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Wednesday / April 2. 2025

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Agro Universities

Dr Abhijeet Ghatak has been elected Eastern Zone Zonal President of the Indian Phytopathological Society (IPS), New Delhi, for the period 2025. Along with him, Dr Srinivasaraghavan has been elected as the society’s Zonal Councilor. Both will serve in their respective positions for 2025. The Eastern Zone of IPS consists of four states: Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal. Both distinguished experts are currently employed as Assistant Professors in the Department of Plant Pathology at Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour. Their selection for these important positions is seen as a tremendous accomplishment for the institution and scientific community

Dr DR Singh, the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of BAU, expressed his joy for this achievement and appreciated to Drs Abhijeet Ghatak and Srinivasaraghavan for their contributions to plant pathology. He praised their efforts to maintain the university’s strong reputation and encouraged them to continue their research and academic achievement. Dr AK Singh, Director of Research, also praised their accomplishments, recognizing their commitment to the progress of plant pathology. He wished them well in their future undertakings, emphasizing the significance of their contributions in improving plant disease control and sustainable agriculture in the region. Dr AP Bhagat, Chairman of the Department of Plant Pathology, conveyed his best wishes and encouraged them to commence significant IPS activities that would help both plant health and farmers. He proposed holding seminars, conferences, workshops, training programs, and other activities to address the serious concerns surrounding plant diseases.

Dr Ghatak and Dr Srinivasaraghavan expressed their gratitude to the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor and other BAU dignitaries for their enduring support and encouragement. Both of them also expressed gratitude to IPS Secretary, Dr KK Biswas, for recognizing their achievements and believing in their ability. Their election to IPS leadership is intended to improve research collaborations, strengthen disease control tactics, and help to advance plant pathology in Eastern India. This result not only demonstrates their expertise, but also emphasizes BAU’s expanding prominence in agricultural research.

Dr Abhijeet Ghatak has been elected Eastern

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Biofertilizers, Fungicides

A Rs 37,216 crore subsidy on phosphatic and potassic fertilizers for the Kharif season of 2025 was approved by the Union Cabinet. This will guarantee that farmers can purchase soil nutrients at reasonable costs. The goal of the subsidy is to keep fertilizers like DAP at their present retail cost. Based on global price trends, this action promotes nutritional availability

In an attempt to supply soil nutrients at a fair pace, the Union Cabinet authorized a Rs 37,216 crore subsidy on phosphatic and potassic (P&K) fertilizers on Friday for the Kharif (summer-planted) season this year. A plan to set the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for phosphoric and potassium fertilizer (P&K) for the Kharif season 2025 (April 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025) was agreed by the Union Cabinet, which is led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to Ashwini Vaishnaw, the minister of information and broadcasting, the budget needed for the Kharif season of 2024 will be Rs 37,216.15 crore.

The government has made sure that DAP (di-ammonium phosphate) retail prices stay at their current level.

The budgetary requirement for Rabi seasons 2024–2025 is less than the subsidy money requirement for the Kharif season, which is approximately Rs 13,000 crore.

The choice will guarantee that “availability of fertilisers to farmers at subsidised, affordable and reasonable prices will be ensured” .

“Rationalisation of subsidy on P&K fertilisers in view of recent trends in the international prices of fertilisers and inputs,” it stated.

P&K fertilizer subsidies, including those for NPKS grades, will be given according to authorized prices for Kharif 2025. In order to make nutrients accessible to farmers at reasonable costs, the fertilizer businesses would receive the subsidy based on approved and notified rates.

Through nutrient makers and importers, the Center is providing farmers with 28 grades of P&K fertilizers at discounted costs.

A Rs 37,216 crore subsidy on phosphatic

Company News

Sells 32582 Tractor Units in India during March 2025

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES), part of the Mahindra Group, today announced its tractor sales numbers for March 2025, also clocking the highest-ever annual sales in F’25.

Domestic sales in March 2025 were at 32582 units, as against 24276 units during March 2024.

Total tractor sales (Domestic + Exports) during March 2025 were at 34934 units, as against 26024 units for the same period last year. Exports for the month stood at 2352 units.

Commenting on the March performance, Hemant Sikka, President – Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said “We have sold 32582 tractors in the domestic market during March’ 25, a growth of 34 per cent over last year. The tractor industry has been witnessing good momentum on account of favorable weather conditions, good reservoir levels, strong rabi outlook and positive terms of trade for farmers. Harvest season has commenced in the northern regions and is expected to progress smoothly across the country. Delivery momentum picked up in the last week of March on account of festivities and momentum is expected to continue in Q1 FY26 on expectation of very good Rabi crop harvest and improved cash flow in the hands of the farmers In the exports market, we have sold 2352 tractors, a growth of 35 per cent over last year.”

Commenting on M&M’s performance for F’25, Hemant further added, “We have achieved our highest ever tractor sales in F25 with a growth of 12 per cent. This is driven by very strong retail sales across the country and lowest ever dealer channel inventory.”

Sells 32582 Tractor Units in India during

Agribusiness, Finance, Funding, Institutions, Investments, Microfinance

India’s Economic Survey 2024-25 revealed that only around 20 per cent of MSMEs in India are owned by women – underscoring the need to create a strong enabling and conducive ecosystem for the nation’s women entrepreneurs alongside government initiatives – focusing on credit access, formalization and skills training. Villgro, a leading social enterprise incubator, has been working actively for several years to boost access to formal credit and innovative financing/credit solutions among women micro-entrepreneurs across our country

As the new financial year i.e. FY 2025-26 begins, Villgro has announced that the innovative financing solutions powered by Villgro and its partner organizations have, to date, enabled 106 women micro entrepreneurs across India to take business loans. By helping those previously deemed ‘unbankable’ women secure the funding they need to build and sustain their businesses, these efforts are not only empowering women-led enterprises to thrive but also shaping a more inclusive financial ecosystem – one that strengthens livelihoods and drives lasting socioeconomic impact.

Notably, women entrepreneurs consistently demonstrate high loan repayment rates, putting them among the most reliable borrowers in the nation’s financial ecosystem. Despite their strong track record, women entrepreneurs are receiving only 5 per cent of total commercial financing, revealed Villgro Beyond the Numbers study. Various systemic barriers – including risk perception, lack of collateral ownership, and gender norms – continue to restrict their access to funding. This is exactly where Villgro is stepping in, attempting to create a difference by introducing tailored credit solutions, peer-to-peer lending and alternative funding mechanisms for bridging the nation’s gender financing gaps.

“Over the years, we at Villgro noticed that when it comes to so many women micro-entrepreneurs in India – who remain underserved by traditional financial institutions – lack of access to capital acts as a major constraint to their business growth, limiting their ability to scale, adopt new technologies and expand market reach. This is why, through multiple innovative avenues, we have been seeking to increase their access to credit while removing systemic barriers; and the outcomes have made us more than proud. Through Villgro’s support, hundreds of women-led businesses across the country have not only expanded and grown substantially, but also demonstrated strong repayment behaviour, reinforcing the case for greater financial inclusion. The evidence is clear – women entrepreneurs are bankable and reliable borrowers, and supporting them can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable economy,” commented Vibha Sharma, Lead – Impact Finance, Villgro.

Here are a couple of notable initiatives presently being carried out by Villgro, in collaboration with its ecosystem partners, to elevate women-led businesses in India:

Affordable Credit for Solar-Powered Income Generating Opportunities: Villgro partnered with Ashv Finance to make DD Solar’s solar-powered cooling solutions more affordable and accessible to rural women micro-entrepreneurs – the majority of them in the fisheries value chain. Through this partnership, an end-user loan facility backed by a First Loss Default Guarantee (FLDG) was introduced, covering 25 per cent of potential loan losses with support from other partners, which has unlocked over Rs1 crore in credit funding for underserved communities.

The impact observed was significant – 362 loans disbursed and 750 solar refrigeration units sold, with 44 per cent of loans allocated to women – many of whom were first-time borrowers. These women entrepreneurs demonstrated strong repayment behaviour and a non-performing asset rate of just 6 per cent. The innovative cooling storage solutions of DD Solar have helped these women in better procurement planning of the fish, lowering losses and enhancing their revenue, income and livelihoods. Encouraged by the success of this project, Ashv Finance has launched a second loan facility with reduced FLDG requirements, and with WE4F subsidizing 36 per cent of product costs, financing has become even more accessible for women-led businesses.

Peer-to-Peer Lending to Access Livelihood Generating Opportunities: Research indicates that 50 per cent farmers in India are unable to secure loans. In a bid to improve the scenario, Villgro partnered with Rang De, a peer-to-peer lending platform, enabling farmers to adopt distributed renewable energy (DRE) technologies and enabling them to repay loans with the income generated from the usage of these technologies. Rang De’s P2P lending platform directly connects individual lenders with farmers, providing low-interest, easily accessible loans to fund climate-smart DRE technologies that drive agricultural innovation. By simplifying access to credit, this initiative has been encouraging several women farmers to secure loans, enabling them to invest in sustainable livelihood-enhancing technologies that can increase their incomes and productivity.

Going ahead, Villgro remains committed to these facilities aimed towards empowering women by giving them access to finance and thereby enabling them to own income generating assets and enhance livelihoods. As Villgro continues to champion financial inclusion, they are also sensitizing and urging India’s policymakers, investors, and financial institutions to begin to recognize the value of investing in women-led businesses – these investments yield strong financial returns and create far-reaching socio-economic benefits for families, communities, and the broader economy.

India’s Economic Survey 2024-25 revealed that only

Agrotech

K J Somaiya School of Engineering at Somaiya Vidyavihar University organized a 24-hour Agritech Hackathon from March 27th to 28th, 2025, aimed at dealing with the significant challenges faced by Indian farmers. Indian agriculture faces a lot of issues against nature and time. From unpredictable weather patterns and the growing impacts of climate change to labour shortages and deteriorating soil health, the challenges are immense. Post-harvest losses, caused by poor infrastructure and lack of storage, exacerbate the situation. On top of that, fluctuating market prices often leave farmers selling their produce at a loss

The event saw a remarkable 1,200 registrations, with 300 participants from across India shortlisted for the competition, each bringing expertise in Agriculture, Engineering, and Management.

The hackathon provided a platform for participants to develop innovative solutions aimed at providing affordable and sustainable projects to manage these issues, with the help of advanced technologies like IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), and data analytics.

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Neetin Desai, a distinguished biotechnologist and Dean of the Faculty of Science at Somaiya Vidyavihar University, with expertise in agricultural biotechnology and sustainability. The panel delved into how technology can transform farming, addressing crucial issues such as enhancing irrigation practices, combating crop diseases, and narrowing the technological divide in rural areas. Discussions emphasized providing farmers with easy-to-use, affordable tools, such as mobile apps for weather forecasts, improved irrigation solutions, and advanced farming equipment.

Notable figures who contributed to the event included Mr. Prasanna Popatrao Pawar, a respected farmer who has promoted practices like drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and watershed management to enhance crop yields and empower rural communities. Mr. Abhishek Reddy, a renowned industry expert specializing in Agri-Tech and innovative solutions for the agricultural sector, also shared his insights. Mr. Jeevan Garsund from RCF, an expert in fertilizers and chemical production, focused on enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. Dr. Nandkumar Kunchge and Dr. Bodake, both renowned experts in agricultural technology, also provided valuable guidance to the participants. Dr. Kunchge specializes in the application of innovative technologies to improve crop yield and soil health, with a focus on sustainable farming practices. Dr. Bodake, with extensive experience in agricultural engineering, has contributed to various projects that bridge the gap between technology and rural farming communities, helping to introduce advanced, yet practical solutions for modern-day farming challenges. Their expertise played a crucial role in shaping the solutions developed during the hackathon, further enriching the learning experience for the participants.

The event lasted for 24 hours, during which teams presented their solutions in three jury rounds. Projects were judged based on criteria such as innovation, feasibility, scalability, and potential impact on the agricultural sector. During the valedictory function, Dr. Raghunath K. Shegaonkar, a respected academician specializing in engineering and technological research, was joined by Dashrath Tamble, former Director of the Department of Agriculture, Government of Maharashtra, known for his significant contributions to agricultural development and policy implementation. Dr. Kuber from BARC, an expert in using nuclear and radiation technologies to enhance soil health and crop yields, and Dr. Nandkumar Gilke, Registrar of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, also guided the participants.

During the Agritech Hackathon, participants worked tirelessly for 24 hours, addressing various challenges faced by Indian farming. They explored innovative technological solutions based on key themes such as precision farming, yield prediction and enhancement, supply chain management, improving irrigation systems, preventing crop diseases, enhancing soil health, managing post-harvest losses, and creating sustainable farming practices.

The winning teams received prizes worth ₹2 Lakhs, awarded as follows:

1st Winner: Team Stranger Strings from Vivekanand Education Society’s Institute of Technology (VESIT), Mumbai
1st Runner-up: Team IoTVerse from Rajkiya Engineering College, Banda, Uttar Pradesh and Team AgriBot from Shri Shankaracharya Institute of Professional Management and Technology, Raipur
2nd Runner-up: Team Greenpulse from K.J. Somaiya School of Engineering, Somaiya Vidyavihar University
The hackathon was organized by the Electronics Department’s Student Association (e-CESA) at Somaiya Vidyavihar University, with faculty mentors Dr Jagannath Nirmal, Prof. Amrita Naiskatam and Prof. Megha Sharma guiding the students.

Dr. Suresh Ukarande and Dr. Jagnnath Nirmal, who conceptualized the event, played a pivotal role in bringing the first-ever Agritech Hackathon to life at a private university. In his inaugural address, Dr. Suresh Ukarande, Director of K.J. Somaiya School of Engineering, emphasized the importance of integrating technology with farming practices to improve agricultural outcomes. Dr. Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, expressed his appreciation for the enthusiasm and innovative spirit shown by the participants, reinforcing the university’s commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute to the betterment of society. This event not only showcased the vital role of technology in addressing India’s agricultural challenges but also created a platform for collaboration among farmers, academics, industry experts, and young Agri-Tech innovators. In a country where millions of farmers still struggle with issues like water scarcity, crop diseases, and market instability, the event highlighted how technology can provide practical, real-world solutions. By fostering connections between experienced professionals and the younger generation of innovators, the event also encouraged the development of affordable, scalable solutions that can be easily adopted by rural communities, ultimately improving the livelihoods of farmers and making agriculture more sustainable across India.

K J Somaiya School of Engineering at

Collaborations

UP govt teams up with SaveLIFE Foundation & HUL to launch state’s first Tactical Urbanism trial for road safety

India continues to face a severe road safety crisis, with over 170,000 people killed each year – making it one of the world’s most affected nations. Uttar Pradesh bears the biggest burden of road crash fatalities, with 22,595 deaths recorded in 2022 alone. Among districts, Unnao suffered 510 lives that same year.

To address this urgent issue, SaveLIFE Foundation, with the support from the Government of Uttar Pradesh, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and Hindustan Unilever Limited, has initiated Uttar Pradesh’s first-ever Tactical Urbanism (TU) trial at the Dahi Chowki intersection in Unnao. The aim is to create a replicable model to reduce fatalities on intersections in the district.

The Dahi Chowki intersection is situated on NH-27, which serves as a critical transport link connecting the major UP districts of Kanpur and Lucknow. This junction forms a Y-intersection, where a minor road from Purwa village converges with the highway, creating a focal point for traffic. According to government data, the Dahi Chowki intersection has witnessed 16 road crashes and 9 deaths from 2021 to 2024.

The area is a bustling mixed-use zone, with a blend of industries, educational institutions, and markets nearby. Notable landmarks include the Government Polytechnic Unnao and Kendriya Vidyalaya Unnao, both of which attract significant pedestrian traffic. Additionally, a large migrant labour population working in the surrounding industries resides in nearby villages, further contributing to the heavy footfall at this intersection. The presence of shops, eateries, and vegetable vendors at the junction caters to the diverse needs of the local population, resulting in increased pedestrian activity, especially during peak hours.

The TU trial, launched on March 26, 2025, was attended by Unnao District Magistrate Mr Gaurang Rathi; Superintendent of Police, Unnao, Mr Deepak Bhuker; senior officials from PWD and NHAI, along with the SaveLIFE team.

TU trials by SaveLIFE Foundation aim to enhance road safety and reduce fatalities in areas with high traffic volumes. These trials are temporary, quick, and relatively low-cost interventions to redesign spaces and improve road safety for everyone, especially the vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists, and those using non-motorised transport.

An essential component of TU trials is road space redistribution to ensure modal equity, along with road geometrics modification, traffic channelisation, speed reduction measures, and the addition of infrastructure to protect pedestrians and cyclists. These interventions are carefully documented through a comparison of ‘before’ and ‘after’ data. Once their effectiveness is proven, the relevant government agencies are expected to make these changes permanent.

Addressing the event, District Magistrate Mr Rathi said, “The Tactical Urbanism trial at the Dahi Chowki intersection in Unnao is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to enhance road safety, particularly for the most vulnerable road users such as pedestrians. This trial, which proposes on-ground engineering improvements, will also serve as a foundation for sustainable, data-driven solutions aimed at reducing fatalities throughout the district. We appreciate the district’s partnership with SaveLIFE Foundation in bringing this initiative to life.”

Speaking about the Tactical Urbanism, Mr Bhuker, Superintendent of Police, Unnao, said, “The Tactical Urbanism trial at Dahi Chowki aims to foster a culture of safe road usage by providing critical infrastructure that ensures secure passage through intersections, particularly for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians. This initiative marks a significant milestone in promoting road safety in Unnao district, serving as a model for future road safety enhancements. Road safety is our top priority, and we are confident that this move will not only reduce road crashes but also help in building a safer road network for Unnao.”

Commenting on the TU trial, Piyush Tewari, founder and CEO of SaveLIFE Foundation, said, “Our efforts in Unnao represent a crucial step in reimagining road safety, with a focus on protecting vulnerable road users and transforming spaces to ensure safety for all. Our mission is clear – reduce fatalities, enhance road safety, and develop sustainable solutions that can be scaled nationwide. We extend our gratitude to the Government of Uttar Pradesh, NHAI, and Hindustan Unilever Limited for their support in paving the way towards a safer, more equitable road system for everyone.”

Yogesh Mishra, Executive Director & Head of Supply Chain, HUL, said, “We are proud to support the road safety engineering solution trials in Unnao, a crucial step towards transforming urban road safety. This initiative aims to implement swift, impactful changes in urban design and infrastructure, creating safer roads for everyone. We extend our sincere thanks to SaveLIFE Foundation for their exceptional work in driving this initiative forward. Together, we are paving the way for a safer future for all.”

Community outreach initiatives have also been conducted with students, professional drivers, and local residents as part of this trial to raise awareness about the importance of road safety. Approximately 100 students, aged 18 to 22, participated in a road safety-themed quiz at the Government Polytechnic Unnao. Meanwhile, around 40 drivers from the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation were told about the safety interventions deployed and their usage. This workshop also highlighted the importance of safe boarding and deboarding zones, followed by a road safety quiz.

Additionally, about 25 local residents participated in a community meeting at the local panchayat, where they were informed about the installed interventions, how to use them correctly, and were guided on the best practices for safe road navigation.

UP govt teams up with SaveLIFE Foundation

Environment, Nature, Soil Health, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

IIL’s Sustainability Report 2023-24 Highlights Transformative Progress in Renewable Energy, Governance, and Farmer Empowerment

Insecticides (India) Limited (IIL) has published its Sustainability Report for FY 2023-24, detailing its achievements in sustainable practices, community development, and innovation-driven growth. The report outlines IIL’s efforts to integrate environmental stewardship and social responsibility into its operations, reflecting its vision for a sustainable agricultural ecosystem. The report highlights that 7.64 per cent of total electricity consumption met through renewable electricity. Energy-saving upgrades at Dahej, such as improved cooling systems and replacing outdated 10 m 2 ATFD with a more efficient 30 m 2 ATFD, further optimising resource efficiency. Water intensity decreased by 5.47 per cent, supported by Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems at Chopanki, Udhampur, and Samba, and an advanced wastewater treatment facility at Dahej.

In FY 2023-24, water consumption and water discharge reduced by 1.91 per cent and 14.75 per cent respectively owing to process efficiency. On the social front, IIL’s initiatives impacted over 50,000 beneficiaries during FY 2023-24. The nationwide expansion of Project Kisaan Jagrukta Abhiyan equipped farmers with essential knowledge about crop protection. Partnerships with institutions like SVPUAT in Meerut provided training to 1,300 farmers, emphasizing safe agricultural practices. Project Vidhya strengthened rural education by upgrading infrastructure, building sanitation facilities, and providing essential resources. IIL Foundation, in collaboration with Navjyoti India Foundation, supports the Remedial Education Project in the Bawana area, Delhi which extended healthcare support through 3,800 free eye screenings, the distribution of 520 eyeglasses, and access to medical services for underserved communities.
Imbibing the same values internally, the company achieved a 4.1/5 employee happiness score and introduced initiatives like the IIL Wellness Series and structured training programmes,
providing an average of 11.25 hours of learning per employee. IIL aims to achieve 18 per cent women representation at the executive level or above by March 2025, reinforcing its commitment to workplace diversity. IIL understands that relationships with stakeholders are essential for sustained growth and success. In recognition of this, they are committed to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance, aligned with established and rigorous guidelines.

IIL view governance as a fundamental aspect of their operations, with policies designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, ultimately creating value for all the stakeholders. Innovation continues to drive IIL’s success. The company filed five patents during FY 2023-24 and advanced its research and development capabilities through four dedicated centers, including a GLP-certified facility at Chopanki. These efforts enhanced the company’s ability to meet the evolving needs of farmers while maintaining a focus on sustainability. The financial year also recorded ~9 per cent increase in revenue, reaching Rs1,966 crore, with a net profit of INR 102 crore. CSR expenditure totaled Rs 247.07 lakh, supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and farmer welfare.
Mr. Rajesh Aggarwal, Managing Director of Insecticides (India) Limited, said, “For us, sustainability is woven into every decision we make. Whether it is helping farmers adopt safer
agricultural practices, reducing our environmental footprint, or creating solutions through innovation, we see these as responsibilities we owe to the future. This ESG report echoes our
aim to positively influence lives, safeguard natural resources, and strengthen the agricultural sector for the long haul. It’s about progress with purpose.” IIL continues to focus on building a future that balances growth with accountability, ensuring lasting value for communities and the environment.

IIL’s Sustainability Report 2023-24 Highlights Transformative Progress

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Finance, Funding, Institutions, Investments, Microfinance, Start ups

Scheduled for April 3–5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, this second edition is poised to be India’s largest startup event, showcasing 3,000 startups, over 1,000 investors, 10,000+ international delegates, and 50,000+ business visitors—all under one roof

Startup Mahakumbh is set to return to New Delhi with its second edition, reaffirming its position as India’s largest startup congregation and a global innovation showcase. Following the success of its inaugural edition, which saw participation from Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, this landmark event will take place from April 3–5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. With the theme “Startup India @ 2047—Unfolding the Bharat Story,” the summit aims to shape India’s startup ecosystem for the future, driving innovation, policy discussions, and economic transformation.

This year’s edition is expected to bring together more than 3,000 startups, 1,000 investors and incubators, and 10,000 delegates from over 50 countries, along with 50,000 business visitors. The event will provide a platform for startups to engage with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers, fostering collaboration and new business opportunities.

A key highlight of the event is the powerful public-private collaboration shaping India’s startup landscape. Industry leaders and policymakers will share their insights, including Peyush Bansal, CEO & Co-founder of Lenskart, who will explore the evolution of D2C brands and future trends. Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran, Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India, will discuss India’s macroeconomic position in a global context and its impact on the startup ecosystem. S. Krishnan, IAS, Secretary of MeitY, will outline India’s AI roadmap, while Rajesh Kumar Singh, IAS, Secretary of DPIIT, will address policy-driven growth for startups. Adding to the lineup, Ananth Narayanan, Founder & CEO of Mensa Brands, will share strategies for scaling digital-first brands, Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co-founder of Infosys & Chairman of Axilor Ventures, will delve into India’s tech evolution, and Nithin Kamath, Founder & CEO of Zerodha, will discuss the disruptions and opportunities in fintech. Manish Sabharwal, Vice Chairman of TeamLease Services, will provide insights into workforce innovation and the future of employment. These distinguished speakers will set the stage for dynamic discussions, offering startups valuable perspectives on innovation, policy, and business growth.

Adding to the excitement, Bollywood celebrities turned investors such as Sonam Kapoor, Suniel Shetty, and Rana Daggubati will attend, further bridging the gap between entertainment and entrepreneurship.

Sector-focused pavilions will showcase advancements in artificial intelligence, deep technology, cybersecurity, health technology, biotechnology, agritech, climate technology, fintech, direct-to-consumer businesses, business-to-business models, gaming, sports, mobility, defense, space technology, and more. These pavilions will feature live demonstrations, masterclasses, panel discussions, fireside chats, and investor pitching sessions, creating an immersive experience for attendees.

Startups to watch out for include key players in D2C, mobility, health, and biotech. Notable names in mobility include Ather, Ultraviolet, River, Rapido, and Battery Smart. Health and biotech startups such as UR Advanced Therapeutics, Shira Medtech, Brain Sight AI, and Niramai will also be featured. The D2C segment will spotlight brands like Appliance.AI, Go Desi, Assembly, Indus Valley, and Snitch.

A key announcement at the event includes the much-anticipated product launches of a D2C brand and a flying taxi, underscoring the spirit of innovation at Startup Mahakumbh. A highlight session, “Rivals in Business, Allies in Disruption: A Faceoff with SNITCH & The Souled Store,” will feature a fireside chat between two competitor brands, adding a dynamic competitive edge to the discussions.

Curated by an organizing committee led by FICCI and supported by ASSOCHAM, NASSCOM, TiE, IVCA, and Bootstrap Foundation, with strong backing from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Startup Mahakumbh 2025 is positioned as a key event driving India’s innovation landscape. For startups, investors, and industry leaders, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect, collaborate, and contribute to India’s entrepreneurial growth.

Scheduled for April 3–5, 2025, at Bharat

Supply Chain

Collaboration with Walmart uses AI-powered intelligence to help strengthen agri-food retail supply chains and manage ultra-perishable crops

Cropin, the world’s leading AI platform for food and agriculture, has joined forces with Walmart, one of the largest global retailers, to enhance scalable sourcing solutions across its U.S. and South American markets. Through this collaboration, Cropin’s advanced agri-intelligence platform is positioned to help optimize Walmart’s fresh produce supply chain by improving yield forecasting, monitoring crop health, and predicting seasonal transitions with greater accuracy. This collaboration aims to mitigate risks related to weather, market volatility, and supply chain disruptions. It helps ensure a steady supply of high-quality, perishable commodities, enhancing product availability, reducing waste, and delivering better quality produce to customers.

In an increasingly climate-impacted world, agri-food stakeholders are grappling with extreme weather events, supply chain disruptions, and the ripple effects of macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges. To navigate these uncertainties, industry leaders must adopt innovative, future-ready solutions. Walmart, a pioneer in tech-driven transformation, continues to set new benchmarks in the food retail sector by embracing cutting-edge technologies. In a first-of-its-kind deployment, Cropin is rolling out advanced, custom-built AI-powered solutions to help transform Walmart’s sourcing strategies, enhance supply chain resilience, and optimize operational efficiency in the food retail sector.

In the era of AI-powered neural networks, Cropin is transforming how retailers and CPG companies around the world source, assess, and secure their supply chains with proactive intelligence. By leveraging crop readiness insights, quality forecasts, and risk assessments, Cropin enables a shift from guesswork to precision, helping businesses balance cost, quality, and sustainability in a dynamic market. The platform ensures a steady supply of high-quality produce with maximized shelf life at optimized rates. Its automated tools provide granular, localized insights into crop health, pest outbreaks, and extreme weather risks, making supply chains more climate resilient. Additionally, Cropin can help predict the future of crop yields and supply stability, allowing businesses to manage pricing strategies without compromising quality. Its sustainability impact dashboard further strengthens compliance by tracking greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, water usage, and deforestation impact, offering digital validation for regulations like EUDR.

“Tech innovation is what drives real-world solutions to move forward a globally resilient supply chain.” said Kyle Carlyle, Vice President of Sourcing Innovation and Surety of Supply, Walmart, “By collaborating with Cropin, it enables Walmart to further streamline sourcing practices and better predict yields using their real-time Gen-AI technology. We are always looking for new ways to innovate and Cropin demonstrates our bold innovation goals in the agriculture space.”

Krishna Kumar, Founder and CEO of Cropin said, “I’m delighted to start 2025 on such a high note with this significant milestone in our journey. Collaborating with Walmart is both an honor and an invaluable learning for us at Cropin. We are deeply excited about delivering on our commitments to help shape a new era of agri-food sourcing. As a champion and role model in the retail sector, Walmart has consistently set the bar by evolving best practices, not just for the company but for the sector as a whole. In my 14 years of driving tech and AI-enabled transformations in the agri-food industry, the last few years have been particularly promising, as stakeholders in the agri-food space recognize that technology in upstream agriculture is no longer a luxury, but a necessity to future-proof business models. Our collaboration with Walmart reflects this ongoing shift, and we look forward to exceeding their expectations, strengthening our position as a trusted enabler of future growth.”

Collaboration with Walmart uses AI-powered intelligence to

Agrotech, Drones, E-commerce, R&D

India’s drone market is projected to reach Rs 60 billion by 2030. Garuda Aerospace commits 100 Cr investment For Drone City

Garuda Aerospace CEO Agnishwar Jayaprakash met the Chief Minister Shri Chandrababu Naidu to accelerate the development of the Andhra Pradesh Drone City in Kurnool. Garuda Aerospace reaffirmed its Rs 100 crore investment, focusing on strategic land allocation near ports and airports to attract global aerospace companies and boost exports. The state government’s support will be crucial in streamlining approvals, building robust infrastructure, and providing essential amenities. This initiative aims to establish Andhra Pradesh as a leading global drone innovation hub.

The Andhra Pradesh Drone City is poised to become a world-class center for drone technology, with the potential to generate approximately 20,000 jobs while training 25,000 drone pilots. This initiative will contribute to the development of a highly skilled workforce, essential for the future of the aerospace sector. India’s commercial and consumer drone market is projected to grow 2.5 times, reaching Rs 60 billion by 2030. The Drone City will establish a comprehensive ecosystem encompassing drone manufacturing, a research and development center, a drone pilot training academy, maintenance and repair facilities, and an incubation hub for UAV startups. The Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Rama Mohan Naidu Ji, also discussed the ‘Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra’ and its significance in national development, along with the company’s ongoing contributions to the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ initiative, which empowers rural women through drone technology.

The project is expected to foster the establishment of over 500 drone-related companies and attract foreign investments worth approximately $ 5 billion. The potential economic impact includes significant export revenues, with India’s drone industry poised for expansion into more than 15 international markets by 2030. The demand for drones is rapidly increasing across industries, including agriculture—where India has 350 million acres of farmland—and industrial applications such as solar panel cleaning, thermal inspections, and large-scale mapping. Notably, over 3.3 lakh villages still require mapping under the Svamitva scheme.

Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, stated, “The Andhra Pradesh Drone City is more than just an infrastructure project; it is a catalyst for innovation, job creation, and technological leadership. By fostering a dynamic ecosystem for drone research, manufacturing, and training, we aim to position India as a global powerhouse in drone technology. This initiative will not only accelerate economic growth but also empower entrepreneurs, attract global investments, and shape the future of the industry on a massive scale.”

With India’s drone market projected to reach Rs 60 billion by 2030, the development of the Andhra Pradesh Drone City will not only accelerate Garuda Aerospace’s growth but also drive significant economic expansion and job creation at both state and national levels. Garuda Aerospace and the Andhra Pradesh government remain committed to collaborating on this groundbreaking initiative, reinforcing India’s position as a leader in drone technology and innovation. Garuda Aerospace’s revenue surged 2.3X to Rs 110 crore in FY24, while net profit jumped 2.7X to Rs 16 crore despite a 128 per cent rise in expenses. The company earned Rs 68 crore from surveillance services and Rs 42 crore from drone sales. Backed by $31 million in funding, CEO Agnishwar Jayaprakash holds a 77 per cent stake.

India's drone market is projected to reach