Gabbard, a former U.S. Congresswoman and the first Hindu member of the U.S. House of Representatives, opened her speech with a heartfelt greeting: “Good morning, aloha, namaste, Jai Shri Krishna.” The words, she noted, symbolized the fusion of her Hawaiian roots and Hindu-American identity. Her address came as part of a multinational tour of the Indo-Pacific, a visit strategically timed just two weeks before the Trump administration’s reciprocal tariffs on India and other nations.

Peace, freedom, security, and prosperity were central themes of her speech, with a recurring emphasis on uniting the people of India and the United States. Gabbard leveraged her Pacific roots in Hawaii to reinforce the message of a stronger and more prosperous Indo-Pacific. Since the previous Trump administration, the Indo-Pacific has become a focal point of U.S. foreign policy. The Indian Ocean serves as the theater for four of the world’s major maritime chokepoints, with approximately 80% of global maritime oil trade passing through these narrow passages.

She advocated for a pragmatic, realpolitik approach to world peace, one rooted in economic ties. This stance reflects the recently failed U.S.-Ukraine mineral agreements, which, if successful, would have strengthened economic relations and provided Ukraine with a natural layer of security. While Gabbard did not explicitly reference any specific country or conflict, she stressed that securing peace requires “commitment to fostering cultural and economic ties that reduce the likelihood of an escalation to conflict” and “courage to engage directly with both friends and adversaries alike.”

During her address, Gabbard tackled the growing debate over America’s ‘America First’ policy, clarifying that it should not be misconstrued as ‘America Alone.’ Instead, she stressed the importance of expanding U.S.-India relations, an effort that aligns with Washington’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy. With China’s growing influence in the region, the U.S. has been working to position India as a key strategic counterweight. However, Gabbard asserted that such an alliance can only succeed if the U.S. treats India as an equal partner. In an exclusive conversation with NDTV gabbard stated “the long-time unfortunate persecution and killing and abuse of religious minorities (in Bangladesh) has been a major area of concern for the US government. The talks are just beginning between Trump’s incoming cabinet and the Bangladesh government, but this continues to remain a central focus area of concern.”

She also reaffirmed America’s commitment to strengthening security ties with India, particularly in cybersecurity, emerging technologies, and artificial intelligence. Reflecting on her personal values, Gabbard shared that in both moments of triumph and adversity, she finds guidance in Lord Krishna’s teachings from the Bhagavad Gita.

Gabbard’s visit also included a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 18, during which Modi presented her with a ceremonial vase filled with water from the Mahakumbh, a gesture underscoring India’s appreciation for her long standing support of U.S.-India ties.

As Gabbard continues her Indo-Pacific tour, her remarks at the Raisina Dialogue highlight a future in which U.S.-India relations evolve beyond transactional diplomacy, paving the way for a deeper strategic and cultural partnership.

The Return of Indian Comics: A Journey Through Time

For many, names like Suppandi, Nagraj, Bankelal, Cheeku-Meeku, and Amar Chitra Katha’s legendary epics evoke a wave of childhood nostalgia. These comics, once household favorites through the ’80s and ’90s, experienced a sharp decline with the rise of video games, internet culture, and smartphones.

“The first decline happened in the ’90s with the arrival of VCRs and cassette tapes, which offered an alternative to comics and pulp fiction novels. The second major decline came after 2010, when smartphones took over, making digital content easily accessible and changing reading habits entirely,” explained an industry expert at the event. However, the industry has been making a powerful resurgence, thanks to new-age Indian graphic novelists and initiatives like the Comics Creator Championship, Comic Con, and WAVES.

The global comic book industry, valued at $14.69 billion in 2021, is projected to reach $21.37 billion by 2029, and India is riding this wave of growth with renewed enthusiasm. At this year’s fair, the stalls featuring illustrated editions of the Hanuman Chalisa, Mahabharata retellings, and stories of Indian war heroes drew massive crowds. Publishers like Amar Chitra Katha, Raj Comics, and Campfire Graphic Novels made a huge impact with their stunning visuals and gripping storytelling.

The Icons of Indian Comics at NDWBF 2025:

Amar Chitra Katha: A Timeless Treasure

The Amar Chitra Katha stall was a hotspot at the fair, with its collection of religious epics, historical legends, and bestsellers like Tinkle and Suppandi. The brand has expanded into new territories, even covering contemporary stories like Mann Ki Baat—a 14-volume series available in 12 languages, created in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture. This fusion of old and new has made Amar Chitra Katha a key player in keeping traditional stories alive for newer generations.

Raj Comics: The Evolution of Indian Superheroes

Founded in 1986, Raj Comics has been a staple in Indian pop culture with its iconic superheroes like Nagraj, Dhruva, and Doga. Over the years, Raj Comics has consistently evolved with technology, from digital coloring in the 2000s to the growing popularity of international comics in the 2010s. “Indian comics today can compete with Marvel when it comes to illustrations,” said a Raj Comics representative. As they transition into film adaptations, these Indian superheroes are set to reach an even larger audience.

Cinemics: A Genre for Every Reader

Cinemics has made a name for itself by publishing a diverse range of comics, spanning horror, comedy, kids’ stories, suspense thrillers, murder mysteries, and even time-travel adventures. Most notably, they have brought Chandrakanta to life in a graphic format for the first time, bridging classic literature with modern storytelling.

Ektara: A Tribute to India’s Traditional Art

Ektara’s approach to publishing is deeply rooted in India’s artistic heritage. Their beautifully illustrated comics and graphic novels celebrate the country’s traditional art forms. “We don’t aim to teach a language or push an agenda—we simply want people to appreciate history and literature through exquisite art and storytelling,” said an Ektara representative.

Biplob World: Comics with a Cause

Biplob World stood out as an eco-conscious publisher, dedicated to creating engaging stories that educate children about the environment. “There’s a Biplob within each of us. The solutions to our problems don’t come from an external superhero; they lie within us,” explained co-founder Abhishek. Their comics inspire young readers to care for nature through interactive storytelling.

Ashwatha Tree: Cultivating Pride in Indian Heritage

Ashwatha Tree’s mission is to instill a sense of pride in Indian traditions and culture among children. Their books cover Indian festivals, folklore, and historical narratives, ensuring that these cultural treasures are not lost with time. “If we introduce children to these stories at a young age, they will carry these values forward,” said the founder.

Campfire: A Global Force in Graphic Storytelling

Campfire Graphic Novels has redefined illustrated literature by creating high-quality graphic novels on history, mythology, and biographies. From Indian epics like Draupadi and Karna to global figures like Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, their well-researched and authentic art has gained worldwide recognition. “Our books are available in over 40 international languages, from Spanish to Arabic,” shared a Campfire spokesperson.

AAN Publications: Honoring India’s Real Heroes

AAN Publications is dedicated to telling the stories of India’s real-life heroes—soldiers, warriors, and unsung defenders of the nation. “We bring forward the stories of those who have sacrificed for the country but remain unknown to most Indians,” said a passionate representative. Their publications emphasize patriotism, making them a standout presence at the fair.

A New Era for Indian Comics

The 2025 New Delhi World Book Fair proved that Indian comics are back with a vengeance. The fusion of nostalgia with cutting-edge storytelling and breathtaking artwork is breathing new life into the industry. From mythology and history to superheroes and social themes, Indian comics are more diverse and engaging than ever before.

This event was a testament to how illustrated storytelling is evolving, captivating audiences old and new. As publishers continue to innovate and adapt, the Indian comic book industry is set to soar, carving out its place on the global stage.

Did you attend NDWBF 2025? What’s your favorite Indian comic? Let us know in the comments and stay tuned for more exciting updates from INSIGHT!

Watch the full video now:

Here is a summary of the key points:

1. Victims: The killer targeted homeless men, often found in secluded areas of South Mumbai. There were seven confirmed victims, and each was killed in a similar manner, often by being bludgeoned to death.
2. Crime Scenes: The murders took place in various parts of South Mumbai, including the Marine Lines and Churchgate areas. The presence of beer bottles at the crime scenes was a signature element, leading to the moniker “Beer Man.”
3. Investigation: The Mumbai police launched an extensive investigation, but the case proved challenging due to the lack of witnesses and concrete evidence. The randomness of the attacks and the lack of a clear motive further complicated the investigation.
4. Arrest: In January 2008, Ravindra Kantrole, a 42-year-old former police informer with a criminal background, was arrested and charged with the murders. Kantrole had been linked to one of the crime scenes through forensic evidence. He was initially convicted of one murder but later acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
5. Aftermath: Despite the arrest and trial of Kantrole, doubts remained about whether he was indeed the “Beer Man.” The lack of conclusive evidence and the subsequent acquittal left the case unresolved in the eyes of many.

The “Beer Man” killings remain one of Mumbai’s most notorious unsolved murder cases, shrouded in mystery and speculation.

Project Overview

The administration of Lakshadweep has announced the development of three premium water villa projects on the Minicoy, Suheli, and Kadmat islands. With an estimated investment of INR 800 crore, this project marks India’s first venture into the realm of water villas, similar to those that attract tourists to the Maldives. The villas will offer a unique, immersive experience, allowing guests to stay in luxurious accommodations set above the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

The breakdown of the projects includes 150 keys for Minicoy at a cost of INR 319 crore, 110 keys for Suheli at INR 247 crore, and another 110 keys for Kadmat with an investment of INR 240 crore. This distribution is based on a comprehensive analysis of location suitability, technical feasibility, and financial viability. The administration has also ensured that all necessary clearances, including Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) approvals, are secured in advance, expediting the project’s progress.

Economic and Environmental Balance

The project’s core objective is to bolster maritime economic growth with a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism. The administration’s commitment to environmental protection is evident in its approach to development. By employing eco-friendly materials and pre-cast concrete technology, the ecological footprint of the construction is minimized. Additionally, the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar power, further underscores the project’s sustainable ethos.

The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) has played a pivotal role in assessing the viability and environmental impact of the water villas. Their involvement ensures that the development harmonizes with the delicate marine ecosystem, particularly the fragile coral reefs that are integral to the region’s biodiversity. This scientific approach guarantees a balance between enhancing local livelihoods and preserving natural resources.

Boosting Local Economy and Employment

One of the most significant benefits of the water villa project is its potential to boost the local economy. Tourism is a powerful engine for economic growth, and the development of high-end accommodations will attract both domestic and international visitors. This influx of tourists will create numerous employment opportunities for the local population, ranging from hospitality services to ancillary support sectors such as transportation and local crafts.

Furthermore, the public-private partnership model ensures that the project is financially sustainable and beneficial for all stakeholders involved. The government’s proactive role in facilitating permits and clearances reduces bureaucratic hurdles, encouraging private investors to participate in the region’s development.

A Paradigm Shift in Indian Tourism

The Lakshadweep water villa project represents a paradigm shift in Indian tourism, positioning the country as a competitor to established luxury destinations like the Maldives. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to diversify India’s tourism offerings, providing unique experiences that cater to high-end travelers.

In conjunction with similar projects in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India is poised to become a leader in sustainable island tourism. These developments are aligned with the goals of NITI Aayog and the central government’s vision of creating a world-class tourism infrastructure that is both economically viable and environmentally responsible.

]]> https://oninsight.in/2024/05/29/lakshadweeps-ambitious-water-villa-project-a-new-era-in-indian-ecotourism/feed/ 0 https://oninsight.in/2023/08/31/on-de-dollarization-shifting-monetary-dynamics/ https://oninsight.in/2023/08/31/on-de-dollarization-shifting-monetary-dynamics/?noamp=mobile#comments Thu, 31 Aug 2023 05:31:37 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=465 The influence of the United States Dollar (USD) in global trade has been substantial, serving as a hallmark of the West’s economic power. Its prevalence has long epitomised the strength of the West, a supremacy established post World War 2. This supremacy of the dollar has been paramount since then, solidifying the dominance of West hegemony and the financial institutions they founded. Consequently, developing nations found themselves compelled to embrace the dollar, apprehensive of the potential leverage that Western powers could exert.

The ascendancy of the Dollar sparked discussions between the nations straddling divergent economic spectra, encapsulated within the NORTH – SOUTH discourse or NORTH – SOUTH debate. Developing nations voiced apprehensions over the disparities that the Dollar’s dominance accentured, and the compulsion to interface with dollars rendered these nations susceptible to the economic decisions of Western powers, prompting dialogues on reshaping the Global Monetary framework to engender inclusivity and equity.

While the prospect of conducting global trade in native currencies holds allure, practical impediments persist. The talk around dealing in National currencies has been in talks for almost every BRICS summit, but it just remains to that. One needs to look at the complexities the IMF’s SDR system possesses.

The Special Drawing Rights system plays a pivotal role in the international monetary framework. It is a composite international reserve asset created by the IMF to supplement its member countries’ official reserves. While the SDR system itself doesn’t directly prevent global trade in local currencies, it introduces complexities that make conducting international trade solely in national currencies challenging. The IMF uses a basket of five currencies to define SDR, which consists of Dollar, Euro, Yen, Pound and Yuan. These currencies are determined by taking two factors into account, whether the currency’s parent country is among the top five exporters in the world and its ease of convertibility. Subsequently, these five currencies are called the HARD CURRENCIES. Such currencies are easily convertible and acceptable in world trade, and currencies like Indian Rupee, Rubles are not fully convertible due to the restrictions on current account convertibility by the central bank, to keep a balance between extreme market fluctuations.

Even though trade in national currencies poses practical challenges to it, developing nations are figuring out other alternatives to level the playing field. The recent BRICS Summit 2023 commanded global attention for the same, raising anticipations for deliberations surrounding a potential BRICS currency as a potential alternative to the dollar. However, the focal point of the summit orbited around the BRICS expansion, inviting Iran, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ethiopia and UAE. The inclusion of six new members showcased the burgeoning influence of the consortium and its resolve to cultivate collaboration beyond its original composition. The inclusion, interestingly, shows a heavy participation from the Gulf and the Middle East – regions that play a pivotal role in oil exports, including the West.

As the dialogue on reshaping the international monetary landscape continues, the BRICS expansion sends a subtle reminder that while the direct trade in national currencies may currently pose intricate challenges, endeavours like these represent strides toward a more diversified financial landscape. In other words, maybe trade in local currencies is not practically possible for now, but this coalition is a step towards it.


 

]]> https://oninsight.in/2023/08/31/on-de-dollarization-shifting-monetary-dynamics/feed/ 2 https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/infra-space-may-replicate-2003-07-boom-last-for-4-6-years-vijay-kedia/ https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/infra-space-may-replicate-2003-07-boom-last-for-4-6-years-vijay-kedia/?noamp=mobile#respond Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:13:38 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=534 Source – MoneyControl
The infrastructure sector is into a boom phase since the past six to seven months, Vijay Kedia, investor and director of Atul Auto, said in an interaction with Moneycontrol on August 29.

The market veteran believes that the infrastructure sector will see the similar trends it had seen during 2003 to 2007. The primary reason for latest boom, according to Kedia, is the increased government spending on infrastructure.

“Additionally, the private sector capacity has also reached around 75 to 80 percent. So, this is the high time from where private capital expenditure (capex) will start,” he said.

Between 2003 and 2007, capex was primarily centred around conventional industries like thermal energy, roads and railways, construction, and real estate. In contrast, the present cycle of capex is more diverse, concentrating on improving and modernising emerging sectors, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing.

The primary areas of attention include development of renewable energy, transitioning to cleaner energy sources, adopting electrification for vehicles and railways, promoting manufacturing through initiatives like production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme, localisation, indigenisation, modernising railways, advancing mobility through metro systems and high-speed rails, and strengthening the defence sector.

Any company related to the infrastructure sector is set to benefit as this theme enters into a bullish phase, Kedia said, highlighting that this uptrend could last for up to four-six years.

He is strongly bullish on the sector and considers infrastructure to be a “red hot theme”.

]]> https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/infra-space-may-replicate-2003-07-boom-last-for-4-6-years-vijay-kedia/feed/ 0 https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/neeraj-chopra-murali-sreeshankar-to-compete-at-zurich-diamond-league-on-thursday/ https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/neeraj-chopra-murali-sreeshankar-to-compete-at-zurich-diamond-league-on-thursday/?noamp=mobile#respond Wed, 30 Aug 2023 11:59:28 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=531 Zurich [Switzerland], August 30 (ANI): Javelin throw World champion Neeraj Chopra and long jumper Murali Sreeshankar will be the two Indian athletes in action at the Zurich Diamond League 2023 in Switzerland on Thursday.

The Zurich meet also known as the Weltklasse Zurich, is the 11th leg of the Diamond League 2023 season, as per Olympics.com.

Reigning Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra will go into the Zurich meet after winning a historic gold medal at the World Athletics Championships 2023 last week, becoming the first Indian to be crowned world champion in any track and field category.

The 25-year-old Chopra, who holds the javelin throw national record of 89.94m, is also the reigning Diamond League men’s javelin throw champion.

Interestingly, the Indian javelin ace won the title last year at the same Letzigrund Stadium in Zurich, where he will be competing on Thursday.

Neeraj Chopra won the first two Diamond League javelin events this season in Doha and Lausanne but sat out the Monaco leg in July.

Chopra is currently third in the men’s javelin throw qualifying standings for the Diamond League 2023 finals with 16 points. Tokyo 2020 Olympics silver medallist Jakub Vadlejch of the Czech Republic and Germany’s Julian Weber, are placed first and second with 21 and 19 points, respectively.

The top eight after all the legs will make the finals in Eugene.

At Zurich, Neeraj Chopra is likely to face a world-class 10-man field, which includes former world champion Anderson Peters of Grenada, Jakub Vadlejch and Julian Weber.

Murali Sreeshankar will be competing in his third long jump event of the 2023

Diamond League season. The 24-year-old finished third and fifth at the Paris and Lausanne legs, respectively.

Heading into Zurich Diamond League 2023, Sreeshankar put on a disappointing show at the World Athletics Championships 2023, failing to make the final.

Sreeshankar, who has a personal best of 8.41m, will compete against the likes of Greece’s Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medalist Miltiadis Tentoglou, who is also the reigning Diamond League and world champion. The 10-man field in Zurich will also include home favourite Simon hammer, the 2022 world championships bronze medallist.

Diamond League is an annual event comprising a series of top-tier track and field competitions organised by World Athletics. The Diamond League final will be held in Eugene, USA on September 16 and September 17. (ANI)

]]> https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/neeraj-chopra-murali-sreeshankar-to-compete-at-zurich-diamond-league-on-thursday/feed/ 0 https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/two-persons-killed-two-others-injured-in-kyiv-after-russian-missile-attacks-says-ukraine-ani/ https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/two-persons-killed-two-others-injured-in-kyiv-after-russian-missile-attacks-says-ukraine-ani/?noamp=mobile#respond Wed, 30 Aug 2023 11:51:33 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=527 Kyiv [Ukraine], August 30 (ANI): At least two persons were killed and two others injured after Russian missile attacks on Ukraine’s Kyiv in the early hours of Wednesday, CNN reported citing Kyiv’s Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko. He said fire and rescue services continue to work at the wreckage sites.

Klitschko said, “Fire and rescue services continue to work at the wreckage sites.

In particular, in the Darnitsky district and in four areas in the Shevchenkivskiy district of the capital.”

Meanwhile, Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv city military administration, on Wednesday, said Russia using drones and missiles launched a “massive” attack on Kyiv on Tuesday night, CNN reported.

In a post shared on Telegram, Popko wrote, “Kyiv has not experienced such a powerful attack since spring.” He said several groups of drones travelled towards Kyiv “from different directions.” and later missiles were fired towards the city from Tu-95MS strategic bombers. Popko said that air defence forces destroyed over 20 “enemy targets,” according to CNN report.

Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the US has announced an additional USD 250 million security assistance package for Kyiv, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday.

Blinken said the package includes air defence missiles, artillery ammunition, Javelin systems and rockets, and mine-clearing equipment. He stated that the US will also provide ambulances, spare parts, services, training, and transportation.

In a statement, Blinken said, “Today we are announcing the next package of military assistance to aid Ukraine as it defends its territory and protects its people. This package contains important capabilities to help Ukraine on the battlefield.”

He further said, “It includes AIM-9M missiles for air defence, munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, mine-clearing equipment, Javelin and other anti-armour systems and rockets, over 3 million rounds of small arms ammunition, ambulances, demolition munitions for obstacle clearing, as well as spare parts, services, training, and transportation.”

On August 29, one person was killed in Ukraine’s Kupiansk due to Russian shelling, the governor of Ukraine’s Kharkiv oblast, Oleh Syniehubov said, according to Al Jazeera.

In a statement on his Telegram, Syniehubov said, “A 45-year-old civilian man died as a result of artillery shelling. The building of the meat processing plant where the deceased worked as a security guard was damaged.”

“An apartment building and a private household were also damaged in the city.

A 67-year-old man was wounded by shrapnel. He refused hospitalisation,” he said, according to Al Jazeera. (ANI)

]]> https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/two-persons-killed-two-others-injured-in-kyiv-after-russian-missile-attacks-says-ukraine-ani/feed/ 0 https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/whitehat-jr-ceo-ananya-tripathi-resigns-in-another-top-level-exit-at-byjus/ https://oninsight.in/2023/08/30/whitehat-jr-ceo-ananya-tripathi-resigns-in-another-top-level-exit-at-byjus/?noamp=mobile#respond Wed, 30 Aug 2023 11:47:00 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=541 Source: Moneycontrol

Ananya Tripathi, the CEO of WhiteHat Jr, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Byju’s, has tendered her resignation, marking another senior-level exit at India’s most-valued startup.

Tripathi, who has been on maternity leave since May of this year, has decided to move on, according to four people familiar with the matter told Moneycontrol. Byju’s has not yet formally accepted her resignation and is still trying to persuade her to stay, the people said on the condition of anonymity.

Arjun Mohan, who rejoined Byju’s in July to lead its international operations, has been supporting the team in Tripathi’s absence, the people added.

Byju’s did not respond to queries sent by Moneycontrol.

Tripathi joined WhiteHat Jr in April of last year. She was the Managing Director at KKR Capstone before joining WhiteHat Jr. A McKinsey alumni, Tripathi also served as the Chief Strategy Officer of Myntra for almost four years.

Byju’s acquired WhiteHat Jr, a code-learning platform, in August 2020, in a whopping $300 million cash deal. The deal had given Karan Bajaj, the founder of WhiteHat Jr, one of the biggest exits ever in India’s startup ecosystem.

Bajaj continued to serve as the CEO of WhiteHat Jr but resigned in August 2021, exactly a year after the company was acquired. Trupti Mukker, a Byju’s executive, had been appointed as the CEO of WhiteHat Jr before Tripathi took charge.

Tripathi has joined a growing list of senior executives to leave the world’s most valued edtech startup, which is currently grappling with myriad challenges. Earlier this week, Moneycontrol reported that three more senior executives, including Byju’s Chief Business Officer Prathyusha Agarwal, quit the company.

WhiteHat Jr’s challenges

In 2020, WhiteHat Jr faced significant criticism due to its aggressive sales strategies. The company had then launched a campaign featuring a fictitious 12-year-old named Wolf Gupta. The campaign depicted Wolf Gupta securing a job worth Rs 1.2 crore at Google after mastering artificial intelligence (AI) through WhiteHat Jr’s programmes.

Additionally, it was reported that WhiteHat Jr disregarded the guidelines set forth by the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI). The company was accused of making questionable and unsupported claims, according to an article in The News Minute.

While WhiteHat Jr had withdrawn the Wolf-Gupta campaign, it continued spending heavily on customer acquisition costs. According to Byju’s FY21 results, WhiteHat Jr contributed Rs 326.66 crore of total revenue and a loss of Rs 1,548.76 crore to the loss before tax from operations of the company.

To be sure, Byju Raveendran, co-founder and CEO of Byju’s, in his media interactions has been pretty vocal about how WhiteHat Jr is the company’s only acquisition that has struggled. In an interview with Moneycontrol in January this year, Raveendran said, “WhiteHat Jr has been a challenge on the cost side. Solving its customer acquisition cost is the only business challenge we have.”

“Most of our core businesses are already at break-even or profitable. We are burning cash only in WhiteHat Jr,” he had said.

Earlier this year, a Tech Crunch report also suggested that Byju’s discussed shutting down WhiteHat Jr due to its high burn and struggles with the product market fit.

Byju’s woes

The four senior-level exits, including Tripathi’s, have come at a time when Byju’s has been facing a range of challenges on both domestic and international fronts. In June, Byju’s encountered a significant setback as three crucial investor board members decided to step down due to disagreements with the founder, Byju Raveendran. These disagreements primarily revolved around operational matters.

Adding to this, Byju’s long-standing auditor, Deloitte, who had been associated with the company since 2015, also resigned in June. The reason cited for this resignation was the delay in releasing the financial results for the fiscal year 2021-22.

Simultaneously, Byju’s is currently engaged in discussions with creditors, including Term Loan B lenders and Davidson Kempner. The company is eagerly awaiting an infusion of funds that holds paramount importance in helping it navigate an impending liquidity crisis.

In an effort to address its challenges, Byju’s has made significant organisational changes. This includes a workforce reduction of more than 2,000 employees throughout the year, shifting a majority to a contractual basis and relinquishing its largest office space in Bengaluru.

Byju’s has come under scrutiny due to dissatisfaction from both students and parents. Moneycontrol previously reported that more than 60 percent  of Byju’s Tuition Tuition Centre (BTC) customers requested refunds within the last two years.

However, Byju’s has been taking steps to reverse the situation over the past three months. It introduced a board advisory council, with the inclusion of industry veterans such as TV Mohandas Pai and Rajnish Kumar as advisors. In addition, Byju’s has recently appointed Richard Lobo to lead its human resources department. Lobo is expected to assume his role in September.

Byju’s, in March 2022, Byju’s secured a massive $800 million in funding, propelling its valuation to over $22 billion. Byju’s, conceptualised by former educator Raveendran more than a decade ago, has effectively raised nearly $6 billion in funding over its operational history.

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