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Introduction to the PM-KUSUM Scheme

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme was initiated by the Government of India in 2019 with the primary objective of promoting the adoption of solar energy within the agricultural sector. Recognizing the increasing energy demands of farmers, the initiative aims to enhance the resilience of rural economies while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.

Under the PM-KUSUM scheme, the government has set an ambitious target to install 30,800 MW of solar capacity across various agricultural applications. This includes the installation of solar power plants on barren or uncultivable land, grid-connected solar power projects, and solar pumps for irrigation. By providing access to solar energy, the initiative endeavors to alleviate the energy costs incurred by farmers, thereby enabling them to utilize electric pumps for irrigation at a fraction of their current expenditure.

The scheme is bolstered by a significant financial investment from both the central and state governments, aimed at facilitating the deployment of solar technologies across rural landscapes. By focusing on promoting renewable energy, the PM-KUSUM scheme not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also supports the protection of farmers’ interests. The reduced reliance on diesel and other fossil fuels for irrigation can lead to financial savings, while simultaneously fostering a greener planet.

In essence, the PM-KUSUM scheme serves as a vital step towards integrating renewable energy solutions into India’s agricultural framework. It is designed to empower farmers, enhance energy independence, and promote sustainable agricultural practices that align with the country’s broader climate goals. As the scheme progresses, challenges and setbacks must be addressed to ensure its successful implementation and to realize its full potential for the agricultural community.

Current Challenges and Setbacks

The PM-KUSUM scheme, aimed at promoting renewable energy through solar energy generation, has encountered a series of challenges that have significantly impeded its progress. Each of the scheme’s three components—setting up solar pumps, decentralised solar power generation, and grid-connected solar projects—has reported inadequate achievements relative to the established targets. For instance, as of the latest data, only about 35% of the allocated solar pumps have been installed, falling short of the anticipated objectives. Similarly, grid-connected solar projects across various states have shown sluggish development, with numerous regions failing to meet their specified timelines.

This lack of progress is exacerbated by the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted supply chains and delayed crucial installation processes. The pandemic led to a significant dip in workforce availability and has stymied project execution on multiple fronts. Additionally, the procedural delays often seen in state and central approvals have further stalled activities, culminating in missed deadlines and increasing frustration among stakeholders. Particularly in regions where implementation was already weak, such as certain rural and remote areas, the pandemic has amplified existing challenges, including limited access to resources and uncertainty in project funding.

Moreover, financial constraints and budget reallocations have surfaced as pivotal barriers. The limited availability of funds to support infrastructure development has deterred many potential beneficiaries from participating in the scheme. The increasing bureaucratic red tape has only added to the contention, creating a climate of uncertainty for investors and applicants alike. These systemic issues underscore the pressing need for an urgent reassessment of strategies and a more flexible adaptation to current circumstances. Without such adjustments, the PM-KUSUM scheme risks falling significantly short of its potential impact in the renewable energy sector.

Government Response and Future Plans

The central government has been actively addressing the challenges that have arisen within the PM-KUSUM scheme, particularly as it faces the pressures of achieving set targets within the existing timeline. Recent discussions suggest that an extension of the scheme’s deadline may be on the horizon, allowing for necessary adjustments to enhance its efficacy and reach. This proposed extension aims to mitigate the issues confronting stakeholders and ensure that intended benefits are realized, primarily for the agricultural sector.

In addition to a possible timeline extension, the government is contemplating revisions to the original targets of the PM-KUSUM initiative. These potential changes are critical, as they could significantly influence the pace at which farmers adopt solar energy solutions. By adapting the goals of the scheme to reflect current realities, the government acknowledges the need to foster an environment conducive to solar energy deployment. This adaptability could not only improve participation but also enhance the overall impact of the scheme on India’s solar energy landscape.

The implications of these adjustments are manifold. For farmers, an extension and revised targets could translate into enhanced access to solar technology and financial support, enabling them to diversify their energy sources and reduce reliance on traditional methods. Such changes could also bolster the confidence of stakeholders, encouraging further investment in solar infrastructure that aligns with the broader objectives of sustainability and energy transition.

As the government navigates these challenges, the future of the PM-KUSUM scheme remains contingent upon its ability to remain flexible and responsive to the evolving needs of the agricultural community. Ultimately, the success of this initiative will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of renewable energy adoption in India, particularly within the agricultural sector.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for PM-KUSUM

The PM-KUSUM scheme, aimed at promoting solar energy usage in agriculture, has encountered various setbacks that have raised concerns about its efficiency and effectiveness. As the government contemplates a deadline extension, it becomes crucial to analyze both the current challenges and the measures being taken to address them. These challenges include procedural delays, financial constraints, and the need for stakeholder engagement. The scheme’s potential to positively impact farmers and enhance the agricultural landscape in India cannot be overstated. By integrating solar energy solutions, farmers can reduce dependency on traditional energy sources, lower costs, and increase productivity.

The prospect of a deadline extension allows for reevaluation of the existing obstacles, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to better align their objectives with the overarching goals of the PM-KUSUM scheme. However, prolonged timelines may also risk diluting the urgency of implementation. The government’s responses to these issues will play a fundamental role in shaping the scheme’s success. A collaborative approach, involving farmers, local authorities, and private sector actors, is essential to tackle these hurdles effectively.

Moreover, the long-term vision of the PM-KUSUM scheme extends beyond immediate benefits; it aims to instill a sustainable framework for agricultural practices powered by renewable energy. The drive towards solar energy can contribute significantly to India’s overall goal of sustainable development. Engagement of all stakeholders will ensure that the challenges are surmounted, facilitating smoother progress towards the revised targets of the scheme. By fostering a culture of collaboration and transparency, the PM-KUSUM initiative can be positioned not just as a short-term scheme, but as a cornerstone for a resilient agricultural future.

Manipal, October 08th, 2025: The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, inaugurated the ICMR–MAHE Centre for Advanced Research (CAR) at the Manipal Hospice and Respite Centre (MHRC), following the award of a INR 12.84 crore grant from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The Centre is led by Dr. Naveen Salins, Professor and Head of the Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, as Principal Investigator, with Dr. Arun Ghoshal, Assistant Professor, serving as Co-Principal Investigator.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Dr. Ashoo Grover, Scientist G and Head, Division of Delivery Research, ICMR, as Chief Guest, and Dr. Roopa Shivashankar, Scientist E (Medical), Division of Delivery Research, ICMR, as Guest of Honour. The event was presided over by Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, and organised by Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE. Distinguished participants included Dr. Anil K. Bhat, Dean, KMC Manipal, and Dr. Cherian Varghese, Director, Prasanna School of Public Health.

In his address, Dr. Ballal noted that the collaboration between ICMR and MAHE represents “the highest level of national recognition for MAHE’s research culture,” underscoring the University’s commitment to science that heals and research that transforms. Dr. Sharath K. Rao further outlined MAHE’s strategic roadmap for advancing health research and innovation.

The Centre for Advanced Research (CAR) seeks to address a critical gap in India’s healthcare system the need for ethical, compassionate, and evidence-based care for patients with advanced and terminal illnesses in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). The Centre will design and evaluate a Multifaceted Comprehensive Appropriate Care Package (MCACP) integrating palliative care principles into critical care settings.

Building upon MAHE’s pioneering BLUE MAPLE framework, developed and implemented at Kasturba Hospital and KMC Manipal, which has already influenced national end-of-life care standards, the CAR will now expand this initiative nationwide. The project will establish a multi-centre collaborative network of ten clinical centres and seven technical partners, advancing the reach and impact of this transformative model.

Encompassing multiple disciplines medicine, nursing, bioethics, health economics, law, and public health the Centre embodies MAHE’s One Health–One Humanity philosophy. By co-developing and testing a scalable model of appropriate ICU care for advanced illness, CAR aims to inform policy, enhance health-system responsiveness, and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

With a strong legacy in research, innovation, and translational excellence, MAHE continues to strengthen its role as a leader in India’s health-research ecosystem. The establishment of the ICMR–MAHE Centre for Advanced Research reaffirms the university’s mission to integrate science, ethics, and empathy in healthcare delivery, setting new national and global benchmarks in ICU and palliative-care research through interdisciplinary and implementation science.

For the first time in Gujarat, the unique presentation “Mera Desh Pahle” embodying Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Nation First’ will be held at GIFT City on October 10

Gandhinagar, 08 October 2025: The unique presentation, “Mera Desh Pahle,” depicting the inspiring story of New India’s transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, will be showcased for the first time in Gujarat at GIFT City, Gandhinagar, on Friday, 10 October 2025.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has consistently prioritised the nation’s interests above all else, dedicating his life to serving the country. The remarkable events and milestones from his life continue to inspire citizens across India with a spirit of patriotism, selfless dedication, and the ethos of “Nation First.” The mega show “Mera Desh Pahle” vividly brings to life this extraordinary journey of Shri Narendra Modi through a powerful and inspiring presentation.

Following its successful and widely acclaimed presentations in other states of India, the show “Mera Desh Pahle” will be staged for the first time in Gujarat at GIFT City, with free entry for all.

The show will take place at GIFT City on Friday, October 10, at 6:00 PM, and free entry is available exclusively through online registration at www.giftgujarat.in.

Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, state ministers, and prominent personalities from various sectors of society have also been invited to witness the staging of “Mera Desh Pahle”, produced by the renowned writer Shri Manoj Muntashir.

Mumbai, October 07, 2025: Netflix India announced a partnership with the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) and FICCI to support students in India’s AVGC-XR sector (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality). The MoU was exchanged in the presence of Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India at the 25th edition of FICCI Frames. This partnership will leverage Netflix’s creative excellence, IICT’s industry driven curriculum, and FICCI’s network to develop the next generation of creative-technology talent in India.

Netflix will support IICT in curriculum development and facilitate industry professionals to share real-world experience and best practices with IICT students. The collaboration will include workshops, masterclasses, and guest lectures—delivered directly or through partners—designed to mentor students, enhance the academic environment and equip students with future ready skills to thrive in the creative industry.

Under this MoU, Netflix will leverage the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity to offer scholarships to select students identified in collaboration with IICT. The Netflix Fund for Creative Equity is a dedicated effort to create opportunities for underrepresented talent in the media and entertainment sector.

To strengthen this partnership, Netflix will participate in three of IICT’s national councils: the R&D Council, the Academic Council, and the Industry Development Council, bringing together leading voices from academia, industry, and policy to help shape India’s AVGC-XR ecosystem.

Mahima Kaul, Director – Global Affairs, Netflix India, shares, “Building on our efforts to promote skill development and inclusive access in the media and entertainment sector, this collaboration with IICT and FICCI aligns with the government’s vision to strengthen India’s AVGC sector. By nurturing world-class talent, IICT aims to serve as a catalyst for India’s digital economy—empowering youth and enhancing the nation’s creative capabilities. Together, we aim to equip every aspiring creator with the tools and opportunities to drive innovation in entertainment.”

Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, Chief Executive Officer, IICT, shares “This collaboration with Netflix and FICCI marks a significant step in bridging the gap between academia and the creative industry. By providing our students with hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to global best practices, we are equipping the next generation of storytellers and technologists to thrive in India’s dynamic AVGC-XR ecosystem.”

Munjal Shroff, Chairman, FICCI AVGC-XR Forum, shares “The establishment of the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) as the National Centre of Excellence marks a transformative moment for India’s AVGC-XR sector. This MoU with IICT and Netflix underscores our commitment to building an industry-led ecosystem where academia, industry, and policy converge to unlock new opportunities. FICCI is proud to facilitate this collaboration, which will not only strengthen India’s position as a global hub for creative technologies but also nurture future-ready talent, drive innovation, and create pathways for sustainable growth in the sector.”

Mumbai, 07 October 2025: Kia India, a leading premium carmaker, today announced a significant leadership transition with the appointment of Mr. Sunhack Park as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Mr. Joonsu Cho as Chief Business Officer (CBO).

In his new role as CSO, Mr. Park will lead Kia India’s sales strategy, prioritizing sustainable growth, boosting operational efficiency, and expanding the brand’s market reach. With 28 years of international automotive experience, he has held key leadership roles at Kia Headquarters in South Korea, the Middle East & Africa (MEA), and India.

As CBO, Mr. Cho will be responsible for crafting comprehensive business strategies, production planning, export logistics, leading cross-functional teams, forging strategic alliances, and ensuring operational excellence. With over 32 years of leadership experience, Mr. Cho has served in multiple global roles across Australia, the UK, and Europe.

Mr. Sunhack Park, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India, said, “I am privileged to take on the role as Chief Sales Officer. This is an exciting phase for the brand as we continue to expand our presence in a dynamic and evolving market. My focus will be on driving sales growth, optimizing operational efficiency, and strengthening our dealer and partner ecosystem.”

Mr. Joonsu Cho, Chief Business Officer, Kia India, said, “I am honored to assume the role of Chief Business Officer. Kia India has made remarkable strides in the market, and my priority will be to develop and execute robust business strategies that support sustainable growth and operational excellence.

With this transition, Kia reinforces its commitment to India with a strong leadership team, driving innovation, and sustaining its growth trajectory in the Indian automotive market.

India, 7th october 2025: As Diwali approaches, homes shimmer with the glow of diyas, as the season’s excitement builds; not just for celebration, but for discovering gifts that truly light up family get-togethers. This Diwali, celebrate with the seventh edition of Diwali with Marriott Bonvoy where traditions sparkle, artistry delights, and every mithai takes you to India’s diverse delicacies for Diwali.

Our specially curated festive boxes blend the richness of heritage with a contemporary touch. Each offering is crafted with subtle elegance, intricate embossing, and accents of gold and iridescence — designed to bring festive joy and a sense of refined celebration. Available in options including the Box of 36 Sweets (INR 2,800 + GST), Box of 18 Sweets (INR 1,800 + GST), Variety Box of Nuts & Sweets (INR 2,100 + GST), Festive Crunch Box (INR 1,200 + GST), and Diwali Treasures (INR 1,500 + GST) there’s something to make every moment special.

The mithais, prepared by Marriott’s master chefs, are a creative reimagining of tradition: The Rosette, a luxurious peda with finger millet flour, Kerala cardamom, wrapped in rose petals and crowned with 24-karat gold foil; Citrus Noir, with rich cacao layered between vibrant orange and candied orange cubes; Cashew Bloom, pairing orange and chocolate barfi topped with marzipan; and Besan Soleil, a golden besan tartlet with a mango cashew sphere, almond flakes, and crowned with Pishori pistachio.

For those who crave savory crunch, the nut selection is irresistible: Kashmiri Ver Almonds with authentic Kashmiri spices, Tamarind & Curry Leaf Pecans, Bombay Bhel Spiced Cashews with smoked hickory and kasoori methi, and rustic yet refreshing Mint Cashews. 

Marriott Bonvoy members can make their celebrations even more rewarding by earning points on every festive box purchased, apart from using existing points to gift the mithai boxes to your loved ones.

The exquisite festive boxes are available at Marriott Bonvoy hotels across India. Pre-booking is now open, with availability till Diwali, making it the perfect time to secure your celebrations in advance.

This Diwali, let your gifts tell a story – of timeless elegance, thoughtful gestures, and joyful celebration. 

India, October 07, 2025: In the quarterly market update from Knight Frank India highlighted that the top 8 residential markets maintained sales momentum in Q3 2025 with a total of 87,603 housing units. Despite expectation of correction, residential sales recorded a 1% year-on-year (YoY) growth in Q3 2025, while year-to-date (YTD) sales figure was only marginally lower by 1%. As sales momentum continued to stay steady, Q3 2025 registered an increase in prices across all the markets, while supply recorded at 88,655 units for Q3 2025, noted a 2% decline over same time last year 

The macroeconomic backdrop provided stability with inflation easing to 2.07% in August 2025 from 3.65% a year ago. The RBI raised its FY 2026 GDP forecast to 6.8%, while the repo rate stood 1% lower compared to end-2024, boosting liquidity and sentiment in the real estate sector.

Residential Sales Performance

Mumbai continued to lead with 24,706 units sold (+2% YoY), accounting for 28% of the overall sales. Chennai recorded the strongest growth at 12% YoY with 4,617 units, its highest sales since the pandemic. Other major markets like NCR (12,955 units) and Bengaluru (14,538 units) remained steady, while Pune was the only laggard with sales declining by 8% YoY.

Source: Knight Frank Research

In Q3 2025 prices have continued to rise even as developers are increasingly introducing financing options, including bank tie-ups and subvention schemes, to stimulate sales. Defying expectations of a correction, the residential market remained rangebound yet resilient in Q3 2025. Premium housing sales, meanwhile, held firm as financing innovations, fiscal incentives, and buyer-focused measures continued to channel demand into higher-value segments.

Shishir Baijal, Chairman & Managing Director, Knight Frank India, said, “India’s residential market in Q3 2025 has demonstrated an impressive ability to sustain momentum and the market is now in its fifth year of an upcycle. Consequently, Y-o-Y growth rate is beginning to rationalise, and we may be entering a prolonged plateau phase. Within a volatile geopolitical environment, India’s macroeconomic conditions remain stable. The rate cut of up to 100 basis points, and liquidity support through the simplification of both direct taxes and GST have collectively strengthened end-user confidence. A notable outcome of this upcycle has been the surge in demand for premium housing, which has emerged as a key driver in recent years, reflecting the evolving aspirations of urban buyers for larger and higher-quality homes.”

India’s top eight markets saw 88,655 new units launched in Q3 2025, a slight dip of 2% YoY. Growth in new launches was led by Chennai (+44% YoY) and Bengaluru (+28% YoY). However, significant declines in Mumbai and NCR (-19% YoY each) constrained overall supply.

The quarter underscored the continued shift towards premium housing. Units priced below INR 1 Cr saw their share of sales drop to 48% in Q3 2025 compared to 54% in Q3 2024. By contrast, sales of homes priced over INR 1 Cr rose to 52% and grew by 15% YoY compared to a degrowth in ticket-size segments under INR 1 Cr.  With in the premium segment, the strongest growth was noted in the category INR 1 – 2 Cr which made up 28% of total sales. While on low base, the best YoY performance was noted in the category of INR 10-20 Cr which recorded 170% rise in sales in Q3 2025 compared to same period last year. 

Source: Knight Frank Research

The Quarters to Sell (QTS) – a key indicator of the health of the market, remained steady at 5.8 quarters, equivalent to less than 18 months of stock currently available, signalling a healthy market. Even while unsold inventory rose 4% YoY to 506,400 units, the velocity of sales noted over the last 8 quarters, indicates towards continued demand. Having said so, the unsold inventory in higher ticket-size categories over INR 10 mn such as such as INR 20–50 mn (+47% YoY) and INR 200–500 mn (+19% YoY) has been notably higher than the lower end of the market. Luxury and super-luxury segments (>INR 200 mn), though small in size (<1,500 units combined), displayed volatility in QTS such as in the category of INR 20 – 50 Cr the recorded QTS was of 14.4 quarters while in INR >50 Cr the was recorded at QTS 9.0. 

Strong demand for premium housing supported healthy price growth across markets. Market activity continues to be concentrated at the top end of the market while momentum persistently slides in ticket sizes under INR 10 mn. Price growth has been healthy in Q3 2025 despite overall sales not seeing any growth. The price growth has been strong in NCR, Bengaluru and Hyderabad at 19%, 15% and 13% YoY respectively.

Source: Knight Frank Research

Gulam Zia, Senior Executive Director – Valuation, Advisory and Research, Knight Frank India, added, “Premium housing has decisively taken centre stage, accounting for more than half of all sales this quarter. The strength of the INR 1–2 Cr segment, now the largest by volume, underscores a structural shift in buyer demand. Even with rising inventory, absorption levels remain stable, reaffirming the market’s ability to adjust and grow within a healthy and sustainable framework.”

Telangana joins 14 other states in India with Tourism Police in place

Hyderabad, October 7, 2025: A week-long induction program for the first-ever batch of 80 Telangana Tourism Police personnel commenced at the National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (NITHM), Gachibowli, Hyderabad, on Monday.

Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Telangana, the training programme is designed to prepare Tourist Police for deployment across major tourist destinations in the state. The course, titled “Orientation and Sensitisation of Tourist Police,” focuses on building capacity, improving visitor experience, and strengthening tourist safety in Telangana.

Disclosing this in a press note issued in the city, NITHM informed that the inaugural session was graced by Sri Mahesh M. Bhagwat, IPS, Additional Director General of Police (Law & Order), Telangana Police, as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Prof. V. Venkata Ramana, Director, NITHM; Sri M. Ramana Kumar, Superintendent of Police, Government of Telangana; Mr Prakash Ammanaolu, Chairman, FTCCI Tourism Committee; and Mr D. Ramachandram, Co-Chairman, FTCCI Tourism Committee.

Speaking on the occasion, Sri Mahesh M. Bhagwat, IPS, said: “In a significant initiative to strengthen tourist safety and enhance visitor experience across Telangana, the Police Department, in coordination with the Youth Advancement, Tourism and Culture Department, has deployed trained Tourist Police personnel at major destinations in the state.”

Welcoming the participants, Prof. V. Venkata Ramana, Director, NITHM, emphasised the institute’s efforts in professional training and capacity building for tourism development. He highlighted the importance of presenting a positive image of Telangana to the world, as stressed by the Hon’ble Chief Minister.

As part of this initiative, 80 police personnel from nine Commissionerates will be deployed at prominent tourist destinations, including:

· Nagarkurnool (Somasila)

· Vikarabad (Ananthagiri)

· Mulugu (Ramappa)

· Yadadri Bhuvanagiri (Rachakonda – Yadagirigutta, 10 personnel)

· Yadadri Bhuvanagiri (Rachakonda – Pochampally, 10 personnel)

· Nalgonda (Buddhavanam, 10 personnel)

· Bhadradri Kothagudem (Bhadrachalam, 10 personnel)

· Hyderabad Commissionerate (Hyderabad, 10 personnel)

The Tourist Police in Telangana will assist visitors, maintain law and order, and provide facilitation services at key destinations such as Amrabad, Somasila, Ananthagiri, Ramappa, Yadagirigutta, Pochampally, Buddhavanam, Bhadrachalam, and Hyderabad.

Mr. D. Ramachandram, one of the programme’s resource persons, noted: “Telangana now has one of the biggest Tourism Police forces in India with 80 personnel. It joins 14 other states that already have Tourism Police in place. Kerala was the first to launch the initiative in 2010. Across India, there are over 600 Tourist Police, while globally, around 60 countries have 20,000-plus Tourist Police. Telangana now joins this elite group.”

The induction program trains personnel in soft skills, tourist facilitation, public guidance, festival and crowd management, emergency preparedness, communication and coordination, ethics, and cyber awareness.

The programme features resource persons from NITHM faculty and experts from media, medical, sports, yoga, communication, and other disciplines.

Bangalore, Oct 07, 2025: Startups passionate about driving positive impact for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) through Assistive Technology (AT) can now apply for the cATalyst AT Startup Acceleration Program Cohort 7, launched by AssisTech Foundation (ATF) in partnership with SBI Foundation.

This pioneering initiative aims to accelerate and scale AT ventures, enabling innovative startups to create transformative solutions that empower PwDs across learning, livelihood, and living.

Prateek Madhav, Co-Founder, and CEO (ATF), said: “The program is designed to support startups in their journey to create impactful tech solutions that enhance the lives of PwDs by facilitating learning, livelihood, and independent living. Over the course of multiple cohorts, we have mentored 54 startups and built an extended network of 500+ AT startups. Collectively, these efforts have positively impacted over 1 million PwDs, and we aim to reach 5 million by 2030. With the global AT market projected to surpass $30 billion, the program is more relevant than ever, creating opportunities for startups to drive meaningful innovation and scale in a rapidly growing ecosystem.”

Eligible startups must have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) ready for testing and validation, demonstrating both feasibility and potential impact. Solutions should include a clear technological component, highlighting innovation, scalability, and the ability to address real-world challenges faced by PwDs. Additionally, participating startups must be registered legal entities in India.

Through the program, participants will gain access to experienced mentors who provide strategic guidance across business development, technology, and disability inclusion. Startups will also receive specialized support in critical areas such as legal, marketing, and branding, enabling founders to focus on innovation, product development, and growth. In addition, the program provides valuable networking opportunities through exclusive events, workshops, and conferences, connecting startups with industry leaders, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs across the AT ecosystem. In addition, startups will also receive guidance on accessing diverse funding opportunities.

GURUGRAM, OCTOBER 7, 2025: Nissan Motor India today revealed the name and offered a tantalizing preview of the design for the newest edition to the global SUV lineup:  the All-New Nissan Tekton.

A name that reflects Nissan’s ambition

The name “Tekton” is of Greek origin, meaning “craftsman” or “architect“. It aligns with Nissan’s ethos of precision engineering and innovation that enriches lives. The name signifies a powerful, premium C-SUV that embodies engineering excellence, performance, and a distinctive design identity. The Tekton will be a choice for those who are “shaping their world” through their careers, passions, or lifestyles.

Ahead of its full unveiling and start of sales in 2026, the Tekton is designed and engineered to disrupt the C-SUV segment. It will be the second product under Nissan’s ‘One Car, One World’ strategy, manufactured in partnership with Renault at the Chennai plant for sale within India and future export to select global markets.

Design and Inspiration

Nissan’s newest SUV, the Tekton, draws design inspiration from the company’s longest-running and most iconic SUV, the terrain conquering Patrol. When it arrives next year, it will combine bold aesthetics with robust reliability, premium craftsmanship, and a suite of advanced tech features.

At the front, a powerfully sculpted bonnet and distinctive C-shaped head lamp signature—reminiscent of the Patrol—pair with robust lower bumper to create a commanding and imposing presence that belies the vehicle’s size.

The side profile features an imposing, muscular stance, designed to create an unmistakable silhouette on the road. Paying Homage, the front doors of the Tekton feature a ‘Double-C’ shaped accent, incorporating a subtle mountain range motif inspired by the Himalayas.

At the rear, a red illuminated lightbar spans the width of the vehicle, conveying a sense of sturdiness and connecting the ‘C-shaped’ dynamic tail-lamps. The Tekton nameplate is prominently displayed across the tailgate below.

Alfonso Albaisa, Corporate Executive, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd says, “The All-New Nissan Tekton draws its design inspiration from our legendary Nissan Patrol. It is designed to disrupt, dominate, and deliver everything today’s modern Indian consumer desires. Imposing, stylish, and built to set a new benchmark in India and beyond, the design and build quality are distinctly Nissan—embodying the best of Nissan’s SUV DNA.”

Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor in India, comments, “The All-New Nissan Tekton is going to be at the centre of the Nissan’s resurgence story and offers a glimpse into the future of our product portfolio in the country. With its commanding stance, bold looks and premium interiors, we are confident that it will be a segment disruptor, appealing to customers seeking a robust yet refined C-SUV. This model will spearhead Nissan’s growth story in India.”

The Tekton will be key to Nissan Motor India’s plans to strengthen its presence and expand its product portfolio in the country. As part of this growth, Nissan Motor India is rapidly expanding its dealership network.