Thuldrun.Sunya debuted at #1 in Hot New Releases and Bestsellers in Urban Fantasy. Co-authored by qualitative researcher Sheetal Choksi and technologist Samiran Ghosh (two-thirds of the award-winning 3 Techies Banter podcast), this groundbreaking novel redefines young adult fiction.

Whats in a title

It started with Thorium-element 90. A silvery metal with nuclear potential along Indias southern coast. Safer, cleaner, often forgotten. Then came the wild idea: what if an ancient Indian civilisation had already cracked nuclear power generation What if they encoded it in Sanskrit as “Tula-Drona”-the balance of Dronacharyas advanced knowledge from the Mahabharata

3,000-year-old ancient Indian tech meets modern conspiracy against the backdrop of Mumbai in this bestselling urban fantasy thriller

And the zero While most techies would have slapped a 1.0 at the end and been satisfied, they got philosophical. India did not just give the world zero; it gave śūnyā. Not merely a numerical placeholder, but a cosmic void encompassing emptiness and infinite potential. Zero is just a number, whereas śūnyā encompasses emptiness and a state of non-being, often linked to spiritual concepts such as emptiness and the potential for all things to be.

The Story

Set in Mumbai, the novel follows teenager Ansh Chatterjee (Teen. Conspiracy nerd. Maggi addict) who accidentally uncovers a secret challenging historical narratives and pitting him against a 3,000-year-old destructive force.

Picture Thuldrun: cities humming with thorium cores, equations dancing in Sanskrit across holographic walls. A civilisation powered by science, not sorcery – peaceful, powerful, possibly interstellar. A rebellion against limiting ancient humans to just hunters and gatherers.

So, the next time youre in Dadar – pause – look down. Those pavement cracks Perhaps not civic negligence but fractures in spacetime, remnants of something the universe tried to erase.

The Creators Speak

“The past doesnt need resurrection – it needed translation. We explore the intersection where India’s pracheen wisdom meets modern technological possibility,” says Samiran Ghosh.

Sheetal Choksi adds, “Podcasts are just books waiting to happen. We turned our mythology-versus-science debates into literary jazz.”

Reader Praise

“The city isnt just a setting-its a living, breathing character.”

” You can picture the streets, the people, the energy of the city. It’s a fresh take with a gripping plot that doesn’t feel overdone or clichd.”

“Thrilling mix of tech/sci-fi and mythology set in the heart of Mumbai, and so much more (including a chapter from a dog’s perspective)”

Is this the first of many See that infinity symbol Thats your clue.

Get Your Copy

Available in hardcover and Kindle on Amazon.in and internationally via Amazon the US, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and the UK. Grab whatever legal stimulant keeps your neurons firing and get comfortable. A reality-bending ride awaits.

Follow the book on Instagram @bookofthuldrun.

When people think about investing, they often turn to companies that are already large and well-known. But long-term potential doesn’t come only from past leaders. As broad structural changes-known as megatrends-reshape economies and industries, new kinds of opportunities are beginning to emerge.

Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund follows a megatrends investing approach

The Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund takes a future-focused approach by identifying businesses aligned with these evolving themes. These could include established companies that continue to adapt, or newer ones building their growth on emerging shifts. The aim is to stay aligned with tomorrow’s direction, not just yesterday’s winners.

Future focused

Stock indices usually reflect companies that have already done well in the past. These businesses have grown enough to be included in benchmarks, but a big part of their early growth is already behind them.

On the other hand, companies that are still building their base, especially in areas driven by long-term changes, may offer more room to grow. The tricky part is identifying them early-when they’re still outside the spotlight but showing signs of future strength.

The role of megatrends

So, how do you find these kinds of companies One way is to track what are called megatrends-big, slow-moving changes that are shaping the world. These aren’t short-term fads. They are deep, structural shifts that affect how people live, what they consume, and how businesses operate.

The Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund focuses on six such megatrends that have the potential to shape India’s growth trajectory:

• Technology: Digital transformation, automation, and AI are changing how we work and live.

• Policy and regulation: Initiatives aimed at building local manufacturing or boosting clean energy are opening new business opportunities.

• Economic changes: Growth in financial services, formalisation of the economy, and rising infrastructure investment are creating ripple effects across sectors.

• Environment: The move towards sustainability is increasing demand for renewable energy, eco-friendly packaging, and green products.

• Demographics: India’s young and growing population is driving demand in healthcare, housing, and consumer goods.

• Social preferences: Health, wellness, convenience, and digital connectivity are shaping how people spend and what they value.

These megatrends are not tied to just one sector. They cut across industries and can create space for new kinds of businesses to emerge and grow.

What Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund seeks to do

The Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund keeps these long-term shifts in mind while building its portfolio. Instead of focusing only on established companies, the fund also looks for businesses that could lead the charge tomorrow.

Because it’s a flexi cap fund, it can invest across large cap, mid cap, and small cap stocks. This gives it the flexibility to explore opportunities wherever they may lie-whether in a well-known company or a lesser-known business.

The fund also considers important factors like how well a company manages its finances, how scalable its business is, and whether its valuation seems reasonable for the risk involved.

Looking ahead, not just at what’s worked before

Markets change, and so do companies. What worked well in the last decade may not lead the next one. That’s why having an investment approach that stays open to change-rather than just following what’s already trending-can make a over the long term.

Of course, there’s no guaranteed outcome, and all investing comes with risk. But by looking at where the world is heading-and not just where it’s been-it may be possible to spot new opportunities earlier.

Funds like Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund are designed to bring some of that future-facing thinking into investing. Those who are comfortable with the risks of equity markets and want to explore long-term themes can consider this kind of approach as part of a diversified portfolio.

To find out more about the Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund or to invest, visit www.bajajamc.com. On the website, you will also find free online calculators such as a lumpsum, SIP and CAGR calculator.

Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund

An open ended equity scheme investing across large cap, mid cap, small cap stocks.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

The winners of the 16th Greenstorm Global Photography Festival were announced today at a virtual ceremony that brought together leading environmental voices, visual storytellers and an international audience.

The Grand Prize-winning photograph by Mr. Steven Triet from Vietnam revealing the golden rice terraces of Lao Chai, Mu Cang Chai

Themed ‘Beautiful Wetlands‘, the festival, which is now in its 16^th year, attracted 11,835 entries from 155 countries. The Grand Prize of USD $10,000 was awarded to Steven Triet from Vietnam. Hanifi Ko (Turkey), Aref Tahmasebi (UAE) and Pepe Manzanilla (Costa Rica) received Special Jury Mentions, each carrying a prize of USD $1,000.

Dr Muralee Thummarukudy, Director of the (G20 GLI) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) announced the Festival’s winners.

G20 Global Land Initiative sponsored the festival for the second year running. It is using photography to both shine a light on the loss of terrestrial ecosystems and inspire actions all over the world to keep wetlands healthy in a bid to reach its ambition of reducing degraded land by 50 percent by 2040.

Dr Musonda Mumba, Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands, and Chief Guest at the event, said, “Wetlands are our planet’s natural infrastructure. They store carbon, clean water, protect us from floods and droughts, and sustain life in all its forms. But they are being degraded and destroyed faster than any other ecosystem.“

“The Global Wetland Outlook 2025 shows the consequences of this loss and the solutions already working around the world. COP15 in Victoria Falls next week is our moment to change course-through global commitment, national action and local innovation,” Dr Musonda Mumba added while speaking at the ceremony.

According to the 2025 Global Wetland Outlook, released last week, wetlands are disappearing at a faster rate than any other ecosystem. About one-fifth of the world’s remaining wetlands are expected to vanish by 2050 without urgent action. The loss is valued at USD 39 trillion in benefits that support people, economies, and nature.

Some of the winning photos will be on display from 23-30 July 2025 at the 15^th meeting of the Contracting Parties of the Convention on Wetlands taking place at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Nature conservation through an artistic lens

The winning pictures, from the lush paddy fields in Vietnam to flamingoes in a lagoon in Tunisia, offer a breathtaking glimpse into the beauty and ecological diversity of the world’s wetlands.

From serene water bodies reflecting vibrant skies to the quiet resilience of marshland life, each photograph tells a story of balance, survival and the urgent need for conservation.

The winners were selected through a two-tier jury process. The first-level jury included Alex Wides (Italy), Anilkumar (India), Dilek Yurdakul (Turkey), Jaclyn Bringuez (USA), Sahar Al-Zarei (UAE) and Thomas Onyango (Uganda).

The Global Jury curated the finalists and selected the winners. Renowned photographers Charlie Waite (UK), Latika Nath (India), and Nick Hall (USA) made up the Jury.

They observed that this year’s entries covered a remarkable spread of subjects and pushed the boundaries, offering a clever, unusual and deeply human way of seeing wetlands.

They stressed that in a world increasingly shaped by artificial images, photographs grounded in nature give us hope and reconnect us. What’s more, they remind us that even while we’re caught up in our routines, nature is still out there, shapeshifting under sun, wind and tide.

“For 16 years, the Greenstorm Festival has harnessed the power of visual storytelling to ignite a passion for nature conservation among young people worldwide. These evocative images not only showcase nature’s beauty but drive meaningful behaviour change, inspiring the next generation to protect and restore our planet’s vital ecosystems,” said Mr Dileep Narayanan, Founder and Managing Trustee of Greenstorm Foundation.

Narayanan started the festival 16 years ago to raise awareness about the earth’s fragile ecosystems. Greenstorm Foundation runs the annual global photography festival, and is based in Kochi, India.

About Greenstorm Foundation

Greenstorm Foundation is a global creative conservancy committed to inspiring an attitudinal shift among youth toward environmental conservation through the power of creativity. Its flagship initiative, the Greenstorm Photo Festival, has engaged over 12 million young minds across more than 150 countries.

Founded in 2009 in Kerala, India, as a CSR initiative of Organic BPS, a purpose-driven brand consultancy, the Greenstorm has grown into one of the world’s largest youth-led environmental photography movements.

In 2023, Greenstorm joined hands with the G20 Global Land Initiative of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), further amplifying its global impact. A registered not-for-profit public trust in India, the Foundation is led by trustees Anil K Menon, Dileep Narayanan, and George Korah. Over the years, Greenstorm has earned numerous national and international accolades, including the prestigious IAA Olive Crown Award for excellence in green communication.

About UNCCD-G20 Global Land Initiative

The Initiative was set up by G20 Countries in 2020, during the Saudi Arabia Presidency. It supports member and non-member countries and organizations to avoid, reduce and reverse land degradation globally, in all ecosystems. The G20’s ambition is to reduce degraded land globally by 50 per cent by 2040. This includes supporting the international community to achieve its global commitments of restoring, by 2030, one billion hectares of degraded land, an area about the size of the United States.

The Brewery transformed into a haven of soulful rhythms on Wednesday as As It Is took the stage, weaving a tapestry of classic and contemporary jazz with effortless finesse. The evening’s allure was magnified by the presence of 17-year-old jazz pianist Armaan Khurana, who graced the ensemble as a guest performer, adding a youthful yet profound resonance to the performance.

Young Talent, Timeless Tunes: Armaan Khurana Mesmerizes with Jazz Saxophone at The Brewery

Armaan, a high school student whose fervent devotion to jazz eclipses his years, collaborated seamlessly with As It Is, a collective of young, accomplished musicians: Sidheshwar Malakar, Pranav Joshi, and Riddesh Acharya. His dexterous command over the piano captivated the audience, while his specially curated saxophone renditions offered glimpses of his versatility and deep artistic commitment.

Armaan Khurana Joins ‘As It Is’ on Keys for a Soulful Jazz Evening

Despite being the youngest artist on stage, Armaan exuded a serene confidence, his improvisations dancing gracefully through the chords, reflecting a sensitivity rare in performers of his age. Each note he played was imbued with intention, melding harmoniously into the band’s cohesive, spirited arrangements.

“Armaan is incredibly talented and truly gifted,” remarked drummer Riddesh Acharya, recounting how their paths intersected. Armaan had approached the band with an earnest request to perform alongside them, and after an impromptu audition, his artistry and sincerity left a lasting impression, earning him an invitation to join their live performance.

Throughout the evening, the band meandered through beloved jazz standards and contemporary interpretations, inviting the audience into an immersive sonic journey of tranquility and exhilaration. Every member of the ensemble found their moment to shine, with Armaan’s interplay adding layers of warmth and sophistication to the soundscape.

Reflecting on the evening, Armaan shared, “It was a great experience to play with them. I’m grateful for the chance and hope to do more in the future.”

As Vadodara steadily blossoms as a cultural hub, evenings like these serve as luminous reminders of the talent quietly nurtured within the city, waiting to find its voice. The performance by As It Is, elevated by Armaan’s presence, was not merely a concert but a heartfelt homage to the timeless spirit of jazz and a glimpse into its luminous future in the city.

As more Indians switch to electric vehicles, these practical tips with help from VinFast’s VF 6 and VF 7 can guide first-time EV owners toward a smooth and confident start to electric driving.

VinFast VF 6 and VF 7 have smart features that can address these concerns, making EV ownership easier for Indian drivers

India’s EV market is picking up speed, with over 74,500 EVs sold in the first half of 2025, marking a 53% increase over the same period last year and already accounts for 75% of total EV sales in 2024.

This means more Indians are making the switch, but buying your first EV can feel overwhelming. Where do you charge How do you maintain the battery And how do you manage those scorching summer days

The upcoming premium VinFast VF 6 and VF 7 have smart features that can address these concerns, making EV ownership easier for Indian drivers. Here are six practical tips to help you settle into electric driving, with how VinFasts models can smooth the transition.

1. Learn Your Charging Options

Instead of having to queue at the gas pump, EV owners can charge at home, and that’s probably the most comfortable way to charge: Its cheaper than public stations and happens while you sleep. EV owners can install a Level 2 AC charger in their apartment complex or individual house.

The VF 6 and VF 7 let you schedule charging sessions through their mobile app. You can set your car to charge during off-peak hours when electricity rates drop. This saves money and keeps your battery healthier by avoiding peak-demand periods.

For longer trips, public charging can fill the gaps for longer trips. In metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, charging stations are increasingly available at malls and and petrol pumps. Fast chargers can top up your battery in under half an hour, making them suitable for intercity travel. In smaller towns, you may need to plan ahead, as charging infrastructure is still catching up.

2. Plan Your Routes Around Charging Stops

Smart route planning can prevent those nail-biting moments when your battery dips low. Use EV-supporting apps to map your journey with working charging stops along the way. Always double-check availability and charging speeds before setting off.

Both VinFast models come with voice assistants that speak local languages. You can ask your car to find nearby charging stations while driving. The smartphone integration lets you monitor charging sessions remotely, so you know exactly when to return to your car.

VinFast is also building a comprehensive EV ecosystem in India. This includes expanding charging networks and service centers. The company understands that infrastructure support matters as much as the vehicles themselves.

3. Understand Battery Management Basics

Your EV battery lasts longer when you treat it right. Avoid letting it drop below 20% or charging to 100% daily. The sweet spot sits between 30% and 80% for regular use. This is especially important in Indian conditions, where high ambient temperatures can already put stress on battery performance. Parking in shaded areas or indoor garages during summer helps avoid battery overheating.

The VF 6 and VF 7 feature advanced Battery Management Systems that optimizes charging patterns, monitors cell health, and keeps everything running efficiently. You get the benefits without the complexity.

4. Use Drive Modes to Maximize Efficiency

Most EVs offer multiple drive modes. Eco mode stretches your range but limits acceleration. Sport mode delivers full power but drains the battery faster. Normal mode balances both. In Indian traffic, where frequent braking and acceleration are common, Eco mode combined with regenerative braking helps extend range, especially during city commutes. On open highways, switching to Normal or Sport mode offers better responsiveness and overtaking power.

The VF 6 and VF 7 offers multiple distinct drive modes plus regenerative braking options. City driving becomes smoother with lighter steering and one-pedal driving. Highway trips get sportier with tighter steering response and enhanced stability.

5. Use Remote Features During Hot Weather

In Indian summers, cabin temperatures can rise above 45C when parked in the sun. Pre-cooling your vehicle before you get in saves energy and keeps you comfortable. Also, cooling the cabin while the car is still plugged in reduces the load on your battery during the drive, preserving range and comfort.

VinFast owners will get access to the VF C-App, which lets you control air conditioning remotely. Start cooling your car from your office or home. This uses grid power instead of battery power, preserving range for your drive.

6. Take Advantage of Long-Term Warranties

New technology can make buyers nervous. What happens if something breaks How much will repair cost Strong warranties, though not being a part of EV features list, are still something new owners should pay attention to, since it provides peace of mind and protect your investment. This is especially important in India, where EV repair infrastructure is still developing. A robust warranty ensures you are covered even if local garages cannot handle EV-specific issues.

VinFast offers industry-leading coverage. The VF 6 comes with 7-year/160,000 km vehicle warranty and 8-year unlimited battery coverage. The VF 7 steps up to 10-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty and 10-year unlimited battery protection. Few manufacturers match this confidence in their products.

Electric vehicle ownership brings excitement and learning opportunities. The technology keeps improving, costs keep dropping, and the driving experience often surprises people. VinFasts VF 6 and VF 7 are built to make this transition smoother, with smart technology and a support ecosystem designed for Indian conditions. Your first EV doesnt have to be intimidating when you have the right preparation and the right vehicle.

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: vinfastauto.in.

Illumina Inc. (NASDAQ: ILMN), a global leader in sequencing technology, announced today that Illumina India has won the Top GCC Award at the 2025 GCC Workplace Awards, hosted by the Zyoin Group. The award recognizes Illumina India as the leading Global Capability Center (GCC) in the country for its world-class innovation, progressive workplace culture, inclusive practices, and strong people focus.

Illumina India Wins the Top GCC Award at the 2025 GCC Workplace Awards

“This is a proud milestone for all of us at Illumina. To be recognized with this award just a year into building our GCC in India is truly special. Right from day one, we focused on creating a place where people feel valued, supported, and part of something meaningful. Whether it’s through our contributions to the future of human health, shaping a strong and positive culture, or establishing policies that support our people – this recognition belongs to everyone who has been part of the journey,” said Ramesh Thamotharan, Director, Global Operations & Site Leader, Illumina India.

Now in its second edition, the GCC Workplace Awards has established itself as India’s largest GCC Workplace Leadership Summit & Awards – a platform that honors workplace excellence across Global Capability Centers in the country. As India continues to emerge as a global innovation powerhouse, this prestigious platform honors the trailblazing GCCs that are setting new standards in culture, capability, and collaboration.

“Being named a Top GCC among over 300 participants and nearly 700 nominations is a great honor for all of us at Illumina,” said Jeyandran Chandrasekaran, HR Site Lead, Illumina India. “This recognition highlights our culture where people come first, and every team member is empowered to grow and make an impact. We are proud that our values and workplace experience resonate not only within our teams but also across the larger industry ecosystem. This acknowledgment inspires us to continue creating an environment where people are excited to contribute and thrive.”

Illumina strengthened its presence in India by establishing a Global Capability Center and expanding its technology workforce to support its global customer base in 2024. Bengaluru joined other key locations, including Singapore, Cambridge (England), Eindhoven (Netherlands), Shanghai, Madison (Wisconsin), Hayward (California), and San Diego, as Illumina Global Capability Centers.

About Illumina

Illumina is improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome. Our focus on innovation has established us as a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving customers in the research, clinical, and applied markets. Our products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture, and other emerging segments. To learn more, visit illumina.com and connect with us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

As authentic Indian stories continue to strike a chord with audiences across the globe, RU BA RU-a powerful short film from Rajasthan-is all set to make its international premiere at the Indian Film Festival Stuttgart 2025 in the prestigious “In Competition” section.

Anvita Gupta presents – Ru Ba Ru, a short film

Rooted in folk tradition and cinematic flourish, RUBARU is a bold, lyrical tale of two sisters-one a rudaali (professional mourner), the other a dancer-fighting to reclaim agency in a world shaped by caste, class, and gender inequality. Directed by Rajasthan- native Kapil Tanwar, the film marks his directorial debut, blending his cultural heritage with an unflinching exploration of the lived realities of Indian women.

Bringing together the vibrancy of Indian cinema-song, dance, emotion, and deep-rooted storytelling-the film made an unforgettable impression at its Rajasthan State premiere at JIFF 2025, receiving a standing ovation and a special jury award.

The film is produced by an all-women leadership team, led by AnvitaGupta under her banner SHADAMFilms, with AnitaGurnani as co-producer and PriyankaChopra serving as Executive Producer. Together, the team brings intergenerational vision, grassroots insight, and global appeal to the project.

Sharing her thoughts on the film, Anita Gurnani, Co-Producer, RU BA RU said, “To me, RU BA RU is not just a film, but a heartfelt project to amplify women’s narratives that often go unheard. Rooted in the lived experiences of Indian women, it is a step toward shattering global barriers through the power of authentic storytelling. We’re proud to see this story resonate across borders and honoured to bring it to an international stage.”

KapilTanwar, Director said, “RU BA RU is a story that comes from a place of deep personal reflection and cultural memory. As my first film as a director, it allowed me to explore the emotional textures and quiet strength of women whose stories often remain untold. To have it recognised and nominated for competition at the Indian Film Festival Stuttgart, Europe’s largest showcase of Indian cinema, is an incredible honour. It reaffirms my belief that honest, rooted storytelling has the power to travel far and connect deeply.”

“RU BA RU is more than just a film, it’s a quiet rebellion against how women are seen, silenced, and expected to survive with grace, no matter the weight they carry. While it’s rooted in the world of two sisters from rural Rajasthan, their struggles and inner lives echo across borders and social strata. Whether marginalized by caste, class, or the invisible expectations placed on women everywhere, their story holds a mirror up to all of us. After a decade of experience in the industry, as a first-time producer, I knew I wanted to back stories that are deeply Indian in soul, but universally felt. Through SHADAM FILMS, my hope is to put such honest, layered narratives on the global map and honour the voices we so often overlook. Because truth, when told with heart, always travels,” added Anvita Gupta, Producer, Ru Ba Ru.

Adding to its growing acclaim, RU BA RU recently won Best Short Film at the ImagineIndia Film Festival in Madrid. Esteemed author and jury member Mara Zaragoza Hidalgo-one of Spain’s most respected literary voices-praised the film for its honesty and universality, stating: “The story speaks to universal feelings, situations, and events from a concrete everyday perspective without resorting to any cheap tricks.” The Spanish premiere of the film is scheduled for September 2025.

As RU BA RU heads to IFF Stuttgart on July 27th, it becomes yet another milestone in the growing global celebration of Indian independent cinema. With its richly textured narrative, cultural specificity, and resonant themes, the film stands as a moving reminder that truly local stories often have the most universal impact.

Watch the trailer here – youtu.be/03uDEWot6yE

Further strengthening its position as one of India’s most dynamic university-led startup ecosystems, the Chitkara Innovation Incubator Foundation (CIIF), the entrepreneurship and incubation arm of Chitkara University, Punjab, has proudly announced having funded 101 startups to date. This milestone cements CIIF’s growing reputation as a key enabler in India’s thriving innovation landscape.

Chitkara Innovation Incubator Foundation (CIIF), the entrepreneurship and incubation arm of Chitkara University proudly announces having funded 101 startups

Since its inception in 2015, CIIF has worked hand-in-hand with entrepreneurs from across the country, not just providing funding, but delivering a comprehensive support ecosystem that includes deep mentoring, capacity building, accelerator programs, and strategic investor connections. Over the years, CIIF has actively engaged with 5,000+ startups, evaluated over 500 applications annually, mentored 200+ early-stage ventures, and built a robust network of 100+ industry mentors and investors.

Backed by leading institutions such as the Department of Science & Technology (DST), MeitY Startup Hub, Startup India, and Startup Punjab, CIIF’s efforts span key sectors from fintech and healthtech to agritech, cleantech, and edtech, with a sharp focus on building resilience, scale, and impact through every venture it supports.

“At CIIF, our focus has always been on enabling founders to turn bold ideas into scalable ventures with real-world impact. Reaching 101 funded startups is a proud reflection of this commitment,” said Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University. “We will continue to foster innovation, nurture entrepreneurial talent, and help build businesses that drive meaningful change for India and beyond.“

The impact of CIIF’s holistic approach is evident through the inspiring journeys of several of its startups:
Take Studycaller, for instance, an edtech venture transforming how students access learning through its dynamic online platform. With Rs. 1 crore in funding from marquee investor Mr. Mahavir Pratap Sharma (TiE), Studycaller’s rapid growth is a direct outcome of CIIF’s focused interventions, ranging from one-on-one mentoring and strategic investor connects to industry collaborations that helped shape its breakthrough trajectory.

In the realm of deeptech, Aumsat exemplifies innovation meeting real-world challenges. Leveraging satellite technology and AI-powered analytics, Aumsat has addressed 2,600+ pipeline leaks and mapped 1.5 lakh km of infrastructure to solve critical issues in water management and agriculture. CIIF’s Rs. 50 lakh funding support, along with continuous guidance through prototyping and scale-up strategies, has been pivotal to Aumsat’s growth.

Similarly, Adiabatic is redefining sustainable energy solutions with its intelligent, high-performance lithium-ion battery packs, supported by a manufacturing facility capable of producing 5,000 units annually. From prototyping support to investor access and industry networking, CIIF has played an integral role in taking Adiabatic’s innovation from lab to market.

In the healthtech space, Svastek stands as a testament to CIIF’s impact in nurturing disruptive ideas. Its patented Respiratory NIV mask with a unique tube-insert design has attracted Rs. 2 crore funding from IAN Angel Fund and earned visibility through Shark Tank India. From product development mentoring to critical funding facilitation, CIIF’s involvement has been instrumental in helping Svastek transform their bold vision into tangible, life-changing solutions.

Through these success stories and many others, CIIF demonstrates its unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant culture of entrepreneurship where startups are equipped with the necessary resources, networks, and mentorship to thrive and create meaningful, sustainable impact.

About CIIF, Chitkara University:
Chitkara Innovation Incubator Foundation (CIIF) is the dedicated startup incubation center at Chitkara University, Punjab, offering structured incubation, acceleration, mentorship, and funding opportunities to drive entrepreneurial growth within India’s vibrant startup ecosystem.

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