At a recent press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the update, adding that India is also committed to advancing its own AI capabilities. “The French President has invited Prime Minister Modi, and India has accepted the invitation. We will share further details about the summit soon,” Jaiswal said. He emphasized that India is developing a robust AI program in parallel, aiming to establish itself as a key player in the field of AI technology.

The AI Action Summit in France will bring together a diverse array of experts, from government officials and tech CEOs to academics and artists, providing a platform for cross-sector collaboration on the future of AI. The event will focus on action-oriented discussions around shaping the global landscape of artificial intelligence and its societal implications.

In addition to engaging on the international stage, India has been making significant strides in strengthening its own AI infrastructure. Jaiswal noted that India is in discussions with various partners to further develop its AI program, including collaborations in the technology sector. His remarks also highlighted that the Indian government is preparing to host open-source AI models like DeepSeek on Indian servers.

This move comes after Chinese startup DeepSeek, known for its open-source reasoning model R1, made waves by challenging the notion that large amounts of GPU hardware are needed to build advanced AI models. In response to this, India is setting up a portal where startups and researchers can access GPUs at more affordable rates, significantly enhancing the country’s capacity to develop AI models and solutions.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also confirmed that India would soon begin hosting these open-source models on Indian servers. He said the government has already worked out the necessary infrastructure, including server capacity, to support the initiative. This aligns with India’s broader goal to position itself as a leader in AI research and development.

As the global AI landscape continues to evolve, India’s participation in the AI Action Summit and its ongoing investment in AI technology signal the country’s growing role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. The collaboration with international partners, along with the strengthening of domestic AI capabilities, reflects India’s commitment to technological innovation and its ambition to contribute meaningfully to the global AI conversation.

The post PM Modi to Attend AI Action Summit in France, India Advances Its Own AI Program appeared first on FolksTimes.

Minister Chaudhary, fresh from his participation at the World Economic Forum (WEF 2025) in Davos, shared his insights into India’s rising global recognition for its skilled workforce. “India’s talent pool is gaining immense global recognition, and our emergence as a global skill capital is a testament to our commitment to excellence,” Chaudhary remarked, underscoring the importance of skilling initiatives in empowering youth and boosting entrepreneurship. He also acknowledged the increasing importance of sustainability, artificial intelligence, and women-led development, which were central topics at the WEF discussions.

Chaudhary highlighted India’s position as the world’s largest start-up ecosystem, with 118 unicorns valued at USD 354 billion, driven by visionary policies and the resilience of entrepreneurs. The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, comprising 63 million enterprises and contributing 30 percent to the GDP, was also a focus of the minister’s address, emphasizing its role in the nation’s economic success.

One of the event’s standout moments was the recognition of Ritendra Prasad, an entrepreneur from Jharkhand. Prasad, who transitioned from an engineering background to founding his own solar energy business, was celebrated for his journey of perseverance and innovation. The event also saw the acknowledgment of 16 trailblazing entrepreneurs from India’s Northeast, including nine women, who overcame significant challenges to achieve success in their respective fields.

Namita M. Marak from Assam and Mandira Baglary from Udalguri district were among the women entrepreneurs celebrated for their resilience and contributions to their communities. Their stories highlighted the transformative power of skill development and entrepreneurship, particularly in rural and underserved areas, as they continue to inspire others to pursue similar paths of self-reliance and empowerment.

The Minister also emphasized the enduring relevance of the Indian Constitution, which serves as the foundation for India’s democracy, ensuring equality, justice, and opportunity for all citizens. This celebration of India’s skilled workforce and entrepreneurs was a proud moment for the nation, showcasing the success of government initiatives and the promising future ahead—driven by inclusive growth, innovation, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit.

The event was attended by top officials from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), including Joint Secretary Hena Usman, and was followed by a visit to the Prime Minister’s Museum, providing the entrepreneurs with an enriching experience to reflect on the nation’s democratic and developmental journey.

The post Celebrating India’s Skilled Workforce: Minister Jayant Chaudhary Honors 100 Entrepreneurs for Their Role in Nation-Building appeared first on FolksTimes.

The ceremony will honour winners from nations including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Turkiye, Jordan, Oman, Tunisia, Iran, Lebanon, and Algeria. Tickets for the event are available through the official website at www.StevieAwards.com.

Stevie Awards President Maggie Miller praised the quality of nominations this year, saying, “The quality of nominations received this year was exceptional. The programme has grown every year, showing the vast amount of innovation in the MENA region.”

This year’s competition saw over 1,100 nominations submitted in both Arabic and English. A panel of 118 judges from around the world evaluated the entries, selecting winners based on their contributions to various categories, including innovation in apps, customer service, sustainability, technology, public relations, human resources, and more.

Among the distinguished winners are notable organizations such as Abu Dhabi Customs, the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority, Saudi Arabia’s Insan Charitable Society for the Care of Orphans and Their Mothers, and DHL Express. Other awardees include Ebebek Magazacilik A.S from Turkiye, ZIRA Arabia and The Fashion Commission from Saudi Arabia, and Mobile Communications Company of Iran (MCI).

The Stevie Awards celebrate achievements across a range of sectors, with categories recognizing innovation, management, leadership, and excellence in services and technologies. This prestigious event highlights the continued growth and development within the MENA region, showcasing the region’s rising influence on the global stage.

The post Ras Al Khaimah to Host Prestigious Stevie Awards Ceremony Celebrating MENA Excellence appeared first on FolksTimes.

Establishing New Medical Colleges and ITIs

Among the key announcements, CM Yogi revealed plans to establish three new medical colleges in Hathras, Kasganj, and Baghpat, improving access to quality healthcare education in these regions. Furthermore, he emphasized the expansion of the state’s vocational training infrastructure, with the approval for the establishment of 62 new Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). These institutes will play a crucial role in equipping the youth with the skills necessary for employment in various industries.

In addition, five new centres for innovation, invention, and training will be set up across Uttar Pradesh, fostering creativity and technological advancements in the state.

Policy Renewals and Investment Initiatives

The state cabinet also approved the renewal of Uttar Pradesh’s Aerospace and Defence and Employment policies, which have been in place for five years. CM Yogi announced that the state would offer new incentives to attract further investment in these sectors, thereby strengthening the state’s position as an economic hub in India.

Municipal Bonds for Key Cities

In a bid to enhance the development of important urban areas, the UP government will issue municipal corporation bonds for Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Agra. This move follows the successful issuance of bonds for Lucknow and Ghaziabad, which yielded positive results. CM Yogi expressed that these bonds would serve as a vital tool for branding and boosting the development of these cities, in line with the government’s new vision for urban growth.

Prayagraj-Chitrakoot Development Region

A major highlight of the meeting was the announcement of the creation of the Prayagraj-Chitrakoot Development Region. Inspired by the success of the Lucknow State Capital Region, the new region will aim to foster integrated growth and sustainable development for the areas surrounding Prayagraj and Chitrakoot. CM Yogi stated that this initiative aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will help improve the region’s infrastructure, economy, and overall living standards.

Additionally, plans are underway to develop a similar region in Varanasi in collaboration with the Niti Aayog, further enhancing the state’s development agenda.

Ganga Expressway Expansion

In another key infrastructure development, CM Yogi highlighted the expansion of the Ganga Expressway, which will connect Prayagraj to key locations such as Mirzapur, Bhadohi, Kashi, and Chandauli. The expressway will also link to the Purvanchal Expressway in Ghazipur, ensuring seamless connectivity across several important districts. This initiative is expected to boost trade, tourism, and economic growth in the region.

Opposition’s Criticism

While the cabinet meeting was hailed by many, it faced criticism from the opposition, particularly Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav. Yadav condemned the decision to hold the meeting at the Maha Kumbh, calling it politically motivated. He argued that Kumbh and Prayagraj should remain free from political agendas, and that the cabinet meeting was an attempt to gain political mileage.

In response, CM Yogi defended the decision, stating that the meeting was an opportunity to carry out crucial state business in line with the spirit of development and progress, while also acknowledging the cultural and spiritual significance of the location.

As Uttar Pradesh moves forward with these ambitious development projects, the state is poised to see transformative changes in infrastructure, healthcare, and employment opportunities, further solidifying its place as a key player in India’s economic future.

The post Yogi Adityanath Unveils Major Development Plans at Maha Kumbh Cabinet Meeting appeared first on FolksTimes.

From electric vehicles to cutting-edge components and futuristic mobility solutions, the expo has brought together global giants and Indian innovators to demonstrate their contributions to the evolving transportation landscape.

Highlights of Key Product Launches

Among the major highlights of the event, VinFast Auto India introduced its much-anticipated all-electric premium SUVs, the VF 7 and VF 6, marking the brand’s entry into the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market. Meanwhile, BMW India launched the new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack at an ex-showroom price of Rs. 55,90,000 and the BMW X3 at Rs. 75,80,000 – Rs. 77,80,000. BMW Motorrad India also debuted two high-performance bikes: the S 1000 RR and R 1300 GS Adventure.

JSW MG Motor India showcased an array of advanced mobility solutions, including the MG Majestor, IM5 sedan, IM6 electric SUV, MG HS PHEV, and the MG7 Trophy Edition. These models highlight the company’s commitment to sustainable and cutting-edge technology in the automotive space.

Eka Mobility took the spotlight with India’s largest-ever range of electric commercial vehicles. The company unveiled over 11 distinct platforms, including electric buses, trucks, and small commercial vehicles (SCVs). Notable products included the EKA COACH, EKA 12M, and EKA 9M buses, as well as electric trucks like the EKA 55T and EKA 7T.

BYD India also impressed attendees with its launch of the BYD SEALION 7 Pure Performance eSUV, along with other exciting showcases like the BYD SEALION 6 and the Yangwang U8.

Revolutionary Commercial and Passenger Solutions

JBM Electric Vehicles made waves with the launch of four new electric buses, including the Galaxy electric luxury coach, Xpress intercity bus, e-MediLife Low Floor Electric Medical Mobile Unit, and e-SkyLife electric tarmac coach. These vehicles are a testament to JBM’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility.

The Hyundai Motor Company launched two concept models focused on advanced electric mobility solutions — an electric three-wheeler and a micro four-wheeler, designed to address the last-mile connectivity challenges in India.

Pinnacle Industries introduced its next-generation ambulance range, including cutting-edge models like the AD-Gen Ultra and Neonatal Ambulance, designed for critical care in remote areas.

In a breakthrough for solar-powered mobility, Vayve Mobility launched India’s first solar electric car, the ‘Eva,’ priced from Rs. 3.25 lakh to Rs. 5.99 lakh. This new solar-powered vehicle offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution to urban transportation.

A Glimpse into the Future of Urban Transport

The Cummins Group unveiled its next-generation HELM™ engine platform, which promises higher efficiency and lower emissions. The innovative B6.7N natural gas engine and hydrogen fuel delivery system highlight Cummins’ commitment to a cleaner future.

Godawari Electric Motors Pvt. Ltd. presented several new electric two-wheelers, including the Eblu Rozee ECO, priced at INR 2,95,999 (ex-showroom), while unveiling the EbluCare app, designed to improve the customer experience for managing electric vehicles.

In a futuristic leap, Sarla Aviation unveiled India’s first flying taxi, Shunya, adding a new dimension to urban mobility. The concept promises to revolutionize short-distance travel in urban centers.

Other standout launches included Motovolt Mobility, which showcased a range of electric vehicles, including India’s first digital pedal motorbike, the Hyper One, and the HUM NYC, a multi-utility e-bike for last-mile delivery.

Sustainability at the Core

The expo underscored the growing importance of sustainable and eco-friendly mobility solutions. Olectra Green Tech Limited introduced a 12-meter Blade Battery Platform and electric buses, while Omega Seiki Pvt. Ltd. launched the M1KA 1.0 electric truck and the upcoming M1KA 3.0 model.

The ICON Autocraft Private Limited also introduced advanced automotive solutions, including an innovative wheel alignment system for trucks and buses and cutting-edge Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for cars, enhancing both safety and efficiency on the road.

Conclusion

The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 continues to shine as a platform for innovation and progress in the mobility sector. With groundbreaking launches across electric vehicles, advanced technologies, and sustainable solutions, the event is a testament to the future of transportation in India and globally. Set against the backdrop of the prestigious Bharat Mandapam and other key venues, the expo offers an unparalleled view of what lies ahead in the evolving world of mobility.

Scheduled to run until January 22, the Bharat Mobility Global Expo promises even more exciting developments and reveals in the coming days, reaffirming India’s position as a global leader in the future of mobility.

The post Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025: A Spectacular Showcase of Innovation and Sustainability in the Mobility Sector appeared first on FolksTimes.

Empowering Startups with Funding and Support

The Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), administered by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) and backed by the Government of India, has played a vital role in mobilizing private capital, particularly in Tier II and Tier III cities. This focus on regional growth has allowed startups to scale their operations and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy.

In his address, Piyush Goyal highlighted how these funding mechanisms have fueled startup growth, empowering them to innovate and expand. He underscored the importance of private equity (PE) and venture capital (VC) in providing startups with the financial backing and global expertise necessary for success. According to Goyal, this collaboration not only accelerates innovation but also enables startups to compete on the international stage.

One of the standout initiatives of the government in this regard is the BHASKAR platform, designed to connect startups with mentorship, financial tools, and collaborative opportunities across the country. This ecosystem of support has helped Indian startups build resilience, overcome challenges, and stay competitive.

Startups as Agents of Change

Indian startups have emerged as powerful agents of change, addressing some of the nation’s most pressing issues, including sustainability, renewable energy, healthcare, and digital transformation. “Through their innovation and resilience, they are shaping a better future for all of us,” said Goyal, emphasizing the transformative impact of these young companies.

India’s startup ecosystem has shown tremendous growth, with a remarkable 76 Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in 2024 alone. As of January 15, 2025, the country boasts 1,59,157 startups—a massive leap from around 500 in 2016. This growth has resulted in the creation of 17.2 lakh direct jobs, demonstrating the profound economic contribution of startups.

India’s Startup Ecosystem: A Global Leader

India now ranks as the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, a testament to the success of initiatives like Startup India. With a growing number of startups, funding of Rs 13 trillion from the government, and increasing participation from private investors, India is becoming a global leader in innovation and technology-driven growth.

Piyush Goyal reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering an environment where startups can thrive. From technological sectors such as digitech and artificial intelligence to policy-driven initiatives, the government has positioned India as a leader in the global startup arena. “We are committed to providing support in terms of policies, infrastructure, and capital to ensure the continued growth of India’s startup ecosystem,” he said.

The Role of Women in India’s Startup Revolution

An important aspect of India’s startup journey has been the increasing participation of women in entrepreneurship. Goyal pointed out that 43% of STEM graduates in India are women, underlining their critical role in driving innovation and growth. He highlighted initiatives like the Women Entrepreneurship Platform, which empowers women-led startups, furthering India’s vision of inclusive growth.

Looking Ahead: A New Phase of Innovation

As India enters a crucial phase of development with strong macroeconomic fundamentals, Goyal emphasized the essential role startups will play in achieving the nation’s long-term goals. These companies will be at the forefront of realizing a self-reliant, inclusive, and globally competitive India in the coming decades.

The Startup Mahakumbh and the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge

The anniversary event also served as a curtain raiser for the second edition of the Startup Mahakumbh, scheduled for April 2025. This grand event will feature over 2,500 startups, further solidifying India’s role as a global hub for entrepreneurship. Additionally, the government launched the PRABHAAV Factbook, offering a comprehensive overview of India’s startup ecosystem and its evolution from 2016 to 2024.

Moreover, the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge was unveiled, aiming to address 75 challenges across diverse sectors such as renewable energy, blockchain, agritech, and smart manufacturing. This challenge will provide startups with opportunities for procurement, cash prizes, mentorship, funding, and networking, enabling them to further scale their impact and contribute to India’s growth story.

Conclusion

The ninth anniversary of the Startup India mission marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship. Through a combination of robust funding, supportive policies, and a collaborative ecosystem, the country’s startup sector has flourished. As the government continues to strengthen its commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth, India is well-positioned to maintain its upward trajectory in the years to come, driven by the ingenuity and resilience of its startups.

The post Celebrating Nine Years of Growth and Innovation: The Impact of Startup India Mission appeared first on FolksTimes.

The MoU was signed during the official visit of Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to Odisha, coinciding with the celebration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore. The initiative is poised to accelerate the development of Odisha’s digital economy, aligning with India’s vision of “Insurance for All” by 2047.

Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, expressed the state’s ambition to harness GFTN’s global expertise to drive tailored FinTech solutions. He emphasized that Odisha has already made strides in becoming a leader in India’s IT sector and now aims to expand its services sector through the promotion of innovation, startup ecosystems, and collaborations with academia and industry. These efforts are geared toward making Odisha a hub for FinTech advancements.

“Through this partnership with GFTN, Odisha will not only promote financial inclusion but will also push the boundaries of technological innovation in InsureTech,” said CM Majhi. “The creation of incubation centres and global collaborations will enable us to foster a thriving FinTech ecosystem.”

Sopnendu Mohanty, CEO Designate of GFTN, highlighted the alignment of the partnership with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, which focuses on financial inclusion and sustainable economic empowerment. By leveraging Odisha’s entrepreneurial potential and talent, the hub will become a catalyst for the state’s digital transformation.

The MoU further supports India’s broader goal of ensuring that every citizen is covered by life, health, and property insurance by 2047. Odisha, with its evolving regulatory framework, is taking proactive steps to mainstream technology and innovation to achieve financial inclusivity.

In a statement, Vishal Dev, Principal Secretary of Electronics & IT, Odisha, pointed out the state’s immense potential and its commitment to becoming one of India’s leading FinTech hubs. The government’s generous policy incentives, coupled with the state’s skilled workforce, make Odisha an ideal destination for FinTech innovation.

“Financial inclusivity is at the heart of Odisha’s developmental agenda,” said Saswata Mishra, Principal Secretary of Finance, Odisha. “A strong FinTech ecosystem will be instrumental in achieving this vision.”

The signing of the MoU was part of a broader series of engagements between Odisha and Singapore. In the presence of Singapore’s President, Odisha exchanged a total of eight MoUs with various Singaporean entities to strengthen collaboration in diverse sectors, including skill development, renewable energy, semiconductors, and data centers.

Earlier in the day, President Tharman visited the World Skill Center in Bhubaneswar, where he was welcomed by CM Majhi and received a detailed briefing on Odisha’s initiatives and opportunities for collaboration with Singapore. The President also toured the Vertical Transportation Lab and Travelator Lab, interacting with students and instructors, underscoring the growing partnership between the two regions.

With these agreements in place, Odisha is well on its way to becoming a central hub for FinTech innovation, contributing to India’s broader financial inclusion goals while fostering sustainable economic growth.

The post Odisha and Singapore Forge New FinTech Partnership with MoU to Create Global Competency Centre in Bhubaneswar appeared first on FolksTimes.

During his address at the event, Minister Goyal acknowledged the transformative role played by funding instruments such as the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) administered by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) and supported by the Government of India. These financial structures have been pivotal in supporting India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“We must attribute the success of the Startup India mission to the instrumental funding avenues such as FFS, which have been critical in fueling the growth of startups in India,” said Goyal, highlighting the immense progress the country has made in nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship.

The event celebrated the resilience of India’s entrepreneurs, emphasizing how their efforts have not only reshaped India’s innovation landscape but also elevated the country’s global standing. “Today, India is home to 1,59,157 startups, and we have witnessed an increase from around 500 startups in 2016,” Goyal said. “In 2024 alone, India saw 76 Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), and our startup ecosystem has generated over 17 lakh direct jobs,” he added.

Further acknowledging the collaborative spirit between private equity (PE) and venture capital (VC) firms, Goyal emphasized their crucial role in accelerating the journey of startups. Through this partnership, Indian startups have gained access to funding, global networks, and expertise, which have helped them scale and compete on the international stage.

Empowering Startups: A Vision for the Future

The Minister also underlined the significant economic and social impact of startups, stating that they are much more than just businesses. They are catalysts for change, addressing some of the most pressing challenges in areas such as sustainability, renewable energy, healthcare, and digital transformation.

“As India moves into the Amrit Kaal, the next 25 years will be a defining period. Startups will play a pivotal role in realizing the vision of a self-reliant, inclusive, and globally competitive India,” Goyal affirmed. “The government remains committed to providing necessary support, from policy initiatives and infrastructure to capital access, ensuring the success of our startups.”

A key highlight of Goyal’s speech was his recognition of women’s contributions to India’s growing startup ecosystem. He shared that 43% of STEM graduates in India are women, a testament to the role women are playing in driving India’s growth. He also emphasized the government’s efforts to support women-led startups through platforms such as the Women Entrepreneurship Platform.

Launch of PRABHAAV Factbook and Bharat Startup Challenge

At the event, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) launched the PRABHAAV Factbook. This comprehensive guide to India’s thriving startup ecosystem, titled Powering a Resilient and Agile Bharat for the Advancement of Visionary Startups, highlights the progress and achievements of India’s startup sector between 2016 and 2024. It sheds light on the regional contributions and showcases the growth trajectory of India’s entrepreneurial spirit.

The Bharat Startup Challenge was also unveiled, aiming to foster innovation by inviting solutions to 75 sectoral challenges. These challenges will span across diverse fields, including renewable energy, blockchain, agritech, semiconductors, and social commerce. With support from 20 industry leaders and innovators, the challenge will offer startups procurement opportunities, cash prizes, mentorship, funding, networking, and capacity-building avenues.

Key Figures and Future Prospects

Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, Jitin Prasada, and several key dignitaries including Amardeep Bhatia (Secretary, DPIIT), Arti Bhatnagar (Additional Secretary, DPIIT), and industry leaders such as Prashant Prakash (Founding Partner, Accel), Sanjeev Bikhchandani (Founder, Info Edge India), and others graced the occasion.

Looking ahead, the Minister shared that India’s growing startup ecosystem would continue to thrive through initiatives like the Bharat Startup Challenge, which will provide new avenues for innovation and business growth. Goyal also noted the significant role of the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh, where startups from across the nation will converge to share ideas, collaborate, and showcase their innovations.

Conclusion

As India celebrates the achievements of its startup ecosystem on the 9th Foundation Day of Startup India, Minister Piyush Goyal reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering an environment that encourages entrepreneurship, innovation, and growth. With increased access to funding, mentorship, and global networks, Indian startups are well-positioned to compete on the world stage and drive the nation toward a prosperous and self-reliant future.

The post Piyush Goyal Unveils PRABHAAV Factbook and Bharat Startup Challenge to Celebrate 9 Years of Startup India appeared first on FolksTimes.

The QS World Future Skills Index, produced by QS Quacquarelli Symonds, evaluates countries based on four key criteria: Skills Fit, Academic Readiness, Future of Work, and Economic Transformation. These indicators assess how well countries are positioned to meet the changing demands of the global workforce. India ranks 25th overall in the index, emerging as a “Future Skills Contender,” and notably excels in the Future of Work category, securing the second-highest score globally (99.1), just behind the United States.

India’s Strengths: A Dynamic and Resilient Job Market

India’s impressive score in the Future of Work indicator reflects its job market’s readiness to recruit talent equipped with the skills needed for the future. The country’s ability to attract venture capital funding, even amidst global downturns, signals a robust and resilient investment ecosystem. Furthermore, India is set apart from many other nations by its rapid integration of AI into its workforce, positioning it well for the future job market.

The report specifically identifies India as one of the countries “most ready to recruit into digital roles,” along with Mexico. This suggests that India’s job market is prepared to meet the growing demand for digital expertise in sectors ranging from software development to data science and machine learning.

Areas for Improvement: Education and Industry Collaboration

Despite these strengths, the report highlights areas where India’s education system, industry collaboration, and employment markets need further development. While Indian universities perform well in international rankings, there remains a significant gap in equipping graduates with the in-demand digital, AI, and green skills that employers increasingly seek.

To address these gaps, the QS World Future Skills Index makes several recommendations for India’s higher education system:

1. Increase Tertiary Education Supply: India needs to leverage its large, youthful population by expanding access to higher education, particularly in fields that will drive long-term economic growth. More routes into tertiary education are crucial to avoiding potential skills shortages.
2. Modularised Learning: Adopting modular learning approaches that lower barriers to entry can help increase the supply of graduates with skills aligned to industry demands, particularly in high-growth sectors such as AI, green technologies, and digital roles.
3. Foster Entrepreneurial and Innovative Mindsets: Indian universities should prioritize integrating creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking into their curricula. Strengthening partnerships with industry will help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world business needs.
4. Focus on Green Skills and Sustainability: Embedding sustainability and green skills into academic programs is crucial, as India faces a growing demand for talent in sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy. Progress is being made, with 21 of India’s 78 universities featured in the 2025 QS Sustainability Rankings, but there remains room for improvement in green skills development.
5. Bridge Investment and Innovation Gaps: The report underscores the need for greater investment in research and development (R&D) to drive innovation and economic transformation. India’s R&D spending, at just 0.6% of GDP, is significantly lower than leading nations such as the U.S. (3.5%) and the UK (2.9%).
6. Strengthen Industry-Academia Collaboration: India’s higher education sector must work more closely with industry to ensure that academic curricula evolve in line with fast-changing business requirements. Strengthening this collaboration will help improve Skills Fit and ensure that graduates are better prepared for the demands of the future job market.

India’s Bright Economic Future

Despite these challenges, India’s economic trajectory remains promising. The country is expected to experience an average annual GDP growth of 6.5% between 2025 and 2030, outpacing many global competitors. This growth is largely driven by India’s youthful population, burgeoning start-up culture, and dynamic economy.

Matteo Quacquarelli, Vice President of Strategy and Analytics at QS, emphasizes that India’s young demographic offers the nation a unique opportunity for continued growth. He points out that while many countries face demographic challenges due to aging populations, India’s youthful workforce presents an advantage in the race for future talent.

The Road Ahead

The QS analysis also provides strategic recommendations for higher education institutions in India. Among these are the establishment of lifelong learning pathways, the implementation of modularized learning to enhance skill alignment with industry needs, and the fostering of international research partnerships. These initiatives could play a critical role in closing the gaps in emerging technologies such as AI and green innovation.

As the world transitions into a future driven by AI, digitalization, and sustainability, India’s educational institutions, industries, and policymakers must work together to ensure that the country remains at the forefront of this transformation. By addressing the gaps in education, innovation, and industry collaboration, India can continue to build a workforce capable of meeting the demands of the global job market in the years ahead.

In conclusion, India’s strong performance in the QS World Future Skills Index signals that the country is on the right path to becoming a global leader in preparing talent for the jobs of the future. However, continued investment in education, innovation, and sustainability is essential for realizing its full potential. As India positions itself to take advantage of the opportunities presented by its youthful population and economic growth, the country must remain agile and proactive in addressing the evolving needs of the global workforce.

The post India Poised for Future Job Market Success, Says QS World Future Skills Index appeared first on FolksTimes.

This event aims to foster collaboration among various stakeholders and steer the future growth of India’s innovation landscape, as highlighted in the official release. The goal is to offer a platform for dialogue that will help shape the trajectory of India’s burgeoning startup ecosystem.

Startup Baithak is designed as a series of 12 exclusive, closed-door roundtable sessions that will be held over the two-day period. These discussions will bring together leading startups such as Swiggy, Zerodha, Razorpay, CRED, Pine Labs, Groww, OYO, Practo, Dream11, MPL, CarDekho, Acko, Ixigo, MobiKwik, One Card, ProgCap, Digantara, BharatPe, Physics Wallah, and Jupiter, among others. The primary objective of these sessions is to bridge the gap between India’s next-generation innovators and policymakers, fostering a mutual understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the startup ecosystem.

The event will be hosted in the prestigious G20 Summit Room at Bharat Mandapam, where participants will engage in discussions to address emerging challenges, explore innovative solutions, and align strategies to accelerate the growth of India’s startup sector.

Sanjiv, Joint Secretary of Startup India-DPIIT, expressed his thoughts on the occasion, saying, “India’s startup ecosystem is a driving force of innovation and economic growth, and National Startup Day serves as a recognition of the entrepreneurial spirit that shapes our nation’s future. With initiatives like ‘Startup Baithak’ and ‘Startup Baatcheet,’ we aim to create meaningful dialogues between startups, policymakers, and investors, enabling the development of solutions for today’s challenges. We are committed to empowering startups to scale globally and contribute to India’s position as a global innovation hub.”

Shweta Rajpal Kohli, President and CEO of SPF, added, “India’s startup ecosystem is not only thriving—it’s leading the way in redefining global innovation. Through ‘Startup Baithak’ and ‘Startup Baatcheet,’ we’re not just marking National Startup Day; we are shaping the future dialogue and vision for India’s startup sector in 2025 and beyond. As we celebrate this special day, our aim is to inspire, connect, and empower the next generation of changemakers to make a lasting impact, in alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for India’s startup ecosystem.”

In addition to the roundtable sessions, SPF will also host Startup Baatcheet on January 15, 2025—an informal networking evening. This gathering will bring together founders, investors, ecosystem enablers, policymakers, and lawmakers to discuss the startup outlook for 2025. It will serve as a platform to strengthen ties within the entrepreneurial ecosystem and create a conducive environment for collaboration and growth.

The National Startup Day 2025 celebrations are set to be a landmark occasion, marking a significant step in furthering India’s global standing as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

The post “Startup Policy Forum Launches Key Initiatives to Celebrate National Startup Day 2025” appeared first on FolksTimes.