National, India, 4th February 2025-Following the announcement of investing 500 Crore in AI Centers of excellence; in a ground-breaking initiative set to change the face of management education in India, IIM Sambalpur has joined hands with Breakout Learning Inc. on AI-driven digital case study solutions. The objective of this collaboration is to pursue India as a hub for a technology-driven and globally competitive management learning system.This trailblazing collaboration will see IIM Sambalpur use Breakout Learning’s cutting-edge AI-enabled case platform in its MBA; Executive MBA; and Ph.D. programs, which will be the new benchmark for digital learning in India. Premium case studies from the world’s best institutions like “Ivey and Harvard” will be accessible to students and faculty members exclusively, thereby bringing international academic excellence with high legal and financial standards.This partnership will also allow students to extend beyond adoption, fostering innovation.

Additionally, it will provide an opportunity for faculty and students at IIM Sambalpur to co-create cutting-edge management cases, hosted on Breakout Learning’s platform, positioning India as a leader in AI-driven business education. Intellectual property rights for these AI-generated cases will be jointly owned, empowering faculty with discounted access for teaching and research purposes.

Highlighting the significance of this alliance, Prof MahadeoJaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur said, “Following the announcement of 500 Crores investment in AI centres of excellence in Union budget, this momentous collaboration with Breakout Learning is a game-changer for Indian management education, addressing long-standing challenges in traditional teaching methodologies. By integrating AI-driven case-based learning, we are preparing future leaders with unparalleled decision-making and analytical skills, propelling India into the global forefront of business education. As we look at global rankings, Indian B-schools are still not placed in the top 200. In terms of innovation and research, faculty members are often occupied with teaching responsibilities and don’t have enough time for research. However, with the integration of AI, teachers will receive support, allowing them more time for research, innovation, and case writing. This shift will contribute to enhancing their academic output and, ultimately, help improve global rankings.”
He further added, “With this strategic alliance, IIM Sambalpur further forges its front-runner position as an innovation-led education provider while aligning itself with India’s vision of emerging as a knowledge powerhouse and shaping the next set of management professionals ready to compete with the Harvard University in terms of Case Projects.”

Ramit Varma, CEO and Co-Founder, Breakout Learning, USA, said, “Our project involves classroom discussion, we learned that this is the optimal size for small groups. We realized this format is fundamental to our experience as humans. Learning is one of our deepest desires and needs. However, if you look at the way our classrooms are set up, they aren’t engaging. They almost feel like factories, where students are workers, and the system is a factory mindset. At Breakout Learning, we break students into small groups, focus on areas with no answers at all, and then allow students to discuss among themselves creating a pool of ideas. This helps students to learn, communicate and engage. IIM Sambalpur is the first institute in India to bring transformative change and is ready to compete with Harvard University.”

He further added, “At Harvard University, the case project involves PDFs and immerses students in realistic business scenarios. However, their traditional approach, which relies on physical interactions, can be time-consuming and hectic. Additionally, students often come unprepared, while instructors are well prepared. In contrast, the integration of AI in our approach forces students to think critically, communicate, discuss, evaluate, create, implement, and innovate. This not only better prepares students for the real world but also surpasses Harvard’s traditional method in terms of engagement and effectiveness.”

Breakout Learning will ensure the smooth integration of its AI-driven platform into IIM Sambalpur’s curriculum, which will be supported by dedicated technical support. Financial agreements, including access fees and case development royalties, will be structured under a separate agreement to ensure mutual benefit and long-term sustainability.

[February 4, 2025]: As part of its multi-pronged approach, ISB’s Thomas Schmidheiny Centre for Family Enterprise brought together thought leaders and experts to share their insights on the challenges and opportunities in family business at the 9th Asian Invitational Conference on Family Business.

Themed – ‘Revitalising the entrepreneurial spirit of business families’ – the two-day conference organised at the Hyderabad campus of the Indian School of Business (ISB) examined topics such as stewardship, innovations, women and Gen Next leadership, emerging geopolitics, entrepreneurship ecosystem, conflict resolution, AI, digital transformation, among others. At the conference, over 30 family business leaders and thought leaders shared their rich and varied experiences and insights with nearly 250 delegates. The conference offered an excellent platform to learn, share, and build capabilities in family businesses.

The Thomas Schmidheiny Centre for Family Enterprise engages closely with leading family businesses in India and Asia through collaborations, conferences, roundtables, workshops, and forums. These engagements have helped the Centre contribute significantly to the growing body of research on various aspects of family business and emerge as the face of family business scholarship in India.

New Delhi, February 04, 2025: Satya Intl, a leading global conglomerate in automotive and consumer products, is delighted to announce that it has entered into a licensing agreement with DURACELL, a globally recognized brand for batteries & power products. Satya Intl’s focus is to deliver an extensive range of lead acid, tubular, inverter, and ups batteries to consumers under the Duracell Brand. Alongside the battery range, Satya Intl will launch a series of automotive power accessories such as battery chargers/maintainers and jump starters, offering consumers a complete solution for maintaining and enhancing their vehicles.

“At Satya Intl, we are dedicated to providing innovative and high-quality products that meet the diverse needs of our global customers,” said Rakesh Sharma – Managing Director at Satya Intl. “Our licensing agreement with Duracell Inc., of USA marks a significant milestone in our journey to enhance the automotive & tubular batteries and automotive accessories market in Asia and Africa. We aim to bring unparalleled value, performance, and convenience to our customers. Notably, we have a strong presence in India, where the demand for high-quality automotive products and power accessories is rapidly growing.”

Satya Intl has been granted the authority to manufacture, market, and distribute the products under the Duracell brand in various Asian countries such as Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam, and New Zealand along with African countries such as Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Iberia, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Palestine, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The new range of products will be officially launched in mid-February 2025 and available to customers through Satya Intl’s distribution channels starting April 2025. Satya Intl is confident that they will set a new standard in the industry, delivering outstanding value and satisfaction to their customers.

Kolkata, India, 4 February 2025 – The Annual Cosplay Workshop ahead of Maruti Suzuki Arena Kolkata Comic Con 2025, powered by Crunchyroll, was an unforgettable gathering of creativity, passion, and craftsmanship! Held on February 1, 2025, at Musafir, Kaikhali, the event brought together cosplayers and enthusiasts from all walks of life.

The event was hosted by Saurabh Singh Rawat, Indian Cosplay Champion 2024 and founder of a renowned cosplay studio; Souvik Mitra, a Kolkata-based IT professional known for his tech-driven, interactive cosplay; and Pracheta Banerjee, an internationally acclaimed artist and cosplayer celebrated for her award-winning work in comics, animation, and cosplay.

The trio led an interactive session that inspired aspiring cosplayers in attendance. During the hands-on demonstration, they showed the audience how to create intricate costumes using simple materials such as foam, fabric, glue, and scissors. They aimed to prove that cosplay is accessible to everyone, even with basic supplies. Attendees were not only wowed by the simplicity of their hacks but were also thrilled by the encouragement and practical advice shared by our talented cosplayers.

The energy in the room was palpable as participants walked away with newfound confidence, ready to take their cosplay game to the next level at the upcoming first-ever Kolkata Comic Con!

Mumbai, 4th February 2025: Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Limited, a leading manufacturer of electric vehicles under the brands ‘Joy e-bike’ and ‘Joy e-rik’, has announced its entry into fleet operations and last-mile delivery mobility under its flagship brand, Joy e-bike. In collaboration with SpeedforcEV under the banner of Optimotion, the company deployed its first batch of 100 electric two-wheelers in Hyderabad today. This strategic move marks a significant step toward providing sustainable, technology-driven solutions for delivery partners and fleet operators.

Unlike traditional fleet operations that focus solely on vehicle deployment, Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Limited is introducing a first-of-its-kind holistic approach in India to ensure seamless operations for delivery partners. The initiative encompasses vehicle supply, 24/7 maintenance, spare parts availability, charging infrastructure, financing solutions, and insurance support—all provided through strategic partnerships. This integrated approach ensures zero downtime for fleet operators, maximizing vehicle uptime and optimizing revenue potential. Cashless Insurance services will be managed by Bluebells, financing by Mangalam Industrial Finance Limited, charging stations by Ampvolts Limited, and spare parts and maintenance by SpeedforcEV.

With an initial deployment for Zomato, Swiggy, Flipkart, Amazon, and BigBasket, the company plans to expand rapidly across major metropolitan cities beyond Hyderabad, including Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Bangalore and Surat.

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Yatin Gupte, Chairman & Managing Director of Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Limited, said: “This is a landmark moment for the Indian EV industry, as we are building endeavoring a complete end-to-end ecosystem to support fleet operations. Our partnership with SpeedforcEV for fleet operations, Mangalam Industrial Finance Limited, Mufin Green Finance, Bluebells Insurance Broking Pvt. Ltd., Ampvolts Limited, and other key industry players ensures a hassle-free experience for businesses, maximizing uptime and revenue potential. We are targeting the deployment of 8,000 vehicles by March 2025, and scaling up to 50,000 vehicles by March 2026, reinforcing our commitment to driving EV adoption in the country. We are dedicated to revolutionizing last-mile mobility and fleet operations with innovative and sustainable solutions.”

This initiative represents a first-of-its-kind fully integrated smart mobility solution for fleet and logistics operations. Looking ahead, Wardwizard plans to extend its partnerships to B2B, B2C, and retail players, further strengthening its presence in the rapidly growing electric mobility sector.

Gurugram, 04 February 2025 – Everyone deserves to get back home safely. Yet, India’s roads witness over 1,50,000 fatalities annually, making road safety an urgent national priority. CARS24, India’s leading autotech company, has partnered with the Indian Road Safety Campaign (IRSC) to take meaningful action—improving infrastructure, integrating technology, and driving policy-level change to reduce road accidents and save lives.

This initiative aligns with CARS24’s vision of ‘Better Drives, Better Lives’, reinforcing that safety isn’t just a responsibility, it’s a movement that requires awareness, action, and collaboration.

Pothole Reporting & Resolution
One of the latest initiatives under this collaboration is pothole reporting through the CARS24 app. Users can now report potholes in real time, helping create a centralized database of road hazards. Upon verification, IRSC will take action to fix selected potholes, while the remaining data will be shared with local authorities to push for broader road repairs. Additionally, all reported potholes will be geotagged, allowing other motorists to navigate safely and avoid high-risk areas. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between citizen reporting and government action, ensuring quicker resolution of hazardous road conditions.

Beyond Potholes: A Comprehensive Road Safety Approach
CARS24 is expanding its road safety efforts with new features in its app, making crucial information more accessible to drivers:

•  Location-based helpline numbers for quick access to emergency assistance.
•  Simple road safety guidelines to promote responsible driving behavior.
•  A user-friendly guide to traffic laws to keep motorists informed.
•  A daily road safety quiz to reinforce awareness and encourage engagement.

The feature is currently live on IOS and will be coming soon on Android.

Empowering People: First Responder Training
CARS24 is also preparing to train all Autonauts (its employees) as first responders. The initiative has already begun, with 150 employees—including all co-founders—trained in CPR, first aid, and emergency response techniques. This program will be expanded to equip more people with life-saving skills, ensuring they are prepared to step in when it matters most.

Advocating for a Safer Tomorrow
CARS24 and IRSC are working to address road safety challenges at a broader level by:

•  Identifying and addressing accident-prone zones using data-driven insights.
•  Advocating for stricter road safety enforcement to reduce fatalities.
•  Engaging with policymakers and urban planners to improve road infrastructure for long-term impact.

“We’ve all seen it, a crash that changed a life forever. India has just 1% of the world’s vehicles but 11% of global road deaths. That’s not bad luck—it’s a failure of infrastructure, enforcement, and awareness. Over 60% of these deaths are preventable, yet road accidents remain an everyday tragedy. It’s time to change that. CARS24 is stepping up, not just to talk about road safety, but to take action.

Because no mother should have to fear every time her child steps out. No father should have to worry if their child will make it home. No family should receive a call that changes everything. Fixing potholes, improving accessibility, and empowering people with knowledge and tools, is our first step towards this mission.Having said that, road safety isn’t just one company’s effort; it’s something we all need to take responsibility for. Because a safe journey home shouldn’t be a privilege—it should be something we build together.” said Gajendra Jangid, Co Founder, CARS24

Adding to it, Vikram Chopra, CEO Co Founder, CARS24 said “India loses 3% of its GDP annually due to road crashes. That’s more than what we spend on healthcare and education combined. Beyond the personal tragedy, road accidents impact the entire economy. If fixing roads, enforcing laws, and driving responsibly can save lives and boost our nation’s progress, then we have no excuse not to act.”

As per Amar Srivastava, Founder and President, Indian Road Safety Campaign “We started IRSC more than a decade back due to loss of close seniors to a road-crash at IIT Delhi. However India still loses more than 1 lakh+ youth to road-crashes and solving such a multi-sectoral problem would need the private, government and citizens to come together to solve this while using technology as the backbone for sustainable impact. With our collaboration with CARS24, we aim to save a million lives across the next decade by leveraging technological innovations to change behaviour and nudging citizens at scale to drive responsibly and help reduce crashes by active participation”

As per Deepanshu Gupta, Co-Founder and Vice President, Indian Road Safety Campaign, “While a lot of people believe road-crashes are accidents, they are not. Each and every accident is preventable by systemic interventions and with our collaboration with CARS24 we would work across the 4Es of road-safety [engineering, education, emergency care, enforcement] at 10x scale and speed. Road-crashes are today the leading cause of youth deaths. While this is a global menace, India leads the pack and am hopeful that if we all collaborate to act, we would also be the leaders in showing how to solve this sustainably. Time to act is now ”

Better Drives, Better Lives
CARS24 and IRSC are committed to making road safety a fundamental part of mobility. Every initiative, partnership, and innovation is aimed at reducing accidents, enhancing road conditions, and ensuring safer journeys for all.

On the Mehfil stage at the Spoken Fest, Mumbai, the Badhaai Ho fame Gajraj Rao presented a thought-provoking and witty tale in his signature humorous style. It captured the unspoken struggles of chasing an unconventional dream in a world that values security over passion. The seasoned actor, who has carved a niche with his nuanced roles, delivered his story filled with raw emotion with a personal reflection on societal expectations and generational shifts. His words echoed a poignant truth about how the very phrases “Log Kya Kahenge”/ “Koi ladki nahi dega” that once shaped his own choices have now shaped his children’s paths.

Gajraj Rao took the audience back to 1989, painting a picture of a home where television and Doordarshan were the only source of entertainment, and stability was the ultimate goal. His father, like many of those times, believed in traditional success—secure jobs, government postings, and a steady pay check. They would often argue, with his father taunting him about being a theatre artist, insisting that destiny wouldn’t unlock with the stage but with a stable job—one that offered security, not uncertainty. But Gajraj had different dreams, ones that didn’t fit within the confines of a stable career. “Acting ki gaadi nahi chali toh patri change kar dunga, writer ban jaunga”, he would tell himself. (Translation: If the acting career doesn’t take off, I’ll switch tracks and become a writer.)

He hilariously recounted the taunts that once shaped his journey, the weight of expectations pressing down on him. “If you are so good for nothing, then log kya kahenge? Koi ladki nahi dega!” he mimicked his father, leaving the audience nodding and giggling in recognition. (Translation: If you are so good for nothing, what will people say? No one will give you a girl). However, these words weren’t just his father’s—they echoed through neighbours’ unsolicited advice and relatives’ knowing glances.

His immense love for cricket, especially watching Test matches with his friend, was yet another source of criticism. With a playful eye-roll, he recalled his father’s exasperated remarks: “Cricket ka itna shauk tha toh khel lete, sports quota mein admission mil jaata”.
(Translation: If you were so fond of cricket, you should have played—it could have gotten your admission through the sports quota.)

“Government job hone se future safe ho jaata hai, acting hobby ke liye theek hai”, said a relative, reinforcing the belief that stability was the only respectable path, while dreams like his were nothing more than fleeting indulgences. (Translation: A government job secures your future; acting is fine as a hobby.)

“What will people say? What will society say? These are the questions I’ve tried to solve since childhood”, he admitted with a smirk. While his friends followed conventional paths, securing stable jobs and structured lives, he was constantly reminded of what he lacked—certainty, predictability, and in their eyes, a respectable future. Compared to the sons of his father’s friends, cousins and relatives who studied hard and built steady careers, he was the outlier, the one who hadn’t ‘figured it out’.

But despite the doubt, Gajraj held his ground. And then, validation came unexpectedly—from an NRI relative who, unlike the others, expressed genuine excitement upon learning that Gajraj was pursuing dramatics. “Your son will be the first in our family to earn fame through the arts. You are very lucky”, he told Gajraj’s father, a sentiment that shifted the entire narrative at home. For the first time, his father, who had always dismissed the profession, seemed to see it in a new light. That single moment of support planted the idea that perhaps dramatics could be a real career choice.

Theatre was his calling, even if it meant enduring scepticism, struggling through rejections, and walking an uncertain road. The climb was slow, riddled with self-doubt, yet he pressed on, proving that passion could be a pursuit, not just a pastime.

And then, the irony. The same people who once warned him that “no girl would marry an actor” now proudly pointed at the screen when he appeared. The whispers of doubt had turned into murmurs of admiration. Society, once his biggest critic, had rewritten its own rules—because success, as it turns out, isn’t measured by stability. It’s measured by conviction.

Gajraj’s story wasn’t just about defying expectations; it was about rewriting them. And in doing so, he left the audience with a question of their own—what if we stopped asking, log kya kahenge?

With his effortless charm, storytelling prowess, and a lot of humour, Gajraj took the attendees through a journey of self-reflection and familial bonds, making them question not just the world around them, but also the world within. Each word resonated deeply, as the lines between personal experiences and universal truths blurred.

The atmosphere of Spoken Fest’s seventh edition was palpable. Building on the tradition of the previous six editions, the audience in Mumbai has strongly connected with the spirit of the festival. Spoken Fest once again became a sanctuary for those seeking deeper connections through words, drawing a community of listeners eager to experience the art of storytelling, poetry and music from India’s most cherished voices.

Kochi, February 04, 2025: In a significant move to bolster the startup ecosystem in India, South Indian Bank (SIB), one of the country’s leading scheduled commercial banks, has launched two specialized startup current account products—SIB Business Startup Current Account and SIB Corporate Startup Current Account. The launch event, held at the Andromeda auditorium in their administrative Building in Rajagiri Valley Kochi, was graced by key dignitaries, including Mr. P. R. Seshadri, MD & CEO of South Indian Bank, and Mr. Susanth Kurunthil, CEO of Infoparks Kerala.

The SIB Business Startup Current Account caters to sole proprietorships and partnerships, providing them with essential banking support to establish a strong foundation during their initial years. On the other hand, the SIB Corporate Startup Current Account is designed for private limited companies, public limited companies, one-person companies, and limited liability partnerships, meeting the more complex financial needs of larger business entities. To qualify for these accounts, firms must have an incorporation or registration date not older than three years. These products are packed with unique features, including zero minimum balance requirement of up to three years, unlimited free RTGS/NEFT transactions via digital channels, and a premium debit card offering exclusive benefits such as airport lounge access.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. P. R. Seshadri, MD & CEO of South Indian Bank, said, “At South Indian Bank, we understand the unique challenges faced by startups and entrepreneurs. Our new Startup Current Accounts are tailored to meet their financial needs, allowing them to focus entirely on achieving their business objectives. With features like no minimum balance requirement for up to three years and unlimited free digital transactions, we aim to provide a seamless banking experience that empowers startups to scale new heights.”

Mr. Susanth Kurunthil, CEO of Infopark Kerala, commended South Indian Bank’s initiative, stating, “The startup ecosystem in India is rapidly evolving, and having the right financial tools is crucial for sustained growth. South Indian Bank’s Startup Current Accounts are an excellent addition to the resources available for entrepreneurs. By offering innovative banking solutions, the bank is playing a pivotal role in fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.”

The event also featured an interactive session with students from professional colleges in Kochi on entrepreneurship by Mr. Bergin S Russel, Head of Academic Entrepreneurship Development at Kerala Startup Mission, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and highlighting the extensive support available for startups. Other notable attendees included Mr. Dolphy Jose, Executive Director, Mr. Anto George T, Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Sanchay Kumar Sinha, Chief General Manager & Head of Retail Assets, Ms. Biji S S, SGM & Head of Branch Banking, and Mr. Sony A, Chief Information Officer, South Indian Bank.

South Indian Bank’s latest initiative reaffirms its commitment to nurturing India’s entrepreneurial spirit, providing startups with the financial agility they need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Nestled amidst the timeless beauty of the Qutab Minar, where history meets the present, Qla has long been synonymous with refined elegance and exceptional dining. Known for its fusion of European cuisine and modern sensibilities, the restaurant has consistently set itself apart with its creative approach to dining. Now, Qla is taking the next exciting step in its culinary journey, revealing a brand-new menu designed to delight the senses and the imagination.

With a vision to bring the world’s flavours to your plate, Qla’s new menu honours culinary creativity, blending influences from across the globe, Mediterranean herbs, Latin American spices, and more. Each dish is meticulously crafted to compliment its cultural roots while offering a refreshing, modern twist. It’s a gastronomic journey that charms diners with bold flavours, innovative combinations, and artful presentations.

“We’ve reimagined our menu to reminisce the evolving culinary landscape,” says Chef Dipender Kumar Tiwari, the mastermind behind the diverse and dynamic unique offerings at Qla. “Every dish is designed to take our guests on a journey of taste, where tradition meets creativity, and global ingredients come together in surprising and delightful ways.”

The highlights of the new menu are nothing short of extraordinary. Dishes such as Starfruit + Chevre showcase the perfect balance of creaminess and acidity, balanced by the crunch of starfruit. Kimchi with fried tempura broccoli ribs adds an exciting East-West fusion with the addition of parmesan snow, while Chipotle baby zucchini marinated in Mexican chilli and complemented by creamy feta cheese promises a taste adventure like no other. For something truly special, the Indian-Inspired barbeque carrot salad named madras curry comes with seasonal carrots, labneh & carrot juice reduction sauce with the rich spirited flavours of madras curry from southern India.

Expect innovative presentations that are as visually stunning as they are flavorful. Qla’s culinary team uses locally sourced ingredients to enrich each dish while ensuring sustainability and seasonality. Adding Lakhoiri Chilli Prawns, sourced from Qla’s farm, shows the restaurant’s loyalty to quality and freshness.

The new menu is a feast for the palate and invites diners to engage with their food in new ways. From interactive dessert experiences to curated drink pairings, Qla has reimagined what it means to dine out. The Miso Dessert, featuring braised chilli pineapple, miso ice cream, and hazelnut tuile, is a perfect example of how Qla is pushing the boundaries of what dessert can be.

For those seeking comfort, Qla offers a separate menu of kid-friendly dishes, including pasta, sandwiches, and burgers, guaranteeing a memorable experience for the whole family. And while the new menu is full of fresh, bold offerings, loyal patrons will still find a selection of beloved dishes with a modern trace.

In an industry overflowing with options, Qla continues to shine by offering truly original dishes that define flavour and presentation. Whether it’s the Korean-Vietnamese fusion, perfectly smoked robata-grilled duck, or Italian-inspired piccalilli sauces, Qla remains a star of creativity in the culinary cosmos.

By Vinkesh Gulati, Vice President, Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC)

Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) welcomes the progressive and growth-driven Union Budget 2025-26, which strengthens India’s commitment to electric mobility, innovation, and skill development. The focus on EV manufacturing, R&D, and industry competitiveness marks a significant step toward sustainable growth.

The Clean Tech manufacturing support program, emphasizing domestic value addition in solar PV cells, EV batteries, motors, and controllers, is crucial for self-reliance. The removal of Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on cobalt powder, lithium-ion battery waste, and essential minerals will significantly reduce manufacturing costs, ensure resource stability, and accelerate EV adoption. This bold move will boost domestic production, create jobs, and enhance India’s EV cost-competitiveness, paving the way for a cleaner, energy-independent future.

At ASDC, we are fully committed to aligning skill development programs with industry needs, particularly in the EV sector. Collaborating with the government, industry stakeholders, and educational institutions, we aim to build a robust pipeline of skilled professionals who can drive the automotive sector’s growth.

This budget will create jobs, foster innovation, and position India as a global leader in sustainable mobility. ASDC is dedicated to playing a proactive role in realizing this vision and contributing to the nation’s progress.