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  • TI’s $60 billion US plan, L&T’s second ESB bond, Embedl’s edge-AI tech, Neoclease’s gene-editing platform, and more

    TI’s $60 billion US plan, L&T’s second ESB bond, Embedl’s edge-AI tech, Neoclease’s gene-editing platform, and more
    Jun 19 2025

    Texas Instruments commits $60 billion to semiconductor expansion

    The investment will build seven fabs across Texas and Utah, boosting U.S. production of 300mm chips for companies like Apple and Nvidia. Supported by $1.6B in CHIPS Act funding, the project will create 60,000 jobs and manufacture hundreds of millions of chips daily.[1]

    Embedl secures €5.5 million to scale its edge AI platform

    The Swedish deep tech startup, spun out from Chalmers University, raised pre-Series A funding to make edge-AI deployment accessible for developers in robotics, defense, and automotive. Their platform optimizes AI inference for local hardware, reducing cloud dependency and energy use. Chalmers Ventures led the round, bringing total funding to €12 million.[2]

    OrangeQS sets Dutch record with €12 million seed round

    The Delft-based quantum startup raised the largest seed investment in the Netherlands’ quantum sector to scale automated testing systems for quantum chips. Funding will accelerate the transition from lab prototypes to industrial quantum computers, leveraging deep academic expertise.[3]

    Neoclease wins Merck’s biotech grant for its AI gene-editing tech

    The Boston startup won Merck’s 2025 North American Advance Biotech Grant for its AI-designed platform targeting Parkinson’s disease. The grant provides access to Merck’s manufacturing tech and regulatory support to scale therapies for 6,000+ genetic disorders.[4]

    Fervo and Form Energy advance energy projects for AI

    Fervo is building the world’s largest geothermal plant in Utah to power data centers, while Form Energy raised $400 million to scale iron-air batteries. Both startups are fast-tracking deployments amid surging AI-driven energy demand, with Constellation Energy restarting nuclear plants for Microsoft.[5]

    Typedef raises $5.5 million for AI data infrastructure

    The startup’s platform automates data pipeline management for LLM workloads, enabling faster AI deployment. Pear VC led the seed round to target the $200B AI infrastructure market, simplifying prompt experimentation and pipeline optimization for enterprises.[6]

    L&T considers second ESG bond after strong demand for debut issue

    Indian infrastructure giant Larsen & Toubro is exploring a second round of ESG (environmental, social, and governance) bonds after its inaugural ₹500 crore ($58 million) issue sold at a premium under India’s new ESG debt framework. The three-year notes, rated AAA by Crisil, were priced at a 6.35 percent coupon—lower than comparable bonds—reflecting high demand from banks and mutual funds. SBI Mutual Fund was a key investor in the debut.[7]

    Sources:

    [1] https://www.manufacturingdive.com/news/texas-instruments-plans-invest-60-billion-semiconductor-fabs-Utah/751057/

    [2] https://techfundingnews.com/edge-ai-is-the-new-frontier-and-this-swedish-deeptech-wants-to-rule-it-scores-e5-5m-funding/

    [3] https://ioplus.nl/en/posts/orange-qs-raises-12-mln-for-scaling-up-quantum-computing

    [4] https://www.merckgroup.com/en/news/na-advance-biotech-grant-2025.html

    [5] https://www.latitudemedia.com/news/how-fervo-constellation-and-form-energy-are-racing-to-power-ai/

    [6] https://siliconangle.com/2025/06/18/startup-typedef-gets-5-5m-seed-funding-build-customized-data-pipelines-llm-workloads/

    [7] https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/indias-larsen-toubro-mulls-another-esg-bond-issue-after-debut-attracts-premium-2025-06-

    For in-depth conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and other stakeholders contributing to India’s deep tech and climate tech ecosystems, do check out my India Tech Report: In Conversation podcast.

    If you’d like to support my work, please subscribe to my newsletter India Tech Report, and you’ll get all these in one place.
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    5 Min.
  • Nasa seeking feedback, China’s quantum advances, solid state batteries, India’s semicon SEZ rules and more

    Nasa seeking feedback, China’s quantum advances, solid state batteries, India’s semicon SEZ rules and more
    Jun 18 2025
    NASA seeks commercial feedback for future space communication networksNASA is inviting US and international companies to provide input on Earth proximity relay communication and navigation services as the agency transitions from its own satellite system to commercial solutions[1].This move aims to enhance data relay for future science missions, stimulate private investment, and ensure robust support for upcoming exploration initiatives, with commercial offerings expected as early as 2028. SpaceX launches 26 Starlink satellites, expanding global broadbandSpaceX successfully deployed 26 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit from California on June 16. The Falcon 9 rocket’s reusable first stage landed on a droneship, and the mission further strengthens the Starlink broadband network, now exceeding 7,760 active satellites[2].This launch follows a recent milestone: the completion of SpaceX’s first-generation direct-to-cell constellation, bringing global internet coverage a step closer. China commercializes 1,000-qubit quantum control systemOn June 16, China completed the commercialization and delivery of the ez-QREngine 2.0, its first superconducting quantum computing measurement and control system designed for 1,000-qubit machines. This milestone marks a significant leap in quantum hardware capabilities, positioning China as a key player in scalable quantum computing infrastructure for research and industry[3]. Taiwan unveils quantum chip fabrication and test facilitiesAcademia Sinica has launched Taiwan’s first dedicated quantum chip fabrication and testing spaces, successfully demonstrating superconducting qubit production using eight-inch wafer equipment. These new facilities will accelerate quantum hardware development, support national research, and strengthen Taiwan’s strategic position in the global quantum technology race[4]. Gotion unveils pilot line for next-gen solid-state EV batteriesVolkswagen-backed battery manufacturer Gotion has launched its first pilot line for all-solid-state batteries, branded as “Gemstone.” These batteries promise higher energy density, improved safety, and longer driving range compared to conventional lithium-ion cells. The pilot line signals the start of small-scale production, with full-scale manufacturing targeted for 2030, advancing the global EV and energy storage revolution[5]. Cathode materials market surges amid EV and clean energy boomThe global cathode materials market is projected to grow at a 14.93 percent CAGR, driven by rising electric vehicle adoption, renewable energy projects, and advances in battery technology. U.S. manufacturers are ramping up production, focusing on nickel-rich and cobalt-free cathodes to enhance battery capacity, lifespan, and sustainability, supported by strong government incentives and industry innovation[6]. India relaxes SEZ norms to boost semiconductor manufacturingIndia has revised its Special Economic Zones (SEZ) rules to promote domestic semiconductor and electronics manufacturing. Key reforms include reducing the minimum land requirement for SEZs from 50 to 10 hectares and allowing domestic sales after paying duties. These changes aim to attract capital-intensive investments, reduce import dependence, and strengthen India’s high-tech manufacturing ecosystem[7].For in-depth conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and other stakeholders contributing to India’s deep tech and climate tech ecosystems, do check out my India Tech Report: In Conversation podcast. If you’d like to support my work, please subscribe to the India Tech Report newsletter, to get all these in one place.Sources:1. https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/commercial-space/nasa-seeks-commercial-feedback-on-space-communication-solutions/2. https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-starlink-15-9-b1093-vsfs-ocisly3. https://www.digitimes.com/news/a20250617PD224/quantum-computing-quantum-computer.html4. https://thequantuminsider.com/2025/06/16/academia-sinica-announces-quantum-chip-fabrication-science-advances-unveils-two-research-spaces/5. https://www.thecooldown.com/green-tech/gotion-ev-battery-china-solid-state-manufacturing/6. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/06/16/3099918/0/en/Cathode-Materials-Market-to-Surge-at-14-93-CAGR-Driven-by-EV-Boom-and-Advanced-Lithium-Ion-Chemistries-Report-by-SNS-Insider.html7. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2135116#:~:text=After%20amendments%20in%20Rule%205,earlier%20requirement%20of%2050%20hectares
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    5 Min.
  • Space tech startups Impulse, Muon, fusion venture Proxima raise funding, AC settings rule in India

    Space tech startups Impulse, Muon, fusion venture Proxima raise funding, AC settings rule in India
    Jun 17 2025
    Impulse Space raises $300 million to expand space tug fleet for satellite mobilityImpulse Space, founded by former SpaceX engineer Tom Mueller, has raised $300 million in a funding round led by Linse Capital, bringing total funding to $525 million, Reuters reports. The startup develops “space tugs” to move satellites between orbits, addressing rising demand for in-space mobility across commercial, civil, and defense sectors. With over 30 contracts secured, the funds will help scale production, expand the team, and accelerate R&D for future orbital transport missions. Muon Space raises $146 million to scale satellite constellation manufacturing and propulsion techMuon Space, in Silicon Valley, has secured $146 million in Series B funding to expand satellite production, vertically integrate propulsion and sensing systems, and scale its automated constellation operations platform, Tech Funding News reports. The funding, led by Congruent Ventures, follows a 50 percent workforce increase and over $100 million in contracts in 2024. Muon also acquired Starlight Engines to bring solid-state propulsion in-house, supporting faster, safer, and more cost-effective satellite deployments for commercial and defense customers. Proxima Fusion raises $148 million in record round to build stellarator fusion power plantsIn Europe, German startup Proxima Fusion has secured €130 million ($148 million) in a record-breaking Series A funding round, the largest private fusion investment in Europe, CNBC reports. Led by Cherry Ventures and Balderton Capital, the funding will accelerate development of Proxima’s stellarator-based fusion power plants, with the goal of achieving a hardware demonstration by 2027 and commercial-scale plants in the 2030s. Founded in 2023 as a Max Planck Institute spin-out, Proxima aims to make clean, limitless fusion energy a reality for Europe’s future. UK invests $340 million to accelerate clean tech and zero-emission air travelThe UK government will invest £250 million ($340 million) in clean aviation technology, supporting projects focused on zero-emission flying, hydrogen and fuel cell systems, and lightweight materials, Reuters reports. Announced at the Paris Airshow, the funding — led by Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and academic partners — aims to spur private investment, create jobs, and strengthen the aerospace sector. The initiative also seeks to boost start-ups and ready the supply chain for greener air travel. AC settings rules in IndiaHere in India, the government plans to mandate air conditioner temperature settings between 20°C and 28°C for all ACs to improve energy efficiency and reduce electricity bills as ownership surges. Some expert engineers, such as Yash Tak, founder of Standard Volumes, a new-age construction consultancy and services venture in Bengaluru, have argued that this alone isn’t enough and that better building planning and using more scientifically appropriate materials in construction is crucial. India’s Northeast, a data centre destinationThe Northeast region of India is being positioned as a $100 billion data center opportunity, leveraging its cool climate and renewable energy prospects.For in-depth conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and other stakeholders contributing to India’s deep tech and climate tech ecosystems, do check out my India Tech Report: In Conversation podcast.If you’d like to support my work, please subscribe to my newsletter India Tech Report, to get all these in one place.
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    4 Min.
  • The Climate on Monday: clean tech 2X, climate finance in India, a boost for SAF, synthetic graphite, and more

    The Climate on Monday: clean tech 2X, climate finance in India, a boost for SAF, synthetic graphite, and more
    Jun 16 2025
    Global clean tech investments to hit 2X versus fossil fuels in 2025 Investment in clean technologies – renewables, nuclear, grids, storage, low-emissions fuels, efficiency and electrification – is on course to hit a record $2.2 trillion this year, attracting twice as much capital as fossil fuels, according to the 2025 edition of the International Energy Agency’s annual World Energy Investment report, which was released earlier this month.This reflects not only efforts to reduce emissions but also the growing influence of industrial policy, energy security concerns and the cost competitiveness of electricity-based solutions, the IEA said in a press release on June 5. Investment in oil, natural gas and coal is set to reach $1.1 trillion. Overall, global energy investment is set to increase in 2025 to a record $3.3 trillion despite headwinds from elevated geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, according to the release. Deadline nears for comments on India’s draft climate finance taxonomyThere are just 10 days left to submit feedback to the Ministry of Finance on India’s draft Climate Finance Taxonomy, released last month. The taxonomy aims to define clear criteria for climate-aligned investments, boost green finance flows, and help India meet its net zero targets. Stakeholders — including financial institutions, industry, and civil society — are encouraged to provide input to ensure the taxonomy supports credible, transparent, and effective climate action across the economy. India’s solar boom curbs coal use as renewables hit record highsMeanwhile, India’s solar power generation surged by 32.4 percent in the first four months of 2025, reaching a record 57.8TWh and boosting solar’s share of the electricity mix to 10 percent, Reuters reports. This growth, alongside higher hydro output, helped keep coal-fired generation flat and cut natural gas-fired output by 27 percent. In May, coal power output fell 9.5 percent year-on-year, the steepest drop in five years, as renewables hit record highs and overall power demand declined. While coal remains India’s dominant energy source, clean power’s share continues to grow. Trump to scrap Biden-era rule on pension funds considering ESGIn the US, the Department of Labor, under President Donald Trump’s administration, has announced plans to overturn a Biden-era rule that allowed pension funds to consider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in investment decisions and shareholder voting, Green Central Banking reported, citing ESG Dive. SkyNRG raises €300 million to accelerate sustainable aviation fuel productionIn Europe, Dutch company SkyNRG has secured €300 million — led by asset managers APG and Macquarie — to build three large-scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) plants in Europe and North America, Tech Funding News reports. The flagship facility in the Netherlands will use green hydrogen and captured CO₂ to cut emissions by over 80 percent compared with regular jet fuel. SkyNRG’s integrated approach, strict sustainability standards, and partnerships with airlines and corporations aim to make SAF mainstream and help aviation reach net-zero emissions by 2050. ScaleFund III raises €12M to back tech scale-ups in Benelux and FranceAlso in Europe, Belgian venture capital firm ScaleFund has launched its third fund, ScaleFund III, with an initial close of €12 million, targeting €30 million to support tech-driven companies in digital transformation, cleantech, and deeptech across Benelux and France. Led by Managing Partner Claire Munck, the fund focuses on hands-on support for companies beyond the startup phase, emphasizing diversity — 40 percent of prior investments were in women-led ventures — and aims to fill the funding gap for early-stage scale-ups with strong growth potential. Synthetic graphite production can be decarbonized with renewables and green hydrogen, study findsA new study finds that synthetic graphite production, crucial for electric vehicle batteries, can cut its high carbon emissions by adopting renewable energy and green hydrogen, Climate Insider reports. By switching 20–80 percent of energy sources, factories could reduce emissions by up to 70 percent. While decarbonization may increase production costs, surging demand and regulatory pressure make these measures increasingly necessary, according to the report. For in-depth conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and other stakeholders contributing to India’s deep tech and climate tech ecosystems, do check out my India Tech Report: In Conversation podcast. If you’d like to support my work, please subscribe to my newsletter India Tech Report, to get all these in one place, plus additional headlines and analyses on climate tech and deep tech innovations, investments and policy developments.
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    6 Min.
  • Deep tech wrap on Friday: Pixxel sparks at iDEX, Hyperbots funding, AI4Bharat gets second Nilekani grant, and more

    Deep tech wrap on Friday: Pixxel sparks at iDEX, Hyperbots funding, AI4Bharat gets second Nilekani grant, and more
    Jun 13 2025

    Mistral AI launches enterprise coding assistant to rival GitHub Copilot

    Mistral AI has introduced Mistral Code, a new enterprise-focused coding assistant designed to compete directly with GitHub Copilot. The tool offers on-premises deployment, robust data privacy, and deep customization for company codebases.

    Built on the open-source Continue project, it features role-based access, audit logs, and 24/7 support, supporting over 80 programming languages. Mistral Code aims to address key concerns in enterprise AI adoption, particularly around security and seamless integration.

    Hello Tomorrow spotlights 850 deep tech pioneers and award winners

    The 10th Hello Tomorrow Global Summit in Paris showcased 850 pioneering deep tech startups, with Nūmi (France), spotLESS Materials Inc (USA), and Papcup (UK) winning top honors. The event highlighted breakthroughs in AI for drug formulation, carbon capture, and sustainable materials, while emphasizing the importance of global collaboration and strategic partnerships for scaling deep tech ventures.

    Pixxel wins second iDEX grant to develop payloads for IAF

    Pixxel, a Bengaluru-based space tech startup, has secured its second SPARK grant from the Ministry of Defence’s iDEX initiative to develop advanced hyperspectral and mid-wave infrared (MWIR) payloads for the Indian Air Force.

    This funding, under the iDEX DISC 8 Challenge 6.2, will help Pixxel deploy its optical engineering and satellite manufacturing expertise to deliver next-generation, security-grade Earth observation technologies, enhancing India’s airborne and space-based imaging capabilities.

    The grant builds on Pixxel’s prior selection for miniaturized multi-payload satellites and underscores the government’s growing confidence in indigenous innovation and Pixxel’s technology stack.

    Hyperbots raises $6.5 million to automate finance with AI co-pilots

    Hyperbots secured $6.5 million in Series A funding to expand its AI-powered finance automation platform. The startup’s “agentic” AI co-pilots handle complex accounting tasks, aiming to reduce manual work by up to 80 percent accurately, with a focus on fintech, the Indo-US startup said in a press release.

    Nandan Nilekani renews support for AI4Bharat to boost India’s language AI infrastructure

    Nandan Nilekani has committed a second multi-year grant to AI4Bharat, a research lab at IIT Madras building open-source AI models for Indian languages. Nilekani’s support recognizes AI4Bharat’s pivotal role in powering multilingual digital services across governance, finance, and agriculture, with its models adopted by platforms like Bhashini and the Supreme Court’s SUVAS.

    The value of the grant was not specified in the press release, but multiple news reports peg his total commitment to AI4Bharat at Rs. 70 crore. That probably means the second grant was Rs. 34 crore, because his first grant was Rs. 36 crore in 2022.

    Okay so, for those of you who might be interested, last week I brought you a roundup of noteworthy deep tech developments in India in 2025.

    Are operators with experience better at startups?

    Before I wrap up, here are some interesting findings from broader survey of Indian startups. A study by Traxcn, a private markets intelligence provider, commissioned by RTP Global, an early-stage VC firm, highlights an increase in operator-led startups in India, with 238 former operators founding ventures from 2022 to 2024.

    These startups are outpacing peers by reaching seed funding faster, raising larger rounds, and securing more investor backing—especially in capital-intensive sectors like fintech, energy, and logistics. In 2024, operator-led startups raised $101 million, a 243 percent jump from 2023, accounting for 11.5 percent of all venture funding.

    They also progress to Series A at higher rates and command higher valuations, indicating operational experience gives founders a decisive edge. The trend reflects a shift in India’s startup ecosystem, where founder expertise and execution are increasingly valued.
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    6 Min.
  • TruAlt OMC, Eastman Li-ion batteries, BEL AI, IIT Madras entrepreneurship, Greaves Electric MD

    TruAlt OMC, Eastman Li-ion batteries, BEL AI, IIT Madras entrepreneurship, Greaves Electric MD
    Jun 11 2025

    TruAlt Bioenergy gains OMC status, to launch 100 flex-fuel retail outlets across India

    TruAlt Bioenergy, an ethanol producer, has secured ‘Oil Marketing Company’ (OMC) status, enabling it to retail fuels nationwide. The company will soon launch some 100 flex-fuel outlets in Karnataka and Maharashtra, offering ethanol, Bio-CNG, petrol, diesel, and EV services.

    This move positions TruAlt among the first private biofuel firms with OMC authorisation, supporting India’s clean energy transition and rural development. TruAlt’s expansion is expected to generate 2,000 jobs and advance the country’s ethanol blending and sustainable mobility goals.

    Eastman Auto & Power and Vande Bharat E-Vehicles sign ₹50 crore MoU to boost lithium-ion battery adoption in EVs

    Eastman Auto & Power Ltd. (EAPL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Vande Bharat E-Vehicles to supply lithium-ion batteries worth ₹50 crore annually for electric three-wheelers.

    The partnership aims to accelerate India’s electric mobility transition by powering Vande Bharat’s E-Rickshaws with advanced batteries, making EV adoption more accessible for commercial drivers nationwide. The collaboration will also drive innovation in battery leasing and strengthen Eastman’s leadership in the e-rickshaw battery segment, supporting India’s clean energy and net-zero ambitions.

    BEL, Metamind, and Persistent Systems sign MoU to deliver AI-driven software solutions across sectors

    Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Metamind Systems, and Persistent Systems have signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop innovative software products and services in data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity.

    The collaboration will target sectors including defence, healthcare, telecommunications, energy, and smart cities, with a focus on opportunities in India, the US, and Latin America. This partnership leverages BEL’s defence expertise, Metamind’s digital platforms, and Persistent’s global digital engineering capabilities to drive next-generation technology solutions across multiple industries.

    IIT Madras launches School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship to boost campus startup ecosystem

    IIT Madras has inaugurated its School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship to provide structured academic and research support for campus startups, Higher Education Review reports. The new school will offer programs, funding, and research opportunities, including an MS in Entrepreneurship starting July 2025, and aims to consolidate all innovation initiatives under one umbrella.

    The school will also introduce IITM-specific funding mechanisms for startups and is considering new practice-led degrees and an ‘Innovation Doctorate.’ IIT Madras Incubation Cell supported 104 new startups in the fiscal year 2024–25, cementing the institute’s leadership in India’s deep-tech startup landscape.

    Greaves Electric Mobility appoints Vikas Singh as Managing Director to drive next growth phase

    In some news on top executive movement, Greaves Electric Mobility Limited (GEML), the electric vehicle arm of Greaves Cotton, has appointed Vikas Singh as its new Managing Director, effective 2 June 2025.

    Singh, an alumnus of FMS, University of Delhi, brings extensive leadership experience from top Indian and multinational firms. He will oversee GEML’s management team and spearhead the company’s growth in India’s expanding EV market.
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    5 Min.
  • IonQ to buy Oxford Ionics, NASA science to be ripped in half, Bhashini for railways, and Vecmocon’s funding

    IonQ to buy Oxford Ionics, NASA science to be ripped in half, Bhashini for railways, and Vecmocon’s funding
    Jun 10 2025

    US scientists alarmed as Trump’s proposed budget slashes NASA science funding by half

    US scientists have condemned President Trump’s fiscal 2026 budget proposal, which seeks to cut NASA’s science funding by 47 percent and reduce its workforce by a third. The plan would cancel 41 missions, including the Mars Sample Return and OSIRIS-APEX, and halt collaborations like the Rosalind Franklin rover.

    Key Earth and astrophysics projects would also be axed, risking $12 billion in taxpayer investment, in operating missions alone, and undermining climate research. While the proposal faces bipartisan opposition in the US Congress, scientists warn that even temporary enactment could cause lasting damage to US space science and international partnerships.

    IonQ to acquire Oxford Ionics in $1.08 billion deal to boost quantum capabilities

    IonQ, a leading US quantum computing company, yesterday announced an agreement to acquire UK-based Oxford Ionics for $1.08 billion, mostly in stock. The deal aims to combine IonQ’s quantum hardware and software expertise with Oxford Ionics’ quantum chip technology, accelerating advances in the field. The transaction, which includes $10 million in cash, is expected to close in 2025 pending regulatory approvals.

    Founded in 2015 by physicists Christopher Monroe and Jungsang Kim, IonQ became the first pure-play quantum computing company to go public on the New York Stock Exchange in October 2021. The company is credited with advancing the use of trapped-ion technology, which is said to offer higher stability of qubits, the building blocks of quantum computers, and coherence, which refers to the ability of a quantum system, such as a qubit, to maintain a well-defined phase relationship between its different states.

    Bhashini to build AI-powered multilingual services for Indian Railways

    In some news on India’s population-scale AI efforts, the Digital India Bhashini Division and Centre for Railway Information Systems have signed an MoU to integrate advanced multilingual AI solutions into Indian Railways’ digital platforms, the ministry of electronics and IT said in a statement yesterday.

    Using Bhashini’s technology stack — including speech recognition, translation, and text-to-speech — railway services such as the National Train Enquiry System and RailMadad will become accessible in 22 Indian languages.

    The partnership aims to improve accessibility, efficiency, and transparency for millions of passengers, with plans to roll out chatbots, voice assistants, and multilingual interfaces across web, mobile, kiosks, and call centers. Pilot deployments and technical workshops will begin in the coming months.

    Vecmocon, EV tech startup, raises $18 million from EIF, Aavishkaar, BII

    Okay, some news from the world of EVs in India. Vecmocon Technologies, an EV components startup in New Delhi, has secured $18 million in Series A funding led by Ecosystem Integrity Fund, with participation from Aavishkaar Capital, British International Investment, and existing investor Blume Ventures.

    Vecmocon develops advanced battery management and vehicle intelligence systems for electric vehicles, with its technology already equipping some 100,000 EVs in India, the company said in a press release. It was founded in 2016 by Peeyush Asati, Adarshkumar Balaraman, and Shivam Wankhede, and incubated at IIT Delhi.

    The new investment will help the entrepreneurs fund market expansion and R&D.

    For in-depth conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and other stakeholders contributing to India’s deep tech and climate tech ecosystems, do check out my India Tech Report: In Conversation podcast.

    You can also subscribe to my newsletter India Tech Report, if you’d like to get all these in one place.
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    6 Min.
  • The Climate on Monday: Shipping industry, Microsoft’s deal, Gridcare, DAC, and Stride Green

    The Climate on Monday: Shipping industry, Microsoft’s deal, Gridcare, DAC, and Stride Green
    Jun 9 2025
    Shipping industry faces hurdles as it navigates new net zero rulesThe shipping industry, responsible for about 3 percent of global emissions, faces a pivotal period as it seeks scalable zero-emission solutions and adapts to stricter climate policies, Reuters reported last week.The sector must cut the greenhouse gas intensity of its fuel by 30 percent by 2035 and 65 percent by 2040 under new global regulations, with the International Maritime Organization introducing emissions thresholds and a pricing mechanism starting in 2028. While innovations like wind-assisted propulsion and biofuels are emerging, concerns remain over the sustainability of some fuels and market uncertainty, according to Reuters.Microsoft’s deal for low-carbon cement from MIT-spinout SublimeMicrosoft recently agreed to buy up to 622,500 metric tonnes of low-carbon cement from Sublime Systems, a US startup, over the next six to nine years, aiming to reduce emissions from its data center and infrastructure construction. The deal uses new environmental certificates to claim emissions reductions, even when the cement isn’t used directly by Microsoft. Sublime’s electrochemical process avoids the carbon emissions of traditional cement production. The agreement will help scale Sublime’s technology and accelerate the adoption of cleaner construction materials in an industry responsible for about 8 percent of global CO₂ emissions.Sublime was founded at MIT by Dr. Leah Ellis and Prof. Yet-Ming Chiang, both respected experts in materials science, electrochemical systems, and sustainability research. The company has raised over $200M in funding from leading climate tech investors, global cement incumbents, and cooperative agreements with the U.S. Department of Energy. Gridcare uses AI to unlock hidden grid capacity for data centers Gridcare, a US startup founded by entrepreneur Amit Narayan, uses generative AI to map and analyze the US electrical grid, according to a TechCrunch report. The startup, which has raised $13.5 million in seed funding recently, could potentially identify more than 100 gigawatts of untapped capacity for data centers, Narayan tells TechCrunch.By matching data center developers with utilities and factoring in variables such as fiber connectivity, weather, and regulations, Gridcare aims to help hyperscalers bypass long waits for grid connection. It charges developers based on the megawatts it unlocks, offering a cost-effective alternative to building private power plants.So far, North American startups have secured over $22.37 billion in funding for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies, altenergymag.com reports. Some $130 million of that was raised in 2025 to date. Investors grow cautious on direct air capture despite climate tech boomOnce a darling of climate tech, direct air capture (DAC) startups in the US have seen a 60 percent drop in venture investment this year amid political uncertainty and wavering corporate commitments, Bloomberg reported early last month. With government incentives at risk and high costs per tonne, the DAC sector faces a challenging path to scale, even as overall climate tech investment rises. This shift raises concerns about the sector’s ability to deliver on long-term carbon removal goals, Bloomberg Reporter Coco Liu writes in that insightful piece. Stride Green raises $3.5 million to boost tech-enabled clean energy asset financingStride Green, in New Delhi, has secured $3.5 million in seed funding to expand its innovative financing and leasing solutions for renewable energy, electric mobility, and battery storage. The company’s green finance portfolio now exceeds $120 million, supporting more than 3,000 cleantech assets and reflecting India’s surging climate tech investment.Stride Green was started last year by the well-known venture debt focused VC, Ishpreet Singh Gandhi, founder and managing partner at Stride Ventures, along with Vivek Jain, co-founder and chief business officer. For in-depth conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and other stakeholders contributing to India’s deep tech and climate tech ecosystems, do check out my India Tech Report: In Conversation podcast. You can also subscribe to my newsletter India Tech Report, if you’d like to get all these in one place.
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    6 Min.