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NEW DELHI, Dec 30: The Indian IT industry steps into 2025 with hope and optimism of improved tech spending and stronger deal pipeline as businesses across-the-board take bold AI bets, but all eyes are on global macroeconomic cues as well as the US’ stance on trade and high-skilled immigration as President-elect Donald Trump returns to White House next month. With Q2 report card of most IT heavyweights fuelling hopes of an improved client demand over the coming quarters – industry pundits predict a notable rebound in growth and profitability metrics materialising by late 2025 or the second half of FY26, if all goes well. Experts also expect tech M&A counters to buzz right through 2025, with big data, cloud and Gen AI (Generative AI) acting as major draws for companies with takeover appetites. Meanwhile, the IPO market – heady from 2024 highs – seems all primed up for yet another blockbuster year as a slew of tech startups are readying for a market debut to capitalise on euphoria. Sindhu Gangadharan, chairperson of IT industry association Nasscom says a full rebound in tech and discretionary spending is projected by late 2025, provided global macroeconomic conditions stabilise and geopolitical tensions ease. “The year 2024 witnessed a steady but uneven recovery in demand for tech services, with strong growth in areas like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Companies are increasingly prioritising investments in these transformative technologies to enhance efficiency and resilience,” says Gangadharan, who took charge at the helm of Nasscom this year. After creating a stir in 2024, Generative AI is now at a “transformative inflection point” and poised to redefine industries and fuel global innovation. While tech sector is broadening its services to include GenAI-powered analytics, intelligent automation, and personalised customer experiences, the non-tech sectors are expected to face significant disruption, with GenAI transforming marketing, operations, R&D and other operations. Businesses, says Gangadharan, are likely to prioritise investments in cloud migration, AI/ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) applications, as well as cybersecurity solutions as they plan for a resilient and future-ready infrastructure. Companies too are scaling up hiring in areas of AI skills, machine learning, generative AI (GenAI), and cybersecurity as these technologies become core to digital transformation strategies. Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia sees a robust demand for specialised roles in AI, data science, and cybersecurity, within the Indian IT services and tech domains. “The focus will be on upskilling and reskilling the workforce to meet evolving technological demands. We will also see a significant rise in talent and opportunities within Tier 2 cities, reflecting a broader geographic distribution of tech talent,” he observes. Gangadharan believes that 2025 will be all about accelerated tech adoption, increased IT budgets, continued recovery in BFSI, retail, and healthcare verticals among others. Cloud migration and AI solutions will drive larger deal pipelines, positively impacting profitability, she said. While the order book/revenue contribution from Gen-AI deals so far is limited, it is likely to pick up over the medium term as overall technology adoption becomes more pervasive, Deepak Jotwani, Vice President and Sector Head, Corporate Ratings at ICRA said. While some green shoots have been sprouting in recent quarters, a marked recovery is expected by second half of FY2026, Jotwani further said, adding sectors such as BFSI have seen some recovery in past months but manufacturing and retail are yet to pick up pace. Akhilesh Tuteja, Partner and Head, Clients and Markets at KPMG in India is of the view that discretionary spends in tech could begin returning “more robustly” by late 2025 as global companies stabilise growth and invest in digital capabilities. For now, the management commentary remains cautiously optimistic for the export-led tech industry (Infosys and HCLTech raised sales forecast for FY25), and back home a sensational year of IPOs has ensured that scores of start-ups and digital businesses are queueing up for listing next year, to take advantage of extraordinary market rally. Following in the footsteps of Swiggy and FirstCry, startups such as Zepto, Bluestone, Ecom Express, PhysicsWallah, InCred Finance, Ola (mobility), PayU, Ather, boAt, Pine Labs, are reportedly eyeing a public issue. “The (IPO) momentum is likely to sustain given the continued buoyancy in the Indian capital markets,” notes Jotwani. After being in the grip of harsh and prolonged funding winter, startup space saw some pick-up deal momentum. “The funding scenario in 2025 is likely to be better than 2024. Investors will be cautiously optimistic and will continue to focus on due diligence, favour sustainable business models and innovation, especially targeting underpenetrated markets,” Atul Monga, CEO and cofounder of Basic Home Loan says. The year logged its fair share of controversies – founders engaged in open and public spats (Ola founder Bhavish Aggarwal Vs comedian Kunal Kamra), faced backlash over their endorsement of long work hours (Infosys founder N R Narayana Murthy, Indian-origin CEO of AI startup Greptile, Daksh Gupta) and became the target of online hate over social media posts on unrealistic workplace expectations. The tech space presented picture of contrasts, oscillating between rapid highs and sudden lows. Quick-commerce companies surged ahead competing for dominance, while the likes of Paytm and Byju’s – once posterboys of Indian startup ecosystem – struggled to navigate challenges on multiple fronts. As q-comm companies Zepto and Blinkit reshaped consumer habits and redefined ecommerce landscape, some established players embraced rapid delivery models. Flipkart forayed into quick commerce with ‘Minutes’ and Amazon is launching 15-minute deliveries starting in Bengaluru. Year 2024 saw the tech sector walk the delicate balance between innovation and survival. Social media platform Koo, which had pitched itself as a rival and viable alternative to Twitter (now X) shut down with co-founders penning a heartfelt note about tough decisions and little yellow bird bidding adieu, and cryptocurrency platform WazirX’s became the epicentre of a USD 230 million crypto heist that exposed the fragile nature of tech infrastructure. Indian startups took on the might of tech world goliaths like Google, who also came under increased scrutiny from competition watchdog. Earlier this year, founders of prominent Indian startups called out Google for removing many desi apps from Playstore over disagreements on US tech major’s billing policy, and the acrimonious faceoff ended when Google restored the apps back following the Indian Government’s intervention. Competition Commission (CCI) stepped up the heat on big tech firms, including Amazon, Flipkart, Meta, and Apple. India’s antitrust watchdog slapped a penalty of Rs 213.14 crore on social media giant Meta for unfair business ways with respect to WhatsApp privacy policy update done in 2021. The Commission also issued cease-and-desist directions and directed Meta and WhatsApp to implement certain behavioural remedies within a defined timeline. “The regulatory developments in 2024 have been encouraging, particularly in how regulators have approached the industry’s broader perspective. We anticipate the regulatory landscape in India to become more intense in 2025,” Alliance of Digital India Foundation (ADIF) noted. (PTI)Outgoing Orono Mayor Dennis Walsh appointed a new council member Monday night, despite objections from colleagues who said the move would erode trust with residents. Claire Berrett, a longtime Orono resident criticized by some as being too supportive of Walsh, took the oath of office during a contentious City Council meeting in which officials and audience members at times shouted over each other. “It’s an honor,” Berrett said during the meeting. “It feels awkward to me right now, because I wasn’t expecting this, but I will promise you this: I will always vote in the best interests of Orono and its citizens.” The selection comes as Orono is bracing for major political turnover and grappling with contentious issues like the future of its fire department . Earlier this month, voters selected a new mayor and two new council members, who are set to begin their jobs in January. One week after the election, Council Member Matt Johnson resigned with about two years left on his term. Berrett filled his seat, though it’s not yet clear how long she might be there. Orono City Attorney Soren Mattick said he expects the appointment will last through November of 2026, though he left open the possibility officials could pass a special election ordinance that somehow changes that. Incoming Mayor Bob Tunheim said he believes city leaders exceeded their authority in appointing Berrett and that a special election needs to be held. “I can’t speak for the rest of the incoming council, but I think the community will want us to move quickly to put in motion the steps necessary to hold a special election,” Tunheim said in an interview Tuesday. He added: “I intend to be professional and civil with Ms. Berrett and I look forward to working with her for the time she remains on council.” Berrett didn’t immediately respond to a message Tuesday. Election vs. appointment Berrett’s sudden appointment surprised some people, who expected Monday night’s meeting to include a presentation on an application process for people who were interested in taking Johnson’s seat. Materials prepared for the council and included in a meeting packet note that “past practice of the city has been to fill council vacancies through an application, interview and appointment process.” When Johnson resigned earlier this month, city officials said they expected they would also need to hold a special election next year. But at Monday’s meeting, Walsh cited advice from state officials and said that because there isn’t a city ordinance addressing special elections, “there will not be one.” In a text message Tuesday, Walsh said it was “our duty” to put someone in place who will take care of Orono. “Claire is overly qualified to make sure that any decisions moving forward will be done with Orono’s best interest in mind when she votes,” he said. Walsh moved Monday night to appoint Barrett to the position. Orono City Council Member Alisa Benson, who had been the only one set to return to office next year, urged the council to hold off, saying multiple people had expressed interest in the job. “It’s the exact opposite of honoring those election results and the message that the voters have sent with it by doing this sort of maneuver at this meeting tonight,” she said. Council Member Maria Veach previously took her seat through an appointment process and said she “dealt with its aftermath for my entire term.” “I knew that really well-intentioned people won’t be given a chance, and the appointment process is brutal,” Veach said. “Unfortunately, what we’re tasked with is unprecedented yet again.” Berrett’s appointment failed on a 2-2 vote, with Walsh and Council Member Richard Crosby voting for her selection and Benson and Veach voting against. The city attorney said that, in the event of a tie, state law allows the mayor to appoint a new council member. Walsh immediately appointed Berrett, eliciting boos from the audience. During public comment, multiple people spoke against Berrett’s selection, with some raising concerns about the process and some saying they knew little about her except that she had ties to a group that held a forum featuring Walsh in the runup to the election. (Walsh received just one-third of the votes in the November election, losing to Tunheim.) Berrett didn’t address that head-on, but said she would tell people a little bit about herself. She said she has been an Orono resident for 29 years and has a “servant’s heart,” adding that she had served on a parents’ association and a parish council. “I hope to get to know you all in a real, face-to-face way, not behind keyboards,” she said. “...And I’m looking forward to the civility that incoming Mayor Tunheim has promised, and I hope that filters through all of Orono.”
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Wellness Why you’re always so tired: Finding true rejuvenation beyond sleep By Musa Adekunle 29 December 2024 | 2:00 pm Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on WhatsApp Share on Telegram Lack of sleep is an obvious energy drainer, but did you know that hormonal changes, diet, inactivity, medical conditions, or even narcolepsy could also be sabotaging your energy levels? Despite sleeping in all weekend or getting a full night’s rest, many people still wake up exhausted. If you find yourself constantly tired, even after plenty... Lack of sleep is an obvious energy drainer , but did you know that hormonal changes, diet, inactivity, medical conditions, or even narcolepsy could also be sabotaging your energy levels? Despite sleeping in all weekend or getting a full night’s rest, many people still wake up exhausted. If you find yourself constantly tired, even after plenty of sleep, you’re not alone. While physical rest is essential, our bodies and minds often need more than just sleep to truly recharge. Experts point out that anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder , and chronic stress can all contribute to fatigue. The National Health Service adds that poor sleep habits, lack of exercise, dehydration, and certain medications can leave you drained. Meanwhile, conditions like sleep apnea, hypothyroidism, anaemia, or multiple sclerosis may also be culprits. The limits of sleep alone Sleep can address physical fatigue but doesn’t always alleviate mental, emotional, or sensory exhaustion. Today, stress, constant stimulation from technology, and emotional strain can deplete our energy reserves in ways that sleep alone can’t fix. READ ALSO: My beauty ritual is sleep, dancing in front of the mirror – Ayra Starr Why holistic recharging matters It’s important to engage in practices that rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit. Mental health experts recommend calming activities like meditation or deep-breathing exercises to ease stress and curb mental fatigue. Don’t underestimate the emotional boost that comes from spending quality time with loved ones or indulging in hobbies you enjoy. Even simple strategies, such as taking breaks from digital devices, can reduce sensory overload and refresh your senses. John Adenle of the University of Lagos, who is a fellow of art in medicine, notes that creative pursuits—like drawing, painting, or crafting—can help those struggling with mental health conditions by promoting mindfulness and relaxation. Finding what energises you Everyone’s different, so the key is figuring out which activities reawaken your energy. Maybe it’s a quiet walk in nature, a daily gratitude practice, or time spent with friends who uplift you. Persistent fatigue isn’t always a sign that you need more sleep; it can signal a need for comprehensive rejuvenation. Incorporate habits that revive your mind, body, and spirit, and you’ll soon find yourself tackling each day with fresh enthusiasm. Dr Toyin Akande-Ajala, Consultant Geriatrician, highlights the power of exercise as one of the best ingredients for healthy living. “People who exercise regularly—at least 30 minutes, three times a week—are less likely to develop chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, or dementia,” she explains. “If you want to age well, start exercising today. Exercise makes you stronger, more resilient, and helps fight fatigue.” Exercise has been proven to not only help people live well but also live longer. You don’t have to run a marathon to enjoy the benefits—simple exercises like walking for 30 minutes, three times a week, are enough to help you live well and longer. Clinical nutritionist Odukoya Fiyinfoluwa warns that poor diet is a major factor in fatigue. Relying on high-sugar foods and refined carbs—like pastries and sugary drinks—leads to quick energy crashes. Skipping meals also disrupts the body’s energy balance. While caffeine gives a temporary lift, excessive amounts can interfere with restful sleep, leaving you more tired. To maintain steady energy levels, he suggests replacing refined carbs with whole grains and choosing nutrient-dense snacks like fruits. “Tracking your diet is essential,” Fiyinfoluwa says. “Keep a food diary to identify which foods drain your energy. Swap refined carbs for whole grains and pair high-glycemic foods with proteins or healthy fats to avoid energy crashes.” Note that this article is for informational purposes only. For medical advise or diagnosis, consult a professional Tips: Ways to recharge Nature walk Immersing yourself in nature reduces stress and boosts mood. Fresh air and walking in nature will refresh your senses and clear your mind. Read a book Reading relaxes the mind and reduces stress. Get lost in a good book and let it provide a mental escape that sparks your imagination. READ ALSO: How to build a sleep routine that works for your busy lifestyle Stay hydrated Feeling tired could be a sign of mild dehydration. Beat this by drinking lots of water, especially after physical activity. Dance Whether it’s a dance class or a spontaneous living-room session, moving to music lifts your mood and re-energises your body. Find a new hobby Exploring new interests—like painting, pottery, or cooking—helps stimulate your creativity and gives you fresh goals to look forward to.China creates 11.98 million new urban jobs in first 11 months
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