At a VinFast-hosted forum in Vietnam, journalists, industry experts and automakers agreed that winning mainstream buyers will require more than cheaper electric cars.

At a VinFast-hosted forum in Vietnam, journalists, industry experts and automakers agreed that winning mainstream buyers will require more than cheaper electric cars

Before the Iran conflict sent fuel prices soaring, India’s electric passenger vehicle market was already building momentum, driven in part by growing consumer awareness and a shift in how families make car-buying decisions.

Experts broadly agree that growing concerns over air pollution in cities such as Delhi, combined with increasing awareness of climate change, are shaping consumer attitudes toward electric vehicles. They also note that car purchases in India are typically family decisions, with children playing an increasingly influential role. Younger family members are often drawn to the modern, stylish designs of EVs, which can further encourage households to choose electric models.

The conflict simply reinforced a trend that had been gathering pace, as more consumers began weighing not just what a car costs to buy, but what it costs to own.

According to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), India retailed a record 31,823 electric passenger vehicles in June, more than double the volume a year earlier and enough to lift EV penetration to 7.7% of passenger vehicle sales, up from 4.8% a year ago . Alternative-fuel vehicles, including EVs, hybrids and CNG models, accounted for more than 40% of passenger vehicle sales for the first time.

Yet despite the rapid growth, electric cars remain a minority choice in a country where more than four million passenger vehicles are sold annually. The opportunity is enormous, but so is the gap between consumer interest and actual purchases. The question now is what will persuade millions more mainstream buyers to make the switch.

That question was the focus of a recent discussion organized by VinFast in Vietnam, where journalists, industry experts and automakers debated what it will take to move EVs into India’s mainstream. While participants approached the issue from different perspectives, they reached a similar conclusion: accelerating four-wheeler EV adoption will require more than cheaper batteries or additional charging stations. It will require giving consumers confidence that an electric car fits seamlessly into everyday life.

Confidence Is the New Currency

That starts with changing how consumers evaluate an EV. And the debate around EV adoption is gradually shifting away from sticker prices toward a longer-term measure: total cost of ownership.

According to Shams Raza Naqvi, senior editor at car&bike, the buying decision has evolved as the price gap between EVs and conventional vehicles continues to narrow.

“Upfront expenditure is not as much of a concern now because the gap between the cost of EVs and ICE cars is reducing,” he said. “What they worry about more is spending 5,000 to 6,000 rupees every time they go to a fuel pump versus the much cheaper cost of charging at home.”

That assessment was echoed by Dr. Javeid Khan, an automotive reviewer at CarAdvice, who said rising fuel prices are prompting consumers to look beyond the showroom price.

“Fuel prices have increased significantly, sometimes three or four times in a week. An EV has a very low cost of running compared to an ICE car, and that is a very big factor for Indian consumers.”

Technology is also helping strengthen the value proposition. For example, Khan pointed out that EVs, once seen primarily as second or third cars for daily commuting, are becoming increasingly practical for longer journeys as driving ranges stretch to 450 to 500 kilometers.

But if economics are becoming easier to justify, ownership still needs to feel less uncertain. While driving range has improved significantly, range anxiety persists. Panelists pointed to inconsistent charger uptime, fragmented payment systems and uneven highway coverage as continuing pain points. Apartment residents often struggle to install home chargers, while concerns over battery life, resale value and fire safety continue to shape perceptions among first-time buyers.

In other words, India’s EV challenge is less about making electric cars cheaper and more about making ownership feel predictable.

Winning the Ownership Experience

That is where automakers believe they can make the biggest difference.

If affordability gets consumers through the showroom door, the ownership experience is increasingly what determines whether they sign the purchase agreement. As a result, manufacturers are competing less on specifications alone and more on the ecosystem that surrounds the vehicle.

“To nudge customers, we need three stakeholders: customers, government and OEMs,” said Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India. While calling for governments to maintain supportive tax policies until the market reaches an inflection point, he argued that manufacturers also have to make EV ownership less intimidating.

At VinFast, that has translated into a strategy of building a comprehensive ownership ecosystem alongside its vehicles. Beyond expanding its charging and service network, the company is partnering with third-party providers to strengthen aftersales support while offering free charging, free maintenance, a residual value guarantee and warranties of up to 10 years, depending on the vehicle, to reduce ownership concerns.

That emphasis on the broader ownership ecosystem resonated with other participants, who pointed out that confidence is shaped as much by the surrounding infrastructure and support network as by the vehicle itself. Participants who recently visited Vietnam said the country’s mature charging network, built by VinFast’s sister company V-Green, offered a glimpse of what widespread adoption could look like.

“When you land in Vietnam, you notice the number of electric cars on the roads,” said Ranojoy Mukerji, assistant editor at The New Indian Express’ Indulge. “Seeing hundreds of cars charging simultaneously removes the mental block people have.”

Policy support, however, remains indispensable. Panelists called for greater policy clarity, continued investment in charging infrastructure, innovative financing from banks and non-banking financial companies, and consistent long-term policies that give both consumers and manufacturers the confidence to invest.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. 

VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia. 

Learn more at: www.vinfastauto.in

GTA 6 is one of the most anticipated game launches in recent years and is set to arrive in India on 19 November 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. Set in the fictional state of Leonida, a modern reimagining of Vice City inspired by Florida, the game follows two protagonists, Lucia Caminos and Jason Duval, in Rockstar’s biggest open world to date. GTA 6 pre-orders officially began on 25 June 2026 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, giving players several months to secure their copy ahead of the GTA 6 release date. Ahead of the launch, here are five important things Indian gamers should know about the game, its editions, and the hardware required to play it.

GTA 6 is set to arrive in India on 19 November 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S

Customers looking to upgrade their gaming setup can purchase consoles, televisions, and accessories on an Easy EMI Loan from Bajaj Finance. With financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh and repayment tenures ranging from 3 to 60 months, customers can spread the cost into manageable monthly instalments without a large upfront payment. Customers can visit any of the 1.5 lakh+ Bajaj Finance partner stores, check their pre-approved limit online using their mobile number and OTP, and take home their preferred products the same day. Select products also come with a zero down payment offer.

Five things to know about GTA 6 before it launches in India

1. Release date and platform availability

• Launch date: 19 November 2026

• Supported platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S

• Not available on: PlayStation 4 and Xbox One

• PC version: Not yet announced — a later release is widely expected

• Players who do not own a current-generation console will need to upgrade before launch day

2. GTA 6 price in India and available editions

GTA 6 is expected to launch in two editions in India.

• Standard Edition: Rs. 5,999 — includes the base game with all core features

• Ultimate Edition: Rs. 7,499 — includes additional in-game content and bonus items

3. How and where to pre-order GTA 6 in India

• Digital editions: GTA 6 pre-orders officially began on 25 June 2026 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S

• Pre-order benefits: Select editions may include bonus in-game content

4. Key features and gameplay

• Dual protagonists: Players follow Lucia Caminos and Jason Duval across the fictional state of Leonida

• Expanded open world: Cities, beaches, highways, swamps, and rural regions — reportedly the largest map in GTA history

• Dynamic weather system: Weather changes dynamically throughout the game world

• Improved NPC behaviour: Non-playable characters react more naturally to player actions

• More interiors: Significantly more enterable buildings and activities than previous titles

5. Hardware requirements and gaming setup costs in India

GTA 6 launches on PS5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. Rockstar has not confirmed PC requirements — industry estimates suggest the following minimum specifications.

• Processor: Intel Core i7-9700K or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X

• RAM: 16 GB minimum

• Graphics card: NVIDIA RTX 3080 or AMD RX 6800 XT

• Storage: 150 GB SSD minimum

Estimated costs for a complete GTA 6 gaming setup in India:

• PS5 or Xbox Series X: Rs. 49,990 to Rs. 54,990

• 4K Smart TV, 43 to 55 inch: Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 65,000

• Gaming headset: Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 30,000

• Gaming controller: Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 8,000

• Estimated total setup cost: Rs. 70,000 to Rs. 1,50,000

Disclaimer: EMIs and prices may vary by partner store, offer period, location, and variant. Please check the latest information at the partner store before purchase.

How to buy a gaming setup for GTA 6 from Bajaj Finance partner stores?

Indian gamers looking to build or upgrade their setup can follow these steps at any Bajaj Finance partner store.

1. Browse products on Bajaj Mall: Customers can explore gaming consoles, televisions, gaming headsets, and accessories, and compare specifications, prices, and features before visiting a store.

2. Find a nearby partner store: Customers can use the Bajaj Finance store locator to find a nearby partner outlet such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or Reliance Digital.

3. Check the products in person: At the store, customers can compare shortlisted products based on performance, display quality, and gaming specifications.

4. Opt for an Easy EMI Loan: Customers can finance purchases of up to Rs. 5 lakh with repayment tenures from 3 to 60 months. Select products may also come with zero down payment.

5. Use the Insta EMI Network Card: Existing cardholders can convert purchases into EMIs instantly through a paperless process.

6. Complete the purchase: Once financing is approved, the purchase is processed immediately, and customers can take home their gaming setup the same day.

Bajaj Finance Limited

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

To know more, visit www.bajajfinserv.in.

Kauvery Hospital, Alwarpet, has successfully treated two failing heart valves in a patient without repeat open-heart surgery, in what is believed to be the world’s first reported completely catheter-based treatment following a Ross procedure.

Dr. R Anantharaman, Director for Transcatheter Heart Valve Therapies, Dr Mahesh Kumar Medical Superintendent and team of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons

The procedure was performed on a 58-year-old man who had undergone a complex heart valve operation nearly 25 years ago. He had previously undergone the Ross procedure, in which the patient’s own pulmonary valve is moved to replace the diseased aortic valve (known as an aortic autograft), while the pulmonary valve is replaced with a donated human valve (known as a pulmonary homograft). Although the Ross procedure provides excellent long-term outcomes, both valves can deteriorate over time and may require further intervention.

The patient presented with severe aortic regurgitation, severe pulmonary regurgitation with moderate pulmonary stenosis, severe pulmonary hypertension and moderate mitral regurgitation. He had repeated admissions for heart failure with severe swelling of the legs and abdomen, impaired kidney and liver function, and severe breathlessness. He was unable to sleep comfortably and was in New York Heart Association Class III–IV heart failure.

He had consulted multiple centres where repeat open-heart surgery was considered prohibitively high risk because of the complexity of a second operation. Even a catheter-based approach was considered extremely challenging.

Following a detailed evaluation using three-dimensional echocardiography and cardiac CT imaging, the multidisciplinary heart team at Kauvery Heart Institute identified the possibility of treating both failing valves through a completely catheter-based approach without repeat open-heart surgery. Since no similar case had been reported in the published medical literature, the treatment strategy was reviewed extensively by the hospital’s heart team led by Dr Rajaram Anantharaman, Director of Transcatheter Heart Valve Therapies and an international panel of experts before proceeding.

The pulmonary homograft was initially prepared by placing covered stents, followed by balloon dilatation, before implanting a Medtronic Melody transcatheter pulmonary valve. The failing aortic autograft was then treated with an Edwards Sapien 3 Ultra Resilia balloon-expandable valve. As there was no calcium within the valve to help anchor the replacement valve, the procedure required meticulous planning and precise execution, with AI predictive modeling with virtual Valve implant. It was performed in a hybrid operating room under general anaesthesia with continuous transoesophageal echocardiography guidance.

The patient made an uneventful recovery and was discharged after a short stay in the intensive care unit. At his two-week follow-up, his symptoms had improved markedly. The swelling had completely resolved, he had returned to New York Heart Association Class I functional status, was sleeping comfortably, and was able to walk for 20–30 minutes without any limitation.

Dr. Rajaram Anantharaman, Director for Transcatheter Heart Valve Therapies Kauvery Heart Institute, Alwarpet, said, “Patients with failure of both the aortic autograft and pulmonary homograft after a Ross procedure have very limited treatment options because repeat surgery carries considerable risk. Careful imaging, meticulous procedural planning and close collaboration across multiple specialties enabled us to successfully replace both valves using a catheter-based approach without reopening the chest. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a completely percutaneous double transcatheter Ross rescue strategy in the published world literature. This case opens the possibility of treating carefully selected high-risk patients who otherwise may not have a viable treatment option.“

Dr. Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-founder and Executive Director, Kauvery Group of Hospitals, added, “Advanced structural heart interventions are transforming the way complex valve diseases are treated. Performing a procedure of this complexity requires experienced clinical teams, advanced imaging, hybrid operating room facilities and seamless coordination across specialties. This achievement reflects the advanced expertise and infrastructure available at Kauvery Heart Institute and our continued commitment to bringing the latest evidence-based treatment options to patients in India.”

In a significant initiative aimed at accelerating technology-led transformation in agriculture, Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) and the Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on research, innovation, and the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and smart technologies for sustainable agricultural development across the state.

Manipal University Jaipur and Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan signed MoU

The MoU was signed at the Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan, in the presence of Smt. Manju Rajpal, IAS, Principal Secretary, Agriculture, Horticulture and Panchayati Raj (Agriculture) Department, Government of Rajasthan, and Shri Naresh Goyal, IAS, Commissioner, Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan. Representing Manipal University Jaipur were Prof. Amit Soni, Registrar, and Prof. Vijaypal Singh Dhaka, Dean – Quality and Accreditation.

The collaboration aims to bridge academia, technology, and governance to develop innovative solutions that enhance agricultural productivity, improve resource efficiency, and promote sustainable farming practices. It will also create a platform for translating research outcomes into practical applications that directly benefit farmers and the agricultural ecosystem.

Under the agreement, both institutions will jointly undertake research in emerging agricultural technologies, develop AI-enabled smart farming solutions, organise capacity-building programmes for farmers and agricultural professionals, promote climate-resilient and sustainable farming practices, establish a Centre of Excellence for agricultural research and innovation, support agri-tech entrepreneurship and startups, and strengthen academic and institutional collaboration.

Highlighting the significance of the collaboration, Prof. Amit Soni, Registrar, Manipal University Jaipur, said, “This partnership brings together the academic and research strengths of the University with the policy vision and field expertise of the Department of Agriculture. Through collaborative research, innovation, and capacity building, we aim to develop technology-driven solutions that contribute meaningfully to the agricultural sector and strengthen Rajasthan’s innovation ecosystem.”

The collaboration will also facilitate interdisciplinary research involving faculty members, researchers, and students while encouraging knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and joint innovation projects in precision agriculture, digital farming, data analytics, and AI-driven decision support systems.

The initiative is expected to contribute to Rajasthan’s efforts towards building a modern, technology-enabled agricultural ecosystem by fostering innovation, encouraging entrepreneurship, and accelerating the adoption of smart agricultural practices. It also aligns with national priorities of promoting digital agriculture, strengthening food security, and enhancing farmers’ income through scientific and technological interventions.

With this landmark partnership, Manipal University Jaipur continues to expand its role as a research-driven institution working closely with government and industry to develop solutions that create measurable social and economic impact.

To know more about Manipal University Jaipur please visit jaipur.manipal.edu 

RajaRani Coaching has announced the launch of India’s First-Ever National Blouse Designing Competition, a first-of-its-kind online initiative that aims to discover, recognize and reward blouse designers from across the country while celebrating India’s rich craftsmanship and growing fashion skill economy. Open to aspiring designers, homemakers, boutique owners, students and fashion enthusiasts, the competition has already garnered over thousands of registrations, reflecting the growing demand for accessible, skill-based opportunities in fashion.

RajaRani Coaching Launches India’s First-Ever National Blouse Designing Competition to Spotlight India’s Grassroots Fashion Talent

Hosted entirely online, the competition has been designed to make participation accessible to everyone with a symbolic registration fee of just Rs. 51. 

Registrations will remain open until 13 July 2026 at 9:00 PM IST, following which the design challenge will be unveiled on 14 July 2026 at 8:00 AM IST. Participants will submit their entries between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM IST on the same day, while the winners will be announced on 15 July 2026 at 4:00 PM IST.

The competition is more than a showcase of creativity. It aims to position blouse designing as a serious creative, technical and entrepreneurial discipline while providing talented individuals from every corner of the country with a national platform to gain recognition. Participants will compete for exciting prizes, including a Juki Sewing Machine for the winner, trophies for the top three winners and exclusive rewards for the Top 51 participants.

Speaking about the initiative, Mohit Gadhiya, Co-Founder & Chairman, RajaRani Coaching, said, “India has no shortage of fashion talent. What many aspiring designers need is access to the right platform, recognition and opportunities to transform their skills into sustainable careers. Through this competition, we hope to celebrate creativity, encourage entrepreneurship and inspire more people to build successful careers through fashion.”

Priya M.G., Founder, RajaRani Coaching, added, “Blouse designing is one of the most commercially relevant skills in India’s fashion ecosystem, yet the talent behind it often goes unrecognized. Through this initiative, we want to provide a national platform where aspiring designers can showcase their skills, gain confidence and receive the recognition they truly deserve.”

Blouse designing remains one of the most significant segments within India’s ethnic wear industry. Combining technical precision, creativity and craftsmanship, it continues to generate livelihood opportunities for thousands of boutique owners, homepreneurs, independent designers and tailoring professionals across the country. By launching India’s first national competition dedicated exclusively to blouse designing, RajaRani Coaching aims to formally recognize this skill while inspiring more individuals to pursue fashion as a sustainable career and entrepreneurial opportunity.

The competition is an extension of RajaRani Coaching’s larger vision to democratize fashion education and make practical skill development accessible to every learner. Founded by Priya M.G. and Mohit Gadhiya in Surat, the organization has evolved into one of India’s leading vocational fashion education ecosystems, empowering learners through structured training, practical learning and entrepreneurship-focused education.

Today, RajaRani Coaching has trained over 3.5 lakh learners, recorded more than 5 lakh app downloads, offers 140+ fashion and design courses, and has impacted over 10 lakh lives through its education, entrepreneurship and community initiatives. The platform has also enabled the launch of more than 10,000 boutiques and fashion businesses, helping learners transform their skills into sustainable livelihoods.

Recognized for its contribution to vocational education and fashion skill development, RajaRani Coaching has also earned national recognition, including a Guinness World Record for the highest viewership of a live textiles lesson on YouTube and Forbes 30 Under 30 recognition for its founders. Through the National Blouse Designing Competition, the organization continues its mission of building a skill-first ecosystem that empowers India’s next generation of fashion entrepreneurs while bringing national visibility to grassroots talent.

About RajaRani Coaching

Founded by Priya M.G. and Mohit Gadhiya, RajaRani Coaching is a vocational fashion and creative skills ecosystem committed to making fashion education accessible, practical and outcome-driven. Through structured curricula, digital learning, assessments, certifications, workshops, competitions and entrepreneurship-focused programs, the organization enables learners to transform creative skills into professional careers, successful businesses and sustainable income opportunities.

Competition Link- www.competition.rajaranicoaching.com

Brand Website Link- www.RajaRaniCoaching.com 

Instagram Profile Link – www.instagram.com/rajarani_coaching 

Contemporary couturier Silky Nanda has officially unveiled her flagship couture studio in the heart of Defence Colony, New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in the journey of her eponymous luxury label. Designed as an immersive couture destination, the studio embodies the brand’s philosophy of creating garments that are deeply personal, timeless, and crafted to celebrate individuality.
 

Designer Silky Nanda at her store SILKY NANDA in Defence Colony, New Delhi
 

The newly launched space offers clients a refined couture experience, bringing together design consultations, bespoke craftsmanship, and carefully curated collections under one roof. More than just a retail destination, the studio has been envisioned as a creative space where every garment is developed through close collaboration with the client, ensuring each creation reflects personal style while maintaining the label’s signature aesthetic.
 

Over the years, Silky Nanda has built a distinct identity in the luxury couture landscape through contemporary cocktail gowns, eveningwear, and occasion dressing that seamlessly blend Indian craftsmanship with modern silhouettes. The launch of the standalone studio marks the evolution of the brand from a growing couture label into a destination for discerning clients seeking understated luxury and personalised design.
 

Speaking on the occasion, Silky Nanda, Founder and Creative Director, said, “Opening this studio is incredibly special because it represents years of passion, perseverance, and belief in building a label that stays true to its identity. I wanted to create a space where couture feels intimate rather than intimidating where every client enjoys a personalised journey, and every garment tells a story. This studio is not just about showcasing collections; it’s about celebrating craftsmanship, creativity, and the confidence that beautiful clothing can inspire.”
 

She further added, “I’ve always believed that luxury today is defined by authenticity and emotional connection. Our designs are created to become a part of people’s most memorable moments, and this new space allows us to deepen that relationship. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on creating couture that is contemporary, versatile, and timeless enough to be cherished for years to come.”
 

Designed to mirror the label’s understated elegance, the Defence Colony studio features thoughtfully curated interiors that place craftsmanship and design at the forefront. The space showcases the brand’s signature cocktail gowns, eveningwear, bridal and occasion couture while offering clients an environment that encourages collaboration and personalised styling.
 

The label has steadily earned recognition for its contemporary interpretation of couture, with creations that balance fluid silhouettes, intricate detailing, and refined craftsmanship. Working closely with skilled artisans across the country, the brand remains committed to preserving traditional craftsmanship while presenting it through a contemporary lens. Every collection reflects meticulous embroidery, thoughtful surface development, and silhouettes designed for modern lifestyles without compromising on couture excellence.
 

With the opening of its flagship studio, Silky Nanda enters a new phase of growth, reaffirming its commitment to creating couture that feels relevant, wearable, and deeply personal. As the label expands its presence, it continues to champion a design philosophy rooted in individuality, craftsmanship, and enduring elegance.
 

About Silky Nanda

Silky Nanda is a contemporary couture label specialising in cocktail gowns, eveningwear, and modern occasion dressing. Known for its refined craftsmanship, fluid silhouettes, and sophisticated design language, the brand creates timeless garments that celebrate confidence, elegance, and individuality.
 

Founded by self-taught designer Silky Nanda, the label combines traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics to create couture that is luxurious yet wearable. With a growing presence in the luxury fashion space, the brand has showcased at leading fashion platforms and continues to build a loyal clientele seeking personalised couture experiences rooted in authenticity, quality, and understated glamour.

Silky Nanda Label Instagram:

www.instagram.com/silky.nanda?igsh=MWNvcnVrZ2ZxYXpxOQ==
 

Silky Nanda Instagram:

In a significant milestone for the company, Switrus Holidays has announced the launch of Switrus Asia, a dedicated brand for Asian destinations, marking the company’s expansion into the Asian tourism sector in August 2026. The expansion represents the company’s first major move beyond its Europe-focused group tour operations and reflects the growing popularity of Asian travel among Indian tourists.
 

Switrus Holidays now offers tour packages to destinations, such as China, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia
 

According to the company, Switrus has organized more than 1,200 Europe group tours and served over 45,000 travelers over the past thirteen years. The company has built a strong customer base across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal, and Delhi.
 

The launch comes at a time when interest among Indian travelers in Asian destinations is growing significantly. In its initial phase, Switrus Asia will focus on destinations including Japan, China, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Vietnam, Bali, and Thailand.
 

The company plans to extend its Europe group tour model to Asian destinations, offering comprehensive group tour packages, professional tour management, structured itineraries, and services designed specifically for Indian travelers.
 

Switrus currently operates Europe group tours for travelers from several Indian states and has expanded its operational network across major Indian cities and international markets, including Germany. 
 

“We aim to extend the trust, expertise, and operational experience we have built in European tourism to the Asian travel segment. Through Switrus Asia, our goal is to deliver high-quality international travel experiences to a wider range of Indian travelers,” said Shabitha Abubacker, COO of Switrus Holidays.
 

The company has announced that the details regarding Switrus Asia’s initial group departures, annual travel calendar, and special launch offers will be revealed in the coming weeks.

For more information, please visit switrus.com.

Chitkara University today launched the Atal Incubation Centre – Chitkara Incubation Foundation (AIC-CIF) and AIC-PRIDE Labs at its Punjab campus, marking a significant milestone in strengthening India’s deep-tech startup ecosystem. Established with a combined investment of up to Rs. 20 crore over five years by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, Government of India, and Chitkara University, the centre will nurture startups in Drone Technologies, Agritech and Renewable Energy while accelerating research commercialisation, entrepreneurship and technology-led economic growth.

Atal Innovation Centre launched at Chitkara University in presence of Sh Amit Dhaka (IAS) CEO Invest Punjab, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Dr. Ashok Chitkara & Atal Innovation Mission team

The inauguration also marked the launch of the ATL Sarthi Punjab initiative by the Atal Innovation Mission, aimed at strengthening and mentoring Atal Tinkering Labs across the state, further reinforcing the innovation pipeline from schools to startups.

The inauguration ceremony was led by Mr. Amit Dhaka, IAS, Chief Executive Officer, Invest Punjab, as the Chief Guest, in the presence of Mr. Prateek Deshmukh, Program Lead, Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, whose participation reflected AIM’s continued engagement with institutions driving India’s innovation and startup ecosystem, and Ms. Deepakshi Jindal, Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog. They were joined by Dr. Ashok Chitkara, Chancellor, Chitkara University, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-founder, Chitkara University, along with distinguished leaders from industry, academia, government and investor networks.

Designed as a launchpad for high-impact technology ventures, AIC-CIF will support entrepreneurs through structured acceleration programs, expert mentorship, access to funding opportunities, product validation, industry partnerships, intellectual property facilitation and regulatory guidance, enabling innovators to transform breakthrough ideas into scalable enterprises.

Dr. Ashok Chitkara, Chancellor, Chitkara University, said, “Innovation creates real value only when ideas move beyond the laboratory into society. AIC-Chitkara Incubation Foundation is designed to help entrepreneurs build technologies that solve important challenges and create lasting impact.”

Mr. Amit Dhaka, IAS, Chief Executive Officer, Invest Punjab, said, “Strong innovation ecosystems are built through collaboration. Initiatives like AIC-Chitkara Incubation Foundation will strengthen Punjab’s startup landscape and create new opportunities for technology-led entrepreneurship.”

Following the inauguration, dignitaries toured the state-of-the-art AIC-PRIDE Labs, interacting with startup founders and witnessing innovations that demonstrate the growing potential of deep-tech entrepreneurship. The visit highlighted the centre’s vision of creating a collaborative environment where innovators, researchers, industry experts and investors can work together to build globally relevant technology ventures.

Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-founder, Chitkara University, said, “The future belongs to institutions that connect research, industry and entrepreneurship with purpose. Through AIC-Chitkara Incubation Foundation, we are creating an ecosystem where innovators receive the mentorship, partnerships and support they need to build globally competitive ventures while contributing to India’s innovation-led growth.”

The event also celebrated the launch of ATL Sarthi Punjab, an initiative dedicated to strengthening the Atal Tinkering Lab ecosystem across the state. Outstanding ATL Sarthis from Punjab were felicitated for their exceptional contribution towards nurturing scientific curiosity, innovation and problem-solving among school students. The initiative complements the national vision of Startup India, the Atal Innovation Mission and Viksit Bharat by creating a seamless innovation pathway from school-level tinkering to startup incubation and venture creation.

The university also expressed its sincere appreciation to Dr. Deepak Bagla, Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, for his leadership and guidance in enabling the establishment of the incubation centre. Though unable to attend the inauguration, his contribution to strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem was acknowledged during the ceremony.

With the launch of AIC-Chitkara Incubation Foundation, Chitkara University further strengthens its role in advancing entrepreneurship, innovation and research commercialisation. By bringing together academia, industry, government and investors within a single ecosystem, the centre aims to enable the next generation of entrepreneurs to build globally relevant, technology-driven enterprises from India.

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC-accredited private university in North India, with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, offering career-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality and emerging technology fields. For Class 11 and 12 students planning higher education, the University provides industry-aligned programs designed to combine academic excellence with practical exposure.

The curriculum emphasises experiential learning through internships, industry projects, research opportunities and global collaborations, supported by modern infrastructure, advanced laboratories, industry mentorship and skill-based training that strengthens student employability. Backed by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry collaborations, students gain strong placement support, international exposure, academic exchange and collaborative research opportunities.

Consistently ranked among leading institutions by national and global frameworks such as NIRF, QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, the University maintains high academic rigour and industry relevance. With strong corporate partnerships and a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary learning, it prepares students for emerging career opportunities in India and abroad.

For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in

Aukera, India’s leading premium lab-grown diamond jewellery brand, today announced that it has raised Rs. 90 crore (over USD 10 million) in fresh funding, led by existing investor Alteria Capital, along with InnoVen Capital, Lighthouse Canton and a leading bank. The raise comes less than twelve months after the company closed a USD 15 million equity round led by Peak XV Partners, with participation from Fireside Ventures, Sparrow Capital, Prath Ventures and Alteria Capital — a pace of back-to-back institutional capital that reflects the strength of Aukera’s growth trajectory and the confidence of lenders and investors alike in the underlying business. The company continues to strengthen its balance sheet as the category draws in India’s largest players, including Titan with its lab-grown diamond brand Beyon — a market Aukera has been leading from the front.

Kumar Saurabh, Co-founder, Aukera and Lisa Mukhedkar, Founder & CEO, Aukera

That leadership is visible on the ground: in the year since its last raise, Aukera has grown from 13 to 35 company-owned stores, expanding beyond Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Delhi NCR into cities including Pune, Lucknow, Dehradun and Vizag — one of the fastest retail scale-ups in Indian fine jewellery, and a genuinely national footprint. The new capital will fuel the next phase of this expansion.

Aukera occupies the premium end of India’s lab-grown diamond market, built around a simple idea: the better diamond. Every Aukera diamond is of the highest grades, certified to the most exacting global standards, and crafted into fine jewellery featuring original, in-house designs and the brand’s trademarked cuts. It is a promise brought to life by a design and craft organisation that draws on global talent, and carried publicly by acclaimed actor Taapsee Pannu, the Face of the Brand. For Aukera’s customers, grown diamonds are a deliberate upgrade — to a finer, larger, better-designed diamond.

That confidence extends to how the brand stands behind every piece. Aukera operates company-owned experience stores across the country and backs every purchase with assured buyback and exchange — the kind of guarantee that has traditionally separated enduring jewellery houses from the rest.

“This category will not be won on discounting — it will be won on trust, quality and brand,” said Lisa Mukhedkar, Founder & CEO, Aukera. “This capital lets us take that promise to many more cities, faster.”

“We believe this category will require the top player to invest at least Rs. 1,000 crore, as the mining industry resets to recognise the permanence of grown diamonds,” said Kumar Saurabh, Co-founder, Aukera. “We are building the balance sheet and the business to be that player.”

With the fresh capital, Aukera will accelerate store openings in new and existing markets, continue investing in design, product innovation and talent, and strengthen the omnichannel infrastructure that supports its retail engine.

Founded in 2023 by Lisa Mukhedkar and Kumar Saurabh, Aukera is backed by Peak XV Partners, Fireside Ventures, Sparrow Capital, Prath Ventures and Alteria Capital, and is on track towards its stated ambition of becoming a Rs. 1,000 crore brand.