Premji Invest is intensifying its focus on India's defence and aerospace sectors by backing key Bengaluru-based manufacturers, aligning with the country's push for indigenous production. Simultaneously, digital payments startup Razorpay has received regulatory approval to launch an IPO valued between Rs 5,000-6,000 crore, aiming to list possibly by early 2027.
- Premji Invest plans $30-40 million funding rounds in Sanlayan Tech and Hical Tech.
- Razorpay targets Rs 5,000-6,000 crore IPO with probable listing in early 2027.
- Disagreement persists on social security levy calculations among gig economy platforms.
What happened
Premji Invest is expanding its portfolio in the defence and aerospace manufacturing space by entering advanced funding negotiations with two Bengaluru-based companies: defence electronics maker Sanlayan Technologies and aerospace components manufacturer Hical Technologies. These investments signify a deeper commitment to strategic manufacturing sectors. The investment rounds are valued between $30-40 million each, with Premji expected to lead both, alongside partners like Singularity AMC and TVS Capital.
Why it matters
India’s strategic push to reduce defence imports and bolster domestic production creates fertile ground for investment in deeptech and manufacturing companies capable of supporting this shift. Premji Invest’s growing involvement not only signals confidence in indigenous defence manufacturing but also reflects a broader industry trend towards self-reliance and export competitiveness. Its stakes in companies like Hical Technologies, which is moving towards precision manufacturing, and Bharat Forge’s JS Auto Cast highlight high-potential sectors.
What to watch next
Observers should track the closure of Premji Invest’s deals with Sanlayan and Hical, including final valuations and potential partnerships that could accelerate production capabilities in defence electronics and aerospace components. These developments will indicate how private capital is positioning itself in tandem with government initiatives promoting strategic manufacturing and how scalable these ventures become in the export market.
Regarding Razorpay, market participants will monitor the pricing and timing of the IPO amid fluctuating capital markets. The fintech’s financial performance and investor reception will be critical in defining the next phase of its growth. Additionally, the evolving regulatory consensus on gig economy welfare levies will be important to watch as it influences cost structures and operational models for ride-hailing and delivery platforms across India.