Finance Ministry’s Warning, Ola Launches Roadster X, and TAC Security’s Acquisition

Finance Ministry clamps down on ChatGPT and DeepSeek for official use over security concerns, while Ola Electric revs up with the launch of its first electric bike, the Roadster X. In the Web3 space, TAC Security is set to acquire CyberScope, strengthening its global reach, and CRED is eyeing a ₹550 Cr investment in NBFC Newtap Finance. On the delivery front, FreshToHome is shaking up the market with 10-20 minute deliveries, signaling a shift in convenience.

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“Savdhaani Hati, Durghatna Ghati”: Finance Ministry Asks Employees To Not Use ChatGPT, DeepSeek

The Finance Ministry has issued a stern advisory, urging its employees to refrain from using AI tools like ChatGPT and DeepSeek for official work, citing concerns over data confidentiality.

This move aligns with global caution, as countries like Australia, Italy, and Taiwan have already imposed similar restrictions on DeepSeek due to security risks. It’s a sobering reminder of the fragile line between technological convenience and the sanctity of sensitive information.

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“Ab Hogi EV Ki Kranti”: Ola Electric Rolls Out Maiden EV Bike Roadster X Series

Ola Electric has made its debut in the electric motorcycle market with the Roadster X Series, following the recent launch of its new-gen S1 scooters.

Production kicked off last month at Ola's Futurefactory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, with deliveries set for mid-March 2025. Bhavish Aggarwal hinted at an aggressive rollout strategy, promising new products every month—a bold move in an increasingly competitive EV landscape.

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“Sab Kushal Mangal Hai”: TAC Security To Buy CyberScope To Expand Its Overseas Web3 Play

TAC Security is set to acquire Rhodes-based Web3 security firm CyberScope, aiming to strengthen its global presence in the Web3 security landscape.

Known for its expertise in smart contract audits and vulnerability assessments, CyberScope will bolster TAC’s capabilities in safeguarding blockchain applications. This move signals TAC’s strategic push to stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of Web3 security.

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“Business Failane Ka Waqt Aagya”: CRED Mulling Investing INR 550 Cr In NBFC Newtap Finance

CRED is reportedly considering a ₹550 Cr investment in Newtap Finance (NFPL) to strengthen its foothold in the lending space.

While CRED’s AUM stood at ₹19,000 Cr as of December 2024, its NPAs have inched up to 1.1% from 0.73% in FY24. NFPL, with an AUM of ₹1,141.6 Cr and an 'IND BBB' rating with a stable outlook, could offer CRED a strategic lending edge amidst tightening credit dynamics.

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“Ab Aayega Maza”: D2C Startup FreshToHome Begins Offering 10-20 Minute Deliveries

FreshToHome has quietly entered the quick commerce race, now offering 10–20 minute deliveries based on a customer’s proximity to its dark stores.

Typically known for 60-minute deliveries, the D2C startup has been piloting this faster service for the past two months. Founder Shan Kadavil’s move signals FreshToHome’s intent to keep pace in the fiercely competitive quick delivery landscape.

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1. Bengaluru-based Dreamfly Innovations has raised $1.4 Mn in seed funding led by Avaana Capital to scale operations and boost R&D for sustainable, fire-resistant drone battery solutions. The startup also plans to expand its team as it sharpens its focus on next-gen battery tech.
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2. Cashfree Payments has secured $53 Mn in a Series C round led by Krafton's investment arm and Apis Growth Fund II, pushing its valuation to $700 Mn. The funds will fuel its expansion in cross-border payment solutions.
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3. HairOriginals has raised $5 Mn in a round co-led by Anicut Growth Fund and 12 Flags Consumer Holdings, with participation from Lenskart’s Peyush Bansal. The funds will support the launch of experience centres, expand try-at-home services to 40 cities, and boost R&D.
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4. Apex Kidney Care has secured $9 Mn in FDI from Blue Earth Capital AG to boost access to high-quality kidney care in India. The Tata Capital Healthcare Fund-backed company aims to expand its dialysis services with the fresh capital.
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5. Presage Insights has raised ₹5.6 Cr in a seed round led by YourNest Venture Capital, part of the YourNest-SanchiConnect Velocity Program 2024. The funds will support its IoT and AI-based predictive maintenance solutions.
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6. Mealawe has raised $1M in funding from a mix of FDI, Shark Tank founders, and angel investors from companies like Goldman Sachs and Oracle. The funds will help the foodtech startup scale its daily food delivery services across India.
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7. Quicklend has raised ₹6.75 Cr in a pre-seed round led by Inuka Capital and other investors to scale its secured lending platform. The funds will support the launch of its "Loan Against Mutual Funds" product and enhance R&D and technological capabilities.
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