Startup
How the government can support Indian precast construction startups
India’s construction sector is witnessing rapid growth, driven by increasing urbanization and infrastructure development, which in turn is boosting the demand for innovative building technologies.
Precast construction, where building components are manufactured in a factory and then assembled on-site, offers significant benefits, including faster construction times, improved quality control, and reduced waste. However, for precast construction startups to thrive in India, government support through initiatives and policies is crucial.
One of the most direct ways the government can support precast construction startups is through financial incentives. Subsidies on the purchase of machinery, tax breaks, and grants can significantly reduce the initial capital burden on startups.
Additionally, low-interest loans and financial assistance programmes specifically tailored for the construction sector can help startups scale their operations more quickly.
Simplifying regulatory approvals is another essential measure. The construction industry in India is often bogged down by a myriad of regulatory approvals and permits. Streamlining these processes can help startups in precast construction get their projects off the ground faster.
Simplified approval processes for factory setups and standardized building codes for precast structures can reduce bureaucratic delays and make it easier for startups to comply with regulations.
Investment in research and development (R&D) is critical for the growth of precast construction technologies. The government can support this by funding R&D projects, establishing dedicated research centers, and encouraging collaborations between academia and industry.
This can lead to the development of new materials, improved manufacturing processes, and innovative design techniques that can enhance the competitiveness of Indian precast construction startups on a global scale.
For precast construction to be viable, robust infrastructure is essential. The government can play a pivotal role by investing in the development of industrial parks with state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, improved transportation networks, and efficient logistics systems.
This can help startups reduce production and transportation costs, ensuring timely delivery of precast components to construction sites. Moreover, the success of precast construction largely depends on a skilled workforce proficient in modern construction techniques.
The government can support this by setting up training centers and vocational courses focused on precast construction. Initiatives under the Skill India Mission can be expanded to include specialized training for workers, engineers, and managers in the precast sector, helping bridge the skill gap and ensuring that startups have access to a competent workforce.
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) can provide a significant boost to precast construction startups. By collaborating with private companies, the government can undertake large-scale infrastructure projects that incorporate precast technology.
These partnerships can serve as a platform for startups to demonstrate their capabilities, gain experience, and build a portfolio of successful projects. Additionally, PPPs can facilitate knowledge transfer and technological advancements in the sector.
Encouraging green building practices is another area where the government can make a difference. Precast construction is inherently more sustainable compared to traditional building methods, as it reduces waste and improves resource efficiency.
The government can promote precast construction as part of its green building initiatives. Policies that incentivize sustainable construction practices, such as the use of recycled materials and energy-efficient designs, can encourage startups to adopt and innovate in precast technology.
Creating awareness about the benefits of precast construction is essential for market growth. The government can lead by example by adopting precast methods in public infrastructure projects, setting a precedent for private developers.
Additionally, organizing trade fairs, exhibitions, and seminars can help educate stakeholders about the advantages of precast construction and create market demand for these technologies.
Finally, fostering an innovation-friendly ecosystem can significantly benefit precast construction startups. Establishing incubators and accelerators specifically focused on construction technology can provide startups with the resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities they need to grow. The government can also facilitate connections between startups and larger construction firms, fostering collaborations that can drive innovation and market penetration.
In conclusion, government initiatives and policies play a vital role in nurturing the growth of precast construction startups in India.
By providing financial support, simplifying regulations, promoting R&D, developing infrastructure, enhancing skill development, encouraging public-private partnerships, supporting green building practices, creating market awareness, and fostering innovation ecosystems, the government can create a conducive environment for these startups to thrive. This, in turn, can contribute to faster, more efficient, and sustainable construction practices in India, supporting the country’s broader economic and infrastructure development goals.
(Sagar Muthappa is the CEO of IndiHome123.)
(Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of YourStory.)
Startup
Ola Electric’s Q2 loss narrows as revenue jumps 40%
‘s net loss narrowed in the second quarter of the current financial year (FY25) as the Bhavish Aggarwal-led EV maker reported a 39% jump in sales.
Ola Electric reported a net loss of Rs 495 crore for the July-September quarter, down from Rs 524 crore in the year-ago period. The company’s revenue from operations jumped to Rs 1,214 crore in Q2 from Rs 873 crore a year earlier.
However, on a quarterly basis, Ola Electric’s loss widened from Rs 324 crore in the April-June quarter. The company’s sales declined from Rs 1,644 crore in the previous quarter.
The results come days after the EV-maker’s share price fell below its listing price, two months after the company listed on Indian stock exchanges. On Friday, Ola Electric’s share price closed at Rs 72.67 apiece, down 2.53%. Ola Electric got listed on India’s stock exchanges on August 9 at Rs 76 per share. The company had hit an all-time high of Rs 157.40 apiece.
Ola Electric, currently the market leader in the E2W segment, has also come under intense scrutiny over rising consumer complaints pertaining to its vehicles. In October, the company received a show cause notice from the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) seeking alleged violations of consumer rights, misleading advertising, and unfair trade practices.
The company, in a BSE filing on October 22, said it has provided all requested information and clarification sought by the consumer watchdog. Additionally, Ola Electric said it resolved 99.1% out of 10,644 complaints it received from the CCPA.
The SoftBank Group-backed firm has since doubled down on expanding its service centers and hiring service technicians to help streamline operations and clear backlogs.
Startup
Workplace boundaries: 5 things not to share with coworkers
In today’s workplace, building relationships and open communication are highly encouraged. A collaborative environment can foster trust, creativity, and productivity among colleagues. However, there is a fine line between being friendly and sharing too much. Revealing certain personal information to your coworkers can blur professional boundaries and even affect your career negatively. In a world where first impressions and professionalism matter, knowing what to keep private is crucial to maintaining respect and credibility.
This guide highlights five essential things you should never share with colleagues. From sensitive financial details to personal beliefs, these are boundaries that every professional should respect for the sake of both personal privacy and workplace harmony.
1. Financial information
Discussing your financial situation at work—whether it’s your salary, debts, or even that new loan you’ve taken out—can lead to misunderstandings, envy, or resentment. Salary disparities, in particular, are a sensitive topic and can create friction in the workplace if colleagues perceive unfairness. Moreover, sharing details about your finances could unintentionally set you up for gossip or judgment from others, which could alter their view of your professionalism. If you’re asked directly, a polite but firm response, such as “I prefer not to discuss personal finances,” can help maintain boundaries.
2. Political and religious beliefs
In an era of heightened political polarisation and strong opinions on various social issues, discussing your political or religious beliefs at work can be risky. Even casual remarks can lead to disagreements and, in worst cases, workplace conflicts. This doesn’t mean you should hide your identity, but it’s wise to avoid diving into discussions that might alienate or offend others. Maintaining a neutral stance on sensitive topics can help create a respectful, inclusive work environment.
3. Personal health issues
Your health is deeply personal, and sharing too much about any physical or mental health challenges can lead to unintended consequences. While close friends may share personal health information, colleagues don’t need to know the specifics of your medical history. Revealing health information might result in unwanted sympathy, awkwardness, or even doubt about your ability to perform your job effectively.
4. Negative opinions about colleagues or management
It might feel cathartic to vent about a difficult coworker or a strict manager, but sharing these thoughts with other colleagues can easily backfire. Not only can it damage your reputation, but it could also harm your professional relationships if your words get back to the person in question. Criticising team members or managers can make you seem untrustworthy or negative, both of which can hinder your career progression. Maintaining a neutral or positive stance will reflect professionalism and emotional maturity.
5. Ambitions for a new job or career move
Sharing your plans to apply for a new job or change careers might seem harmless, but it could shift how your colleagues or managers view your commitment. If your supervisor learns that you’re planning to leave, it could lead to fewer opportunities or even less favourable treatment as they prepare for your departure. To protect your current position, focus on your work, and wait to share the news until you’re ready to make a formal exit.
Conclusion
In a professional setting, boundaries are essential for a healthy work environment. While sharing parts of your personal life can help build connections, knowing where to draw the line is equally important. By keeping your financial matters, health concerns, personal beliefs, and career ambitions private, you’ll be better able to maintain a positive reputation, foster respectful relationships, and ultimately advance your career without unnecessary complications.
Remember, in the workplace, less can often be more. Protect your privacy, and you’ll find it easier to focus on what truly matters—your professional growth and contributions.
Startup
Taming the restless ‘Monkey Mind’: 6 signs and calming tips
Do you ever feel as if your thoughts are racing, jumping from one idea to the next without pause? This restless state of mind, commonly known as the “monkey mind,” can leave you feeling overwhelmed, distracted, and unable to focus. Imagine a monkey swinging from branch to branch—never still, always moving. The monkey mind does something similar, dragging your attention in multiple directions at once. In a world filled with constant notifications, endless tasks, and overstimulation, it’s no wonder our minds are often buzzing with a mix of unfinished thoughts, worries, and ideas.
Recognising and managing a monkey mind can be a game-changer for mental clarity, productivity, and peace. In this article, we’ll dive into six telltale signs of a monkey mind and explore proven strategies to calm it down and regain focus.
6 Telltale signs of a monkey mind
1. Constant overthinking
A classic sign of a monkey mind is constant overthinking. You may find yourself analysing every detail, reliving past conversations, or stressing over hypothetical situations that may never happen. This mental loop can keep you from moving forward or making decisions, trapping you in a cycle of what-ifs.
Try to channel overthinking into action by setting a time limit for worrying or planning, and then move on. Journaling can also help you process your thoughts and release them from your mind. Practicing mindfulness by focusing on what you’re doing right now can redirect your attention away from endless what-ifs.
2. Difficulty focusing on a task
If you find yourself switching tasks frequently, unable to concentrate on one thing for long, it’s a clear sign your mind may be restless. The monkey mind is easily distracted, often drawn to anything that promises novelty or instant gratification.
Implementing techniques like the Pomodoro Method—where you work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break—can improve focus. Create a designated workspace, eliminate distractions, and try using noise-cancelling headphones or listening to concentration-friendly music to help you stay on task.
3. Procrastination and avoidance
A monkey mind often leads to procrastination, especially when faced with big or daunting tasks. The mind can become overwhelmed by the task’s complexity, prompting you to avoid it entirely and instead focus on smaller, less important activities.
Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to make them feel less overwhelming. Set a specific goal for each work session, even if it’s just to complete a small portion. Reward yourself for each accomplishment, no matter how small, to keep your momentum going.
4. Heightened anxiety or stress
With the mind constantly jumping from one thought to another, stress and anxiety levels can increase. A monkey mind often dwells on worst-case scenarios and hypothetical fears, causing a continuous cycle of worry and tension.
Incorporate regular deep-breathing exercises or meditation into your day. Slow, mindful breathing can help activate the body’s relaxation response, lowering stress levels and bringing a sense of calm. For some, a quick physical reset—such as stretching or walking—can break the anxiety loop and help you feel grounded.
5. Trouble sleeping
If your mind feels like it’s in overdrive at night, it could be because of a monkey mind. Endless thoughts and worries can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, leaving you feeling exhausted the next day.
Establish a calming bedtime routine to signal your mind and body that it’s time to wind down. Avoid screens at least an hour before bed, and consider listening to a guided meditation or calming sounds to lull your mind into relaxation mode. Journaling before bed can also help you clear your mind by putting your thoughts on paper.
6. Feeling constantly distracted
A monkey’s mind craves stimulation and often finds it challenging to stay present. You may find yourself constantly checking your phone, seeking out new content, or even daydreaming when you should be focused on a task at hand.
Practice “mindful breaks” during your day—short intervals where you put down your devices, observe your surroundings and ground yourself in the present. Limiting the number of things you try to multitask can help, too. Start by giving your full attention to one task, and slowly build your focus endurance from there.
Conclusion
Our minds are naturally curious, and having occasional restless thoughts is normal. However, when the monkey mind takes over, it can disrupt our peace, productivity, and well-being. Recognising the signs of a monkey mind and incorporating calming strategies—like mindfulness, structured work sessions, and relaxation techniques—can help you regain control over your mental landscape. The next time you find your mind swinging wildly, try one of these calming techniques to bring yourself back to a state of balance and clarity.
By making mindfulness a habit and addressing the monkey mind head-on, you’ll be able to cultivate a deeper sense of peace, focus, and contentment in your daily life.
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Why Millennials, GenZs Are Riding The Investment Tech Wave In India
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Startups That Caught Our Eyes In September 2023
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
How Raaho Is Using Tech To Transform India’s Fragmented Commercial Trucking
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Meet The 10 Indian Startup Gems In The Indian Jewellery Industry’s Crown
-
Crptocurrency8 months ago
Lither is Making Crypto Safe, Fun, and Profitable for Everyone!
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
How Volt Money Is Unlocking The Value Of Mutual Funds With Secured Lending
-
E-commerce1 year ago
Top Online Couponing Trends To Watch Out For In 2016
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Why Moscow-Based Kladana Considers Indian SME Sector As The Next Big Market For Cloud Computing