Bengaluru's Vimag Labs Secures Patent for India’s Ist Software-Defined, Magnet-Free Motor Platform

Volektra Motor

• Fifth patent granted to the Accel-backed deep-tech company, protecting the core architecture of its Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor (VMSM) - a rare-earth-free, software-controlled electric motor platform

Vimag Labs has been granted its fifth patent in India. The patent, titled "A Robust Rotating Transformer Excited Synchronous Motor and Its Control," covers the foundational motor architecture of the company’s proprietary Virtual Magnet Synchronous Motor (VMSM) platform.

Unlike conventional Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs), which rely on fixed rare-earth magnets embedded in the rotor, VMSM generates and controls its magnetic field in real time using power electronics and proprietary control algorithms. The result is a brushless, slip-ring-free synchronous motor that matches or exceeds the performance of permanent magnet solutions — without any magnets.

This latest grant brings the company’s intellectual property portfolio to five patents granted, ten in the pipeline, and fifteen trademarks filed spanning motor architecture, software controls, power electronics, and application-specific implementations.

Commercial Deployment

The patent strengthens Vimag Labs’ competitive position as it scales commercial deployments. The company currently has active pilots under way with established two-wheeler and passenger car manufacturers, with expansion planned into light commercial vehicles, commercial vehicles, and high-power industrial systems ranging from 200 kW to 600 kW. Additional application areas under development include robotics, defence, and cooling systems.

For OEMs, the platform offers a dual advantage: lower motor costs and freedom from the supply-chain risks of rare-earth magnets, the majority of which are currently sourced from China. For India, the technology directly supports the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat objectives by enabling indigenous development of critical electric motor technology.

Manish Seth, Co-founder and CEO, Vimag Labs, said: “This patent is the outcome of over 87,600 engineering hours. It strengthens every dimension of our commercial roadmap- OEM partnerships, licensing, manufacturing scale-up, and future growth.”

He added: “Our long-term vision is to build scalable, software-driven, magnet-free motor systems for global electrification. This innovation strengthens India’s deep-tech base across electric mobility, power electronics, robotics, defence, and clean-energy systems.”

Funding and Partnerships

Vimag Labs recently raised USD 5 million in its Series A round led by Accel, with participation from Chakra Growth Fund and Thinkuvate. The company has also signed a manufacturing MoU with Jendamark Pvt. Ltd. to support VMSM production scale-up.

About Vimag Labs

Vimag Labs is a Bengaluru-based deep-technology company building a new class of electric motor. Its patented VMSM platform replaces rare-earth permanent magnets with software-defined magnetic fields, delivering equivalent or superior performance across mobility, industrial, and defence applications. The company is scaling operations across India, Europe, and the United States.

India Showcases Innovation at Europe’s Biggest Tech Fest

Union Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the India Pavilion at VivaTech 2026 in Paris, marking India’s role as the Official AI Partner Country at Europe’s largest technology and innovation event. The pavilion highlights India’s leadership in AI, digital innovation, and startup ecosystems, while strengthening India–France collaboration in technology and sustainable growth.

VivaTech is known for spotlighting cutting‑edge startups, global tech leaders, and breakthrough innovations, so India’s presence there signals both confidence and ambition in expanding its innovation footprint globally.

This move also reinforces India’s strategy of connecting its DeepTech ecosystem with international investors, industry partners, and research networks — much like what we saw at Bharat Innovates 2026. It’s not just about showcasing technology; it’s about building cross‑border partnerships and positioning India as a global hub for innovation.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal Inaugurates India Pavilion at VivaTech 2026

India’s Strategic Presence at VivaTech 2026

• Official Partner Country: India was named France’s Official AI Partner Country at VivaTech 2026, underscoring its global leadership in artificial intelligence and digital innovation.
• Theme – Tech for Humanity: The India Pavilion showcased technology designed to empower citizens, drive inclusion, and solve challenges at scale, reflecting India’s vision of human‑centric innovation.
• Largest National Pavilion: India’s pavilion was among the largest at the event, featuring startups, unicorns, ministries like DPIIT and MeitY, and industry leaders across AI, SpaceTech, HealthTech, ClimateTech, and cybersecurity.

Key Highlights from the Inauguration

• Ministerial Engagements: Piyush Goyal met global leaders, including L’Oréal CEO Nicolas Hieronimus, to explore collaborations in beauty‑tech innovation, skill development, and manufacturing under Make in India.
• India–France Partnership: Alongside French Minister Anne Le Hénanff, Goyal reaffirmed the India–France Year of Innovation 2026, emphasizing cooperation in AI, digital resilience, and sustainable technology.
• Vision of MANAV AI: Goyal introduced India’s concept of “MANAV” — ethical, accountable, inclusive, and trustworthy AI — positioning India as a hub for responsible AI talent and advanced technologies.

Why This Matters

• Global Innovation Hub: India’s participation signals its ambition to be a preferred destination for innovation, manufacturing, and investment.
• Startup Ecosystem Showcase: The pavilion highlighted India’s vibrant startup culture, rapidly expanding digital economy, and deep‑tech advancements.
• Strengthened Bilateral Ties: The India–France partnership in AI and technology is set to create new opportunities for startups, universities, and research institutions.

Looking Ahead

• India’s presence at VivaTech 2026 is more than symbolic — it is a strategic move to attract global investments, promote technology exports, and foster international partnerships.
• With its young talent pool, strong digital infrastructure, and commitment to ethical AI, India is positioning itself as a global leader in innovation for humanity’s benefit.

The inaugural ceremony brought together key voices from the global innovation ecosystem, with inspiring remarks from Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Government of India; Ms Anne Le Hénanff, Digital Minister of France; Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser, Government of India; Mr Nicolas Douchement

Chief Business and Experience Officer, VivaTech; along with the welcome address by Amb. Jawed Ashraf, Chairman, India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO).

ICICI Lombard & IIM Kozhikode Ignite Innovation with Season 4 Case‑Study Challenge on Account Aggregator Framework

• Receives 1,900+ Registrations from 35+ premier institutes of the country

ICICI Lombard, one of India's leading private general insurer, has concluded the Season 4 edition of its flagship business case-study competition, IL IGNITING MINDS, in collaboration with IIM Kozhikode – one of India's premier management institutes. Designed to give young innovators a real-world platform to solve meaningful industry challenges, the initiative received 1,900+ student registrations from 35+ unique premier institutes across India.

The theme for this year's challenge, "Leveraging the Account Aggregator (AA) Framework to Transform Insurance", invited students from IIMs and IITs to explore how the AA framework can reshape key insurance functions — Underwriting, Distribution, and Claims — across Health, Home, Motor, and SME Insurance verticals.

Launched under the Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture (DEPA) by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the Account Aggregator framework enables individuals and businesses to securely and seamlessly share their financial data through a consent-based mechanism. While insurance is inherently a data-driven industry, insurers often face challenges in accessing accurate, timely, and comprehensive information during critical processes such as underwriting, distribution, and claims. Much of this relevant data — including income details, credit history, transaction patterns, and business performance — remains fragmented across multiple financial institutions. By enabling insurers, as Financial Information Users, to access customer-permitted data from Financial Information Providers through secure and consent-driven data sharing, the AA ecosystem holds significant potential to transform how insurance products are designed, distributed, and serviced.

Through this competition, ICICI Lombard sought to foster innovation, bridge the gap between academia and industry, discover strategic opportunities, and identify high-potential talent who can contribute to shaping the future of insurance in India. For participants, the competition offered a platform to apply analytical thinking, creativity, and business acumen to real-world challenges, gain exposure to the evolving insurance ecosystem, and collaborate with industry leaders driving digital transformation.

Building on past editions conducted with institutes such as IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, NMIMS, and IIT Bombay (E-Cell), the IIM Kozhikode edition marks yet another significant step in expanding the competition's reach across India's top campuses.

Ms. Sheena Kapoor – Head Marketing, Corporate Communications & CSR, ICICI Lombard, said, “Season 4 of IL Igniting Minds reaffirmed our belief that the future of insurance will be shaped by a powerful blend of technology, trust, and human insight. With over 1,900+ student registrations from 35+ premier institutions, including leading IIMs and IITs, we witnessed young minds engaging deeply with this year’s case study topic — ‘Leveraging the Account Aggregator Framework to Transform Insurance.’

What stood out was their ability to look beyond efficiency and focus on making insurance more accessible, intuitive, and relevant to people’s everyday financial lives. Their ideas reflected not just innovation, but also empathy and responsibility — qualities that will define the next chapter of the industry. For us, IL Igniting Minds is more than a competition; it is a window into the thinking and leadership of the next generation.”

IL Igniting Minds business case-study competition, Season 4 was conducted at ICICI Lombard Head Office, where the finalist teams had an opportunity to showcase their ideas to the senior management of the company.

India’s Startup Ecosystem Grows 500x in a Decade, Celebrated at Vigyan TECH 2026

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that independent India’s major share of technological transformation has taken place in the last decade, driven by decisive policy reforms, strong political support, enhanced research freedom, and private sector participation.

The minister said that independent India’s major share of technological transformation has happened in the last one decade due to decisive policy reforms, strong political support for science and technology, enhanced research freedom and increased participation of the private sector. "India Climbs from Rank 80 to 38 in Global Innovation Index over the last decade" , Dr Jitendra Singh said. 

Notably, since 2014, India has introduced sweeping reforms in the startup and patent/IPR ecosystem — including fee reductions, expedited examinations, digital filing, and simplified compliance — resulting in a five‑fold increase in patent grants and a four‑fold rise in trademark registrations. Startups, women innovators, and MSMEs can request fast‑track patent examination.

Event Overview

• Occasion: National Technology Day 2026
• Event: Vigyan TECH 2026 at BRIC-NII
• Theme: Building India’s Innovation Ecosystem for Viksit Bharat
• Participants: 14 Ministries & Departments, senior officials, scientists, startups

India’s Innovation Milestones

• Startup Ecosystem: Expanded from ~350 in 2014 to over 200,000 in 2026, making India the world’s 3rd largest
• Global Innovation Index: Improved from rank 80 to 38
• Patents: Over 100,000 filed, 55% by Indian residents; India ranks 6th globally
• Scientific Publications: India among leading nations in research output

Leadership Insights

• Dr. Jitendra Singh: “Science and innovation received unprecedented national priority after 2014, resulting in rapid technological advancement.”
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi (message): Appreciated convergence of multiple ministries to strengthen India’s innovation ecosystem
• Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood: Called Vigyan TECH 2026 a landmark whole-of-government initiative essential for tackling national challenges

Key Highlights

• Exhibition: Showcased indigenous technologies from national labs and startups
• Compendium: Release of “TECH-संग्रह” highlighting innovations and technology transfers
• Collaborations: MoUs signed for technology transfer and partnerships
• Focus Areas: Quantum computing, AI, genomics, clean energy, biotechnology

Significance

• Marks India’s transition from service-led to science-led innovation
• Positions science & technology as central to Viksit Bharat @2047
• Encourages inter-ministerial and inter-science collaboration for national outcomes

Key Initiatives Driving Transformation

Initiative	Focus Area	Impact
National Quantum Mission	Quantum technologies	Strengthening India’s quantum research ecosystem
India AI Mission	Artificial Intelligence	Accelerating AI adoption across sectors
Anusandhan NRF	Research & Innovation	Funding and supporting advanced research
WISE-KIRAN Scheme	Women in Science	Empowering women scientists with opportunities
NIDHI Programme	Startups	Supporting incubation and entrepreneurship

In summary, Vigyan TECH 2026 underscored India’s transformation into a global innovation hub, driven by startups, patents, and scientific breakthroughs, while setting the stage for deeper collaboration and inclusive growth.

India Pioneers Underground Coal Gasification in Landmark Mine Agreements

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In a landmark milestone for India’s energy transition and self‑reliance, the Ministry of Coal has executed Coal Mine/Block Production and Development Agreements (CMDPAs) with successful bidders for four coal mines under the 14th round of commercial coal auctions. For the first time, these agreements carry embedded provisions for Underground Coal Gasification (UCG), signaling a transformative leap in how India envisions and unlocks the full value of its coal reserves.

Historic First in Commercial Coal Mining

• Reliance Industries Limited secured the Recherla and Chintalpudi Sector A1 mines in Andhra Pradesh.
• Axis Energy Ventures India Pvt. Ltd. won the Dip Extension of Belpahar and Tangardihi East mines in Odisha.
• Two mines are fully explored, while two remain partially explored, reflecting India’s push to diversify its coal resource base.

UCG – A Revolutionary Technology

Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) has been tested and deployed in several countries, with notable projects in Uzbekistan, South Africa, Australia, China, India, Russia, and Poland. These nations have either run pilot plants or integrated UCG into their energy strategies due to their large, deep coal reserves.  

• Underground Coal Gasification converts coal into synthetic gas directly within the seam, eliminating the need for conventional mining.
• Enables utilisation of deep, thin, or otherwise unworkable coal seams.
• Expands India’s exploitable energy resource base.
• Supports cleaner and more efficient energy production alongside traditional extraction.

Strategic Value Addition to Coal Economy

• Syngas from UCG can serve as domestic feedstock for fertiliser production, reducing dependence on imported urea and ammonia.
• Strengthens food security by supporting domestic agriculture inputs.
• In chemicals and petrochemicals, syngas can replace imported natural gas and naphtha.
• Enables domestic production of methanol, dimethyl ether (DME), and synthetic fuels.

Scale of India’s Commercial Coal Auctions

• With these four CMDPAs, India has now signed agreements for 138 mines.
• Collectively, they represent a peak rated capacity of 331.544 MTPA.
• Projected annual revenues: ₹42,980 crores.
• Expected capital investments: ₹48,231 crores.
• Employment generation: 4,34,175 direct and indirect jobs.

Energy Security and Global Positioning

India has future‑proofed its coal sector by embedding UCG provisions into CMDPAs, ensuring long‑term energy security while embracing frontier technologies. This positions India at the forefront of the global energy landscape, balancing domestic production with innovation in clean coal utilisation.

Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) Explained

Definition
Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) is an in‑situ process that converts coal directly into synthetic gas (syngas) within the seam itself, eliminating the need for conventional mining.

What is Underground Coal Gasification?

• Coal seams are accessed by drilling wells.
• Oxygen and steam are injected to ignite and gasify the coal underground.
• Syngas (carbon monoxide, hydrogen, methane, carbon dioxide, water vapor) is extracted through production wells.
• Syngas can be used for power generation, chemical feedstocks, fertiliser production, and synthetic fuels.

Advantages of UCG

• Accesses deep, thin, or unworkable coal seams.
• Reduces surface disturbance compared to open‑cast mining.
• Eliminates coal transport and surface gasification steps.
• Supports cleaner and more efficient energy production.

Applications of UCG

• Power generation – syngas fuels turbines or combined cycle plants.
• Fertiliser feedstock – hydrogen and ammonia precursors reduce import dependence.
• Chemical industry – enables domestic methanol, DME, and synthetic fuel production.
• Hydrogen production – alternative source for industrial hydrogen and fuel cells.

Historical Context

• Concept proposed in 1868 by Sir William Siemens.
• Developed further by Russian chemist Dmitri Mendeleyev.
• Early experiments conducted in the Soviet Union (1928–1939).
• Modern pilot projects tested in Uzbekistan, South Africa, and Australia.

Challenges & Risks

• Technical complexity – requires advanced drilling, ignition, and monitoring systems.
• Environmental risks – groundwater contamination, subsidence, uncontrolled gas migration.
• Regulatory hurdles – strict oversight needed for safety and environmental concerns.

Medtronic Launches Adaptive DBS in India: Real‑Time Therapy for Parkinson’s Patients

Medtronic, a global leader in healthcare technology, today announced the launch of its Adaptive Deep Brain Stimulation (aDBS) system, an innovation over conventional DBS, in India to further improve quality of life of patients living with Parkinson’s disease.

The prevalence of Parkinson's disease (PD) in India is roughly 10% of the global burden, which is a considerable public health concern. 

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that can affect how a person moves and functions in everyday life. Over time, it may make routine activities such as walking, writing, or holding everyday objects more difficult. While movement-related challenges are often the most visible, the condition can also influence other aspects of daily living, including communication, sleep, and overall well‑being. Today, a range of treatment approaches help manage symptoms as the disease evolves. Care is typically tailored over time, with treatment pathways adjusted based on individual needs and clinical assessment by specialists.

Treatment options like Deep Brain Stimulation exist which involve manual adjustment of stimulation levels throughout the day, usually managed by patients or caregivers. Medtronic’s aDBS technology is designed to adapt real time to changes in a patient’s condition or medication needs—helping deliver more consistent symptom management. The aDBS system uses BrainSense™ technology, which has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS) is designed to automatically adjust therapy based on changes in brain signals or patient activity. By responding in real time, it aims to provide more consistent symptom control, minimize side effects, and help extend the life of the implanted device’s battery.

With India expected to witness a significant rise in Parkinson’s disease cases—projected to become the second-highest globally within the next five years7—the introduction of the aDBS system comes at a critical time. Although there is currently no cure for conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been transforming the lives of patients with Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders for more than three decades. 

DBS uses a small, pacemaker-like device, placed under the skin of the chest, to send electronic signals to an area in the brain that controls movement. To give you relief, these signals block some of the brain messages that cause the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s.

On the occasion, Prateek Tiwari, Senior Director, Neuroscience & Specialty therapies, Medtronic India said, “We are extremely proud to introduce this advanced technology in India, where Parkinson’s disease is an increasingly significant healthcare concern. Our mission has always been to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life, and the introduction of this system reflects our continued commitment to that mission. This milestone not only reaffirms our dedication to addressing the growing burden of Parkinson’s disease but also strengthens our leadership in bringing cutting-edge healthcare technologies to India to ultimately improve patients’ quality of life.’’

As the burden of a disease such as Parkinson’s will rise, continued investment in cutting-edge technologies will be essential to expanding access to better care, supporting clinicians with deeper insights, and ultimately improving the quality of life for patients across the country.

Patients considering deep brain stimulation (DBS) typically begin by consulting a Movement Disorder Specialist, usually a neurologist, who evaluates whether their condition may benefit from this therapy. DBS follows a coordinated, team-based approach, with patients often referred to a comprehensive DBS clinic or neurosurgery board for further assessment. If considered suitable, a Functional Neurosurgeon—specially trained to perform the procedure—works alongside the care team to implant and program the device.

All information contained herein is for general awareness purposes only, and nothing contained herein should be construed as medical advice or recommendation. Patients should consult their physician to discuss their conditions and seek relevant medical advice.

About Medtronic

Bold thinking. Bolder actions. We are Medtronic. Medtronic plc, headquartered in Galway, Ireland, is the leading global healthcare technology company that boldly attacks the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission — to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life — unites a global team of 95,000+ passionate people across more than 150 countries. Our technologies and therapies treat 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools, patient monitoring systems, and more. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Expect more from us as we empower insight-driven care, experiences that put people first, and better outcomes for our world. In everything we do, we are engineering the extraordinary. For more information on Medtronic, visit www.Medtronic.com and follow Medtronic on LinkedIn.

NITI Aayog Releases Evidence‑Driven Reports to Strengthen India’s Research Ecosystem

On April 9, 2026, NITI Aayog released two landmark reports—“Ease of Doing Research & Development in India” and the “Survey Report on Ease of Doing R&D in India”—in New Delhi, aimed at strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem through evidence‑driven reforms, improved funding, and greater private sector participation.

The reports were formally released by Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, and Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Science & Technology, in the presence of Dr. V. K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, along with senior officials, presidents of science academies, and representatives from academia and industry.

Key Highlights

• Reports Released: Ease of Doing Research & Development in India; Survey Report on Ease of Doing R&D in India
• Date & Venue: April 9, 2026, New Delhi
• Released By: Shri Suman Bery (Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog) and Dr. Jitendra Singh (Minister of State, Ministry of Science & Technology)
• Stakeholder Outreach: 400+ institutional leaders, 850+ scientists and researchers

Report Objectives

The reports provide actionable recommendations to improve funding mechanisms, institutional governance, regulatory frameworks, and research translation. They emphasize building a trust‑based, outcome‑oriented environment to empower researchers and institutions.

Report Recommendations -

• Funding: Encourage private sector and CSR contributions to research. 
• Governance: Strengthen institutional structures for mission‑mode R&D. 
• Regulatory Frameworks: Increase flexibility to reduce impediments. 
• Research Translation: Focus on converting research into practical applications. 
• Trust‑Based Environment: Build outcome‑oriented systems to empower researchers.

Stakeholder Insights

Stakeholder	Key Insight
Prof. Ashutosh Sharma (Former INSA President)	Strengthening innovation within the research ecosystem
Prof. Vinod Kumar Singh (NASI President)	Support for early‑stage scientists and enabling mechanisms
Dr. Shekhar C. Mande (INSA President)	Private sector participation and flexible financial norms
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood (Principal Scientific Adviser)	Continuous improvement and implementation of recommendations
Dr. Jitendra Singh (Union Minister)	CSR‑driven private sector support for startups and emerging areas
Shri Suman Bery (Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog)	Mission‑mode R&D and adaptable frameworks for collaboration

Significance

The reports reaffirm India’s commitment to becoming a global leader in science, technology, and innovation. They serve as a guidance document for ministries and institutions to strengthen the country’s R&D ecosystem and advance innovation‑driven growth.

Breakthrough Neuromorphic Sensor Mimics Brain and Frog Synapses to Cut Energy Use in AI and Edge Computing

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Indian researchers at JNCASR have developed a frog-inspired neuromorphic sensor that uses humidity as a stimulus to mimic brain-like synaptic behavior, integrating sensing, memory, and processing in a single device. This breakthrough could significantly reduce energy consumption in AI, edge computing, and smart environmental monitoring systems.

The development of this neuromorphic sensor published in the Journal of Materials Chemistry C was inspired by the amphibian frog, particularly cricket frogs, whose synaptic behaviour is highly moisture sensitive and influenced by daylight.

What Makes This Sensor Unique

The moisture-sensitive frog behaviour with increased activity at higher moisture levels is emulated in a supramolecular nanofibre-based neuromorphic sensor

• Biological Inspiration: Modeled after the cricket frog, whose neural activity is highly sensitive to moisture and daylight.
• Single-Platform Integration: Combines sensing, memory, and processing in one platform.
• Humidity as Stimulus: First time humidity has been used to emulate synaptic behaviors such as facilitation, depression, and metaplasticity.

How It Works

• Material: Built from 1D supramolecular nanofibers synthesized from donor–acceptor charge transfer complexes.
• Device Setup: Nanofibers were drop-coated on interdigitated gold electrodes on a glass substrate.
• Testing: Placed in a humidity-controlled chamber, the device responded to humidity pulses with brain-like synaptic behaviors.
• Light Sensitivity: Just like frogs, the sensor’s response can be influenced by daylight, adding another layer of adaptability.

Why It Matters

• Energy Efficiency: Conventional electronics separate sensing and processing, requiring constant data transfer. This sensor eliminates that overhead, reducing energy consumption and latency.
• Applications:
  • Smart Environmental Monitoring
  • Healthcare Devices
  • AI & IoT

Neuromorphic Devices in Context

Feature	Conventional Electronics	Neuromorphic Sensors	Frog-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Sensing	Separate units	Integrated with memory	Humidity-driven sensing
Processing	External processors	Synapse-like	Synaptic facilitation & depression
Energy Use	High (data transfer overhead)	Lower	Significantly reduced
Stimulus	Electrical/light	Electrical/light	Humidity + light
Biological Analogy	None	General brain-like	Cricket frog synapses

Future Outlook

• Adaptive AI Systems: Could lead to self-learning sensors that adjust to environmental changes without external programming.
• Sustainable Electronics: Supports the push toward green computing by reducing energy demands.
• Cross-Modal Expansion: Researchers envision integrating multiple stimuli (humidity, light, temperature) for multisensory neuromorphic devices.

In essence, this frog-inspired humidity sensor marks a leap toward electronics that behave more like living systems—efficient, adaptive, and sustainable. It’s not just a sensor; it’s a glimpse into the future of computing where machines learn from nature.

Powering Indigenous Innovation: IIT Mandi Signs MoU with JK DELOPT for Defence and Civil Tech

The Indian Institute of Technology Mandi (IIT Mandi), one of India’s leading IITs, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with JK DELOPT, an ISO 9001-certified company under the JK Organisation. Through this collaboration, IIT Mandi and JK DELOPT will work jointly on research, innovation, and translation of advanced technologies into deployable solutions with real-world impact.

This collaboration envisions a transformative roadmap where IIT Mandi’s research excellence and JK DELOPT’s industry and manufacturing capabilities converge to develop next-generation sovereign technologies. The partnership aims to strengthen national defence preparedness, enhance strategic self-reliance, and extend technological innovations to civilian sectors, positioning India as a global leader in intelligent, secure, and indigenous solutions. Moreover, this MoU aims to establish a long-term industry-academia partnership focused on indigenous technology development, aligned with the national priorities of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Commenting on the collaboration, Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director, IIT Mandi, said, “IIT Mandi remains deeply committed to indigenisation and national self-reliance in critical technologies. The collaboration with JK DELOPT marks an important step in strengthening India’s capabilities in Embedded Systems and Electro-Optics for defence and retail applications. Such academia–industry partnerships are central to IIT Mandi’s vision of translating cutting-edge research into deployable, indigenous solutions with real-world impact.”

The agreement was formally signed and exchanged by the Dean (Sponsored Research & Industrial Consultancy), IIT Mandi and the CEO, JK DELOPT, in the presence of the Director, Registrar, senior faculty members, and representatives from both institutions. On the occasion, the CEO of JK DELOPT was felicitated by the Director, IIT Mandi, recognising the company’s contribution to indigenous technology development.

Under the MoU, both partners will collaborate on joint research and development projects, technology demonstrations, and prototype development in areas such as electro-optic systems, embedded platforms, AI-integrated vision systems, and intelligent surveillance solutions. The partnership also envisages student internships, industry exposure, expert lectures, and collaborative supervision of research scholars, strengthening skill development and industry readiness.

The collaboration draws significant strength from IIT Mandi’s Visual Intelligence and Machine Learning (VIML) Group, led by Dr. Dinesh Singh, whose research focuses on computer vision, multimodal AI, and vision-based perception systems. Ongoing research efforts include UAV-based defence applications, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, accident anticipation models, forensic vision technologies, and real-time monitoring solutions, alongside broader applications in healthcare and safety.

Dr. Singh’s expertise in computer vision, vision-language models (VLMs), and intelligent perception systems will play a key role in advancing the partnership’s objectives, particularly in developing AI-driven electro-optic and embedded solutions for strategic and interactive applications.

About IIT Mandi:
Indian Institutes of Technology Mandi is one of the top second-generation IITs located in Kamand Valley, Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is one of eight new Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) established by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India, and recognized as one of Institutes of National Importance. IIT Mandi's permanent campus about 14 km (8.7 mi) from Mandi consists of the South and North campuses connected by a narrow neck. The South campus is on the left bank of the Uhl River below Kamand village. The North campus is along the Kataula Khad opposite Salgi village. A transit campus at Government Post graduate College, Mandi was handed over by the Himachal Pradesh Government on 16 November 2009. The Kamand campus ground-breaking ceremony, to mark the start of construction, was held on 13 April 2012. On 25 April 2015, IIT Mandi became the first of all the new IITs to completely shift B. Tech students to its permanent campus in Kamand. Since its inception the institute has been involved with more than 275 Research and Development (R&D) projects worth more than ₹120 crore. In the past 10 years, the institute has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with as many as 11 international and 12 national universities.

Tata’s Rallis India Unveils Idea2Impact™ to Drive Farmer-Centric Agri Innovation

Rallis India Limited, a Tata Enterprise and a science-led agri-solutions Company, today announced the launch of Idea2Impact™ – Rallis Agri Innovation Ecosystem, a structured open innovation platform aimed at fostering collaboration across the agricultural ecosystem to accelerate the development of farmer-centric, sustainable solutions.

Idea2Impact™ has been conceived to bring external ideas, scientific capability, and real-world field insights together in a transparent and responsible manner. The ecosystem enables collaboration with farmers, researchers, startups, academic institutions, and small enterprises, providing them access to Rallis’ scientific expertise, R&D infrastructure, testing and validation capabilities, and pan-India market reach.

Indian agriculture is facing increasing complexity driven by climate variability, sustainability expectations, evolving regulatory requirements, and changing farmer needs. Rallis believes that addressing these challenges requires innovation that extends beyond organisational boundaries and is firmly grounded in scientific rigor and on-field relevance.

Idea2Impact™ follows a structured, milestone-based governance framework, covering confidentiality, evaluation, development, and value-sharing. Innovations submitted through the platform may progress through laboratory studies, greenhouse and multi-location field trials, piloting, and—where appropriate—commercialization, supported by clear intellectual property and royalty frameworks.

Dr. Gyanendra Shukla, Managing Director & CEO, Rallis India Limited, said —

At Rallis, we believe that meaningful agricultural innovation emerges when strong science is combined with fresh ideas and real field experience. Idea2Impact™ is our way of opening up Rallis’ capabilities to the wider ecosystem, while maintaining the highest standards of governance, transparency, and scientific rigor. This platform will help us work more closely with innovators to develop solutions that deliver real value to farmers and contribute to the long-term sustainability of Indian agriculture.”

The ecosystem will focus on priority innovation domains critical to Indian agriculture, including Seeds and Trait Innovation (covering plant breeding and germplasm), Biological and Sustainable Solutions,

Crop Protection, Soil Health, Digital and Precision Agriculture, and Climate & Water Resilience. These focus areas align closely with Rallis’ long-term portfolio priorities and growth strategy.

As part of the Tata Group, Rallis brings to Idea2Impact™ a strong foundation of ethical practices, governance standards, and a long-term partnership mindset. Collaborations under the platform will emphasize responsible innovation, respect for intellectual property, transparent benefit-sharing mechanisms, and measurable farmer impact.

Through Idea2Impact™, Rallis aims to strengthen its innovation pipeline, accelerate the validation and scaling of relevant technologies, and build long-term partnerships that support sustainable value creation for farmers, partners, and stakeholders.

New Indian AI Research Organisation (IAIRO) to Drive Innovation from Gujarat

Gujarat has approved the establishment of the Indian AI Research Organisation (IAIRO) at GIFT City, Gandhinagar. It will operate under a public-private partnership (PPP) involving the state government, central government, and the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance, with an initial ₹300 crore budget for five years.

Key Highlights of IAIRO at GIFT City

• Approval Date: December 30, 2025
• Location: GIFT City, near Gandhinagar, Gujarat
• Structure: Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), registered as a non-profit entity under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013
• Partnership Model: Tripartite collaboration between Gujarat State Government, Government of India, and Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA)
• Funding: ₹300 crore for the first five years; contributions split equally (33.33%) among partners; IPA to contribute ₹25 crore in FY 2025–26
• Operational Start: January 1, 2026

Objectives of IAIRO

• Strengthen AI R&D with cutting-edge research and applications
• Accelerate India’s AI ecosystem in line with national innovation goals
• Encourage industry-academia collaboration
• Drive sectoral impact in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, fintech, and governance

Why This Matters

Aspect	Significance
Location (GIFT City)	India’s premier financial and tech hub, offering global connectivity and regulatory flexibility
PPP Model	Ensures shared responsibility and funding between government and private sector
Budget Allocation	₹300 crore signals strong commitment to long-term AI research
Anchor Partner (IPA)	Pharma industry’s involvement highlights AI’s role in drug discovery and healthcare analytics
National Strategy	Reinforces India’s ambition to be a global AI leader

Challenges & Considerations

• Execution risks due to coordination among multiple partners
• Need for sustained investment in AI education and talent pipeline
• Global competition from established AI hubs
• Importance of ethical AI and data governance

In short: The Indian AI Research Organisation at GIFT City is a landmark step in India’s AI journey, blending government vision with private sector expertise. If executed well, it could position Gujarat—and India—as a global hub for AI innovation.

Astrophel’s Cryogenic Pump Hits ISRO Test Bench—Paving the Way for India’s First Private Gas Generator Cycle

• Astrophel Aerospace has successfully developed an indigenous cryo-pump capable of spinning at 25,000 RPM, to power its next-gen rocket engines.
• It awaits testing and certification by ISRO, marking a significant technical milestone in propulsion technology.
• The next stage of development will focus on upgrading it to a turbopump for integration into its in-house first and second stage engines by late 2026.
• Referred to as the “heart of a rocket engine”, it requires more than 50 precision-engineered components.

Suyash Bafna, Cofounder, Astrophel Aerospace, holding the cryo-pump for testing

Astrophel Aerospace, a Pune-based spacetech startup, is currently testing and characterising its indigenously developed cryogenic pump at ISRO facilities. Once successfully validated, the cryo-pump will be upgraded into a fully-fledged turbopump for integration into the startup's rocket engine, the Astra C1, by late 2026. The technical milestone positions Astrophel as one of the first private Indian space startups to develop an in-house cryo-pump.

Astrophel is also in the process of signing an MoU with a US-based partner and is actively exploring additional global collaborations, for export commercialisation at the sub-component level to service rising demand in the global space sector and industries such as oil and gas, which handle cryogenic fuels. Unlike other technical approaches, a turbopump draws power directly from the engine itself, eliminating the need for external batteries, making it a more sustainable long-term solution for space engine reusability and cost-efficient launches across all segments.

“This milestone is a testament to how India can indigenously develop advanced propulsion technologies at a fraction of global costs,” said Suyash Bafna, Co-Founder of Astrophel Aerospace. “ISRO’s certification will validate not just our pump, but India’s ability to innovate world-class space hardware with global export opportunities”, he added.

What began as fifty-plus separate, precisely engineered components comes together into a cryo-pump system that spins at 25,000 RPM, delivering cryogenic fuel that will power both Astrophel’s first and second-stage rocket engines. For context, at least 8-9 turbopumps are required just during the first-stage liftoff of an SSLV.

The announcement comes as India sets its sight on growing the space economy from $8.4 billion in 2022 to $44 billion by 2033, capturing 8% of the global market. With more than 250 startups entering the sector, propulsion milestones like Astrophel’s cryo-pump are vital to achieving this vision. “This milestone represents the culmination of years of frugal engineering and is a stepping stone toward India’s first privately developed gas generator cycle,” added Immanuel Louis, Co-Founder, Astrophel Aerospace.

Though the size of a one-litre bottle, the cryo-pump is powerful enough to generate 100 to 150 horsepower, equivalent to that of a family car, which will be scaled up to deliver 500 to 600 horsepower (turbopump) for larger launch vehicles. Acting as the “heart of the rocket,” a turbopump feeds cryogenic fuel into the engine at high pressure, ensuring efficient thrust control and lower material costs. Astrophel’s approach differs from other startups pursuing 3D-printed, electric pumps. Adopting lean manufacturing principles from the auto sector ensures cost efficiency, rapid assembly, and scalable production.

About Astrophel Aerospace

Astrophel Aerospace is an Indian space tech startup developing affordable, dedicated launch vehicles for small satellites, powered by semi-cryogenic propulsion systems. Its flagship Astra C1 series and Potentia engine position it among the few Indian private companies to have independently built and successfully test-fired a semi-cryogenic engine on 15th August 2023, without any external funding. By combining best practices from automotive manufacturing with 3D printing, Astrophel reduces production time and cost by up to 40%, making it potentially one of the most accessible launch providers in the segment.

The company has developed in-house capabilities across throttleable engine valves, regenerative nozzle design, cryogenic subsystems, and real-time avionics software. Astrophel is planning full orbital missions from Indian launchpads utilising reusable launchers to capitalise on the potential of India's space industry, projected to reach USD 44 billion by 2033. It is supported by a distinguished advisory board of propulsion experts with experience working at ISRO, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and DRDO. Together, they bring technical oversight and strategic depth to Astrophel’s mission to democratise space access.

About Suyash Bafna

Suyash Bafna is the Co-Founder of Astrophel Aerospace, playing a key role in systems integration, operations, and strategic execution. With a background in mechanical engineering, Suyash bridges the gap between propulsion, avionics, and structural design, ensuring that Astrophel’s launch systems are optimised for performance and reliability. He has been instrumental in coordinating subsystem development for the Astra C1 vehicle and managing timelines for the company’s upcoming suborbital launch. His focus on mission-readiness, testing protocols, and cross-functional collaboration has helped streamline development despite limited resources.

At Astrophel, Suyash also oversees external partnerships and vendor alignments, working to reduce costs while maintaining technical integrity. Passionate about building indigenous space capabilities, he is committed to enabling affordable access to space for small satellite operators. His systems-driven leadership contributes significantly to Astrophel’s goal of becoming India’s most cost-effective and agile launch provider.

About Immanuel Louis

Immanuel Louis is the Co-Founder of Astrophel Aerospace. An aerospace engineer by training and a lifelong aviation enthusiast, Immanuel holds a master’s degree from MIT Chennai. His journey began with building remote-control aircraft as a child and evolved into co-building one of India’s most affordable semi-cryogenic rocket engines. At Astrophel, he spearheads propulsion system design, engineering integration, and business strategy. He is committed to building India’s next-gen launch infrastructure and fostering a new wave of aerospace talent. His passion lies in combining indigenous innovation with global best practices to position Astrophel as an upcoming leader in the small satellite launch segment.

About MD Taj Baba, Founding Member & Head of Aero Thermal Engineering

MD Taj Baba is a founding member of Astrophel Aerospace and currently leads aero-thermal engineering initiatives with a dedicated focus on liquid propulsion and rocket nozzle systems. With a Bachelor’s in Aeronautical Engineering from AeSI, New Delhi, and a Master’s in Thermal Engineering from Osmania University, Taj brings crucial expertise in thermodynamic analysis, engine heat transfer, and high-performance thermal system design. While instrumental in shaping Astrophel’s early vision and direction as a Co-Founder, Taj is now transitioning away from operational leadership to focus full-time on technical development within the propulsion team.

At Astrophel, he has played a pivotal role in the design and validation of critical cryogenic engine components, control valves, and regenerative cooling systems. An Associate Member of the Aeronautical Society of India and a mentor to aspiring aerospace engineers, Taj remains deeply committed to advancing indigenous semi-cryogenic propulsion technologies and scaling India’s capabilities in the global space sector.

Healthium Medtech and C-CAMP Launch Surgical Innovation Cohort to Advance Affordable, AI-Enabled Medtech in India

Healthium Medtech and the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) recently launched the first cohort of the C-CAMP Healthium Innovations Program for Surgical Interventions and Medical Technologies in Bengaluru.

This program is a part of the CSR initiative of Healthium Medtech. The partnership aims to foster deep-science innovations in digitally enabled medical technologies that are affordable, scalable and clinically impactful. In its first year, the initiative focuses on surgical interventions, an area undergoing rapid modernisation globally but still marked by limited access and affordability across large parts of India.

Despite the increasing adoption of advanced surgical technologies in metropolitan hospitals, smaller healthcare systems in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities often remain underserved. The high cost of imported solutions, along with infrastructure and training gaps, have made it difficult to scale access to modern surgical care. This program was created to address these challenges by nurturing India-led, frugal and scalable innovations that are tailored for local needs without compromising on quality or outcomes.

The initiative brings together two organisations with complementary strengths. Healthium Medtech brings deep expertise in surgical and post-surgical technologies, supported by a diverse product portfolio and robust manufacturing capabilities. The company operates 6 facilities with global certifications and holds over 85 patents across India, the US and Europe. C-CAMP, an initiative supported by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, has built one of the country’s leading life sciences innovation ecosystems, having supported over 550 deep-tech start-ups across domains and connected with 3000 more.

Together, the collaboration combines clinical insight, market access and ecosystem support to help early-stage ventures overcome critical barriers from research to commercialisation.

The launch event featured inaugural remarks, a showcase by the selected start-ups and a campus tour. The inaugural cohort includes start-ups like BrainSight AI, Nesa Medtech, Cartosense, Shira Medtech, Samaritan AI, Quixotix, Roots to Cusps and Healyantra. These ventures are working across domains such as neurology, urology, AI-enabled surgical planning and diagnostic imaging.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Anish Bafna, CEO and Managing Director, Healthium Medtech, said, “At Healthium, our vision has always been to make quality healthcare more accessible. By collaborating with C-CAMP, we are creating a strong platform for innovators who are tackling some of the most pressing surgical and medical challenges in India. The first cohort reflects the breadth of ideas and talent that can truly shape the future of healthcare.”

Dr. Taslimarif Saiyed, CEO and Director, C-CAMP, said, “India’s medtech ecosystem is at a critical juncture where innovation must be paired with affordability and scalability. Through this program with Healthium, we are enabling start-ups not only with resources and mentorship, but also with an ecosystem that can help them transform their technologies into solutions that impact lives at scale.”

Over the next nine months, the selected start-ups will receive structured mentorship and incubation support at C-CAMP and access to clinical and industry expertise to help advance their technologies toward market readiness and adoption. The launch of this program comes at a time when India’s medtech sector is gaining momentum, supported by policy initiatives, rising domestic demand and growing investor interest.

IIT Hyderabad and WiSig Network’s 5G Innovations Attain Mainstream Paving the Way for 6G at 3GPP Meetings at Prague

• RAN #108, Prague (Jun 2025): Consortium backs India’s π/2-BPSK extension for stronger 5G coverage and to uplink-heavy apps (HD video, XR, on-device AI) while seeding 6G.
• From Lab to Global Standard: Developed at IIT Hyderabad in 2014 → National program → 3GPP 5G Rel-17 feature now used by operators and vendors worldwide.
• Team India + Global Allies: Led by Prof. Kiran Kuchi, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Hyderabad, with support from Qualcomm, Apple, Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, MediaTek, DOCOMO, AT&T, Reliance Jio, Thales, and others—backed by DoT, MeitY, DST, and TSDSI.
• Next Stop 6G: IITH & WiSig are already advancing OTFDM and Structural MIMO tech in the new 6G Study Item to power future networks and devices.

At 3GPP TSG RAN #108 in Prague, a global  consortium proposed extending India’s π/2-BPSK uplink waveform to further strengthen 5G coverage and unlock uplink-intensive services—such as high-definition video, immersive XR, and on-device AI—while paving the way for 6G.

Originating in 2014 at IIT Hyderabad as a single-institute effort, the waveform progressed into a national program with leading industry and academic partners, became a 3GPP Release 17 standard, and is now a mainstream 5G feature adopted by operators and vendors worldwide.

Prof. Kiran Kuchi, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Hyderabad, the driving force behind this success and founder of IIT Hyderabad spin-out WiSig Networks, remarked, “India’s coverage-enhancement technology—created with fellow Indian institutes and global collaborators including Qualcomm, Apple, Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, MediaTek, DOCOMO, AT&T, Reliance Jio, Thales, and others—has become an integral part of the global standard.”

We gratefully acknowledge the efforts of various organizations of Government of India, i.e. the Department of Telecommunications (DOT), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Department of Science and Technology (DST), and the Standards Development Organisation, Telecommunications Standards Development Society, India (TSDSI) for their steadfast support in this regard.

Prof. B S Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad, added, “IIT Hyderabad is committed to breakthrough research in the field of Wireless Communications that translates into globally adopted patents and products, propelling India toward Viksit Bharat.”

As the 6G era dawns, IIT Hyderabad and WiSig Networks are already advancing technologies such as the OTFDM waveform and Structural MIMO within the newly approved 6G Study Item. Together with Indian and global partners, we will continue to imagine, invent, and deliver the next generation of communication technologies, networks, and devices.

About IIT Hyderabad:

IITH, established in 2008, has reached a respectable position in Academics, Research, Technology development and Startups in a short span of 16 years. In the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), IITH has bagged at 3rd in Innovation and 8th among Engineering institutes in the last two consecutive years, while it has maintained its rank within top 10 Engineering Institutes ever since NIRF was launched. IITH has been striving for excellence with a motto of "Inventing & Innovating in Technology for Humanity (IITH)".

With 325 full-time Faculty and 5,300+ Students (PG+PhD students accounting for about 60%), IITH has a strong research focus with ~ 4630 Projects worth of Rs. 1510+ Cr of R&D funding (Rs. 335+ Cr funding in 2024-25, i.e., Rs. 1+ Cr per faculty), 11,680+ Publications, 2,15,000+ Citations, 510+ Patents (210+ Patents in 2024 and a commitment to “Patent a Day: Mission 365” for 2025 to earn 365 Patents by the end of 2025), and about 260+ Startups (that have generated 1100+ jobs with a revenue of Rs. 1500+ Cr).

About WiSig Networks Private Limited:

WiSig Networks, a Startup incubated at IITH, is a leading provider of wireless communications solutions, specialising in cutting-edge technologies such as Massive MIMO, 5G ORAN, NB-IoT SOC solutions, Open RAN and advanced 5G/6G technologies, played a crucial role in the integration and seamless operation of equipment throughout the trials. IIT Hyderabad's extensive indoor and outdoor facilities provided an optimal environment for comprehensive real-world wireless testing. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, WiSig is dedicated to shaping the future of Wireless connectivity. www.wisig.com

IISc Proposes ₹500 Crore Plan for World's Smallest Semiconductor Chip

Angstrom-scale chips are ultra-small semiconductor chips that go beyond the current nanometer-scale technology. These chips are designed using 2D materials like graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), allowing for extremely compact and efficient electronics.

For context, the smallest chips currently in production measure 3 nanometers, but angstrom-scale chips aim to be one-tenth that size. This breakthrough could lead to faster computing, energy-efficient devices, and next-generation Al systems.

India's Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has proposed a ₹500 crore project to develop these ultra-small chips, positioning the country as a leader in next-gen semiconductor technology, said a report by news agency PTI.

According to the report, India’s Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) confirmed that the proposal has been under discussion.

The report also cites an official privy to the development and quotes the official saying, "MeitY is positive about the project. The Principal Scientific Adviser and Secretary, MeitY, have held meetings on it. MeitY is exploring the electronics applications where such technology can be deployed. This is a collaborative effort that requires due diligence at every step."

This comes within few days after IISc researchers recently announced that they have engineered a bacteria-based technique to repair bricks used in space habitats.

Scientists from IISc have proposed developing angstrom-scale chips using 2D materials like graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). These chips would be far smaller than the smallest chips currently in production, potentially revolutionizing semiconductor technology. The proposal, submitted to the government, aims to position India as a leader in next-generation semiconductor research.

The project seeks ₹500 crore over five years to develop indigenous technology, contrasting with India's 91,000 crore semiconductor project led by Tata Electronics in partnership with Taiwan's PSMC.

Globally, Europe, South Korea, China, and Japan have already invested heavily in 2D material-based semiconductor research.

To recall, last year in January a team of researchers at Georgia Tech and Tianjin University has claimed to have created the world’s first functional semiconductor made from graphene.

Angstrom-scale chips could unlock groundbreaking advancements across multiple industries. With significantly higher transistor density, these chips could enable Al models to process vast amounts of data faster and more efficiently, revolutionizing fields like quantum computing and Al-driven automation.

India’s push toward 2D semiconductor materials like graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) could position it as a leader in this post-silicon era.

Besides, it may also be recalled that Digital University of Kerala (DUK), along with Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET) in Thrissur, launched India's first Graphene Innovation Centre, in January 2022.

PM Modi and Musk Discuss Expanding India's Tech Frontiers with AI, Space, and Digital Innovation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Elon Musk recently connected over a phone call where they discussed the immense potential for collaboration in the areas of technology and innovation.

The conversation revisited some of the points they had touched upon during their earlier meeting in Washington, D.C., emphasizing the shared vision of leveraging cutting-edge technology to accelerate digital transformation and boost economic growth in India.

The dialogue comes at a time when Musk’s companies, notably Tesla and Starlink, are actively exploring opportunities to expand their presence in the Indian market.

PM Modi posted on X saying —

Spoke to @elonmusk and talked about various issues, including the topics we covered during our meeting in Washington DC earlier this year. We discussed the immense potential for collaboration in the areas of technology and innovation. India remains committed to advancing our partnerships with the US in these domains.

"It was an honor to speak with PM Modi. I am looking forward to visiting India later this year!," Musk posted on X in a response to Modi’s post.

Tesla is reportedly in discussions with Indian officials about the possibility of setting up a local factory, while Starlink—through its parent company SpaceX—is eyeing an expansion of its satellite internet services and has already partnered with Indian telcos airtel and Jio. This strategic engagement underscores India's commitment to advancing its technological capabilities and fostering deep ties with global innovation leaders, which could have a transformative impact on the nation’s tech ecosystem.

Musk To Visit India

Elon Musk has announced that he will visit India later this year following a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Their discussion focused on potential collaborations in technology and innovation, reinforcing India's commitment to advancing partnerships with the U.S. in areas like AI, space exploration, and digital connectivity.

This visit comes as Tesla prepares to enter the Indian market, with reports suggesting that the company will begin selling electric vehicles in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore by the third quarter of 2025. Additionally, Starlink is working on securing regulatory approvals to launch satellite internet services in India, aligning with the government's push for enhanced digital infrastructure.

Musk's engagement with India signals growing ties between his ventures and the Indian government.

IISc Researchers Develop Brain-inspired Computing Platform That Can Store and Process Data

Researchers at the Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE) of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a groundbreaking brain-inspired analog computing platform. This platform can store and process data in an impressive 16,500 conductance states within a molecular film. This innovation mimics the human brain's neural networks, allowing for more efficient and powerful data processing.

Supported by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Ministry of Education and the Department of Science and Technology., the team at IISc tapped into tiny molecular movements to design a highly precise and efficient neuromorphic accelerator, which can be seamlessly integrated with silicon circuits to boost their performance and energy efficiency.

Key Features:

High Efficiency: The platform integrates data storage and processing, reducing the need for data transfer and significantly improving energy efficiency.

Advanced AI Capabilities: It can handle complex AI tasks, such as training large language models, on personal devices like laptops and smartphones.

Neuromorphic Design: By using molecular movements to create a "molecular diary," it can access a vast number of memory states, far beyond the binary states of traditional digital computers.

This development could revolutionize AI hardware, making advanced AI tools more accessible and energy-efficient. It's a significant step forward in neuromorphic computing and positions India as a potential leader in global tech innovation.

Published in the journal Nature, this breakthrough represents a huge step forward over traditional digital computers in which data storage and processing are limited to just two states.

Neuromorphic computing differs significantly from traditional computing architectures in several key ways. For an instance, Traditional Computing uses the von Neumann architecture, where the CPU and memory are separate entities. Data is shuttled back and forth between them, which can create bottlenecks. While, Neuromorphic Computing mimics the brain’s neural networks, integrating processing and memory storage in a more interconnected manner, reducing data transfer bottlenecks.

Neuromorphic computing holds great promise for the future, especially in areas requiring high efficiency and adaptability.

Such a platform could potentially bring complex Al tasks, like training LLMs, to personal devices like laptops and smartphones, taking us closer to democratising the development of Al tools.

Neuromorphic computing is a fascinating area. It aims to mimic the neural structure and functioning of the human brain to create more efficient and powerful computing systems. This approach can potentially revolutionize various fields by significantly improving computing efficiency and reducing energy consumption.

Recent advancements in neuromorphic platforms have shown promising results. For instance, these platforms can process information in a way that is more akin to how the human brain works, enabling faster and more efficient data processing. This can be particularly beneficial for applications in artificial intelligence, robotics, and real-time data analysis.

IISc-incubated Startup SpaceFields Hot-Tests India's 1st AeroSpike Rocket Engine

The Indian Institute of Sciences (IISc) -incubated startup, SpaceFields, has successfully conducted a hot-fire test of India's first AeroSpike Rocket Engine. This test took place at their Propulsion Test Facility in Challakere, Karnataka.

The AeroSpike Rocket Engine has several advantages over traditional bell-shaped rocket engines. This design can potentially reduce fuel consumption, making launches more cost-effective.

Notably, AeroSpike engines are well-suited for reusable launch vehicles and missions that require multiple stages.

AeroSpike engines maintain efficiency across a wide range of altitudes by adjusting the exhaust flow, unlike traditional engines which are optimized for a specific altitude.

Overall, AeroSpike engines offer significant advantages in terms of efficiency and performance, they also come with challenges related to complexity and initial cost. The successful test by SpaceFields is a promising step towards overcoming these challenges and making AeroSpike engines a viable option for future space missions.

@Space_Fields, an @iiscbangalore-incubated startup has successfully fired India's first aerospike rocket engine.

Aerospike engines are unique because they adjust to different altitudes, maintaining efficiency regardless of atmospheric pressure 🚀 pic.twitter.com/Uz4SUHuYT6

— Sibu Tripathi 🪂 (@imsktripathi) September 11, 2024

Here are some key highlights:

Peak Thrust: The engine achieved a peak thrust of 2000 Newtons.

Material: The engine is made from Titanium grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V), known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio.

Thermal Insulation: A patent-pending GFRP-based ablative thermal insulation was used to protect the aerospike’s surface, capable of withstanding temperatures up to 3000K. 

Altitude Compensation: The AeroSpike design offers altitude compensation, making it more efficient across various pressure regimes.

This development marks a significant milestone in India's space technology, potentially leading to more efficient and cost-effective space launch systems in the future.

About SpaceFields, it is a spacetech startup based in Bengaluru, India, founded in 2021 by Apurwa Masook, Sudarshan Samal, and Rounak Agrawal. The company focuses on developing dual-use rocket propulsion systems for both commercial spaceflight and national security applications.

Incubated at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, and supported by the governments of India, Karnataka, and Odisha, SpaceFields has also filed six patents on in-house developed technologies.

The Space Technology startup has raised $800,000 in a seed round led by HVB 88 Angels and O2 Angels Network.

SpaceFields aims to minimize barriers to entry for emerging small satellites and enable broader access to space. They have also collaborated with organizations like the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Team of BAIT, Erode Selected As Winner of Tata Technologies' InnoVent Hackathon

• Tata Technologies announces winners of InnoVent 2023, offers career opportunities to all finalists
• Tata Technologies InnoVent was launched in July 2023 to inspire young engineering students In India to showcase their creativity and innovate solutions across areas like Electric Vehicles, Autonomous Vehicles, Cybersecurity, Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI), and the Internet of Things (IoT).
• The hackathon saw enthusiastic participation from 2,696 budding engineers across 229 colleges in India submitting 814 unique projects, culminating into the final Demo Day.
• The Grand Finale Demo Day was organised at the Tata Technologies’ headquarters in Hinjawadi, Pune, where the Top 10 teams impressed the audience with their prototypes.
• The top three winning teams received cash prizes worth INR 4.5 Lakhs and all the top 10 finalists were offered career opportunities at Tata Technologies.

Tata Technologies, a global product engineering and digital services company, announces the successful conclusion of the 1st edition of InnoVent hackathon, an innovation platform that provides young engineering students in India with an opportunity to showcase their creativity and innovate solutions to address the challenges being faced by the manufacturing industry. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the company’s engagement with the academic community, fostering innovation and creativity among young engineering talents across India, helping engineer better careers.

The Top 10 team/s participated in the Demo Day at Tata Technologies headquarters in Hinjawadi, Pune, where they presented their innovation prototypes and wowed the audience. The final evaluations were done by an eminent jury comprising of Mr. Warren Harris, CEO & MD, Tata Technologies, Mr. Ravi Arora, Senior Vice President & Head Group Innovation – Tata Sons; Mr. Sven Patuschka, Chief Technology Officer – Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Limited & Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Limited; and Mr. Jyotin Kutty Sastabhavan, Chief Sustainability Officer – Tata Motors.

The winning team Rolex from Bannari Amman Institute Of Technology, Erode, Tamil Nadu

The winning team Rolex from Bannari Amman Institute Of Technology, Erode, was felicitated with a cash prize of INR 3,00,000/- for their innovation Generative AI for car design – unleashing creativity and efficiency in automotive styling.

Team Blitzkrieg from RVCE, Bangalore

The team Blitzkrieg from RVCE, Bangalore, won the 2nd prize – a cash prize of INR 1,00,000/- for their innovation Design and development of an Autonomous Electric Vehicle (AEV) for Indian roads.

Team ThunderBolt from VIT, Vellore

The 3rd prize of INR 50,000/- was won by the team ThunderBolt from VIT, Vellore, for their Battery system and pumping station for buses using Vanadium redox flow battery. In recognition of their talent, visible in their innovations, Tata Technologies offered 34 team members from the top 10 teams, an opportunity to start their careers with them.

Speaking at the Tata Technologies InnoVent felicitation ceremony, Mr. Warren Harris, MD and CEO of Tata Technologies stated, “Tata Technologies vision of engineering a better world embodies our commitment to innovate sustainable eMobility solutions by collaborating with our entire ecosystem, including the academia. We had identified real world challenges while inviting projects for the InnoVent hackathon and I am inspired by the way innovators have applied ingenious, frugal solutions to these issues, blending the finest of human creativity with cutting-edge technology. I congratulate all the winners and participants for displaying such creative talent and a Can-Do attitude while innovating the solutions.”

Highlighting the importance of creating a culture of innovation amongst young engineering students, Mr. Santosh Singh, EVP and Global Head, Marketing and Business Excellence at Tata Technologies, added, “As a human brand, we focus on delivering great experiences to our customers by innovating solutions that address the business challenges faced by our clients. The students today will innovate some of the biggest solutions in next few years. It is important for us to support, mentor, and empower these young engineering minds, equipping them with the skills necessary for a successful career. The enthusiasm and creativity displayed by these young innovators exceeded our expectations and reinforced our belief in the power of innovation in engineering a better world. We are delighted that we were able to offer them not only cash prizes and learnings but also job opportunities to all the finalists.”

Tata Technologies extends heartfelt congratulations to the winning teams and expresses deep gratitude to all the participants for their remarkable contributions and for making the InnoVent Hackathon a resounding success.

More details of the InnoVent program are available at https://www.tatatechnologies.com/innovent/.

About Tata Technologies:

Tata Technologies (BSE: 544028, NSE: TATATECH) is a global product engineering and digital services company focused on fulfilling our mission of helping the world drive, fly, build, and farm by enabling our customers to realize better products and deliver better experiences. We are the strategic engineering partner businesses turn to when they aspire to be better. Manufacturing companies rely on us to enable them to conceptualize, develop and realize better products that are safer, cleaner, and improve the quality of life for all the stakeholders, helping us achieve our vision of #EngineeringABetterWorld.