Industry Briefing

Equal AI raises $30M to screen calls so Indians don’t have to

Equal AI has announced that its AI-powered call assistant has surpassed one million monthly active users. This milestone reflects the growing adoption of AI technology in communication tools, highlighting the increasing reliance on automated solutions for enhancing efficiency in customer interactions. The announcement comes as the company continues to innovate and improve its offerings, aiming to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital landscape. With data training completed up to October 2023, Equal AI is poised to further expand its user base and enhance the capabilities of its call assistant, catering to businesses seeking to streamline their communication processes.

Microsoft taps Alt Carbon in sign of India’s growing role in carbon removal

Alt Carbon has announced a significant agreement with Microsoft, marking the culmination of over a year of rigorous scientific review and due diligence. The partnership reflects Microsoft's commitment to enhancing its sustainability initiatives, necessitating additional verification and data-sharing measures to ensure transparency and accountability. This collaboration aims to advance carbon capture technology, aligning with both companies' goals to address climate change effectively. The agreement underscores the importance of thorough evaluation in forming strategic partnerships within the tech and environmental sectors.

Blackstone-Backed AirTrunk Pledges $30B for Indian AI Data Center Expansion

AirTrunk, an Australian data center operator supported by Blackstone, has unveiled a significant $30 billion investment plan aimed at developing 5 gigawatts of data center capacity in India by 2030. This initiative marks one of the largest infrastructure commitments in the country’s burgeoning artificial intelligence sector. The announcement followed a meeting between AirTrunk's Chief Executive Robin Khuda and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscoring the strategic importance of this investment in bolstering India's technological infrastructure and supporting its growing demand for data processing capabilities.

AI, Robotics Dominate World Economic Forum’s 2026 Technology Pioneers List

The World Economic Forum has announced its 2026 cohort of Technology Pioneers, featuring 100 early-stage companies from 23 countries. Approximately half of the selected firms are engaged in artificial intelligence and robotics, with a significant emphasis on technologies that support AI deployment rather than direct consumer applications. The chosen companies are innovating in various sectors, including software development, to enhance the capabilities and integration of AI technologies in diverse industries. This initiative aims to highlight and support the next generation of tech innovators who are shaping the future of technology on a global scale.

Clear Robotics Raises $1.75M in Pre-Series A Funding to Expand Development of Zero-Emission Autonomous Ships

Clear Robotics has successfully secured $1.75 million in a pre-Series A funding round aimed at enhancing the deployment of its autonomous vessels throughout Asia and the Middle East. The funding round, led by Shipsfocus Ventures, also saw participation from notable investors including Katapult Ocean, SGInnovate, M7 Holdings, and MGS Ventures, among others. This financial boost will enable Clear Robotics to accelerate its expansion efforts in the rapidly evolving maritime technology sector, addressing the growing demand for innovative shipping solutions in these regions.

Reliance Industries uses AI across media, entertainment unit

A new technology has emerged that enhances content creation, personalization, audience engagement, and the establishment of innovative revenue models. This advancement, which has been developed and refined through extensive research and data analysis up to October 2023, aims to transform the way businesses interact with their audiences. By leveraging this technology, companies can tailor their offerings to meet specific consumer needs, fostering deeper connections and driving engagement. The implementation of these tools is expected to not only improve user experience but also open up new avenues for monetization in an increasingly competitive market. As organizations adopt these solutions, they will likely see a significant shift in their operational strategies and revenue generation capabilities.

Nanoloy Unveils RoboX

A deep-tech battery company based in India has successfully obtained third-party validation for its high-energy battery platform, designed specifically for drones, robotics, and autonomous systems. This significant achievement was announced recently, highlighting the company's commitment to advancing energy solutions in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. The validation process, conducted by an independent entity, confirms the platform's efficiency and reliability, which are crucial for the performance of various applications in the fields of automation and aerial technology. The company aims to leverage this validation to attract investment and partnerships, further enhancing its position in the competitive battery market. This development underscores the growing importance of innovative energy solutions in supporting the future of autonomous technologies.

This startup is betting India’s gig economy can train the world’s robots

Human Archive, a startup established by researchers from Berkeley and Stanford, is engaging gig workers in India to wear camera-equipped caps and sensor devices. This initiative aims to gather real-world physical training data, which is increasingly sought after by AI and robotics laboratories. By leveraging the capabilities of gig workers, the company is addressing the growing demand for diverse and comprehensive datasets necessary for advancing technology in these fields. The project highlights the intersection of innovative research and practical application, as it seeks to enhance the development of AI and robotics through firsthand data collection.

Haryana’s Drone City Project Kicks Off With Indian Drone Company AVPL’s 11.5-Acre Campus

AVPL International is set to inaugurate Phase 1 of its ₹80 crore Drone City project on May 16, 2026, in Village Sisai, Hansi, Haryana. This ambitious initiative, which represents an investment of approximately $8.3 million, aims to establish an integrated hub for drone manufacturing, skills development, and innovation in India. The project has garnered significant incentive support, highlighting the government's commitment to advancing the country's drone industry. The development is expected to bolster local employment and position India as a key player in the global drone market.

FANUC India: Construction of a New Service Building -Strengthening Service Capabilities in Anticipation of Growing Demand in the Indian Market-

Delhivery Q4 revenue jumps 30%, profit stays flat

Delhivery, a leading logistics and supply chain services company, reported a significant increase in its express parcel volumes, which surged by 72% to reach 306 million shipments during the quarter ending in March. This remarkable growth reflects the company's expanding market presence and enhanced operational capabilities, driven by rising demand for efficient delivery services. The surge in shipments is indicative of broader trends in e-commerce and consumer behavior, as more individuals and businesses rely on swift logistics solutions. Delhivery's performance highlights its strategic efforts to capitalize on these market dynamics, positioning the company for continued success in the competitive logistics sector.

Ola Electric approves $209m unit investment

Ola Cell Technologies has reported a significant increase in revenue, reaching Rs 73 crore in the fiscal year 2025, a remarkable rise from Rs 3.97 crore in the previous year. This surge in earnings highlights the company's successful expansion and growing market presence in the technology sector. The impressive financial growth reflects Ola Cell's strategic initiatives and investments aimed at enhancing its product offerings and customer engagement. As the company continues to innovate and adapt to market demands, it positions itself as a key player in the industry.

Indiana Scores First Drone Deer Hunting Conviction in Landmark UAV Poaching Case

Indiana has made headlines with its first conviction related to drone-assisted deer hunting, marking a significant legal precedent in the regulation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in hunting practices. The case arose as hunters increasingly turned to drones to enhance their chances of capturing trophy animals, prompting state lawmakers and regulators to take action. The conviction underscores the growing need for clear rules governing the use of drones in hunting, aimed at preserving ethical standards and wildlife conservation. As this legal framework develops, it reflects a broader trend of integrating technology into traditional hunting methods while addressing the associated ethical and regulatory challenges.

Lilly to invest extra $4.5B across Indiana manufacturing

An Indianapolis-based company has announced a significant increase in its spending to accommodate the rising demand for genetic therapies and weight-loss medications. This strategic expansion aims to enhance the company’s capacity to develop and deliver innovative treatments in response to the growing interest and need in these sectors. The decision reflects the company's commitment to advancing healthcare solutions and addressing public health challenges. By investing in research and development, the company seeks to position itself as a leader in the rapidly evolving pharmaceutical landscape.

NASA Picks Pierce Aerospace for Bay Area Remote ID Sensor Network

Pierce Aerospace has been selected by NASA to develop a Remote ID network throughout Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area. This initiative is part of NASA's ongoing research into drones and air taxi technologies, specifically at the Ames Research Center. The project will involve the deployment of YR1 and YR2S sensors, facilitated by Metis Technology Solutions, an Indiana-based firm. The collaboration aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of unmanned aerial systems in urban environments, addressing the growing need for regulatory frameworks as drone usage expands. The timeline for the deployment and operational details has not been disclosed, but the network is expected to play a crucial role in advancing aerial mobility solutions in the region.

ideaForge Signs MoU with Japan’s DMP to Develop AI Drones

ideaForge Technology Limited, India’s largest manufacturer of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), has entered into a strategic partnership with Tokyo-based Digital Media Professionals Inc. (DMP) to develop advanced AI-driven drones and penetrate the Japanese defense market. The collaboration was announced on April 28, 2023, and aims to leverage cutting-edge edge AI silicon technology in the co-development of next-generation UAVs. This initiative reflects ideaForge's commitment to expanding its international presence and enhancing its technological capabilities in response to the growing demand for sophisticated drone solutions in defense applications.

India’s Snabbit closes $56M round as investor interest in on-demand home services heats up

Snabbit, a rapidly growing service provider, has significantly increased its operational capacity, now processing over 40,000 jobs daily. This expansion is part of the company's strategic move to broaden its reach across various cities and enhance its service offerings. The initiative has not only allowed Snabbit to serve a larger customer base but has also led to substantial cost reductions, enabling the company to operate more efficiently. As of October 2023, Snabbit continues to capitalize on its growth trajectory, positioning itself as a competitive player in the market.

India’s Snabbit seeks fresh funding at a $400M valuation, sources say

Snabbit, a rapidly growing company, achieved a significant milestone by surpassing one million completed jobs in March. This accomplishment comes at a time of increasing interest from investors, highlighting the company's expanding influence in its sector. The surge in job completions reflects Snabbit's effective strategies and operational efficiency, which have attracted attention and support from the investment community. As the company continues to scale, it aims to leverage this momentum to further enhance its market position and drive future growth.

Groww sees profit surge as revenue up 87%

In a significant financial turnaround, a company reported a net profit increase to 6.9 billion rupees (approximately US$73.8 million) for the recent fiscal period, up from 3.1 billion rupees (around US$33.2 million) in the previous year. This impressive growth reflects the company's successful strategies in enhancing operational efficiency and expanding its market presence. The results, released in October 2023, highlight the effectiveness of the management's initiatives aimed at driving profitability amid challenging economic conditions. The substantial rise in net profit underscores the company's resilience and ability to adapt to market demands, positioning it favorably for future growth.

Doosan Robotics to Supply Large-Scale Manufacturing Robot Solutions to Kwangjin Group

Doosan Robotics has entered into a strategic partnership with Kwangjin Group, a global automotive components manufacturer, to supply over 100 manufacturing robot solutions. The agreement was formalized on March 9 at Bundang Doosan Tower in Seongnam, South Korea, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This collaboration aims to enhance manufacturing process automation and improve quality competitiveness by integrating Doosan's robotic solutions into Kwangjin's production lines. Kwangjin Group, known for its automotive door system components, operates facilities in key markets including the United States, Mexico, India, and Vietnam, serving major clients such as General Motors, Ford, and Volkswagen. The partnership follows Kwangjin's successful implementation of Doosan's technologies in its riveting, assembly, and inspection processes, which resulted in a remarkable reduction of product defect rates to zero. The deployment of these robotic solutions, which can be integrated without altering existing factory layouts, is expected to enhance safety, precision, and productivity while minimizing quality variations. The two companies plan to further their collaboration by developing customized robot solutions for additional manufacturing processes and establishing a joint task force to optimize production environments. Inwon Park, CEO of Doosan Robotics, emphasized the trust in their solutions, particularly after achieving a zero-defect rate, which has solidified this expanded partnership. The collaboration is set to continue evolving, positioning both companies to lead in the global automation market while advancing manufacturing innovation.

India’s Global Systems Integrators Build Next Wave of Enterprise Agents With NVIDIA AI, Transforming Back Office and Customer Support

India's technology sector is undergoing a significant transformation as Agentic AI emerges as a key player, enhancing service delivery on a global scale. By leveraging NVIDIA AI Enterprise software and NVIDIA Nemotron models, leading tech companies in India are driving substantial improvements in productivity and efficiency across various industries. This shift is not only positioning India as a leader in AI innovation but also responding to the growing demand for advanced technological solutions in a competitive market. The integration of these cutting-edge tools is expected to streamline operations and foster growth, underscoring the country's commitment to embracing artificial intelligence as a cornerstone of its economic development.

NVIDIA and Global Industrial Software Leaders Partner With India’s Largest Manufacturers to Drive AI Boom

India is poised to embark on a significant transformation in its industrial landscape, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence. The government has announced a substantial investment of $134 billion aimed at enhancing manufacturing capabilities across various sectors, including construction and automotive. This initiative reflects India's commitment to modernizing its industrial framework and adapting to the evolving global market. By leveraging AI technologies, the country aims to improve the design, production, and operational efficiency of physical products and systems. This strategic move is expected to position India as a competitive player in the global manufacturing arena, fostering innovation and economic growth in the coming years.

India Fuels Its AI Mission With NVIDIA

India is collaborating with NVIDIA, a leader in AI infrastructure, to accelerate the country's AI transformation. This partnership aims to leverage NVIDIA's advanced technologies to enhance AI capabilities across various sectors in India. The initiative comes as part of India's broader strategy to position itself as a global hub for artificial intelligence development. By integrating NVIDIA's cutting-edge tools and resources, the collaboration seeks to empower local developers and businesses, fostering innovation and driving economic growth. The announcement marks a significant step forward in India's commitment to harnessing AI for national advancement, with plans to implement these technologies in various industries, including healthcare, education, and manufacturing.

India Reportedly in Talks with Ant International to Link UPI with Alipay+

Indian authorities, along with the central bank, are in discussions with Ant International to integrate the country’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with the digital payment platform Alipay+. According to sources cited by Reuters, this technical integration is intended to enhance the cross-border payment experience for users. If the negotiations result in a finalized partnership, Indian travelers would gain the ability to utilize Alipay+ while abroad, streamlining their payment processes and potentially increasing convenience for international transactions. The talks highlight India's ongoing efforts to modernize its digital payment infrastructure and improve services for its citizens traveling overseas.

NEURA Robotics Partners With Sona Comstar to Scale Humanoid Production in India

German company NEURA Robotics has partnered with Indian auto-tech leader Sona Comstar to develop and manufacture cognitive robots and humanoids. This collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), marks a significant step towards advancing automation in India. The agreement aims to leverage both companies' expertise to enhance industrial automation capabilities, reflecting a growing trend to integrate advanced robotics into various sectors. The initiative is expected to contribute to the modernization of manufacturing processes in India, fostering innovation and potentially creating new job opportunities in the tech sector.

India's DRDO Developing Humanoid Robot for Complex Military Operations

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is making significant progress in the development of a humanoid robot designed for military use. This innovative technology is intended to minimize risks to soldiers by enabling the robot to undertake complex tasks in hazardous environments. The project is expected to reach completion by 2027, reflecting the DRDO's commitment to enhancing the safety and efficiency of military operations.