted by new mandates from leading investors. Building on this momentum, Vidrio is excited to introduce VIP, (Vidrio Investor Partner), a new investment ecosystem that connects institutional investors, fund managers, and service providers on a single integrated platform.

This natural extension of Vidrio expands our ecosystem where institutional investors, fund managers, and service providers can collaborate in the delivery of specialized GP and LP services and access investment opportunities across managed funds, secondary auctions, co-investments, high-quality LP advisory services, and more, all without requiring the building of additional infrastructure. VIP preserves Vidrio’s core commitment to efficiency, objectivity and independence across alternative investments while providing tools for scaling investment capabilities that align both LP and GP strategic goals.

Mazen Jabban, Chairman & CEO, Vidrio Financial, stated, “For many years, clients asked us to apply our proven strength in portfolio monitoring and managed data services to critical areas of investment advisory and due diligence, as well as administration. We intentionally waited until we could deliver them in a way that efficiently bridged the gap and leveraged our software infrastructure to form a more connected investment ecosystem. VIP is that ecosystem.”

Gygmy Gonnot, Managing Director, Vidrio Financial, stated, “VIP was built on three foundational principles – expert partner-led curation, complete data ownership by investors, and independence and transparency with continuous monitoring by Vidrio. Together, these principles create an ecosystem where institutional investors, fund managers, and service providers can engage with confidence, knowing that trust and objectivity remain at the center of every interaction.

The VIP Investor Plus tier further enhances the experience with sophisticated portfolio construction, scenario analysis, transaction management, trade workflows, and more capabilities”.

VIP is launching with limited-time incentives through September 2026. To explore these benefits, visit the VIP website at https://www.vidrio.com/vip-ecosystem

About Vidrio Financial

Vidrio Financial (www.vidrio.com) is a leading provider of alternative investment management technology and managed data services for institutional investors. We empower allocators with a unified platform that delivers portfolio management, analytics, and data intelligence across complex investment portfolios. Leveraging automation, machine learning, and agentic AI, Vidrio helps investment teams improve efficiency, strengthen oversight, and make more informed decisions.

Media Inquiries:
David Barry, Head of Marketing
david.barry@vidrio.com

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ISRO Scientists Launch Space Technology & Research Program 2026 at Chandigarh University

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CU Space Program to offer training & research by ISRO, IIST Scientists for research scholars and students

CHANDIGARH, India, June 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In a major step towards strengthening space technology education and research, Chandigarh University, through its Kalpana Chawla Centre (KCC) has launched the KCC Space Technology & Research Program 2026 and the KCC Summer Internship Program 2026 at its campus on Monday.

The month-long national-level programme, running from June 15 to July 11, 2026, has brought together leading space scientists, satellite technologists and semiconductor experts from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) and other premier scientific institutions to mentor the next generation of innovators and researchers. The initiative will provide students with valuable insights into emerging space technologies and hands-on exposure to cutting-edge developments shaping India’s rapidly evolving space sector.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr S Sudhakar, Deputy Director, U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), ISRO as the Chief Guest while Prof. Priyadarshnam, Head and Project Director, SSPACE, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) attended as the Guest of Honour. Distinguished guests included Dr. Kamaljeet Singh, Director General, Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), Chandigarh, and Sri Jothy Soman, Group Director, URSC, ISRO.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr S Sudhakar, Deputy Director, U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), ISRO said, “As India works towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, science and technology will play a defining role in shaping the future. Science is going to govern the world and space technology will be one of the most important drivers of that transformation. One of the most important lessons young engineers and researchers can learn from ISRO’s journey is the value of developing indigenous technologies. We have achieved world-class results by building our own capabilities and relying on the talent of our people. Technology does not come free and acquiring it from elsewhere often comes at a significant cost. When we develop technologies ourselves, we not only reduce costs but also gain strategic advantages and self-reliance. This approach has enabled India to perform exceptionally well despite resource constraints.”

Dr S Sudhakar added, “Communication, navigation, scientific exploration and strategic applications will increasingly depend on advancements in the space sector. The coming decades will witness growing demand for space-based services, including surveillance, communication and navigation systems. The defence sector is also expanding its space-based capabilities, both independently and in collaboration with ISRO. At the same time, there will be increasing requirements for scientific research, exploration missions and technology development across multiple domains.”

“ISRO has already charted out an ambitious roadmap extending to 2047, including major programmes ranging from advanced exploration missions to long-term human spaceflight missions. To remain technologically ahead in an increasingly competitive global environment, India must continue to invest in indigenous technologies and strengthen its infrastructure,” added Dr Sudhakar.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Priyadarshnam, Head & Project Director, SSPACE, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) said, “ISRO has always been at the forefront of achieving maximum impact with limited resources. One of the key lessons from its journey is the importance of precision, rigorous testing and human expertise. While automation has its place, mission success ultimately depends on meticulous development, validation and the dedication of scientists and engineers. This culture of frugal innovation and uncompromising testing has been central to ISRO’s achievements over the years.”

On the role emerging technologies can play in strengthening the security systems in the country, Prof. Priyadarshnam said, “Quantum technology will be a major thrust area in the future. If we do not adapt to quantum systems, many of the present security mechanisms could eventually become vulnerable. Research organizations across India, including ISRO, are already working on quantum technologies, particularly quantum cryptography and quantum communications. Artificial intelligence is another technology that will have a profound impact on the space sector. While its adoption in satellite systems is still evolving, the enormous volume of data being generated by modern space missions will make AI indispensable for analysis, decision-making and future space applications. These areas will play a crucial role in securing communications, protecting critical infrastructure and strengthening national security in the years ahead.”

On space technology’s role in driving economic growth, he said, “Space technology is going to play a major role in India’s future development. Unless we are quick enough to adopt and integrate space technologies across the domains, the pace of development will not be sufficient. There is certainly a threat perception arising from the growing role of space-based technologies in security and strategic affairs. However, India has the capability to overcome such challenges through indigenous innovation and technological self-reliance. India’s greatest strength lies in its talent, and we must increase our workforce in this critical sector. Innovation in areas such as small satellite technologies and advanced space systems will be important in enhancing our preparedness and resilience.”

Dr Kamaljeet Singh, Director General, Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) said, “Semiconductors are the foundation of the digital economy and will play a crucial role in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. Under the India Semiconductor Mission, significant progress is already being made with multiple manufacturing and assembly plants being established across the country. Our objective is to build a robust, full-stack semiconductor ecosystem that reduces import dependence and strengthens India’s technological capabilities. Semiconductors are critical for strategic sectors including space, telecommunications, defence, artificial intelligence and advanced computing.”

“The next step is to strengthen manufacturing, deployment and application ecosystems. As artificial intelligence becomes a key driver of future growth, India must leverage its vast data resources to develop indigenous technologies and sovereign AI models. Building strong capabilities in semiconductors and AI will not only boost economic growth but also enhance national security, technological independence and India’s competitiveness in the global innovation landscape,” added Dr Kamaljeet.

Over the next four weeks, nearly 15 eminent scientists, directors, senior researchers and technical experts from premier national institutions including ISRO, IIST, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) and other leading organizations will engage with Chandigarh University students and faculty through an intensive series of technical training sessions, expert lectures, laboratory demonstrations, mentoring programmes, research discussions and interactive workshops.

About Chandigarh University

Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: https://www.cuchd.in/ 

 

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InCred Capital Expands Global Footprint with Launch of US Operations; Appoints Arunava Das as CEO, North America

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MUMBAI, India, June 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — InCred Capital, the institutional, wealth and asset management arm of InCred Group, today announced the launch of its US operations with the opening of its New York office.

Building on its established presence across India, Singapore, Dubai and London, the launch marks another important milestone in InCred Capital’s journey to build a leading global platform connecting international capital with India’s growth opportunities.

The New York office will focus on serving institutional investors, family offices and sophisticated clients through differentiated India-focused research, execution, corporate access and capital markets solutions, alongside curated opportunities across private markets, fixed income, alternatives, structured products and bespoke investment strategies.

To lead its North American business, InCred Capital has appointed financial services veteran Arunava Das as CEO, North America.

Arunava brings more than two decades of experience across institutional equities, capital markets and wealth management. Prior to joining InCred Capital, he served as CEO & Managing Director of JM Financial Securities Inc. and JM Private Wealth (North America). He has also held senior leadership roles at JPMorgan Chase and Edelweiss Capital.

Commenting on the launch, Bhupinder Singh, Founder of InCred Group, said: “The United States is a critical market for InCred Capital and a natural next step in our global expansion. As India’s economy, capital markets and corporate sector continue to scale, global investor interest in India is stronger than ever. Our presence in New York will allow us to engage more closely with leading institutional investors, family offices and corporations, while helping our clients access opportunities across one of the world’s most dynamic growth markets.

Arunava combines deep market expertise with long-standing relationships across the North American investment community. He is the ideal leader to build and scale our business in the region.”

Commenting on his appointment, Arunava Das said: “I am excited to join InCred Capital at a time when India is increasingly becoming a strategic allocation for global investors. InCred has built a highly respected franchise across lending, wealth management, asset management, investment banking and institutional equities, supported by a strong culture of innovation and client focus. I look forward to establishing our North American presence and strengthening the bridge between global investors and the opportunities emerging from India’s growth story.”

With operations across India, Singapore, Dubai, London and now New York, InCred Capital operates an integrated platform spanning wealth management, asset management and institutional equities. The business manages over INR 1 lakh crore (USD 10.5 billion) in wealth assets and approximately INR 10,000 crore (USD 1 billion) in asset management assets.

For more information, visit https://www.incredcapital.com/

 

 

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