Entrepreneur's Live Interviews 🎙️

In this episode of ELI, we delve into the fascinating journey of Entod Pharmaceuticals, a leading international research company with over four decades of expertise in ophthalmology, ENT, and dermatology. Host Priyaranjan Mohanty sits down with Mr. Nikkhil K. Masurkar, the CEO of Entod, to explore the company's rich history, its evolution from a contract manufacturer to a research-driven innovator, and India's burgeoning role in the global pharmaceutical landscape.Mr. Masurkar shares insights into his early life, his education in pharmacy and research in the UK, and how he brought that knowledge back to India to propel Entod forward. We discuss the vision of his grandfather, the founder, and how Entod's specialization in niche segments is addressing the growing healthcare needs in India.Discover the inside story of pharmaceutical research and development in India, the intricacies of clinical trials and regulatory approvals, and Entod's commitment to bringing innovative and affordable medicines to patients. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the pharmaceutical industry, entrepreneurship in healthcare, and India's journey towards becoming a global pharma leader.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to ELI and Guest Mr. Nikkhil K. Masurkar00:43 Nikkhil K. Masurkar's Early Life and Background01:28 Joining and Growing Entod Pharmaceuticals02:29 The Evolution and Founding Story of Entod (1977-2025)03:59 The Meaning Behind Entod's Name and Logo04:25 Entod's Early Days as a Contract Manufacturer05:06 Transitioning to Own Brands and R&D in the Early 2000s05:47 Internationalizing the Business and Current Focus06:49 Learnings from Studying Pharmacy and Research in the UK07:58 India's Growing Strength in Pharmacy and Medicine Post-COVID09:15 India as the "Pharmacy of the World" and the Shift Towards R&D10:32 India's R&D Ecosystem and Future Growth in Pharma12:38 Specializing in Ophthalmology, ENT, and Dermatology: The Rationale13:56 Increasing Stress on Senses Due to Modern Lifestyles15:14 India's Success Story in the Ophthalmology Industry16:46 Accessibility and Affordability of Eye Care in India17:55 Factors Driving the Success of Ophthalmology in India19:43 Expansion and Future of Eye Care and ENT in India21:03 Continued Need and Potential in Ophthalmology21:39 Entod's Investment and Logistics in R&D22:21 Cost-Effectiveness of R&D in India22:50 Clinical Trials and Regulatory Approval Process in India (CDSCO)23:26 Developing World-First Therapies in India24:02 Untapped Potential of the Indian Domestic Pharma Market24:25 Entod's Focus on World-First Therapies for Global South25:41 Timeline for Developing and Launching a New Medicine26:25 Credibility and Value of Regulatory Approvals in India27:06 Marketing and Distribution Logistics for Pharmaceutical Products in India27:42 Role of Medical Representatives and Field Force28:11 Academic Support and Events in Ophthalmology, ENT, and Dermatology29:06 Shifting from Foreign-Led to India-Led Academic Events29:21 Reaching Out to Patients and Raising Disease Awareness30:15 Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs in the Healthcare Sector30:57 Identifying Unmet Healthcare Needs Specific to India31:33 Importance of a Research and Innovation Mindset32:12 Innovate and Take Calculated Risks for Long-Term Success33:00 Closing Remarks and Thank You to Mr. Nikkhil K. Masurkar33:23 Thank You and End

In this episode of ELI, we delve into the fascinating journey of Entod Pharmaceuticals, a leading international research company with over four decades of expertise in ophthalmology, ENT, and dermatology. Host Priyaranjan Mohanty sits down with Mr. Nikkhil K. Masurkar, the CEO of Entod, to explore the company's rich history, its evolution from a contract manufacturer to a research-driven innovator, and India's burgeoning role in the global pharmaceutical landscape.Mr. Masurkar shares insights into his early life, his education in pharmacy and research in the UK, and how he brought that knowledge back to India to propel Entod forward. We discuss the vision of his grandfather, the founder, and how Entod's specialization in niche segments is addressing the growing healthcare needs in India.Discover the inside story of pharmaceutical research and development in India, the intricacies of clinical trials and regulatory approvals, and Entod's commitment to bringing innovative and affordable medicines to patients. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the pharmaceutical industry, entrepreneurship in healthcare, and India's journey towards becoming a global pharma leader.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to ELI and Guest Mr. Nikkhil K. Masurkar00:43 Nikkhil K. Masurkar's Early Life and Background01:28 Joining and Growing Entod Pharmaceuticals02:29 The Evolution and Founding Story of Entod (1977-2025)03:59 The Meaning Behind Entod's Name and Logo04:25 Entod's Early Days as a Contract Manufacturer05:06 Transitioning to Own Brands and R&D in the Early 2000s05:47 Internationalizing the Business and Current Focus06:49 Learnings from Studying Pharmacy and Research in the UK07:58 India's Growing Strength in Pharmacy and Medicine Post-COVID09:15 India as the "Pharmacy of the World" and the Shift Towards R&D10:32 India's R&D Ecosystem and Future Growth in Pharma12:38 Specializing in Ophthalmology, ENT, and Dermatology: The Rationale13:56 Increasing Stress on Senses Due to Modern Lifestyles15:14 India's Success Story in the Ophthalmology Industry16:46 Accessibility and Affordability of Eye Care in India17:55 Factors Driving the Success of Ophthalmology in India19:43 Expansion and Future of Eye Care and ENT in India21:03 Continued Need and Potential in Ophthalmology21:39 Entod's Investment and Logistics in R&D22:21 Cost-Effectiveness of R&D in India22:50 Clinical Trials and Regulatory Approval Process in India (CDSCO)23:26 Developing World-First Therapies in India24:02 Untapped Potential of the Indian Domestic Pharma Market24:25 Entod's Focus on World-First Therapies for Global South25:41 Timeline for Developing and Launching a New Medicine26:25 Credibility and Value of Regulatory Approvals in India27:06 Marketing and Distribution Logistics for Pharmaceutical Products in India27:42 Role of Medical Representatives and Field Force28:11 Academic Support and Events in Ophthalmology, ENT, and Dermatology29:06 Shifting from Foreign-Led to India-Led Academic Events29:21 Reaching Out to Patients and Raising Disease Awareness30:15 Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs in the Healthcare Sector30:57 Identifying Unmet Healthcare Needs Specific to India31:33 Importance of a Research and Innovation Mindset32:12 Innovate and Take Calculated Risks for Long-Term Success33:00 Closing Remarks and Thank You to Mr. Nikkhil K. Masurkar33:23 Thank You and End

In this episode of ELI, we host Samir Mathur, the Managing Director of ROInet, a company building India's largest last-mile financial services network. Learn about Samir's journey from a transferable job background and MBA at MIT Sloan to tackling the crucial issue of financial inclusion in India.We delve into:The inspiration behind ROInet and the research done at MIT and Harvard.The definition and current state of financial inclusion in India.How ROInet built a massive network of 4 crore customers and 3.78 lakh service points through a partner-driven model.The challenges faced in onboarding and training partners across diverse regions.ROInet's strategy for leveraging technology, including localization and AI chatbots.The future of financial inclusion in India and ROInet's evolving role.Valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to solve India's real problems.Tune in to hear Samir's insightful perspectives on entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and building a business that impacts millions of lives in India.#FinancialInclusion #IndiaStartup #Entrepreneurship #ROInet #Fintech #Podcast #BusinessJourney #StartupStory #ELIChapters:0:00 Introduction to Samir Mathur and ROInet0:39 Samir's Background and Journey to Entrepreneurship3:28 The Genesis of ROInet and Financial Inclusion4:48 Research Insights on Financial Inclusion in India8:11 Comparing Wealth Distribution in the US and India9:01 Is Per Capita Income a True Measure of Development?11:17 Positive Changes and Progress in India12:21 Defining Financial Inclusion and India's Progress15:43 ROInet's Massive Customer Base and Network16:49 The Partner-Driven Model of ROInet Explained20:16 Deep Dive into ROInet's Service Points: Operations and Services22:48 Challenges Faced in Onboarding and Managing Partners25:00 Localizing Digital Products and Leveraging Technology27:20 The Future of Financial Inclusion in India and ROInet's Evolution31:11 Advice for Entrepreneurs on Solving India's Problems34:17 Closing Remarks and Thank You

Join us for an insightful conversation with Saurabh Marda, co-founder of Freyr Energy, a leading rooftop solar company in India. Saurabh shares his journey into the booming solar sector, the reasons behind its recent surge in India, and Freyr Energy's unique approach to making solar accessible for homes and businesses. Discover common misconceptions about solar power, the impressive payback periods, and Saurabh's vision for India's clean energy future beyond solar. A must-watch for anyone interested in renewable energy and India's sustainable development!

In this episode of ELI, we speak with Karun Kandoi, the founder of Vidysea, an innovative platform revolutionizing how students find the right educational path, both domestically and internationally. Karun shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from his early exposure to family business to working at tech giants like GE and Microsoft before founding his own ventures.Discover how Vidysea utilizes AI-powered matching to connect students with suitable universities and courses based on their profile and preferences. We delve into the critical aspects of funding higher education abroad, including scholarships and affordable options in Europe. Karun also provides valuable insights into the initial challenges and successes of building Vidysea and his unique approach to student acquisition.Finally, we discuss the evolving landscape of international education, addressing concerns about tighter immigration policies and exploring the exciting future of global student mobility. Whether you're a student planning your academic journey or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiring stories.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to ELI and Karun Kandoi, Founder of Vidysea01:23 Karun's Background and Journey into Entrepreneurship05:57 The Trigger Moment for Starting Vidysea: Helping Students Find Their Calling07:55 Finding Your Calling: Evaluating Student Strengths and Passions12:45 AI-Powered Matching: How Vidysea Recommends Universities and Courses18:20 Funding Your Education Abroad: Loans and Scholarship Opportunities20:19 The Journey of Building Vidysea: Initial Days and Key Learnings26:51 Student Acquisition Strategies: Creating Value for Prospective Customers29:23 The Future of Studying Abroad: Navigating Immigration and Global Trends35:15 Global Expansion Plans for Vidysea36:30 Closing Remarks and Thank You

ELI: India's only podcast dedicated to founder journeys. In this episode, we sit down with Sonali Chowdhry, CEO of Netcomm Labs and Officenet, a leading SaaS-based HRTech platform. Hear Sonali's story of building her company over two decades, the evolution of Officenet's comprehensive "Hire to Retire" HR solutions, her perspective on the biggest trends shaping the HR landscape and the future of work, plus valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the tech space.

Welcome to ELI, India's premier podcast where we delve into the journeys of visionary founders. In this episode, we host Nikhil Gangamkote, the CEO of Prime Toolings, a leader in precision engineering and manufacturing.Nikhil elaborates on Prime Toolings' unique integrated approach, blending industrial design, simulation, and manufacturing under one roof, and how this benefits their clients and fuels innovation. Discover the driving force behind their strategic pivot towards becoming a product-based industry, focusing on propulsion and aerostructures, and their ambitious long-term goals in these cutting-edge areas.Get an exclusive insight into Prime Toolings' groundbreaking development of a Rotating Detonation Engine for short-range missiles – from the development process and potential impact to the challenges faced. Nikhil also sheds light on the extent of AI integration within their fully automated manufacturing operations and how it enhances efficiency, precision, and impacts their workforce.Learn about Prime Toolings' significant contribution to the growth of indigenous defense manufacturing in India, aligned with the "Make in India" initiative and backed by their ISO 9001:2015 certification. Nikhil also discusses their impactful internship program aimed at shaping the future generation of aerospace engineers.Finally, Nikhil shares insights into how Prime Toolings stays ahead in a rapidly evolving industry and offers a glimpse into their upcoming projects and milestones as they strive to become a global leader in precision manufacturing with a focus on sustainable engineering solutions.Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and inspiration from the remarkable journey of Nikhil Gangamkote and Prime Toolings.

Discover the entrepreneurial journey of Rahul Veerwal, the founder and CEO of GetWork. From his experiences managing placements at NIT Allahabad to building an AI-driven hiring platform impacting thousands of students across India, Rahul shares valuable insights on the challenges fresh graduates face, the impact of AI on job opportunities, and his vision for empowering the next generation of talent. We discuss the evolution of GetWork, their go-to-market strategy, and the future of recruitment in a rapidly changing world.

Welcome to ELI, the podcast where we interview startup founders in India. In this episode, we speak with Avinash Shekhar, the founder of Pi42, India's first crypto-to-INR futures trading platform. Avinash simplifies the world of crypto futures trading, explaining how it works in the crypto space. We delve into the advantages of leverage (up to 75x on Pi42), the regulatory landscape of crypto in India, including taxation and the role of the government in preventing fraud. He also shares his journey into the crypto world and his vision for Pi42 in the next 5 to 10 years, aiming to be a leading crypto exchange globally. Tune in to understand the potential of crypto and blockchain in India and the opportunities for entrepreneurs in this evolving space.Chapters & Timestamps0:00 - Introduction0:11 - Meet Avinash Shekhar, Founder of Pi420:58 - Understanding Crypto Futures Trading2:27 - Demystifying Leverage in Crypto4:20 - Crypto Regulation in India vs. Traditional Finance5:22 - Evolution of Crypto Regulation and Fraud Prevention8:20 - India's Position in the Global Crypto Race12:06 - Avinash's Journey into the Crypto World15:26 - Building a Crypto Startup: Technology and Team19:24 - Navigating Regulatory Challenges in the Indian Crypto Market24:20 - Pi42: Current State and Growth26:49 - Entrepreneurial Opportunities Beyond Crypto Exchanges30:40 - Pi42's Vision for the Future34:33 - Conclusion

Chapters with Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction to Entrepreneur Lounge of India (ELI)0:03 - Guest Introduction: Ajay Rao, Founder & CEO of Emiza Supply Chain Services0:23 - Ajay Rao's Introduction and Background0:49 - Early Career and Entry into Supply Chain (US & India)1:27 - First Venture: ATM Cash Logistics at Writer2:18 - Moving to the Relocation Business within Writer2:56 - Role at Allcargo Logistics: Warehousing and LCL Business3:51 - The Decision to Embrace Entrepreneurship at 404:34 - Identifying the Opportunity in E-commerce Logistics for SMBs5:14 - Founding Emiza Supply Chain Services5:46 - Focusing on the Gap in Warehousing for Emerging E-commerce Brands7:40 - Challenges Faced by SMBs with Traditional 3PL Providers8:01 - Emiza's Agile Network and Business Model8:32 - Vision for Emiza: Dynamic Fulfillment Solutions8:51 - Topic Shift: Building Scalable Platforms for SMBs (Technology)9:28 - Importance of Infrastructure and Process over Technology for Emiza9:53 - Leveraging Existing Marketplaces and SAS Platforms10:24 - Emiza's Value Proposition: Plug-and-Play Infrastructure10:54 - Addressing the Real Estate Cost Aspect and Initial Capital11:44 - Advantage as a First Mover and Focus on Beauty & Personal Care (BPC)12:32 - Topic Shift: Challenges Today in Logistics (Post Quick Commerce)12:50 - Channel Proliferation and the Increasing Demand for Speed13:32 - Quick Commerce Disrupting Traditional Delivery Times13:50 - Adapting Back-End Operations for Speed and Multi-Channel Fulfillment14:12 - Inventory Replication and Management Challenges14:28 - Emiza's Solutions: Appointment Delivery, Same-Day Delivery, Inventory Replication14:59 - Efficient Inventory Management and Return on Capital15:22 - Topic Shift: India's Logistics Cost Compared to Other Countries15:50 - Debating the Reported Logistics Cost Percentage in India16:22 - Inefficiencies in Perishable Goods vs. Other Categories16:52 - Improvement in India's Road Network and Infrastructure17:30 - Rail and Air Network Status17:59 - Development of Warehousing Infrastructure18:13 - Impact of GST on Goods Movement18:33 - India's Advancement in Delivery Speed (10-Minute Delivery)18:51 - Pride in India's Delivery Innovation19:09 - Areas for Improvement: Cold Chain, Rail, Tier 3/4 Distribution19:31 - Topic Shift: Logistics as a Strategic Differentiator20:04 - Speed and Convenience as Key Customer Expectations20:28 - Brands Leveraging Logistics for Competitive Advantage20:47 - Cost Efficiency Through Intelligent Network Design21:17 - Holistic View of Supply Chain: From Procurement to Delivery21:36 - Impact of Efficient Logistics on Top and Bottom Line21:57 - Topic Shift: Impact of AI and Machine Learning on Logistics22:07 - Value and Potential Overuse of AI/ML22:33 - Warehousing and Supply Chain as Cost Centers22:44 - Need for Efficiency in Service Provision23:05 - Focus on Automation (including AI) for Efficiency23:37 - Examples of Automation: WMS, Handheld Devices, Conveyors, Data Usage24:12 - Eliminating Wastages through Data-Driven Insights24:28 - Manpower Optimization and Productivity Monitoring25:12 - Role of AI in Customer Service: Chatbots and AI Agents25:39 - Benefits of AI for Efficiency and Cost Savings25:57 - Topic Shift: Advice for D2C Vendors Based on Emiza's Observations26:18 - Upcoming Opportunities and Trends in the D2C and Logistics Sector26:32 - The Dominance of Quick Commerce26:40 - Category-Specific Reactions to Quick Commerce (Food/FMCG vs. Fashion)27:04 - Brands' Increasing Dependence on Marketplaces27:35 - Importance of Building Own Customer Base (Offline and D2C Websites)27:59 - Brands Pushing into Offline and Modern Trade28:17 - Leveraging AI for Performance Marketing and Inventory Analytics28:33 - Focus on Insight-Based Decision Making and Data-Driven Analytics28:53 - Declining RoRoAS and the Need for Smarter Spending29:13 - Closure of the Session and Thank You