Preventive healthcare and artificial intelligence sectors are in focus. Healthtech startup Cent has reportedly raised $15 million, while Peak XV and Lightspeed are among the venture firms reported to be discussing investments in Indian AI startups.

Cent’s plan to make health screening more accessible

Founded in 2025, Cent was started by Practo co-founder Shashank ND, former Ola executive Anshul Khandelwal and former Lenskart product leader Arpit Garg. The Bengaluru-based company brings together medical scans, blood tests and doctor consultations to help identify potential health risks earlier. Its screening covers cardiac, cancer, neurological and metabolic risks.

As reported by PharmaBiz, Cent has raised $15 million in a Series A round. The new funding is intended to support the company’s growth and its preventive screening work. In practical terms, that could mean expanding its screening centres and improving the technology and services used to bring tests and medical guidance together.

Cent is entering a field that includes established diagnostic providers such as Thyrocare, as well as newer preventive health businesses. Its challenge will be to build trust and show that customers find value in a detailed screening service.

Peak XV and Lightspeed look toward AI

A separate report from EquityPandit says Peak XV and Lightspeed are in talks to invest in Indian AI startups. These discussions point to investor interest in companies building AI products and the tools businesses need to use them.

That could include software that helps a company run an AI service or tools that apply AI to a specific industry. But an investment under discussion is not a completed deal. The startups, amounts and final terms may only become clear if the parties announce agreements.

Why these stories matter

Cent’s reported funding reflects a bet on people paying for more detailed health checks before symptoms appear. The AI discussions reflect another kind of bet: that Indian startups can build useful products for businesses and consumers. In both cases, funding gives companies room to grow, but long-term success will depend on whether customers adopt their services and the businesses can deliver on their plans.

Disclaimer

Funding discussions and company plans can change. This article is for general information only and is not medical or investment advice.