AIC T-Hub Foundation Launches Business Incubation Management & Leadership (BIML) Program To Strengthen India’s Startup Ecosystem

* New Initiative to Empower Incubation Managers and Drive Startup Growth Across India

* Program Engages 15 Institutions to Strengthen India’s Startup Incubation Network

T-Hub, India’s leading startup incubator has today announced the launch of the Business Incubation Management & Leadership (BIML) program under the AIC T-Hub Foundation. This first-of-its-kind initiative aims to transform India’s incubation landscape by equipping managers with the expertise and skills needed to build and scale world-class incubation centers. The program is designed to empower incubators with hands-on training, strategic knowledge, and industry connections, enabling them to foster innovation and drive entrepreneurship across the country.

The BIML program provides incubation leaders and managers with in-depth insights into managing startup-focused processes, stakeholder relationships, and navigating critical frameworks like national policies, financial strategies, and legal compliance. Incubators will receive a certification upon completion, bolstering their credibility as professional incubation leaders and managers. Through collaborations with academic institutions and industry leaders, the program leverages T-Hub’s extensive network of mentors, corporates, and policymakers to offer unmatched learning opportunities.

AIC T-Hub is creating incubation for edutech, academia, sports, technology and management incubators across the nation as part of this program . With participation from 15 academic institutions -  CVR College of Engineering, Hyderabad; Sphoorthy Engineering College, Hyderabad; Bhargava Ram, Sports Incubator; SRI SAIRAM TECHNO INCUBATOR FOUNDATION, Chennai, Tamil Nadu; National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati; Sunil Subrahmanyam Yadavalli, Head of Business Strategy, Information Data Systems; Vignana Bharathi Institute of Technology, Hyderabad; ACE Engineering College, Hyderabad; Kommuri Pratap Reddy Institute of Technology, Ghatkesar, Telangana; Samskruti College of Engineering & Technology, Hyderabad; Sree Dattha Group of Institutions, Ibrahimpatnam, Telangana; Aditya Institute of Technology and Management, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh; Stanley College of Engineering and Technology for Women, Hyderabad; Vasavi College of Engineering, Hyderabad; VNR Vignana Jyothi Institute of Engineering and Technology, Hyderabad across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, and Tamil Nadu, the program is making strides toward building a cohesive and robust incubation framework across the nation.

Speaking about the initiative, Rajesh Adla, CEO of AIC T-Hub Foundation, said, “Our mission at AIC T-Hub is to cultivate a strong and dynamic incubation ecosystem in India. The BIML program is a significant step in empowering managers with the critical skills required to drive innovation and entrepreneurship. We believe this initiative will play a pivotal role in advancing India’s startup ecosystem and supporting the next wave of entrepreneurial growth.”

Sujith Jagirdar, Interim CEO of T-Hub, added, “India’s startup ecosystem has immense potential to lead globally, and initiatives like BIML are essential to unlocking that potential. By providing training, strategic industry linkages, and access to valuable networks, the program ensures that incubation centres across India are equipped to nurture innovative ideas and enable startups to succeed.”

About T-Hub

T-Hub (Technology Hub) is an innovation hub and ecosystem enabler. Based out of Hyderabad, India, T-Hub leads India’s pioneering innovation ecosystem and is the world’s largest innovation campus. Over the nine years, T-Hub has pivoted around the 6Ms (Mentors, Market, Motivation, Manpower, Money, Methodologies) and 2Ps (Partnerships & Policy advisory) framework with a mission of driving results and collaboration for entrepreneurs’ success. It has delivered 100+ innovation programs so far, creating an impact for start-ups, corporations, and other innovation ecosystem stakeholders.  Since inception, it has provided over 2000 national and international start-ups with access to better technology, talent, mentors, customers, corporates, investors, and government agencies.

About AIC T-Hub

AIC T-Hub is a leading innovation and incubation hub that empowers startups across various sectors, including semiconductors. With its robust infrastructure, mentorship programs, and strategic industry partnerships, AIC T-Hub is committed to driving India’s growth as a global leader in technological innovation and entrepreneurship.

FADA Releases CY'24 & Dec'24 Vehicle Retail Data For The State Of Karnataka

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) released Vehicle Retail Data for CY'24 & Dec'24 for the State of Karnataka.

CY'24 & Dec'24 Retails

Commenting on how CY'24 & Dec'24 performed, FADA Karnataka State Chairperson, Mr Dharma Teja G said, “While the overall Calendar year 2024 showed decent growth across segments, the month of Dec 2024 was a dampener for the Auto industry in Karnataka. Dealer are facing continued pressure from slower demand post Diwali and mounting pressure of Inventory. With the cost of products increasing, and the macroeconomic indicators slowing down, dealers are sceptical of high growth numbers. Dealers are expecting OEM’s to take a note of existing inventory and take corrective measures in line with the demand.”

Honda Presents World Premiere Of "Honda 0 Saloon" And "Honda 0 SUV" Prototypes At CES 2025

* ASIMO OS, a Honda Original Vehicle OS, announced for the Honda 0 Series

* Link for High-Res photos: https://we.tl/t-qkVM83uNAS

* Honda presented the world premiere of two prototype Honda 0 Series models, Honda 0 Saloon and Honda 0 SUV.

* Honda introduced its original vehicle operating system (OS), the ASIMO OS, which will be installed to Honda 0 Series models.

* Honda will rapidly expand global application of its Level 3 automated driving (eyes-off function) through the Honda 0 Series, striving to become the world’s first automaker to enable eyes-off driving in all driving situations to open up new possibilities for mobility.

* Honda and Renesas Electronics Corporation announced that they have signed an agreement to develop a high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) for the next-generation Honda 0 Series models Honda will launch in the late 2020s.

* Honda will accelerate its initiatives in the area of energy service, including offering new energy service through the Home Energy Management System.

Honda today presented the world premiere of two prototype models at CES 2025, "Honda 0 Saloon" and "Honda 0 SUV", representing two Honda 0 Series models that will be introduced to global markets starting in 2026. Honda also introduced its original vehicle operating system (OS), the ASIMO OS, for Honda 0 Series models.

Honda 0 Saloon

By further advancing the concept model introduced last year at CES 2024, the Honda 0 Saloon prototype was developed in preparation for a market launch scheduled in 2026. While maintaining the exact styling design of the concept model, the prototype model features both a low height, sporty styling that sets the Saloon apart from other EVs at first glance and an interior space that is more spacious than people can imagine based on the exterior dimensions.

The Honda 0 Saloon, the flagship model of the Honda 0 Series, will be based on the newly-developed dedicated EV architecture and will feature a number of next-generation technologies that will embody the “Thin, Light and Wise” development approach of the Honda 0 Series.

At CES 2025, Honda is focusing on introducing certain technologies and features that contribute to the “Wise” value of the Honda 0 Saloon. This includes the highly reliable automated driving technologies backed by the Level 3 automated driving technology, which Honda put into practical use for the first time in the world, as well as “ultra-personal optimization” that will offer a mobility experience customized for each individual user, which will become possible with the ASIMO OS. 

The production model of the Honda 0 Saloon is scheduled to be introduced first in the North American market in 2026, then in global markets, including Japan and Europe. 

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Announces The 18th Edition Of The “Toyota Dream Car Art Contest”

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM)is delighted to present the 18th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest (TDCAC), an annual contest that invites young artists to unleash their creativity and reimagine the future of mobility on a unique and inspiring platform.  The contest that invites children to reimagine the future of mobility by drawing their dream cars is open to children across India from January 6 to January 31, 2025,

About the Contest

The TDCAC is structured as both a National Contest and a Global Contest:

The National Contest identifies the top nine winners across three categories:

Category 1: 7 years old or under

Category 2: 8–11 years old

Category 3: 12–15 years old

The top nine artworks will advance to the Global Contest which will be held after April 2025.

Participants are invited to create artworks under the theme “Your Dream Car,” which encourages innovative thinking and unrestricted creativity. The top 9 winners, comprising 3 from each category, will be awarded framed certificates and digital gift vouchers, along with the honour of representing India at the Global Contest. In addition, 18 finalists will receive digital certificates and gift vouchers in recognition of their creative contributions.

Mr. Varinder Kumar Wadhwa, Vice President, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we take pride in nurturing young talent and fostering creativity among children. The Toyota Dream Car Art Contest is more than an art competition—it’s a platform that empowers young minds to dream big and envision a future fueled by innovation. Over the years, we’ve been inspired by the extraordinary creativity and perspectives of these young artists, who beautifully reimagine the future through their artwork. This global contest celebrates their imagination and supports their journey toward turning aspirations into reality. As we unveil the 18th edition, we look forward to engaging with children across India and bringing their incredible talent to the global stage."

The competition has gained tremendous participation over the years, with the 16th and 17th editions witnessing notable global accolades for Indian participants. In 2024, during the 17th edition of TDCAC, Ms. Peruri Lakshmi Sahasra from Visakhapatnam earned the prestigious Best Finalist Award at the Global Contest, cementing India’s place in this international celebration of creativity. Her remarkable talent earned her a cash prize intended to be used for educational purposes in recognition of her exceptional achievement in the 12–15 age category. This remarkable participation reflects Toyota's unwavering dedication to nurturing a space where children can dream without limits, inspiring boundless imagination and the exploration of innovative ideas.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor is delighted to invite young artists from across India to unleash their creativity in the 18th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest. For contest details, including rules, submission guidelines, and its inspiring legacy, visit https://www.toyotabharat.com/dream-car-contest/.

About the Global Toyota Dream Car Art Contest

The Toyota Dream Car Art Contest is a global initiative open to children aged 15 and under. Launched in 2004, this contest provides young minds across the world with a platform to explore their creativity, develop an interest in automobiles, and embrace the joy and significance of dreaming big. National contests are held in participating countries, with winning entries advancing to Japan for evaluation in the prestigious World Contest.

The TDCAC is more than an art competition; it is Toyota’s way of engaging with the future generation, fostering creativity, and inspiring children to dream big. TKM invites all young minds across the country to join this celebration of imagination and innovation.

Let’s drive the future together, one dream at a time!

Rainbow Children’s Heart Institute Performs World’s First Fetal Aortic Valvuloplasty With Device Closure On 27-Week Fetus

In a ground-breaking medical achievement, a multidisciplinary team of doctors at Rainbow Children’s Heart Institute, an exclusive pediatric heart centre has successfully performed a fetal balloon aortic valvuloplasty on a 27-week-old fetus, a life-saving intervention on a fetus diagnosed with critical aortic stenosis. What makes this feat unprecedented is that the puncture site was closed using a device, a pioneering approach that is believed to be the first of its kind globally. The procedure was led by Dr. Koneti Nageswara Rao, Chief Pediatric Cardiologist, Dr. Shweta Bakhru, Pediatric Cardiologist, and Dr. Sri Phani Bhargavi Dhulipudi, Pediatric Cardiologist alongside a multidisciplinary team comprising fetal medicine specialists, pediatric cardiologists, interventional cardiologists, and obstetricians, supported by state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure at Rainbow Children’s Heart Institute.

The procedure was carried out with the utmost precision on the fetus after advanced imaging revealed severe narrowing of the aortic valve, posing a threat to the baby’s heart function and overall survival. The innovative use of a device to seal the puncture site following the intervention sets a new benchmark in fetal cardiac care.

Fetal aortic valve stenosis may lead to fetal death or hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Fetal balloon aortic valvuloplasty is commonly performed with a success rate of around 70%. Generally, a smaller needle and a medium-sized balloon are used during the procedure. But as the baby developed complications leading to blood leak from the heart, we opted for a bigger needle and bigger balloon. The needle was inserted through the mother’s abdomen and uterus into the fetus’s heart under ultrasound guidance. A balloon catheter was then advanced through the aortic valve to relieve the obstruction and restore blood flow. For the first time, the team employed a closure device to seal the puncture site, ensuring the safety of the fetus during and after the procedure.

The procedure was a resounding success, with the fetus showing significant improvement in cardiac function. After a healthy delivery, the baby was closely monitored and recently discharged in good health, marking a milestone in fetal cardiology and interventional medicine. This pioneering procedure opens new horizons in fetal interventions, offering hope to families worldwide dealing with severe fetal cardiac conditions. It showcases the potential for advanced interventional techniques to improve outcomes for conditions previously considered untreatable in utero. Rainbow Children’s Heart Institute is proud to lead this world-first and remains committed to advancing medical science for the benefit of patients globally.

On this success, Dr. Koneti Nageswara Rao, Chief Pediatric Cardiologist, Rainbow Children’s Heart Institute, stated, “This achievement is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of fetal therapy. The successful use of a closure device in such a delicate and high-risk scenario demonstrates the power of innovation and teamwork in saving lives even before birth.”

Dr. Ramesh Kancharla, Chairman and Managing Director of Rainbow Children’s Hospital, praised the team at Rainbow Children’s Heart Institute for accomplishing a landmark pediatric cardiac procedure. He commended their dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence, expressing his firm belief that innovative approaches like these will drive significant advancements in pediatric care in the future.

Okaya EV Rebrands As OPG Mobility, Unveiling A Bold New Visual Identity For Its Expanding Electric Vehicle Portfolio

* Announces Striking New Logo and Brand Aesthetics for its 2-Wheeler and 3-Wheeler portfolios, signalling a revolutionary leap towards the future of electric mobility.

·    New product launch at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 to debut OPG Mobility branding, followed

by other products in a phased manner in 2025

·    New visual identity to be rolled out across 100+ new cities by 2025

·    New visual identity will communicate its personality and value proposition for new-age customers

In a strategic move to meet the growing demands of India’s electric mobility market, Okaya EV proudly unveils its new brand identity, OPG Mobility. This rebranding reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to cutting-edge design, future-ready technology, and durable, safe products that address the evolving needs of India’s dynamic consumer base. To cater to the increasing demand, OPG Mobility will also leverage a wide dealer network across the country. The brand will encompass two sub-brands: Ferrato, dedicated to premium electric motorcycles and scooters, and OTTOPG, focused on passenger and cargo three-wheelers.

At the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, OPG Mobility will launch its first product under the new branding and showcase its improved full range of electric vehicles. This includes existing models with enhanced product efficiency, now featuring the OPG Mobility logo. The company’s 40-year strong legacy in battery and electronics technology has positioned it as a key player in India’s electric mobility sector, offering a diverse portfolio of high-speed and low-speed electric scooters, premium electric bike, and passenger and cargo three-wheelers.

Commenting on this exciting development, Mr. Anshul Gupta, Managing Director of OPG Mobility, said:

"After years of leadership in the battery and electronics sector, we are excited to evolve from Okaya EV into OPG Mobility, a holistic provider of complete electric vehicle solutions. This rebranding isn’t just about a new name, it’s a strategic move to stay ahead in India’s rapidly evolving EV market. We understand the need to connect with today’s Indian consumers, and this new identity reflects our commitment to modern design, advanced technology, and a customer-first approach. Our new logo embodies our renewed energy and our desire to engage with a younger, tech-savvy audience."

Mr. Anshul further added, “The Bharat Mobility 2025 Expo is the perfect platform to unveil this new vision. We will launch our first product under the OPG Mobility brand and implement this visual transformation across our entire portfolio. This change will be reflected in every customer touchpoint, both virtual and physical, ensuring a consistent and engaging brand experience.”

With its refreshed identity, OPG Mobility aligns with the Indian government's Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, focusing on developing a new generation of made-in-India electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers. The company is committed to providing high-quality products at the right price, catering to the mass market while focussing in expanding its service and dealership network across India. By 2025, OPG Mobility plans to ensure premium service access for every customer, from major all cities to tier-3 and tier-4 locations.

Visual Identity Elements and the New Logo

OPG Mobility's transformation is marked by a bold visual overhaul that redefines its identity. The new logo and color palette feature black and green, two powerful hues that embody the brand’s core values. Black, representing trust and sophistication, anchors the brand's commitment to reliability and innovation. Green, symbolizing sustainability, reflects OPG Mobility’s dedication to eco-friendly solutions and a greener future. Together, these colors create a harmonious and dynamic logo that communicates OPG Mobility's vision of combining cutting-edge technology with environmental responsibility.

Ferrato

OPG Mobility's premium two-wheeler division will now operate under the "Ferrato" brand. This rebranding encompasses all existing scooter models, including the high-speed Faast F4, F3, F2T, F2F, and F2B, as well as the low-speed Freedum LI. The "Disruptor" sports bike will also be part of the Ferrato line-up, completing the portfolio under the new OPG Mobility branding.

OTTOPG

OPG Mobility's three-wheeler division, OTTOPG, will offer a wide range of passenger and cargo electric vehicles, catering to diverse customer requirements across the country.

About OPG Mobility

OPG Future Mobility Pvt. Ltd (formerly known as Okaya EV Pvt. Ltd.) offers a comprehensive range of sustainable mobility solutions, including high-speed and low-speed electric scooters, premium electric sports bike, and three-wheelers for passenger and cargo use. The company also provides EV charging stations, Energy Storage, and advanced battery solutions, ensuring reliability and long-lasting performance. Backed by over 40 years of expertise, OPG Mobility is fully equipped to delivering innovative, durable, and affordable mobility solutions that align with India’s vision of a greener and more sustainable future.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Launches 3rd Edition Of ‘Sehat Ka Safar’ – Nationwide Health Check-Up Camps For Commercial Vehicle Drivers

* 45 Health Camps Across India to Enhance Drivers’ Health and Wellbeing

Kotak Mahindra Bank (“KMBL” / “Kotak”) proudly announces the launch of the third edition of its impactful CSR initiative, ‘Sehat Ka Safar,’ dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of India’s commercial vehicle drivers. This year, the initiative will expand its reach to 45 strategic locations from 30 locations in the previous edition, potentially benefitting approximately 4,000 truck drivers with free health check-up camps.

Under this initiative, Kotak will sponsor health camps providing:

• General OPD Services: Basic health consultations to identify and address common health concerns

• Eye OPD Screenings: Vision checks and eye health assessments for early detection of issues

• Dental Screenings: Oral health checks, including screenings for early signs of oral cancer

• Medication Provision: Free essential medicines to address immediate health needs

• Referrals for Treatment: Guidance and referrals for further treatment in collaboration with local healthcare facilities

• Preventive Health Counseling: Advice on maintaining daily health practices and preventive measures

• Guidance on Government Welfare Schemes: Information on relevant government programs beneficial to drivers and their families

These camps, held across high-density transport hubs in key cities such as Duliajan, Durgapur, Patna, Delhi, Coimbatore, Bhopal, and more, reinforce Kotak’s commitment to enhancing the lives of drivers who play a crucial role in the nation’s economy.

In addition to health check-ups, counsellors at the camps will educate drivers on daily health practices and guide them on utilizing various government welfare schemes tailored to their needs. Each camp will be staffed by doctors and nursing staff from Doctors For You.

Amit Mohan, President – Logistics & Infrastructure at Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, ‘Commercial Vehicle drivers put in long hours to keep our economy moving, often without the time to focus on their own health. Through ‘Sehat Ka Safar,’ we’re giving back by providing them with the care and support they deserve. As we expand the initiative to 45 locations this year, we hope even more drivers will benefit, empowering them to lead healthier, safer lives.’

Launched in 2023, ‘Sehat Ka Safar’ has organized 60 medical camps over the past two years, positively impacting the lives of 6,000 drivers.

About Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited

Established in 1985, Kotak Mahindra Group is one of India's leading financial services conglomerates. In February 2003, Kotak Mahindra Finance Ltd. (KMFL), the Group's flagship company, received banking license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), becoming the first non-banking finance company in India to convert into a bank - Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited.

The Bank has four Strategic Business Units – Consumer Banking, Corporate Banking, Commercial Banking, and Treasury, which cater to retail and corporate customers across urban and rural India. The premise of Kotak Mahindra Group’s business model is concentrated India, diversified financial services. The bold vision that underscores the Group’s growth is an inclusive one, with a host of products and services designed to address the needs of the unbanked and insufficiently banked. As on 30th September 2024, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has a national footprint of 2,013 branches and 3,329 ATMs (incl. cash recyclers), and branches in GIFT City and DIFC (Dubai).For more information, visit the company’s website at https://www.kotak.com/