Amidst the whirlwind of digital transformation, businesses are under immense pressure to innovate and adapt. The ability to build applications that are scalable, responsive, and capable of handling complex, real-time data is no longer just a competitive advantage but essential for survival in today’s fast-paced market.

To explore the key strategies behind creating such applications, an exclusive roundtable hosted by Volt Active Data in collaboration with YourStory, brought together some of the most forward-thinking leaders in technology to deliberate on the topic ‘Internet of Things (IoT) for the Digitally Connected World: Understanding How to Maximize Value Out of IoT’. The discussion featured experts like Manoj Chandiramani, President and Founder of Just24; Vamsi Mohan, CTO of Intelligence Node; Vivek Parihar, Head of Engineering at Purplle; Gaurav Batra, Founder and CEO of CyberFrat; Sanjeev Shankar Saha, Director and Founder of 4Brains Technologies; Rohan Patil, Founder and CTO of Tannum Consulting; and Fahad Khan, Sales Director – APAC at Volt Active Data.

Moderated by Avanne Dubash, Consultant Anchor at YourStory Media, the roundtable provided a platform for these industry leaders to dive deep into the challenges, opportunities, and innovative approaches to building the next generation of applications that can thrive in a connected world.

Setting the context

The discussion began by reflecting on recent digital disruptions, such as system crashes during high-demand scenarios like the Coldplay concert ticket sales or Taylor Swift’s concert bookings. These events served as stark reminders of the growing complexities businesses face in processing massive real-time data efficiently.

Experts pointed out that customers today expect seamless, instantaneous experiences across services. This demand amplifies the importance of IoT technologies, which enable systems, devices, and applications to connect and share data in real time. However, the challenges of speed, reliability, and scalability are immense—this is where solutions like those offered by Volt Active Data come into play, enabling businesses to process and act on data within milliseconds.

Fahad Khan, Sales Director – APAC, Volt Active Data, discussed the pivotal role of edge computing in IoT ecosystems. He explained how edge devices are transforming industries by enabling real-time data processing closer to the source. For example, in manufacturing, traditional physical inspections are being replaced with imaging technologies and edge devices, reducing turnaround times and enhancing efficiency. Fahad emphasized that secure, fast edge processing is critical in industries where time-sensitive decisions are paramount.

Challenges and opportunities with IoT

The panel emphasized that IoT is reshaping business by addressing key challenges and opening up significant opportunities. Discussions spanned various sectors, with examples of how IOT is adding value and the challenges.

IoT applications generate high volumes of data and require faster processing to extract the value from the event and act on the threat or opportunity. Moving data from the source to a centralized location results in high processing times which defeats the purpose. Critical applications such as autonomous vehicles or smart grids, require real-time decision-making with very low latency.

Extracting value from the data within a few milliseconds is an advantage in various businesses like Retail Operational Efficiency, Better customer experience, Sustainability, Energy Management Smart Cities, and other digitally connected use cases.

One recurring discussion was the importance of edge computing. By processing data locally rather than sending it to centralized systems, edge computing reduces latency and enhances security. This approach is critical for applications such as aircraft inspections, where turnaround time is crucial, and in retail, where hyper-personalized customer experiences drive engagement.

IoT in retail, manufacturing, and beyond

The conversation delved into how IoT is transforming supply chain management, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and retail. Experts shared insights into the use of IoT devices for inventory tracking, pilferage prevention, and optimizing operations in warehouses. These applications have been instrumental in improving efficiency and reducing costs.

Retailers are also leveraging IoT to deliver hyper-personalised offers and real-time advertisements based on customer behaviour and sentiment. Additionally, the rise of quick commerce, enabled by mobile edge processing, is revolutionising consumer behaviour, even in remote areas.

Security

One of the critical challenges in IoT adoption is security. The discussion highlighted the vulnerabilities of interconnected devices and the constant threat of cyberattacks. Experts emphasized the importance of rapid threat detection and real-time data processing to mitigate these risks. Examples included the challenges faced by electric and autonomous vehicles, where IoT plays a vital role in ensuring safety and security.

IoT protocols, while innovative, often require continuous monitoring and improvement to address potential breaches. The panel underscored the cyclical nature of security threats and the need for proactive solutions to safeguard sensitive data.

The conversation also addressed concerns about data privacy and the impact of government regulations mandating real-time data sharing. While regulations aim to enhance transparency and security, they often raise questions about user privacy and data misuse. The panel discussed how businesses must balance innovation with compliance to build trust and maintain competitive advantage.

Measuring ROI in IoT

As businesses invest in IoT, demonstrating a clear return on investment (ROI) is important for the success of the project. The panel explored key metrics for evaluating IoT projects, including long-term cost savings, enhanced efficiency, and improved customer experiences. Information flow and consumer awareness were highlighted as significant drivers of IoT adoption across various industries.

The role of modern data platforms

The session concluded with a focus on the evolution of data platforms and their role in IoT ecosystems. Traditional architectures often struggle to meet the demands of real-time data processing, making modern, low-latency platforms essential for scalability and efficiency. Volt Active Data’s capabilities in this area were showcased, highlighting their potential to revolutionize IoT applications in smart cities, traffic management, and energy sectors.

The roundtable discussion reinforced the immense potential of IoT in driving innovation and solving real-world challenges. From improving operational efficiency in manufacturing to enabling smarter cities and more secure systems, IoT is at the forefront of technological transformation.

As businesses navigate this landscape, collaboration between technology providers, industry leaders, and regulators will be crucial to unlocking the full value of IoT. With solutions like Volt Active Data leading the charge, the future of IoT promises to be both dynamic and transformative.

From women in the industry blending culture and passion in advertising and filmmaking to a startup accepting receiving a record-breaking Rs 8 crore offer on Shark Tank India, YourStory brings today’s headlines that highlight significant developments across industries.

Here’s a roundup of key stories:

Featured stories

How Amita Madhvani became leader in advertising and production

Amita Madhvani’s upbringing in a close-knit chawl in Mahim instilled in her a love for community and storytelling. Inspired by her parents’ values of service and adaptability, she entered the male-dominated advertising industry of the 1980s, thriving through hard work and curiosity.

Her time at advertising giants like Ogilvy and Leo Burnett broadened her perspective, allowing her to see the industry from the agency’s vantage point.

As she grew in the industry and became the co-partner and producer at Equinox Films and the co-founder of Ram Madhvani Films, Madhvani played a crucial role in steering these companies to prominence. 

Click to read more.

Latest news

SEBI issues warning to Ola Electric

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued a warning notice to electric vehicle maker Ola Electric for violating disclosure norms.

The warning states that the company’s Chairman and Managing Director, Bhavish Aggarwal, shared information about the company’s store expansion plans on social media before notifying the stock exchanges.

On December 2, Aggarwal announced that Ola Electric intended to open 3,200 stores by December 20 as it aimed to increase its store count to 4,000 due to a decline in its market share. However, on December 19, the company postponed the opening of these stores to December 25.

Swiggy launches Snacc

A new player in the quick food delivery space, Swiggy’s latest app Snacc seems to have features of its private label Swiggy Cafe and Swiggy Bolt, its 10-minute food delivery service.

Snacc, which is operational in pin codes near the company’s headquarters in Bengaluru and operational between 7 AM to 1 AM, features breakfast, meals, beverages and snacks predominantly unbranded in nature, except select products from Blue Tokai.

Funding news

RAS Luxury secures $5M from Unilever Ventures to fuel omnichannel expansion

Farm-to-face beauty and personal care brand RAS Luxury Skincare raised $5 million in a Series A funding round led by Unilever Ventures.

The round also saw participation from Amazon SMBhav Venture Fund, existing investors like Sixth Sense Ventures and angel investors, including the family of Keki Mistry.

RAS plans to use the funds for various growth initiatives including expanding its retail footprint and plans to grow its exclusive brand outlets from the current two to 50. The company aims for offline channels to generate 25% of its revenue within the next four years.

Culture Circle accepts Rs 3 Cr deal on Shark Tank India

Luxury app Culture Circle, which offers authenticated collection of sneakers, streetwear, and luxury fashion, accepted a strategic deal of Rs 3 crore for 3% equity from Kunal Bahl and Ritesh Agarwal, declining a deal of over Rs 8 crore on Shark Tank India.

“Culture Circle was built to solve one of the biggest challenges in luxury fashion—trust…Our goal is to make authentic luxury accessible to all, and this milestone on Shark Tank validates our mission and hard work,” said Devansh Jain Nawal, Founder & CEO, Culture Circle.

The company said that it was praised for its proprietary AI-powered Culture Circle authentication system, SourceX.

Other news

LenDenClub launches daily earning loans for P2P lenders

Peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform LenDenClub launched a new daily earning loan that allows lenders to earn daily interest along with principal repayments, credited directly to their bank accounts.

With the launch, the platform allows lenders/investors a choice of loans starting from a 9-month tenure, with interest income beginning the next day, the company said.

It serves as an alternative for individuals seeking regular income through the LenDenClub platform. Lenders can lend as little as Rs 250 to a borrower with a choice out of hundreds of borrowers on the platform, it added.

“By offering daily income from loans, we provide lenders with immediate liquidity and flexibility. This initiative aligns with our goal of simplifying financial opportunities through the usage of technology. Our system processed 23 crore transactions between lenders and borrowers on the platform. Our technology is so robust that we are able to provide such complex solutions like processing daily EMIs from borrowers to lenders,” said Bhavin Patel, CEO, LenDenClub

Inflexor Ventures elevates Harsha Mundhada, Murali Krishna Gunturu to partners

Sector-agnostic venture capital fund Inflexor Ventures, which specialises in seed to Series B investments, announced the elevation of Harsha Mundhada and Murali Krishna Gunturu as partners in the fund.

“Harsha and Murali have been integral to our success, demonstrating both the vision and perseverance that define great investors. Their elevation to Partners underscores our belief in fostering leadership from within and ensuring that our founders continue to receive top-notch support at every stage of their journey,” said Jatin Desai, Managing Partner at Inflexor.

Harsha Mundhada has been with Inflexor since 2016, and prior to this stint, she worked with Deloitte, Ernst and Young, and PriceWaterhouseCooper in their transaction advisory department. Meanwhile, Murali Krishna Gunturu was a founding member of Inflexor. He previously worked with Ernst and Young and also played the role of a virtual CFO for a few SMEs.

Inflexor recently raised its first Opportunities Fund and is gearing up to raise its third blind pool corpus of Rs 1,250 crore in FY26.

GrowthJockey launches Intellsys

GrowthJockey, a player in venture architecture and technological innovation, launched Intellsys, an AI-powered growth marketing intelligence platform designed to empower businesses with real-time, data-driven insights.

At the core of Intellsys is Copilot AI, which leverages community intelligence to provide actionable insights, bridging the gap between data analysts and business leaders.

Intellsys simplifies this complexity posed by vase data by consolidating information from over 200 data sources and analysing more than 15 million data points per second. It tracks over 1,000 metrics in real time.

Intellsys represents a new era in marketing intelligence, combining cutting-edge AI with an intuitive user experience. We are not just offering a tool; we’re providing a solution that empowers businesses to make smarter decisions, faster. Intellsys enables leaders to focus on strategic growth while leaving the complexity of data management to AI,” said Ashutosh Kumar, CEO of GrowthJockey.

(This article will be updated with the latest news throughout the day.)

Time is the one asset that is equally distributed among all of us, yet it often feels like there’s just not enough of it. As 2025 begins, the opportunity to start fresh urges us to evaluate how we allocate our hours. Are you stuck in a never-ending cycle of work, struggling to balance personal growth and relaxation? Or are you searching for ways to simplify your life while still achieving your goals? The solutions might just be found within the pages of a well-chosen book.

This list features eight impactful books, each offering practical strategies and profound insights to help you take back control of your time. Whether you’re a business professional, a parent, or simply someone seeking balance, these books have something to offer.

8 books that can help you reclaim time

1. Atomic Habits by James Clear

Atomic Habits unpacks the science of building habits and demonstrates how small, incremental behavioural changes can yield massive results. James Clear outlines easy-to-follow techniques to eliminate bad habits, create positive ones, and sustain them long-term.

Why read it: If you’ve ever struggled to maintain your goals or stick to a productive routine, this book provides a clear, actionable guide to establishing habits that save time and enhance productivity.

2. The 4-hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss

Tim Ferriss flips the traditional work model on its head, teaching readers how to achieve more by working less. By using strategies like outsourcing, automation, and selective prioritisation, the book shows you how to redesign your work-life balance.

Why read it: Feeling stuck in the grind? The 4-hour Workweek offers a revolutionary approach to escaping the cycle of overwork and reclaiming your time for the things you value most.

3. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown

Essentialism focuses on the idea of simplifying life by concentrating only on what truly matters. Greg McKeown provides strategies to cut out distractions and unnecessary commitments, helping you make better use of your energy and time.

Why read it: Overwhelmed with too many responsibilities? This book is a reminder that doing less can often lead to accomplishing more, making it a must-read for those looking to focus on meaningful goals.

4. Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky

Make Time offers practical techniques for carving out time for meaningful activities amidst the constant distractions of modern life. It includes tips for designing a focused schedule and adopting habits that bring joy and productivity.

Why read it: In a world filled with endless distractions, this book helps you regain control over your time and live more intentionally by focusing on what truly matters.

5. Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport

Deep Work emphasises the importance of cultivating deep, uninterrupted focus to excel in a world filled with distractions. Cal Newport provides actionable methods to strengthen your ability to concentrate and maximise output.

Why read it: If you want to produce high-quality work in less time, this book equips you with tools to master focus and eliminate inefficiencies.

6. Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman

This book offers a profound take on time management by highlighting the brevity of life. Burkeman encourages readers to accept life’s limitations and focus on what truly matters rather than trying to do it all.

Why read it: If you’re feeling pressured to be everything to everyone, Four Thousand Weeks teaches you how to embrace mindfulness and set realistic priorities.

7. The Productivity Project by Chris Bailey

After dedicating a year to testing productivity methods, Chris Bailey shares the most effective strategies for managing time, energy, and focus. This book combines scientific research with personal experiments to offer practical advice.

Why read it: For anyone seeking real-world tips to achieve more while staying energised and avoiding burnout, The Productivity Project is a treasure trove of insights.

8. Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World by Cal Newport

Digital Minimalism explores the impact of digital distractions on our time and attention. Newport presents a philosophy for reducing screen time and adopting a more intentional approach to technology use.

Why read it: If you feel like technology has taken over your life, this book shows you how to regain control, build healthier habits, and focus on meaningful activities.

Conclusion

Reclaiming your time is not about packing more into your schedule; it’s about dedicating your energy to what truly matters. These eight books offer a blend of actionable advice and thought-provoking ideas to help you approach 2025 with clarity, focus, and intention.