India Startup Digest

India's EPF system is set for a major upgrade, enabling instant withdrawals via UPI platforms and ATMs by mid-2025. The modernization aims to make fund access fast and transparent, allowing members to use apps like Google Pay for immediate withdrawals up to ₹1 lakh. With automated processes and ATM access, claim processing time will drastically reduce, enhancing convenience for millions.

AI tools have made it surprisingly easy to create Studio Ghibli-style art. While ChatGPT Plus offers a premium service for such creations, free alternatives like Grok 3 and Craiyon provide accessible options. However, this AI-driven art trend has sparked discussions around ethical implications of mimicking beloved artists like Hayao Miyazaki.

In a thrilling IPL 2025 match, Mitchell Starc secured a remarkable 5-wicket haul, guiding Delhi Capitals to a 7-wicket triumph over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Alongside Kuldeep Yadav's impressive 3-wicket performance, SRH were bowled out for 163. Delhi's openers ensured a smooth chase, with Faf du Plessis scoring a crucial half-century.

IPL's new rules for 2025-2027 allow teams to reclassify certain capped Indian players as uncapped, potentially letting CSK retain MS Dhoni and save costs. Other teams like GT, RR, and MI can also benefit. These changes introduce strategic shifts, with ongoing Impact Player rule favoring all-rounders. These developments demand adaptable team strategies for budget and player management.

In an intense IPL 2025 match at Chepauk, RCB defeated CSK by 50 runs, breaking a 17-year losing streak. Powered by Patidar's 51 and David's rapid 22*, RCB posted 196/7. CSK faltered, hindered by strategic errors and Hazlewood's 3/21, with a late surge by Dhoni proving insufficient.

Returning from injury, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is set to make a significant impact for RCB against CSK in IPL 2025. Kumar's addition to the lineup bolsters the pace attack, complementing stars like Josh Hazlewood. CSK’s decision to bowl first could shape the course of the match in Chennai and affect the early standings.

The Modi government has announced a 2% rise in Dearness Allowance for central employees and pensioners, effective from January 1, 2025. This change boosts the DA to 55% of basic pay, benefiting over a crore individuals. Employees and pensioners will receive arrears for three months and see this hike reflected in April 2025 salaries. The government will incur an annual financial impact of ₹6,614.04 crore.

David Miller shared his deep feelings of frustration following South Africa's narrow 7-run defeat to India in the 2024 T20 World Cup final. Despite an unbeaten run leading to the final, the team's title hopes were dashed as Miller's crucial dismissal in the last over proved pivotal. His emotional post reflects on the game's fine margins and the team's resilience, yet another painful exit for the Proteas.

The South Delhi Superstarz claimed victory over Purani Dilli 6 in the exciting opener of the Delhi Premier League 2024. Led by Ayush Badoni, they won by three wickets after electing to bowl first. Despite the efforts of Rishabh Pant's well-built team, South Delhi's strategic plays ensured their win. The event, marked by vibrant performances, set an energetic tone for the season.

In an exhilarating IPL 2025 opener, Delhi Capitals claimed a narrow 1-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants, chasing 210 with just three balls to spare. Ashutosh Sharma's spectacular 66* off 31 balls guided DC from a shaky 65/5 position. LSG had strong performances from Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran but lost grip after a critical missed stumping.