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France has taken steps to reduce its reliance on foreign digital platforms by directing public sector employees to move away from services such as Zoom, a move that reflects broader European concerns about technological dependency on non-European technology providers. This strategic shift comes amid growing anxiety in Paris and Brussels about digital sovereignty, data security and geopolitical competition in technology infrastructure. Reducing Dependence on Foreign PlatformsUnder the new guidance, French government agencies and public institutions are being urged to avoid using Zoom and similar U.S.-based communication tools for official work involving sensitive information. The policy is part of a broader effort by the French government to encourage the adoption of European alternatives that adhere to stricter data protection frameworks and are hosted within EU jurisdictions, reducing exposure to foreign legal jurisdictions. This shift should be seen in the context of expanding European ambitions to achieve greater technological autonomy in key areas such as cloud services, communication platforms, artificial intelligence and critical digital infrastructure. European policymakers have increasingly emphasised the importance of reducing dependency on U.S. tech giants a trend that has been accelerated by rising geopolitical tensions and strategic considerations about data sovereignty. Strategic Concerns and Policy DriversThe move is also aligned with discussions at the European Union level, where member states are evaluating strategies to boost domestic digital capabilities and support homegrown technology ecosystems. Officials are examining regulatory and industrial approaches to ensure that European institutions especially in the public sector leverage technology that aligns with EU privacy standards, security policies and critical infrastructure needs. Europe’s push toward digital sovereignty includes efforts to foster indigenous technological ecosystems that can operate independently from dominant foreign providers, especially in communication, cloud computing, and enterprise software. These efforts are part of a broader industrial and innovation strategy to reduce strategic vulnerabilities in critical sectors. Global Context and Wider ImplicationsWhile France’s directive specifically targets state usage of a commercial tool like Zoom, the underlying policy message reverberates across Europe: advanced economies are reassessing their digital infrastructure choices amid a rapidly evolving technology and security landscape. The shift underscores that technology policy decisions are no longer driven solely by convenience or market share but are increasingly informed by sovereign risk, data governance, and strategic autonomy.The emphasis on European alternatives also dovetails with initiatives such as efforts to develop EU-based cloud services and digital platforms that can compete with established global providers, as well as broader discussions on secure communication standards for public administrations. Overall, France’s policy change though seemingly focused on a specific platform represents a broader strategic recalibration within Europe’s technology landscape as governments weigh the importance of digital self-reliance against traditional reliance on large global tech companies. Join SEINET — the digital partnership ecosystem for tech businesses and leaders in EU-UK and India.Start with a verified community, and unlock access to the exclusive Leaders Network for qualified founders and decision-makers. Build trusted partnerships and collaborate efficiently across markets <a href="https://www.startupeuropeindia.net" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.startupeuropeindia.net</a>

France Pushes State Workers Off Zoom as Europe Moves Toward Tech Sovereignty

Under leadership of Shreekant Patil with Poland-India Chamber, Indian MSMEs explore collaboration &amp; growth opportunities in Poland &amp; Europe with key govt partnerships, academic tie-ups, and investor support. Shreekant Patil, along with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/krystynawroblewska/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">Krystyna Wróblewska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://readyforfuture.com/about-us" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">Vincent Peter</a>, Amit Thakkar, and Rahhul Pradhan, recently visited DAWG, a government agency in Poland. During their visit, the delegation met with key government officials and explored promising opportunities at the&nbsp;TriQube incubator&nbsp;located in Wrocław, a dynamic space dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.<a href="https://pl.linkedin.com/company/dawg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;"><img src="https://indiats-prod.fra1.digitaloceanspaces.com/190/thumbnail/news/146/editor/thumbnail_Shreekant Patil at TRiQube Incubation Centre, Wroclaw, Poland_&lt;-&gt;1762862402219_Mqlqm1lkMlzfJpQQ.jpeg">olnośląska Agencja Współpracy Gospodarczej (DAWG)</a>&nbsp;serves as a vital support system for SMEs by providing funding, training, and fostering international collaborations. TriQube, one of DAWG’s flagship initiatives, offers Indian MSMEs and startups access to investment, technology transfer, subsidies, and incentives designed to accelerate business growth. The&nbsp;<a href="https://polandindiachamber.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">Poland-India Chamber of Cooperation (PICC)</a>, in partnership with DAWG and TriQube, is strategically positioned to assist Indian entrepreneurs in investing, collaborating, and expanding their businesses across Poland and the broader European market.<img src="https://indiats-prod.fra1.digitaloceanspaces.com/190/thumbnail/news/146/editor/thumbnail_Shreekant Patil India at DAWG Wroclaw, Poland - Triqube Incubation Centre_&lt;-&gt;1762862436194_jqnY8YTPIgqLMFow.jpeg">oreover, Indian government initiatives including Our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/InvestIndiaIPA?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWQFRh_a9mvgCCWf1gOnXn-78zn_Y1BmiKr5DbMWpkhcKqVcvoRf3mBFdpi4LfxFUpdXyddvkmgIlxpECfy9IE-dtKsDNNDJBE2L5WRgbllx4zPDgnXPJpJLphn4uSLEgoQjG2ZTkp_M0siFlS9iMBA1TeFCYp2Y4jYP9eS9JlbJQ&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">Invest India</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/StartupIndia?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWQFRh_a9mvgCCWf1gOnXn-78zn_Y1BmiKr5DbMWpkhcKqVcvoRf3mBFdpi4LfxFUpdXyddvkmgIlxpECfy9IE-dtKsDNNDJBE2L5WRgbllx4zPDgnXPJpJLphn4uSLEgoQjG2ZTkp_M0siFlS9iMBA1TeFCYp2Y4jYP9eS9JlbJQ&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">Startup India</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/DoIMahaGov?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWQFRh_a9mvgCCWf1gOnXn-78zn_Y1BmiKr5DbMWpkhcKqVcvoRf3mBFdpi4LfxFUpdXyddvkmgIlxpECfy9IE-dtKsDNNDJBE2L5WRgbllx4zPDgnXPJpJLphn4uSLEgoQjG2ZTkp_M0siFlS9iMBA1TeFCYp2Y4jYP9eS9JlbJQ&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">Directorate of Industries, GoM</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ODOPUP?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWQFRh_a9mvgCCWf1gOnXn-78zn_Y1BmiKr5DbMWpkhcKqVcvoRf3mBFdpi4LfxFUpdXyddvkmgIlxpECfy9IE-dtKsDNNDJBE2L5WRgbllx4zPDgnXPJpJLphn4uSLEgoQjG2ZTkp_M0siFlS9iMBA1TeFCYp2Y4jYP9eS9JlbJQ&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">One District One Product</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/QualityCouncilofIndia?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWQFRh_a9mvgCCWf1gOnXn-78zn_Y1BmiKr5DbMWpkhcKqVcvoRf3mBFdpi4LfxFUpdXyddvkmgIlxpECfy9IE-dtKsDNNDJBE2L5WRgbllx4zPDgnXPJpJLphn4uSLEgoQjG2ZTkp_M0siFlS9iMBA1TeFCYp2Y4jYP9eS9JlbJQ&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">Quality Council of India</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NSDCIndiaOfficial?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWQFRh_a9mvgCCWf1gOnXn-78zn_Y1BmiKr5DbMWpkhcKqVcvoRf3mBFdpi4LfxFUpdXyddvkmgIlxpECfy9IE-dtKsDNNDJBE2L5WRgbllx4zPDgnXPJpJLphn4uSLEgoQjG2ZTkp_M0siFlS9iMBA1TeFCYp2Y4jYP9eS9JlbJQ&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">NSDC National Skill Development Corporation</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SkillIndiaOfficial?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWQFRh_a9mvgCCWf1gOnXn-78zn_Y1BmiKr5DbMWpkhcKqVcvoRf3mBFdpi4LfxFUpdXyddvkmgIlxpECfy9IE-dtKsDNNDJBE2L5WRgbllx4zPDgnXPJpJLphn4uSLEgoQjG2ZTkp_M0siFlS9iMBA1TeFCYp2Y4jYP9eS9JlbJQ&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">Skill India</a>&nbsp;have the opportunity to formalize Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at facilitating Indian MSMEs’ entry into the European market. These MoUs also encompass academic collaborations with Polish universities to promote technology transfer and increase job opportunities in Poland. <img src="https://indiats-prod.fra1.digitaloceanspaces.com/190/thumbnail/news/146/editor/thumbnail_Shreekant Patil with PICC and delegates at Triqube Incubation, Wroclaw, Poland_&lt;-&gt;1762862491834_hcLpwZlEQLEZmSe0.jpeg">Polish investors have expressed readiness to invest in Indian MSMEs and startups, offering handholding support in technology, research and development, and market access. This collaborative framework ensures that Indian entrepreneurs are equipped with the necessary guidance and resources to succeed in global markets, particularly in Poland and Europe. During the visit, the delegation held constructive discussions with Magdalena Juzyszyn, Director, Łukasz Kasprzak, Deputy Director from Urząd Marszałkowski Województwa Dolnośląskiego, Grzegorz Małyga, Deputy Head, and Krzysztof Górka, further solidifying the partnership for sustained innovation and economic growth. <a href="https://shreekantpatilmentor.wordpress.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">CEng. Shreekant Patil</a>&nbsp;is a distinguished advocate for scaling up Indian MSMEs, leveraging his extensive international experience to empower exporters and industry associations. As a Chartered Engineer and certified MSME consultant, he plays a pivotal role in fostering global trade ties, particularly between India and Europe, through strategic initiatives such as the Poland-India Chamber of Cooperation. Shreekant actively supports MSMEs by facilitating access to technology transfer, market expansion, and capacity-building programs. His collaborations with government bodies, export councils, and financial institutions aim to strengthen MSME competitiveness, enhance export readiness, and promote sustainable growth across sectors. Startups and MSMEs aspiring to elevate their business to the next level are invited to connect with Shreekant Patil, a seasoned mentor and consultant passionate about enabling growth. With deep expertise in government schemes, export facilitation, business development, and access to both domestic and international markets, Shreekant offers personalized guidance and support. Whether you are seeking to scale your operations, navigate subsidies, or expand globally, this is your opportunity to receive hands-on mentorship tailored for success. Contact Shreekant Patil now to begin your growth journey.

Unlocking European Markets for Indian MSMEs Startups Collaboration and Growth in Poland Europe

Temasek Holdings, Singapore’s state investment company, has sold its 35 percent stake in Schneider Electric India Pvt Ltd (SEIPL), an Indian joint venture with French multinational Schneider Electric, for 5.5 billion euros (S$8.2 billion) in cash, marking a tenfold return on its initial investment. The deal, announced on Wednesday, transfers full ownership of the joint venture to Schneider Electric, strengthening the French company’s strategic focus on India as a key growth market and global hub. Temasek acquired the 35 percent stake in SEIPL for 530 million euros in 2020, when Schneider Electric merged its Indian low-voltage and industrial automation product unit with the electrical and automation operations of Larsen &amp; Toubro Ltd. The joint venture, established in 2018, has since grown into Schneider’s third-largest market by revenue, generating 1.8 billion euros in statutory revenue in 2024, with total India sales, including exports, reaching 2.5 billion euros across Schneider’s subsidiaries. Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, emphasized that full ownership of SEIPL will enhance its decision-making speed and agility in India, a critical hub in its multi-hub global strategy. The company operates 31 factories and 31 distribution centers in India, positioning the country as a cornerstone for its research, development, and supply chain operations, particularly for the Asia-Pacific and emerging markets. Schneider projects double-digit compound annual growth in SEIPL’s organic sales in the coming years and plans to scale its Indian operations by 2.5 to 3 times. “This transaction represents the logical next step in Schneider Electric’s strategic investment focus on India as both an attractive domestic growth market and one of the key hubs in its multi-hub strategy,” Schneider Electric stated in a press release. Olivier Blum, the company’s CEO, underscored India’s role, noting, “India is one of the key focus markets of Schneider Electric for the years to come.” The deal, subject to regulatory approval from India’s antitrust regulator, the Competition Commission of India, is expected to close in the coming quarters. It follows earlier reports in July 2025 that Schneider was in talks to acquire Temasek’s stake for approximately US$1 billion, which would have valued the joint venture at US$5 billion, including debt. The final transaction price of 5.5 billion euros reflects a significantly higher valuation, underscoring the venture’s growth and India’s rising importance in global markets. Temasek’s exit aligns with its broader investment strategy in India, where dealmaking activity is surging. Mergers and acquisitions in India reached US$31 billion in 2025, a 16 percent increase from the previous year, according to Bloomberg data. Temasek has been active in the region, recently investing US$1 billion in Indian snacks maker Haldiram and increasing its stake in Italian luxury group Ermenegildo Zegna to 10 percent. Chia Song Hwee, Temasek’s Deputy CEO, highlighted the success of the Schneider partnership, stating, “We have been privileged to journey alongside Schneider Electric India and look forward to seeing them grow as a leading franchise in India.” The sale reflects growing investor confidence in India’s economic potential, driven by its status as the world’s most populous nation and government initiatives promoting domestic manufacturing. Schneider Electric’s deepened commitment to India includes plans to manufacture 90 percent of its products locally and expand its research and development capabilities, further solidifying the country’s role in its global operations. The transaction marks a significant milestone for both companies, with Temasek securing a substantial return and Schneider Electric positioning itself to capitalize on India’s rapid economic growth and industrial transformation. Sources: The Business Times International, The Hindu BusinessLine, Business Standard, News18, NDTV Profit Join Startup Europe India Network - a verified platform connecting Indian and European business and product leaders to accelerate growth.

Temasek Nets 10-Fold Gain with S$8.2 Billion Stake Sale in Schneider Electric India

The Indian rupee has been on a downward trajectory against the US dollar, recently hitting a record low of approximately INR 85/USD. This depreciation reflects a confluence of domestic economic challenges and global financial dynamics. Understanding the reasons behind this trend and its broader implications requires an exploration of several interconnected factors. Key Factors Behind the Rupee's Depreciation1. Trade ImbalanceIndia has long grappled with a persistent trade deficit, where imports exceed exports. This imbalance increases the demand for US dollars to pay for imports, placing downward pressure on the rupee. Critical imports such as oil and electronics amplify this deficit, as these sectors are heavily reliant on international markets. 2. Capital OutflowsIn 2024, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) withdrew over ₹43,000 crore from Indian markets. Such significant outflows reduce demand for the rupee while simultaneously increasing demand for the dollar. This trend underscores the sensitivity of emerging markets like India to global investor sentiment. 3. Stronger US DollarThe US dollar's global strength has compounded the rupee's depreciation. A robust US economy, coupled with a hawkish stance from the US Federal Reserve, has driven up demand for dollar-denominated assets, making the rupee comparatively weaker. 4. Inflation DifferentialIndia's inflation rate remains higher than that of the US. This inflation differential erodes the purchasing power of the rupee and makes Indian goods less competitive in global markets, contributing to further depreciation. 5. Global Economic UncertaintyOngoing geopolitical tensions—such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the US-China rivalry—have created an uncertain global economic landscape. In such volatile conditions, investors gravitate toward safe-haven currencies like the US dollar, increasing its demand at the expense of emerging market currencies like the rupee. 6. Interest Rate DifferentialsRising US interest rates attract foreign capital flows into US assets, creating an increased demand for dollars. In contrast, India’s relatively lower interest rates diminish its attractiveness for foreign investments, exacerbating rupee depreciation. 7. Current Account DeficitIndia's current account deficit, which reflects the country's higher expenditure on foreign trade than its earnings, has widened in recent years. This imbalance results in a net outflow of domestic currency, weakening the rupee further. 8. Structural Economic ChallengesIndia's reliance on imports for critical sectors, limited export diversification, and high external debt collectively heighten the rupee's sensitivity to global economic changes. Initiatives like ‘Make in India’ aim to address these issues, but their long-term impact is still unfolding. The Paradox: Economic Growth Amid Rupee WeaknessDespite the rupee's depreciation, India’s economy remains one of the fastest-growing globally, with GDP projected to expand by 7% in FY 2023-24. This paradox highlights the nuanced interplay between economic growth and currency stability. Drivers of Economic Growth<ol><li>Strong Domestic Consumption: Contributing nearly 70% to GDP.</li><li>Robust Services Sector: Accounting for over 53% of economic output.</li><li>Rising Private Investment: Particularly in real estate and manufacturing.</li><li>Government Infrastructure Spending: Supporting long-term economic resilience.</li></ol> Challenges to Growth<ol><li>Widening Trade and Current Account Deficits: These imbalances divert domestic currency outflows.</li><li>Capital Flight: FIIs withdrawing investments reduces liquidity in domestic markets.</li><li>Inflation Differential: Weakens competitiveness of Indian exports.</li></ol> Policy Responses and Their Impacts1. RBI InterventionsThe Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has actively intervened in currency markets, selling dollars to stabilize the rupee. While this offers short-term relief, it also reduces domestic liquidity, which could impact overall economic growth.2. Policy Trade-offsBalancing inflation control, growth support, and currency stability poses significant challenges for policymakers. Efforts to curb inflation often involve raising interest rates, which can deter investments and slow growth.3. Structural ReformsAddressing India’s reliance on imports and diversifying exports are critical to ensuring long-term currency stability. Policies like the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes are steps in this direction but require sustained execution and investment.Implications of Rupee Depreciation<ol><li>Higher Import Costs: A weaker rupee raises the cost of essential imports, including crude oil, leading to inflationary pressures.</li><li>Export Competitiveness: Depreciation can boost exports by making Indian goods cheaper globally, but subdued global demand may limit this benefit.</li><li>Foreign Investments: A weaker rupee lowers entry costs for foreign investors, but currency risks might deter long-term commitments.</li><li>Consumer Impact: Rising prices for imported goods could erode purchasing power, affecting domestic consumption.</li></ol> Outlook and Way ForwardThe rupee’s depreciation is a symptom of broader economic dynamics. While India’s growth trajectory remains robust, addressing key vulnerabilities is essential to aligning currency stability with economic expansion. Structural reforms, prudent fiscal management, and a strategic approach to global economic headwinds will play pivotal roles. Upcoming Challenges<ol><li>Elections and Policy Shifts: The 2024 elections may bring new economic policies that could influence investor sentiment and currency stability.</li><li>Global Economic Conditions: The interplay between global interest rates, geopolitical tensions, and trade dynamics will remain crucial.</li></ol> India’s journey to balance economic growth with currency stability underscores the complexities of navigating an interconnected global economy. With the right strategies, the country can leverage its growth potential while mitigating the challenges posed by a depreciating rupee.---Join SEINET&nbsp;- the exclusive network for tech and science product and industry leaders. SignUp Free&nbsp;<a href="http://www.startupeuropeindia.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--tw-prose-links);">www.startupeuropeindia.net</a>

The Indian Rupee's Depreciation Against the US Dollar: Causes, Context, and Consequences

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