India Unveils ₹1 Lakh Crore RDI Fund at TiEcon Delhi-NCR 2025 to Power Deep-Tech Sovereignty

• Industry voices at TiEcon align with PM’s mission to accelerate R&D, innovation, and high-tech manufacturing

TiEcon Delhi-NCR 2025, India's largest deeptech summit, set the tone for one of the nation’s most significant science and technology developments — the launch of the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025.

At the two-day TiEcon Delhi-NCR, a keynote fireside conversation titled “Quantum Leap: Accelerating India’s Tech Sovereignty” brought together Dr. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology (DST- GOI), and Dr. Saurabh Srivastava, Chairman Emeritus, TiE Delhi-NCR. The discussion highlighted India’s focus on strengthening deep-tech capabilities through collaborative R&D, private sector participation, and startup-led innovation - a vision that aligns closely with the objectives of the newly launched RDI Fund.

Dr. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, GOI said, “India stands at a defining moment in its deep-tech journey. The Research, Development and Innovation Fund is a first-of-its-kind initiative to empower corporates, industries, and startups across sunrise sectors such as quantum, AI, semiconductors, biotech, and advanced manufacturing. With liberalized norms and a two-tier fund management model, it aims to catalyse private sector R&D, promote IP creation within India, and strengthen our path toward technological sovereignty. The government’s role is to enable, not control - fostering risk-taking and long-term R&D investment that builds India’s innovation strength.”

Sharing his perspective, Dr. Saurabh Srivastava, Chairman Emeritus, TiE Delhi-NCR, said,

India’s ambition to achieve tech sovereignty depends on uniting scientific excellence with entrepreneurial execution. By deepening collaboration between academia, research, and startups, we can turn cutting-edge discoveries into world-class products. TiE Delhi-NCR continues to be a catalyst for this ecosystem, connecting innovators, investors, and policymakers to drive India’s next wave of technological breakthroughs.

The session followed the inaugural keynote by Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce and Industries, who emphasised the government’s vision to build a deep-tech ecosystem powered by innovation and youth engagement.

Organised by TiE Delhi-NCR, TiEcon Delhi-NCR 2025 brought together policymakers, investors, founders, and global thought leaders to discuss India’s next growth frontier in technology and entrepreneurship. For over 25 years, TiE Delhi-NCR has been a driving force in India’s innovation landscape, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and investment that continue to shape the country’s transformation into a global innovation powerhouse.

About TiE Delhi-NCR

TiE Delhi-NCR is one of the most active and vibrant chapters of TiE Global, dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship through mentoring, networking, education, and funding. With a legacy spanning over two decades, TiE Delhi-NCR continues to empower innovators and founders, driving India’s transformation into a global innovation powerhouse.

Govt of India and Springer Nature Unite to Launch RISE-UTTHAN to Elevate Research Integrity and Rural Innovation

• The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser and Springer Nature partner to strengthen research integrity and open access publishing in Tier 2 & 3 academic institutions

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India and Springer Nature, a global leader in research publishing, have announced a strategic collaboration to increase awareness of the importance of research integrity, open access and other scholarly publishing practices across India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 academic institutions.

The partnership will drive the RISE-UTTHAN initiative – a structured academic engagement programme designed to equip academia, researchers, and scholars with globally benchmarked tools and knowledge to foster ethical, accessible, and high-impact research practices.

The RISE-UTTHAN initiative will focus on three critical pillars of the academic research lifecycle:

1. Research Integrity in Science and Education - equipping scholars to conduct and communicate research that meets the highest standards of ethics and transparency.
2. Open Access Awareness and the Future of Science - complementing India’s One Nation, One Subscription initiative by helping researchers understand the evolving landscape of open science globally.
3. Book Publishing in a Changing World - building researcher capacity to navigate evolving publishing models, from traditional to digital and open formats, ensuring their work reaches wider audiences and contributes to global knowledge-sharing.

Through a mix of workshops, lectures, and hands-on training, the initiative will engage 25–30 research-active institutions and reach approximately 5,000 researchers during the India Research Tour 2025, scaling further in subsequent years based on institutional feedback and resource alignment.

Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, said: “India’s vision for a self-reliant, innovation-driven future rests not only on scientific breakthroughs, but equally on the ethics, accessibility, and impact of the research we produce. The RISE- UTTHAN initiative, in collaboration with Springer Nature, will strengthen these very pillars across higher education institutions, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities where the need and potential for research excellence are significant. These sessions are timely and aligned with India’s science and technology agenda where research must translate into real-world solutions for communities across healthcare, education, clean energy, and sustainable livelihoods.”

Dr. Sapna Poti -Director, Strategic Alliances, Office of PSA, said : “Strengthening research integrity and open access is essential to democratizing knowledge and empowering institutions across India. Through the RISE-UTTHAN initiative, we aim to build a robust ecosystem where researchers from Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions are equipped to contribute meaningfully to global science and national development. This collaboration with Springer Nature is a step toward inclusive excellence in research."

Venkatesh Sarvasiddhi, Managing Director, Springer Nature India, said: “For over 180 years, Springer Nature has been committed to advancing discovery by supporting the global research community. Our collaboration with the Office of the PSA is a milestone in strengthening India’s research ecosystem ensuring that researchers across the country, irrespective of geography, have the knowledge, tools, and support to publish with integrity, embrace open science, and contribute meaningfully to national and global challenges.”

This partnership aligns with India’s national priorities, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and reflects a shared commitment to fostering a culture of responsible, high-quality, and accessible research.

About Office Of PSA:

The Government of India established the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) in November 1999. The PSA’s office aims to provide pragmatic and objective advice to the Prime Minister and the cabinet in matters of Science and Technology. The Office of PSA was placed under the Cabinet Secretariat in August, 2018. Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood is currently serving as the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. The office’s vision is to help enable and empower all spheres of science and technology so that the execution of programs is effective for society and the economy.

About Springer Nature:

Springer Nature is one of the leading publishers of research in the world. We publish the largest number of journals and books and are a pioneer in open research. Through our leading brands, trusted for more than 180 years, we provide technology-enabled products, platforms and services that help researchers to uncover new ideas and share their discoveries, health professionals to stay at the forefront of medical science, and educators to advance learning. We are proud to be part of progress, working together with the communities we serve to share knowledge and bring greater understanding to the world. For more information, please visit about.springernature.com and @SpringerNature.

National Telecom R&D and Skilling Hub Takes Shape in Jabalpur, MP As BSNL Ties With Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco & Nokia

BSNL has launched a major industry-led digital skilling initiative at its premier training institute, Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT), Jabalpur, in collaboration with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia. Here's a breakdown of the initiative's scope, objectives, and impact:

This development is a step towards a broader plan by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, to establish a Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT. Envisioned as an industry-led national hub, TIRTC will focus on developing telecom-specific R&D talent and a future-ready workforce — aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Skill India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

TIRTC will also support product innovation, prototyping, and telecom entrepreneurship in the long term.

Initiative Overview

• Partners: Ericsson India, Qualcomm Technologies, Cisco Systems, Nokia Solutions and Networks India
• Location: Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT), Jabalpur
• Focus Areas: 5G, AI/ML, Cybersecurity, Networking
• Annual Training Goal: Over 2,000 students

Training Programs & Infrastructure

Partner	Contribution	Training Focus
Ericsson	5G Centre of Excellence + Ericsson Educate Program	Hands-on 5G training, global curriculum
Qualcomm	Qualcomm Institute + sponsored training for first 100 participants	Advanced 5G & AI, internships
Cisco	Cisco Networking Academy Program	Networking, cybersecurity, IT skills
Nokia	5G Centre of Excellence + AI/ML Lab + joint certification with BRBRAITT	5G radio/core networks, AI/ML

Strategic Goals

• Establish Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT
• Support national missions: Digital India, Skill India, Make in India, Startup India, Atmanirbhar Bharat
• Build a digitally enabled, job-ready youth workforce. 
• Position Jabalpur as a national hub for telecom R&D, innovation, and skilling

Launch & Leadership

• MoUs signed in New Delhi
• Attended by Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal, BSNL leadership, and partner company representatives

NIT Calicut Named India’s First I-STEM Catalyst Center, Pioneering Regional Innovation and Scientific Access

The Indian Science, Technology and Engineering facilities Map (I-STEM), supported by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, officially announced National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut as the first I-STEM Catalyst Center.

The milestone was marked by the signing of a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between I-STEM and NIT Calicut during SAMAVESHA 11, the flagship I-STEM outreach and engagement event, held at the institute on August 5–6, 2025.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Dr. Harilal Bhaskar, National Coordinator and Chief Operating Officer of I-STEM, highlighted the significance of this initiative, “The Catalyst Center model transforms institutions into living laboratories, enabling hands-on training, local innovation, industry collaboration, and inclusive outreach. By anchoring I-STEM’s national mission into the grassroots, we create a federated network of institutions that serve as change-makers in their regions.”

Catalyst Centers are envisioned as autonomous innovation hubs that decentralize access to high-end scientific infrastructure while aligning with national missions such as Atmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India, and Startup India. These Centers will play a key role in

• Boosting utilization of scientific infrastructure
• Enhancing visibility of underutilized research assets
• Driving community-centered innovation
• Facilitating collaborations between academia, industry, and government stakeholders

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Prasad Krishna, Director of NIT Calicut, emphasized, “By becoming the first I-STEM Catalyst Center, NIT Calicut is set to play a pivotal role in bridging India’s scientific infrastructure divide, driving innovation, and fostering collaborations between academia, industry, and startups at the grassroots level.”

The two-day SAMAVESHA 11 event brought together researchers, faculty, startups, and R&D institutions from across Kerala. Day 1 included lab tours, equipment demonstrations, expert sessions and the Catalyst Center announcement, while Day 2 focused on I-STEM portal training and institutional onboarding.

With NIT Calicut now serving as a regional node for Kerala, I-STEM looks forward to further expanding its Catalyst Center network across India to accelerate innovation, foster collaboration, and democratize access to science.

About I-STEM

The Indian Science, Technology and Engineering facilities Map (I-STEM) is a national initiative of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India. It aims to provide open access to publicly funded R&D facilities across the country, promote collaboration between academia and industry, and improve the optimal utilization of scientific infrastructure through a unified digital platform. I-STEM is committed to democratizing science, enabling innovation, and creating a more inclusive research ecosystem for India.

About NIT Calicut

National Institute of Technology Calicut (NITC) is one of India’s premier engineering institutions and a Centre of Excellence in technical education and research. Known for its cutting-edge research facilities and academic rigor, NIT Calicut is dedicated to fostering innovation, technology development, and knowledge dissemination. With a strong commitment to community engagement and regional development, NITC plays a pivotal role in shaping India's STEM landscape.

Centre of Excellence Unveiled in Bengaluru, Anchoring AI, 5G, and Quantum Research

Union Minister of Communications and Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, on Thursday, inaugurated the VTU-VRIF-TCOE Hub and Spoke Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, a major milestone in India’s mission to accelerate innovation across emerging technologies.

The Centre is the result of a strategic collaboration between Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), Visvesvaraya Research and Innovation Foundation (VRIF), and Telecom Centres of Excellence (TCOE) India, forming an academic-industrial powerhouse focused on future-forward domains including 5G/6G communications, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR), quantum computing, and healthcare technologies.

“In the last 11 years, PM Modi has fundamentally redefined the role of government—from a regulator to a facilitator,” said Minister Scindia. “This Centre is a direct extension of that transformation.”

A Launchpad for Deep-Tech Innovation

The Bengaluru facility operates under a hub-and-spoke model, connecting 228 affiliated colleges and over 400,000 students through VTU’s academic network. The campus boasts over 1 lakh sq. ft. of infrastructure, equipped with cutting-edge R&D labs, collaborative spaces for startups, video conferencing rooms, and student-friendly amenities including daycare and cafeteria services.

Currently, the ecosystem hosts 20+ startups and engages 30+ academic institutions, supported by industry leaders like Keysight Technologies, QpiAI, and Televerge. Skill development programs are being steered by the Telecom Sector Skill Council (TSSC) to align talent with industry needs.

Aligning with Bharat 6G Vision

The Centre’s focus on 6G innovation ties directly into India’s broader ambitions under the Bharat 6G Alliance, which aims to place the country at the forefront of global 6G development by 2030. Areas under active exploration include Indigenous Radio Access Networks (RAN), rural connectivity, and cross-sectoral applications of 6G in agriculture, healthcare, and sustainability.

Connectivity and Impact

Minister Scindia highlighted India's rapid digital transformation:

• Internet users have surged from 250 million to 974 million.
• Broadband subscribers now exceed 940 million.
• India boasts the world’s largest optical fiber network, spanning every village.

CoE Centre represents a paradigm shift in India's tech-driven policy framework, blending academic excellence with industrial agility. By serving as a crucible for deep-tech research, startup incubation, and nationwide skill development, it reinforces the government’s vision of "facilitation over regulation", setting the stage for India’s next decade of innovation.

India Doubles R&D Spend for AI, Quantum & 6G Breakthroughs

India is making a significant push in next-gen technology research, with plans to ramp up annual spending to ₹1,000 crore—more than doubling the ₹400 crore allocated for FY26. This funding will support advancements in 5G/6G, quantum communications, blockchain, and satellite communication, aligning with India's broader vision for technological leadership.

The Bharat 6G Mission is a key part of this strategy, aiming to position India as a global leader in 6G development by 2030. The government has also been actively fostering research in quantum communication, with recent conclaves focusing on standardization, industry collaboration, and innovation.

The Union Budget 2025-26 allocated ₹20,000 crore for research, development, and innovation, with a focus on deep-tech startups, geospatial infrastructure, and Al-driven advancements.

This increased investment underscores India's commitment to self-reliance in emerging technologies, ensuring that domestic research and development keep pace with global advancements. It also strengthens India's position in telecom, cybersecurity, and space-based communication, areas that are becoming increasingly critical.

India's increased investment in quantum communication, AI, and semiconductors is shaping a strategic shift in its technological landscape.

Quantum Communication & AI

The National Quantum Mission is driving advancements in quantum-secured communication, including satellite-based quantum networks and inter-city Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). This strengthens India's cybersecurity framework, making AI-driven systems more resilient against emerging threats.

Semiconductors & AI Integration

India's semiconductor push is gaining momentum with initiatives like the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and new Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes. Companies like Tata Electronics and Micron are setting up fabrication and packaging facilities, ensuring a robust supply chain for AI hardware.

Strategic Positioning

India is crafting a third path in AI and semiconductors, distinct from the U.S.-China rivalry. The IndiaAI Mission is fostering homegrown AI models, reducing reliance on foreign technologies while ensuring data sovereignty.

DRDO’s New Quantum Research Centre in Delhi Strengthens National Security

India's quantum ambitions just took a big leap! The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has inaugurated the Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) at Metcalfe House, Delhi. This facility is designed to strengthen indigenous quantum capabilities for strategic and defence applications.

Spearheaded by Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), QTRC also focuses on foundational technologies including an Ultra-Small Atomic Clock based on Coherent Population Trapping for highly precise timekeeping in Global Navigation Satellite System-denied environments, an Atomic Magnetometer using optically pumped magnetometry for ultra-sensitive magnetic field detection, and Cutting-edge solid-state quantum devices and materials.

A 6 qubit Quantum processor based on superconducting circuit technology, by DRDO and TIFR 

Key Highlights:

• Ultra-Secure Communication: The centre will focus on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) techniques to safeguard national security in the post-quantum era.
• Advanced Quantum Devices: Research includes atomic magnetometers, ultra-small atomic clocks, and solid-state quantum materials.
• Cutting-Edge Experimental Setups: Includes single-photon source test-beds, laser characterization platforms, and micro-fabricated alkali vapor cell analysis.
• National Quantum Mission: DRDO is a key stakeholder, driving indigenous innovation in quantum sensing, secure communications, and post-quantum cryptography.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Director General (Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems & Cyber Systems) Smt Suma Varughese whose vision and leadership were instrumental in conceptualising this cutting-edge facility. DG (Resource & Management) Dr Manu Korulla and Directors of SSPL and SAG, senior scientists, and other dignitaries attended the function.

This move aligns with India's broader push to develop sovereign quantum technologies, ensuring strategic superiority in emerging defence applications.

UST and T-Works Sign MoU to Accelerate Industry 4.0 Solutions for Manufacturing, Semiconductor and Automotive Sectors

• Collaboration to cut R&D costs by up to 40% for startups and enterprises in manufacturing and automotive sectors
• MoU to accelerate innovation and cost- effective product development for startups, MSME and enterprises

UST, a leading digital transformation solutions company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with T-Works, India’s largest prototyping center, established by the Government of Telangana, to accelerate product innovation in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. UST will serve as the systems integrator, offering end-to-end solutions and providing a launch pad for T-Works startups to scale up, specifically in areas such as Automotive AI platforms, Semiconductor ATE frameworks, and Smart Factory integration.

This partnership further combines UST’s digital, AI, and systems integration capabilities with T-Works’ prototyping infrastructure and strong startup ecosystem. By blending UST’s IoT-driven digital prototyping capabilities with T-Works’ physical manufacturing strengths, customers in the automotive, semiconductor and manufacturing sectors are expected to benefit from up to 45% faster hardware-to-digital integration. Shared-risk innovation models and joint IP ownership will enable an estimated 40% reduction in R&D costs, making advanced prototyping and digital transformation accessible to startups, MSMEs, and large enterprises. In addition, UST’s customers will gain a first mover advantage through priority access to AI-optimized CNC workflows, early GaN power device prototypes, and subsidized use of UST’s semiconductor design libraries.

The MoU was formally exchanged at UST’s Thiruvananthapuram campus in the presence of Alexander Varghese, Chief Operating Officer, UST, and Joginder Tanikella, CEO, T-Works. Sahaj R Sandhu from T Works, Shilpa Menon, UST Thiruvananthapuram Center Head; Bhavesh Sasirajan, Ashok G Nair & Deepti Sujatha, Roshni Das K, from UST were present at the ceremony.

Speaking about the MoU, Alexander Varghese, Chief Operating Officer, UST, said, “We are pleased to partner with T-Works in a collaboration that brings together UST’s deep expertise in systems integration and T-Works’ advanced prototyping capabilities. By bringing together physical manufacturing capabilities and digital simulation models, we’re creating a powerful ‘phygital’ innovation platform. This partnership not only drives faster and more cost-effective product development but also empowers startups and enterprises to scale breakthrough ideas into market-ready solutions. Together, we are building a robust innovation ecosystem designed to help clients and partners stay ahead in an increasingly dynamic and competitive landscape.”

Joginder Tanikella, Chief Executive Officer, T-works, said, “We are excited to collaborate with UST in a pivotal step towards accelerating India’s manufacturing and product development capabilities. By combining UST’s expertise in AI and digital engineering with our advanced prototyping infrastructure, this partnership is a catalytic moment for innovation in India’s manufacturing and automotive sector. Startups within the T-Works ecosystem will also benefit from direct access to UST’s global customer base, significantly expanding their market reach.”

As a part of this MoU, UST is set to deploy its resources at T-Works’ state-of-the-art prototyping facility, providing its teams with hands-on experience across various stages of product development. It also includes joint development and commercialization of new IP, such as 5G-enabled industrial IoT modules, and the incubation of Industry 4.0 solutions through UST-powered accelerator for automotive suppliers

IIT Hyderabad and Marvell Launches World's First Data Acceleration and Offload Research Facility at IIT Hyderabad

• The facility aims to provide access to Marvell’s DPUs, switches, CXL processors, and NICs, accelerating advancements in AI, Networking, and Security.
• Research shows up to one-third of AI/ML processing time is spent waiting for network access—this initiative aims to tackle that inefficiency.

Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) has inaugurated the Marvell® Data Acceleration and Offload Research Facility at IITH in collaboration with Marvell Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: MRVL), a leader in data infrastructure Semiconductor solutions. This pioneering center is dedicated to advancing Network, Storage, and Security technologies, aiming to enhance the performance of accelerated data infrastructure.

The Marvell Data Acceleration and Offload Research Facility, the first of its kind globally, offers students, researchers, and industry professionals access to state-of-the-art Marvell technologies. These include Data Processor Units (DPUs), Switches, Compute Express Link (CXL) Processors, and Network Interface controllers (NICs). These resources are essential for accelerating Data security, Movement, Management, and processing across AI clusters, Cloud environments, and Networks. Industry research indicates that up to one-third of AI/ML processing time is spent waiting for network access and this initiative aims to tackle that inefficiency. A key feature of the facility is the availability of Marvell’s comprehensive software solution frameworks, optimized for developing solutions that leverage Integrated packet processing, Cryptography, and AI/ML accelerators within Marvell silicon.

The establishment of the Marvell Data Acceleration and Offload Research Facility follows the successful MLNetSec Workshop co-hosted by IITH and Marvell at the 26th International Conference on Distributed Computing and Networking (ICDCN) earlier this year. The workshop addressed key challenges in AI, Networking, and Cryptography, underscoring the importance of accelerated compute solutions in both academic and industrial research.

IITH and Marvell are committed to ongoing collaboration through joint courses, hands- on training, and research initiatives leveraging the facility's advanced infrastructure. Plans include hosting specialized workshops, conferences, and training sessions to foster innovation and empower future tech leaders in developing solutions for the evolving landscape of data infrastructure.

Prof. BS Murty, Director, IITH congratulated the team and emphasized that this partnership aligns with IITH's commitment to advancing technological research and education, positioning the institute at the forefront of accelerated infrastructure development.

Cary Ussery, Senior Vice President at Marvell, emphasized the significance of this collaboration: "The partnership between Marvell and IIT Hyderabad exemplifies the impact of academia-industry collaboration. By providing access to cutting-edge technologies, this initiative accelerates advancements in AI, Networking, and Storage, empowering the next generation of tech leaders to drive breakthroughs in data infrastructure."

Prasun Kapoor, Associate Vice President of Custom Compute and Storage at Marvell, added: "As cloud and AI infrastructure grow in complexity and scale, the need for innovation in technologies managing data flow between Servers, Processors, and Devices becomes paramount. Technologies such as DPUs, NICs, and interconnects will play a significant role in the evolution of AI. We look forward to deepening our collaboration with IIT Hyderabad and witnessing the outcomes of this initiative."

Prof. Antony Franklin, Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at IITH, highlighted the facility's potential: "This research facility enables our students and researchers to engage with advanced technologies. It also establishes a platform for interdisciplinary research in emerging fields like AI/ML, Accelerated computing, Advanced encryption algorithms, and Network acceleration, paving the way for the next generation of technological innovation."

Dr. Praveen Tammana, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering at IITH, noted: "The research facility will enable Marvell and IITH to conduct cutting-edge research and bridge the skill gap at the intersection of AI, Systems, Security, and Networks."

About Marvell:

To deliver the data infrastructure technology that connects the world, they’re building solutions on the most powerful foundation: their partnerships with their customers. Trusted by the world’s leading technology companies for over 25 years, they move, store, process and secure the world’s data with Semiconductor solutions designed for their customers’ current needs and future ambitions. Through a process of deep collaboration and transparency, they’re ultimately changing the way tomorrow’s enterprise, cloud, automotive, and carrier architectures transform—for the better.

About IIT Hyderabad:

IITH, established in 2008, as one of the second Generation IITs, has reached a respectable position in both academics, research, technology development and startups in the short span of 16 years. In the Indian National Ranking (NIRF), IITH is placed 3rd in Innovation (for both 2023 & 2024) and 8th among Engineering institutes in India (since 2019, except 2022).

It has 325+ full-time faculty, 5,350+ students (PG+PhD students accounting for about 60%). The institute has a strong research focus with Rs. 1400+ Cr of R&D funding (Rs. 250 Cr funding in 2023- 24), 11,500+ publications, 460+ Patents (210 patents in 2024), and about 260+ startups (that have generated 1100+ jobs and a revenue of Rs. 1500+ Cr). Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube for the latest updates.

Faridabad Gets India’s First Ferret Research Facility, for Vaccines R&D

Representative Image

The newly inaugurated Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) Ferret Research Facility is a significant milestone for India's biomedical research capabilities. 

Being India’s first ferret research facility, this state-of-the-art research facility is located in Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, and was inaugurated on February 3, 2025. It's designed to adhere to global biosafety and research standards and will serve as a critical resource for vaccine development, therapeutic testing, and infectious disease research.

This facility will enable critical research on viral pathogens like influenza and SARS-CoV-2, bolstering India's pandemic preparedness.

The facility will enable studies on viral pathogens that require ferrets as an experimental model, such as influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and emerging zoonotic. This positions India at the forefront of global health security efforts and strengthens its ability to respond to future pandemics.

This pioneering facility will serve as a crucial resource for vaccine development, therapeutic testing, and research into emerging infectious diseases, significantly bolstering India's pandemic preparedness strategy and positioning the nation at the forefront of global scientific endeavors.

Ferrets

Ferret Research involves using ferrets as animal models to study various diseases, particularly those affecting the respiratory system. Ferrets are small, domesticated mammals that belong to the weasel family, Mustelidae.

Ferrets are especially valuable in research on influenza and other respiratory viruses because their respiratory system is similar to humans. Ferrets are susceptible to many human pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2 and human influenza viruses.

Ferret research is crucial for advancing our understanding of infectious diseases and developing effective treatments and vaccines. It's a fascinating field that plays a significant role in global health security efforts

It's an important development for India's biomedical research capabilities.

However, Ferret research, like any animal research, raises important ethical considerations regarding animal welfare.

Research involving ferrets is subject to strict ethical standards and regulations to ensure humane treatment. These standards are designed to minimize pain and distress for the animals. Research facilities are often required to have oversight by Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUCs) or similar bodies to ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and to monitor animal welfare.

Researchers are encouraged to use alternative methods whenever possible and to reduce the number of animals used in experiments. This includes using in vitro (test tube) methods, computer modeling, and other non-animal techniques.

While ferret research is valuable for advancing medical knowledge and developing treatments, it is essential to balance scientific progress with the ethical treatment of animals.

Hyundai Group Partners Three IITs for Battery-Tech, Electrification Research, Investing $7 Mn

• Hyundai Motor Group partners with the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) to establish a collaborative research system in batteries and electrification
• Group plans to invest around USD 7 million over five years, starting in 2025, to jointly conduct battery and electrification-related research with the IIT universities
• The Hyundai CoE to facilitate technical and human exchanges between battery and electrification experts from Korea and India, fostering talent and promoting long-term employment

Hyundai Motor Group, on Tuesday, announced partnerships with the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) to establish a collaborative research system in the fields of batteries and electrification. The three institutes include IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay and IIT Madras.

Hyundai Motor Group Partners with Indian Institutes of Technology to Advance Battery and Electrification Research

Investment:

USD 7 million over five years (2025-2029) to support various research activities.

Hyundai Center of Excellence (COE):

• Location: IIT Delhi
• Objective: To drive advancements in batteries and electrification, specifically tailored to meet the unique requirements of the Indian market.
• Activities: Conducting joint research, facilitating technical and human exchanges between Korean and Indian experts, and fostering talent development.

Collaboration Areas:

• Battery Technology: Researching and developing advanced battery solutions.
• Electrification: Innovating in electrification technologies.
• Software Development: Enhancing software for electric vehicles (EVs)
• Hydrogen Fuel Cells: Exploring hydrogen fuel cell technologies.

Impact:

• EV Ecosystem: Contributing to the establishment of an EV ecosystem in India, in line with government policies for expanding EV distribution.
• Academic-Industrial Cooperation: Promoting collaboration between academia and industry to drive innovation and growth.

Hyundai Motor Group plans to contribute to the establishment of an electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem in India. This will be done in conjunction with various policies for expanding EV distribution, implemented by the Indian government. The collaboration will involve the Centre for Automotive Research and Tribology (CART), the only EV-related research institute in India, located within IIT Delhi.

The Hyundai CoE will not only conduct joint research on academic-industrial cooperation tasks but also facilitate technical and human exchanges between battery and electrification experts from Korea and India. This will involve technical exchange meetings, special IIT lectures by Group battery and electrification experts, and operation of Korean visit training programs. The Group plans to continue efforts for, fostering talent and mid- to long-term employment.

This partnership aligns with Hyundai Motor Group's efforts to expand its presence in India and support the country's transition to sustainable mobility solutions.

TCS, IIT Kharagpur to Setup Advanced Research Center Focusing Digital Health, Robotics and Intelligent Systems

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) have partnered to establish an Advanced Research Center focused on digital health, robotics, and intelligent systems. The center is located in the IIT Kharagpur Research Park in New Town, Kolkata.

The center will house three labs specializing in Sensing and Communications, Edge Computing and Analytics, and Robotics and Visual Computing.

Over 150 TCS scientists will work on cutting-edge projects, leveraging edge computing, embedded systems, and Al.

The center will also feature a customer experience center where TCS clients from various industries can gain insights into original research concepts.

Additionally, workshops will be held to foster collaboration between TCS scientists, industry experts, and IIT Kharagpur faculty to solve industry problems.

This partnership aims to drive innovation and address some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare and automation.

Dr Harrick Vin, Chief Technology Officer, TCS, said: “TCS is transforming the way in which industry has traditionally engaged with elite institutes of research and learning. One of our focus areas is to co-locate our research and innovation labs in academic institutions to enable a more efficient exchange of knowledge and talent. We initiated this journey with our move into the IIT Madras Research Park in Chennai a few years back. The establishment of our research and innovation lab at the IIT Kharagpur Research Park is the next step of this strategic journey. At IIT KGP, we are funding several research programs; co-innovating with them will lead to vastly improved outcomes for both parties.”

Professor Virendra Kumar Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur, said: “The Advanced Research Center will strengthen our strategic collaboration with TCS, underscored by their presence in the newly established IIT KGP Research Park, Kolkata. This partnership represents a significant leap forward in harnessing cutting-edge technologies to address some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare and automation. By combining IIT Kharagpur’s world-class research capabilities with TCS’s industry-leading expertise, we aim to drive transformative innovations that can enhance quality of life, improve healthcare delivery, and contribute to the growing field of intelligent systems. This center will not only foster groundbreaking research but also create opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations, empowering the next generation of technologists and researchers to shape the future.”

Besides this research center, TCS has also set up a research and innovation lab at the IIT Madras Research Park in Chennai. And this lab too focuses on areas like digital health, robotics, and intelligent systems.

TCS has also collaborated with IIT Bombay on various research projects, particularly in the fields of data science and artificial intelligence.

10 Leading AI Innovation and Research Centres in India

India's growth in AI innovation and research centers is not only driving technological advancements but also creating job opportunities and fostering innovation across various sectors.

For an uninitiated, AI innovation and delivery centers are specialized facilities that focus on developing and deploying artificial intelligence technologies. These centers often house advanced computing infrastructure, research labs, and development teams working on cutting-edge AI projects. These centers play a crucial role in advancing AI technologies and bringing innovative solutions to market.

Since start of this decade, India is rapidly emerging as a global center for AI innovation and data center growth. The country's data center industry is expected to grow by 66% by 2026, with significant investments from global tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.

India is home to a significant number of Al innovation and research centers, spread across various cities. While the exact number may vary, there are at least 25 Technology Innovation Hubs established under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). Additionally, there are several Al research labs and Centers of Excellence (CoEs) focused on healthcare, agriculture, and sustainable cities.

Here are some of the leading AI innovation and delivery centers in India:

1. Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and AI at IIT Madras:

Focuses on leveraging data science and AI for impactful decisions across various domains.

Established in 2017, RBCDSAI aims to leverage data science to provide actionable, reliable, and impactful insights across various domains such as engineering, finance, and healthcare. The center focuses on areas like safety and stability preserving reinforcement learning, network representation learning, and learning with limited and partial data.

2. NV AI Centre at IIT Hyderabad:

Established, in 2020, in collaboration with NVIDIA, this center accelerates AI research and commercial applications. This center aims to accelerate research on artificial intelligence and its commercial adoption.

The center is equipped with NVIDIA DGX-1TM and DGX-2TM systems, providing powerful computing resources for AI research. The center collaborates with industry partners to drive innovation and apply AI solutions to real-world challenges.

3. Intel AI Research Centre at IIT Hyderabad (INAI) :

A collaboration between Intel India and IIT Hyderabad to apply AI to solve challenges in healthcare and smart mobility. Launched in October 2020, INAI aims to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in AI, focusing on high-impact research for social sector development.

The center provides national scale computing infrastructure, tools, and frameworks to facilitate advanced AI solution development. It aims to develop human capacity in advanced AI technologies by attracting talented researchers from around the world.

4. AI Innovation Hub at Accenture:

The AI Innovation Hub at Accenture India is a key part of Accenture's global network of innovation hubs. Located in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, these hubs are designed to help clients co-innovate and co-create solutions using advanced technologies like AI, automation, blockchain, and more.

These AI innovation hubs house state-of-the-art labs and studios where clients can experience real innovation in action. Clients can work alongside Accenture's experts to rapidly prototype and scale disruptive products and services.

The Bengaluru hub includes a generative AI studio that focuses on optimizing business processes and enabling enterprise reinvention. The hubs are part of Accenture's extensive global network, connecting clients with innovation centers in cities like Toronto, Tokyo, and New York.

5. AI Kriya at IIT Hyderabad:

The AI Kriya at IIT Hyderabad is a dedicated center for research and innovation in artificial intelligence, established with the support of JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) and Honeywell. The center aims to serve the computing and resource needs of researchers working on AI projects at IIT Hyderabad.

6. Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence (CoEAI) at IIT Kharagpur:

Leverages decades of research in AI for fundamental and applied AI projects. Established in April 2018, CoEAI focuses on fundamental and applied AI research, leveraging over three decades of IIT Kharagpur's contributions to AI.

The center also supports entrepreneurship in AI, helping to build a vibrant community of Innovators.

7. Infosys Centre for Artificial Intelligence at IIIT Delhi:

The Infosys Centre for Artificial Intelligence (CAI) at the Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Delhi was established in 2016 with support from Infosys Limited. The center focuses on research and development in various AI fields, including autonomous vehicles, AI in healthcare, AI in robotics, AI in mobility, and satellite navigation.

The Centre conducts research on real-life AI problems and aims to expand the horizons of science for the benefit of humanity. The center has produced several products and publications, contributing to global AI advancements.

SICKLE, a multi-sensor satellite imagery dataset annotated with key cropping parameters, is one of the notably projects under the aegis of Infosys Centre for Artificial Intelligence at IIIT Delhi.

8. DAIR at IIT Delhi:

A research center dedicated to AI and machine learning research.

The Data Analytics and Intelligence Research (DAIR) Group at IIT Delhi is a research group within the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. DAIR is dedicated to advancing the field of data analytics and intelligence through rigorous research and collaboration.

The group focuses on various aspects of data analytics and artificial intelligence, including machine learning, natural language processing, and information extraction.

The group has several repositories on GitHub, where they share their research code and projects. DAIR hosts a weekly seminar series where members and interested participants can discuss ongoing research and developments in the field.

9. CFILT Lab at IIT Bombay:

Focuses on computational and financial engineering, and AI research.

The Centre for Indian Language Technology (CFILT) at IIT Bombay is a leading research center in the field of Natural Language Processing (NLP). Established with a grant from the Department of Information Technology, Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Government of India, CFILT focuses on developing technologies for Indian languages.

CFILT works on lexical resources, lexical and structural disambiguation, shallow parsing, cross-lingual information retrieval, machine translation, text entailment, and sentiment analysis

The center has developed several notable projects, including the Hindi WordNet, Marathi WordNet, and Sanskrit WordNet.

CFILT also work on projects like Shabdamitra for Hindi and Marathi language learning.

10. CAIR at DRDO, Ministry of Defence, Government of India:

A center for AI research aimed at defense applications.

The Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (CAIR) at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India, is a premier laboratory involved in research and development in the areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Command and Control, and Information and Communication Security.

CAIR aims to add value to information by delivering dependable information systems to the Defence services for battle space dominance.

The center focuses on developing technologies that ensure relevance, security, safety, resiliencv. survivability, and and trustworthiness for mission-critical applications.

CAIR develops mission-critical products for battlefield secure communication and information management systems.

These centers are at the forefront of AI research and innovation in India, contributing to advancements in various fields.

Notably, Global Capability Centers (GCCs) have evolved from cost-efficient offshore service centers to critical innovation hubs. These GCCs are leading advancements in AI, cloud computing, and data science.

Besides, India's data center industry is expected to grow by 66% by 2026, with significant investments from global tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. Cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad are becoming key data center hubs.

Indian government-led Vision 2047 aims to position the country as a leader in AI and data center infrastructure. The country ranks fourth globally in AI research output, and its data center market is projected to reach $11.85 billion by 2029.

India's growth in AI innovation and delivery centers is not only driving technological advancements but also creating job opportunities and fostering innovation across various sectors.

Apple Inc Sets Up Its First Subsidiary in India for R&D Named Apple Operations India

Apple Inc has recently set up its first subsidiary in India, named Apple Operations India. This move marks Apple's first direct presence in the country and is aimed at expanding its operational footprint beyond assembly and sales.

The subsidiary will focus on research, design, testing, and providing support to third-party manufacturers.

Apple Operations India has laid significant groundwork with capital work-in-progress worth Rs 38.2 crore and fixed assets of Rs 36.8 crore.

The entity will support third-party manufacturers and contractors by providing hardware, software, and other services.

According to regulatory filings, the entity, among other things, plans to procure engineering equipment, lease facilities, hire engineers for hardware development, and provide failure analysis services to Apple’s group companies.

The filing indicates Apple's strategic intent to deepen its operational presence in India beyond assembly and sales, potentially involving hardware design and testing in the country.

This development is part of Apple's strategy to diversify its production base beyond China and tap into India's skilled engineering talent.

The subsidiary may soon play a role in the development of Apple's new products, including hardware design and testing, which would be a first for India.

This move is a significant step for Apple as it strengthens its presence in one of the world's fastest-growing markets.

To recall, early last month it was reported that Apple is set to enhance its retail presence in India by opening four new stores by the end of 2025.

Govt Approves ‘Bio-RIDE’ Scheme for Cutting-Edge R&D in BioTech, BioManufacturing and BioFoundry

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (Bio-RIDE) scheme to support cutting-edge research and development in biotechnology.

This scheme merges two existing umbrella schemes of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and introduces a new component focused on – biomanufacturing and biofoundry.

The scheme has three broad components:

1. Biotechnology Research and Development (R&D)
2. Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development (I&ED) 
3. Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry

The scheme has a proposed outlay of ₹9,197 crore (approximately US $1.1 billion) for the period from 2021-22 to 2025-26. It aims to position India as a global leader in biomanufacturing and biotechnology, addressing national and global challenges in healthcare, agriculture, environmental sustainability, and clean energy.

This scheme is announced within a month after the Union Cabinet has approved the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy, in late last month, to foster High Performance Bio-manufacturing.

Key highlights of the Bio-RIDE scheme include:

Promoting Bio-Entrepreneurship: Providing seed funding, incubation support, and mentorship to bio-entrepreneurs.

Advancing Innovation: Offering grants and incentives for research in areas like synthetic biology, biopharmaceuticals, bioenergy, and bioplastics.

Facilitating Industry-Academia Collaboration: Creating synergies between academic institutions, research organizations, and industry to accelerate commercialization of bio-based products¹.

Encouraging Sustainable Biomanufacturing: Focusing on environmentally sustainable practices in biomanufacturing.

Supporting Researchers: Providing extramural funding to research institutions, universities, and individual researchers in diverse fields of biotechnology.

Nurturing Human Resources: Offering holistic development and support to students, young researchers, and scientists in biotechnology.

The biofoundry component of the Bio-RIDE scheme is designed to advance biomanufacturing capabilities in India.

Under Biofoundry, Government will establish state-of-the-art biofoundries that integrate advanced technologies like synthetic biology, automation, and data analytics to streamline the design, build, test, and learn (DBTL) cycle in biotechnology.

Establishing state-of-the-art biofoundries that integrate advanced technologies like synthetic biology, automation, and data analytics to streamline the design, build, test, and learn (DBTL) cycle in biotechnology.

A biofoundry is a facility that combines biology, engineering, and chemical biology systems with automation and other technologies to accelerate scientific discovery. Biofoundries can help scientists perform synthetic biology experiments on a large scale, which can lead to new solutions for environmental, health, and manufacturing challenges.

The DBT’s ongoing efforts align with its vision of harnessing the potential of Biotechnology as a precision tool for national development and well-being of society to fulfill its mission to make India globally competitive in Biotechnology research, innovation, translation, entrepreneurship, and industrial growth and be a US$300 billion Bioeconomy by 2030. The Bio-RIDE Scheme will contribute significantly towards realizing the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.

Indian Govt Investing ₹450 Cr in One of Nokia's Largest R&D Labs

Nokia is set to establish the world's largest fixed network testbed in Chennai. This initiative involves an investment of about ₹450 crore by the central government of India, and will be one of Nokia's largest research and development (R&D) laboratories. The testbed will focus on developing next-generation networks, including 10G, 25G, 50G, and 100G passive optical networks.

The deal will be signed in San Francisco on Friday morning in the presence of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister (CM) M K Stalin, who is on a 17-day trip to the US to attract fresh investments.

This project is expected to create around 100 specialized jobs and will be located at the State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu in Siruseri.

The testbed will facilitate the development of next-generation network technologies, such as 10G, 25G, 50G, and 100G passive optical networks. This can lead to advancements in network speed, reliability, and efficiency.

With an investment of ₹450 crore by India's Central Government, the project is expected to create around 100 specialized jobs, boosting local employment and contributing to the economic development of the region.

This development underscores Chennai's growing importance as a hub for technological innovation.

Several companies are investing in significant R&D facilities, similar to Nokia’s initiative in Chennai.

Microsoft has established multiple R&D centers in India, focusing on areas like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Intel has a major R&D presence in India, particularly in Bengaluru, where they work on semiconductor technology, AI, and IoT solutions. IBM’s R&D centers in India are involved in cutting-edge research in AI, quantum computing, and blockchain technology.

These investments highlight the growing importance of India as a hub for technological innovation and development.

IBM Relocates R&D to India After Shutting Down China Operations

Recently, IBM has made significant changes to its research and development (R&D) operations. The company is closing its R&D team in China, which will impact less than 1,000 employees. The affected team, which focuses on server and storage technology, will see its job functions transferred to other countries, notably India.

Specifically, Bengaluru in India will be a primary destination for this shift. This move comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions between the US and China, and it reflects a broader trend of companies reassessing their presence in the region.

IBM's strategy adjustment aligns with the diminishing importance of the region for US tech firms, as local clients increasingly opt for home-grown providers.

With a 19.6% drop in revenue last year, IBM has struggled to maintain its foothold in the Chinese market once seen as a key growth area.

The sensitivity of hardware in the context of US-China technological competition is heightened, given both nations' pursuit of dominance in sectors like semiconductors and artificial intelligence.

With IBM’s increased presence in India, there will likely be a boost in the local talent pool. The company’s focus on server and storage technology could attract skilled professionals, leading to knowledge exchange and skill development.

India will Surpass US in Scientific Publications by 2029, Predicts RRI

A study by the Raman Research Institute (RRI) in Bengaluru predicts that India will surpass the US in the number of annual scientific publications by 2029. The study analyzed scientific publications from 50 countries between 1996 and 2020, using statistical tools like entropy and linear regression analysis to forecast future trends.

China will remain the leader in scientific publications, while the US is expected to lose its second rank to Indonesia this year. The study highlights the growing contributions of countries like Indonesia, India, and Iran to global scientific research.

The study uses statistical tools such as entropy (a measure of randomness and therefore, unpredictability, in a data set) and linear regression analysis (relationship between two variables). “Based on the regression analysis, it is estimated that three potential countries such as Indonesia, India and Iran may take the ranks ahead of the US around the years 2024, 2029 and 2041 respectively,” the study says.

The findings of the study have been published in a yet to be peer reviewed paper.

The Indian government and private sector have significantly increased funding for research and development (R&D). Initiatives like the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) provide substantial support. Moreover, Policies like the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasize research and innovation, encouraging a culture of scientific inquiry from an early age.

Adding to this, improvements in higher education, including the establishment of new research institutions and universities, have enhanced the quality and quantity of scientific research.

Besides, Indian researchers are increasingly collaborating with international peers, leading to more co-authored papers and access to global research networks.

India is investing in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy, which are generating a high volume of research output.

Zoho to Setup R&D Centre in East Uttar Pradesh by the End of This Year

Zoho, the prominent Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) provider, is expanding its national footprint by establishing a research and development (R&D) facility in eastern Uttar Pradesh by the end of this year, announced the CEO & Founder of Zoho, Sridhar Vembu.

"We want to create world-class R&D capability wherever we go and there is a speed limit to how fast you can scale up R&D teams and it is not at all like scaling up manufacturing plant," said Zoho's Sridhar Vembu said in a post on X.

Zoho's move aims to tap into the vast talent waiting for opportunities in rural India and contribute to stopping the exodus of youngsters seeking overseas jobs. This initiative aligns with their successful rural office in Tamil Nadu's Tenkasi, which started with just 10 employees and now boasts around 900 professionals working in a non-urban area.

Earlier, Zoho has launched their AI R&D centre in Kottarakkara in Kollam district, Kerala. Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) and Institute of Human Resources Development (IHRD) had collaborated with Zoho Corporation to set up the park that aims at harnessing local talents by training them in cutting-edge technologies.

"We are doing well in Kottarakara in Kerala. We are going to Eastern UP this year, our first major rural expedition North", said Vembu in a post on X.

Zoho’s presence will create employment opportunities for local talent. As the R&D center grows, it will hire engineers, developers, designers, and other professionals, contributing to reduced unemployment rates.

Rolls-Royce and TCS Collaborate on Hydrogen Fuel System Tech Research

TCS expands its partnership with Rolls-Royce to research hydrogen fuel system technology, continuing to prove hydrogen could be a zero-carbon aviation fuel of the future

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has expanded its partnership with Rolls-Royce, a British multinational specializing in civil aerospace, defence aerospace, services and power systems, to advance its sustainable initiatives. This collaboration involves research into hydrogen fuel system technology, continuing to prove hydrogen could be a zero-carbon aviation fuel of the future.

TCS, leveraging its expertise as a trusted service provider, will provide engineering skills and support to Rolls-Royce as it addresses three key challenges in the journey to enabling hydrogen for use in aviation: fuel combustion, fuel delivery, and fuel systems integration with an engine. All elements must be confirmed to operate safely.

This partnership underscores TCS's commitment to driving sustainable transformation across industries, aligning with its broader mission to harness technology for positive societal impact. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has set ambitious targets for net zero carbon emissions by 2050, necessitating innovative sustainability solutions.

To recall, in early of last month the world's first in-flight study of commercial aircraft using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) was released and it has shown promising results. The study, which involved an Airbus A350 aircraft powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, revealed a significant reduction in soot particle emissions and the formation of contrail ice crystals when compared to conventional Jet A-1 fuel.

Alan Newby, Director, Research and Technology, Rolls-Royce, said, “We welcome TCS to our hydrogen research programme and their engineering skills will play a valuable role in addressing our technology goals. We’ve already made great progress and having TCS with us gives us additional capability as we move forward on our journey to enable the energy transition for the aviation sector.”

This expanded partnership was announced at the Farnborough International Airshow where TCS also showcased its technological prowess in the aviation industry. The partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between Rolls-Royce and the Tata Group, including engines and a strong supply chain commitment. TCS has also been working with Rolls-Royce since 2010 in the areas of design, manufacturing engineering, control systems and software, after-market services as well as IT services. Having supported Rolls-Royce in major civil and business aviation programs, TCS has also supported its end-to-end product development lifecycle.

Anupam Singhal, President - Manufacturing, TCS, said, “The partnership between TCS and Rolls-Royce is an exciting one that represents a powerful alliance in the quest for sustainable aviation solutions. We are aligned with Rolls-Royce’s ambition for a greener future. This partnership is the perfect opportunity to put our technological strengths and passion for the environment to use for advancing innovation and fostering an eco-friendlier aerospace sector.”

TCS will leverage its deep domain knowledge of the aircraft manufacturing industry and will support the engineering activities of Rolls-Royce such as system design, component design, supply chain support and program management. These services will help Rolls-Royce research hydrogen technology as it addresses three key challenges in the journey to enabling hydrogen for use in aviation: fuel combustion, fuel delivery and fuel systems integration with an engine. All elements must be confirmed to operate safely.

Regu Ayyaswamy, Senior Vice President and Global Head- Internet of Things and Digital Engineering, TCS, said, “TCS and Rolls-Royce have been partners in advancing engineering excellence for nearly a decade. The new partnership for research into hydrogen fuel systems represents a pivotal next step at a time when the aviation industry is faced with the urgent challenge of reducing carbon emissions while maintaining performance and efficiency. It aligns well with TCS’ commitment to harness technology for positive societal impact and building a greener future.”

TCS has been on a mission to harness the power of technology for positive societal impact and drive sustainable transformation across industries. With more than 200 sustainability offerings, TCS is helping customers around the world in their sustainability journeys.

As a Tata group company, TCS is also conscious of its impact on the environment. In 2021, TCS had set an ambitious sustainability target to reduce its absolute emissions by 70% across Scope 1 and Scope 2 by 2025 over the baseline year 2016 and to achieve net zero by 2030. By FY24, TCS had already reduced its absolute carbon footprint across Scope 1 and Scope 2 by 80% over a baseline of 2016, exceeding its target achievement by 10%, one year ahead of time.